Embrace the magic of Kyoto in winter, a season that transforms the ancient city into a wonderland of cultural festivities, sacred traditions, and culinary delights. From the scenic journeys aboard the Sagano Romantic Train to the spiritual resonance of Joya-no-Kane’s bell ringing, Kyoto offers a mosaic of experiences this season where each moment is an invitation to delve into the heart of Japanese heritage. Read on for recommendations for things to do in Kyoto this winter and the city’s hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Fall in Love Aboard the Sagano Romantic Train

Hop on the Sagano Romantic Train for a unique view of Kyoto’s changing seasons. This 25-minute trip from Saga Torokko Station to Kameoka Torokko Station passes through the scenic Hozukyo Ravine, showcasing the beauty of tree-covered mountains, rushing rivers, and the gorgeous nighttime illumination of colours. In winter, the train ride becomes a peaceful journey through a delicate dusting of snow, offering a quiet and mesmerising view of Kyoto’s winter landscape.

Start your trip at Saga Torokko Station, easily reached from Kyoto Station via a 15-minute ride on the Sagano Line. Add to your experience by renting a bike or visiting Diorama Kyoto Japan, which displays miniature models of Kyoto’s historical sites. Book your tickets in advance on the JR West website to enjoy this scenic rail journey through Kyoto’s seasons.

Discover Stunning Light and Visual Displays at Heian Shrine

Welcome the year’s end at Heian Jingu Shrine, bathed in the ethereal glow of NAKED, INC.’s creative projection mapping. Witness the Otenmon and Daigokuden, alongside the Meiji-era Higashi Shinen garden, transformed by enchanting light art. Be captivated by the Shobikan, brought to life with stunning visual displays. Through ‘NAKED Yoru Mo De’, let tranquillity envelop you in this nocturnal experience from December 1st to 25th, marking a peaceful finale to the year at Heian Shrine.

Usher in the New Year with the Joya-no-Kane

On New Year’s Eve, a revered tradition unfolds in Kyoto as locals gather at their neighbourhood temples for the joya-no-kane, the sacred bell-ringing ceremony. In this ritual, participants queue to sound the temple’s grand bell, a symbolic act to usher in good fortune for the upcoming year and to dispel the previous year’s negative karma. The bell is traditionally rung 108 times, representing human frailties, but many temples graciously extend the opportunity to all, even if it surpasses the customary count. For guests interested in experiencing or observing this meaningful ceremony, several notable temples in Kyoto offer a welcoming atmosphere for this annual rite of passage:

Chion-in Temple

Across the serene expanse of the temple grounds, architectural marvels abound: from the upper level’s mausoleum enshrining Hōnen, to the middle level’s significant structures like the Mieidō and Shūedō, and down to the lower level’s impressive Sanmon gate. Several of these towers hold the esteemed National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties status, marking their historical and cultural significance. Renowned as one of the famous temples for Joya no Kane, visitors aren’t allowed to ring the bell themselves, but there’s a unique and mesmerising allure in witnessing this tradition performed by the monks.

Eikando Temple

Eikando (永観堂, Eikandō), formally known as Zenrinji Temple, was established when a Heian Period noble donated his villa to be transformed into a temple by a priest. Initially called Zenrinji, the temple gained its popular name, Eikando, from its renowned 11th-century head priest, Yokan. Nestled along the hillside, the main buildings are interconnected by wooden corridors. Upon entry, visitors encounter the Shakado, adorned with a picturesque rock garden and exquisitely painted sliding doors. Along the corridors lie the Miedo, honoring the Jodo sect’s founder Honen, and the Amidado, home to the distinctive sideward-facing Amida statue.

For this year’s Joya no Kane, visitors can partake in bell ringing on 31st December by visiting the temple between 9pm and 10pm.

Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine, revered in Kyoto for over 1350 years and also known as Gion Shrine, is a key cultural site near the bustling Gion and Higashiyama districts. Famous for its integrated main hall and lantern-lit dance stage, the shrine is famed for hosting the Gion Matsuri, Japan’s iconic summer festival, and attracts visitors during cherry blossom season, with the adjacent Maruyama Park being a prime viewing location.

Each year on December 31st, the Yasaka Shrine hosts the Joya-sai, also known as the Year-End Ritual. Starting at 7 PM after the Oharae-shiki ceremony, the Okera fire is transferred to the Okera Tourou, lighting the lantern’s matchlock. Visitors are then given bamboo ropes to carry the sacred fire and light their lanterns. These lanterns are carefully taken home to ignite a candle with the sacred fire for their altar. On New Year’s Day, Zouni, rice cakes with vegetables, are prepared for the altar, accompanied by prayers for a joyful year ahead.

Discover Kyoto’s Year-Crossing Delight: Tasting Toshikoshi Soba at These Must-Try Kyoto Restaurants

As New Year’s Eve approaches, partake in the cherished tradition with Toshikoshi Soba for the year-crossing noodles—symbolising longevity and prosperity. Discover the essence of this cherished dish at our recommended restaurants, as it weaves together heritage, flavour, and the heartfelt hope for well-being in the coming year.

Sanmikouan Higashiyama Sanjo

In the heart of Okazaki, Sanmikouan offers a serene spot for exquisite soba and diverse side dishes. Housed in a traditional wooden structure by the picturesque Shirakawa Canal, this pleasant, mid-range eatery is easily identifiable by its soba mill and white noren curtains.

Honke Tagoto

Honke Tagoto, a distinguished soba noodle specialist in Kyoto, evolved from a diverse diner to a focused soba haven under the 5th owner’s vision. After a transformative experience with　Tokyo’s unique soba, he reinvented Tagoto, concentrating on quality and tradition. Today, it offers a unique blend of Kanto’s soba techniques and Kansai’s dashi, creating a signature winter dish that continues to evolve and delight.

Matsuba

On a brisk winter’s day, find solace in the warmth of Matsuba’s culinary embrace. Indulge in their Nishin Soba, a delectable blend of herring fish simmered in sweet soy sauce, served alongside steaming hot soba noodles. Honour the traditions by indulging in Toshikoshi Soba, hailed as the “year-crossing noodle,” a treasured local specialty embodying the wish for enduring health and prosperity.

As you explore the enchanting experiences of winter in Kyoto, we hope that your journey through Kyoto’s charm and hidden gems will inspire you to immerse yourself deeper into the heart of Japanese heritage. May you create many cherished memories through the delightful discoveries that await you in this ancient and beautiful city this winter.