Some of the best photography locations in Kyoto are spread out all over the city. From towering temples over the city to historic districts that are tucked away, Kyoto has a lot to uncover.
Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been before, the city is constantly changing. Take a look at this Kyoto city guide to see where to stay and eat — it has all of my recommendations. For those who are visiting Japan and want to find an itinerary, this two-week itinerary covers some of the best destinations in Japan for your first trip. And of course, if you’re a foodie like me, you won’t want to miss these 20 best restaurants in Kyoto.
So in between the incredible food and experiences in Kyoto, here is where I’d go to snap some photos.
Travel Tip: Don’t forget to book your Japan Rail pass before you arrive!
The Best Photography Locations in Kyoto, Japan
Gion Historic District
If you’re an early riser then Gion Historic District is often all yours before the rest of the crowds get up. I love the traditional architecture here and it is truly a gem for experiencing Kyoto’s rich tradition.
Philosopher’s Path
Getting out of the center of the city means you’ll have most places pretty solo. One of the gems that are not too far is the Philosopher’s path which follows along a small stream. It’s lush and hidden, and along the way, you’ll find some incredible boutiques.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A must-photo location, is the towering bamboo grove of Arashiyama. Get here as early as possible to get the bamboo on its own. I’d recommend right at sunrise, and be sure to explore further back where the bamboo grows higher.
Ishibe Alley
For a traditional alley, Ishibe is the spot to capture Kyoto’s wooden houses.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
I love this temple as it has massive grounds to walk and explore. It has an incredible view as well, so I’d time it with sunset where you can see the sight and (respectfully) snap a few photos over Kyoto.
Yasaka Pagoda
The main landmark of the Higashiyama District, this Pagoda towers over the neighborhood. The roads that lead up to it create a beautiful, classic Kyoto scene.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Those famous red gates of Fushimi Inari. It’s a classic stop on any photographer’s list when in Kyoto. This is another spot to get early before the crowds.
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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!
These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Book Your Accommodations
I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
2. Book Your Rental Car
Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
3. Book Your Tours & Experiences
I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Private Transfers
For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.
5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
