Throughout the year, Kyoto enchants its visitors with its breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and unique traditions. Spring in Kyoto is particularly special, as the city comes alive with cherry blossoms, greenery, and a sense of reawakening. If you are planning a trip to Kyoto during this period, we’d recommend adding these three activities to your itinerary:

Find Your Zen amidst the Cherry Blossoms at Taizo-in

Taizo-in temple is one of the most well-known sub-temples of Myoshin-ji Temple, known to be one of the largest Zen temple complexes in Northwestern Kyoto, with about 50 sub-temples. Only five sub-temples are open to the public all year round, but guests are free to walk along the paths between buildings. An optimal time to visit is during Spring when the cherry blossom trees begin to bloom and decorate the peaceful surroundings with vibrant colours of pink and white. 

In addition to the cherry blossom trees in the Spring, Taizo-in is famous for a handful of unique treasures: a dry landscape garden created by Kano Motonobu, Josetsu’s renowned masterpiece, Hyonenzu (“Catching a Catfish with a Gourd”), which is one of the oldest surviving ink paintings in Japan, a serene pond-and-stroll-style garden known as Yoko-en, and a remarkable suikinikutsu, which is a wash basin that creates a mesmerising echoing effect as drops of water fall into a concealed underground chamber.

During your next visit to Kyoto, take the time to visit Taizo-in at Myoshin-ji Temple. It’s a great place to enjoy the tranquillity of nature and admire the beauty of Kyoto’s timeless temples.

Walk Along Kamogawa

A perfect way to slow down amidst the hustle and bustle of Kyoto’s popular tourist destinations is by walking along Kamogawa. 

Kamogawa, or Kamo River, is Kyoto’s main waterway which begins at Mt. Sajikigatake in the north and runs south through Kyoto Prefecture. During the day, locals commonly use Kamogawa as a jogging and cycling path. It is also a popular destination for walking dogs and enjoying picnics along the riverbank. At night is when Kamogawa truly comes to life. Once turned on, the lanterns reflect brightly on the river’s surface, casting a gentle and romantic glow illuminating the streets above. 

If you’re looking to have a relaxing day in Kyoto, take a stroll along Kamogawa and let the soothing flow of the river give you peace.

Take a Day Trip to Uji

Just a short train ride from Kyoto is the charming city of Uji, known for its green tea and historic temples. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Byodo-in Temple, which dates back to the 11th century and boasts stunning gardens and architecture. Or head to the Ujigami Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, and experience Uji’s spiritual essence. Uji is filled with cherry blossoms and other seasonal flowers in spring, creating a colourful and fragrant landscape. And, of course, a trip to Uji wouldn’t be complete without participating in a traditional tea ceremony and savouring the town’s famous green tea.

Kyoto is a city that captures the heart and imagination of travellers, and Spring is the perfect time to discover its many treasures. These three activities offer just a glimpse of what Kyoto has to offer during the season of renewal. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to fall in love with Kyoto in Spring!