Kyoto Seasons: Winter Views in Kyoto, Japan - MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN

Winter Views in Kyoto, Japan

Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, summer showcases lush greenery throughout the city, and fall is famous for its colorful autumnal foliage – which leaves the question, “What is winter in Kyoto like?”.

Bundle up and get ready to explore an enchanting side of Kyoto city, as you explore breathtaking views and unique winter customs that can only be experienced during the winter months. From specialty seasonal cuisine, snow-covered temples and shrines, colorful views of Japan’s ume plum blossom trees and more. If you’ve ever wondered what to do do when visiting Kyoto in the winter, take a look at our Top 6 MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN staff recommendations for an unforgettable winter experience.

Although it snows only a couple of times a year in Kyoto, when it does, the city truly transforms. One of our favorite places to head to when the snowfall blankets the city is 'Ginkakuji' Temple (Silver Pavilion). Whilst the images of the golden 'Kinkakuji' Temple may be more well-known, we love Ginkakuji for it's 'karesansui' garden (Zen rock garden) that sits against a beautiful mountain backdrop.
Another winter favorite is "Hōsen-in" Temple (which was also featured in our list of top temples & shrines to visit in Kyoto). Tucked away in Ohara village, this 800 year-old temple boasts two picturesque gardens. If you are lucky enough, you may get to experience a snow-covered version of this garden. Enjoy a bowl of authentic matcha tea and a Japanese sweet as you let the temple's serenity wash over you.
When you think winter, you may not envision pink blossoms decorating temples and shrines, but Kyoto has a 'winter flower' that is just as mesmerizing as spring's sakura cherry blossoms. View these exquisite 'ume' plum blossoms in full bloom at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (sometimes as early as the first week of January!) - there are over 2,000 plum trees on the shrine grounds.
Different from a breezy summer 'yukata', the traditional 'kimono' is worn during the cooler months of Japan. Worn in layers, the thicker kimono garment (worn by both men and women) is designed to keep you warm during the winter months. Stroll through the streets leading up to Kiyomizu Temple, cobbled stone streets of Gion, or along the Kamogawa River. We offer our MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN guests kimono rentals, which includes a private kimono fitting at your reserved machiya house, hair styling, and more.
Kyoto is an amazing city to explore by foot, and it's still our preferred way of exploring the city even during the winter months. The 'Philosopher's Path' runs adjacent to a small stream, starting from Eikando Temple all the way up to Ginkakuji Temple. A leisurely stroll will take about an hour or two - allowing you to soak in the neighborhood, and stop by local cafes and small shops along the way. We think it's the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon.
A year-round favorite is "Fushimi-Inari" Temple - just south of Kyoto Station. Here, you can hike through the winding red torii gates (where there are are more than 10,000!) that stand on Kyoto's mountains. There are a number of various winter festivals held on the shrine grounds in January and February, so be sure to stop by to experience the long-standing traditions still celebrated today. The 'Hosha-sai' is an archery ceremony that helps to ward off evil spirits in the new year.