Seasonal highlights
Plan around spring blossoms, summer festivals, maple season, and crisp winter temples.
Spring, late March to early April
Sakura lines the Philosopher’s Path and Maruyama Park. Book early, mornings are best for quiet walks.
Summer, July
Gion Matsuri brings grand floats to downtown streets. Hydrate well and plan shaded breaks along the Kamo River.
Autumn, November
Maples ignite at Eikan-dō and Tōfuku-ji. Evening illuminations add a different mood to temple gardens.
Top districts
Arashiyama
Bamboo grove, river boats, and Tenryū-ji gardens. Pair with a walk to Ōkōchi Sansō.
Fushimi Inari
Thousands of vermilion gates up Mt. Inari. Start at sunrise for space to breathe.
Gion & Higashiyama
Old streets, tea houses, Yasaka Pagoda views. Respect local etiquette when photographing.
Plan experiences
Gallery preview
A small selection of photos — visit the full gallery for more images and photographer credits available in the project report.
View full gallery
