Best Views in Kyoto — Scenic Viewpoints You Cannot Miss

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) — the world's most famous reflection

The Golden Pavilion at Kinkaku-ji is Japan's most photographed building and one of the most recognizable structures in Asia. The 2-story structure (floors 1: Heian period, floors 2: Kamakura period, floor 3: Chinese Tang style) is covered in 20 kg of gold leaf. The reflection in the mirror pond is the view. Go at opening time (9am) or just before closing to avoid the crowds. Entry ¥500.

Arashiyama — bamboo, mountains, and the river

The Arashiyama district west of central Kyoto has three distinct viewing experiences: the bamboo grove (best in early morning or after rain), the Katsura River view from the Togetsukyo Bridge (best at dusk), and the view from the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama (best in the afternoon). The Sagano Scenic Railway (¥880, 25 minutes) runs along the river through the Hozugawa Valley — take the one going upstream for the best views.

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) — the north

Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion, officially Jisho-ji) was built in 1482 as a retirement villa for the Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa. It was never covered in silver — the name was a poetic counter to Kinkaku-ji. The tsukimidai (moon-viewing platform) and the kogetsudai (sand cone representing Mount Fuji) are in the garden. The walk north from here along the Philosopher's Walk (2km) to Nanzen-ji is one of the best walks in Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari at night

Fushimi Inari Taisha at night is a completely different experience from the daytime. The torii gates are lit from within at night, and the mountain is open 24 hours. The 4km path up through the gates is quiet at 11pm — you will likely have it to yourself. Take a torch (flashlight). The city lights of Kyoto are visible from the upper paths. This is one of the most atmospheric things you can do in Japan.

Kurama and Kibune — mountain village views

Kurama (accessed by the Randen Keihin line, 30 minutes north of central Kyoto) is a mountain village with a hot spring, excellent hiking, and the Kurama-dera temple. Kibune (next stop on the same line) is a village of kawadoko river restaurants — decks built over the Kibune River where you eat in summer. The walk between Kurama and Kibune (90 minutes, marked trail through cedar forest) is one of the best half-day hikes near Kyoto.