Spring Exclusive: 10 Must-Visit Cherry Blossom Spots in Kyoto

Text & Photos byKavanah

There are so many famous cherry blossom spots in Kyoto, but I’ve selected my top ten must-see locations and compiled them here for your reference. To be honest, it was really hard to choose—I could easily pick over 20 just off the top of my head. After thinking it over for a long time, I had to painfully cut some out and chose my ten most recommended cherry blossom spots, ranking them based on my personal preferences. Number one, the Kamo River, is not only my favorite cherry blossom spot but also my number one sight in Kyoto—an amazing place that I love even after visiting many times.

There are many honorable mentions, mainly four: Arashiyama, the Sakuragicho Incline Railway, the Yamashina Suiro, and Toji Temple. Although Arashiyama is very iconic, it’s been excluded due to the overwhelming crowds (but the Philosopher’s Path is still a must-visit no matter how crowded!). The Sakuragicho Incline Railway, Yamashina Suiro, and Toji Temple are all great, but after much deliberation, I decided to give my final vote to the Kamogawa River, which stretches for several kilometers through the urban jungle... Just my personal opinion, for your reference.

1. Kamo River

My beloved, the number one sight in Kyoto—Kamo River. There are beautiful cherry blossoms from south to north, but I most recommend the area near Demachiyanagi and the Hanamikoji Path between Kitaoji and Kitayama.
Admission: Free entry within the grounds
Admission Fee: Free
Transportation Info:
Take Kyoto City Subway’s “Kitayama Station,” then a 10-minute walk.
Take City Bus 204 or 205 and get off at “Botanical Garden Mae,” then a 10-minute walk.

2. Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path, the symbolic spot of Kyoto’s cherry blossom season. Try to come early (before 8 AM) for a higher-quality hanami experience.
Visit Info:
Free entry, open access.
Transportation Info:
Northern end: Take Kyoto City Bus 17, 102, or 203, get off at “Ginkakuji-michi,” then a 5-minute walk.
Southern end: Take Kyoto City Bus 93 or 204, get off at “Higashi-Tennocho,” then a 5-minute walk.

3. Ukyo Sekizuka Embankment

Ukyo Sekizuka Embankment is located in Yawata City on the southern side of Kyoto Prefecture—a paradise perfect for picnics.
Admission: Free entry within the grounds
Admission Fee: Free
Transportation: Take Keihan Main Line to Yawata-shi Station, then a 10-minute walk.

4. Eizan Cherry Blossom Tunnel

This is one of the cherry blossom spots in Kyoto that I think you must visit. Whether you’re sitting on the train passing through the cherry blossom tunnel or taking photos from the roadside as the train goes through the blossoms—it’s absolutely stunning...
Admission: Free entry within the grounds
Admission Fee: Free
Transportation Info:
Get off at either “Ninna-ji” or “Utano” Station on the Keifuku Kitano Line.

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