7 cherry blossom illumination in Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo. Fantastic Japanese Spring Nights

Cherry blossoms are an essential part of the spring scenery in Japan. Many people choose the right time of year to visit Japan to enjoy the cherry blossom scenery. While it is nice to visit famous cherry blossom viewing spots during the daytime, the fantastic scenery of cherry blossoms illuminated at night is also very tasteful. This article introduces spots in Kyoto and Hyogo where cherry blossoms are illuminated at night.   *Please note that the admission fees and charges for viewing cherry blossoms illuminated at night may differ from the regular admission fees and charges. *Please check the official website of each spot for details such as the time of the event.   -INDEX- 【Kyoto】World Heritage Site Nijo-jo Castle/NAKED meets Nijo-jo SAKURA 2025 【Kyoto・Higashiyama】Kodai-ji Zen Temple/Spring Night Special Entrance(illumination) 【Kyoto・Higashiyama】Jodo Shu head temple Chion-in 【Kyoto・Okazaki】Heian Jingu Shrine/Sakuraotoyo 2025 【Osaka】Expo’70 Commemorative Park/Cherry blossom trees along Higashioji Street illumination 【Hyogo・NIshinomiya】Shukugawa Park/Sakura Illumination Kurakuen 【Hyogo・Himeji】Himeji Castle/Himeji Castle Night Cherry Blossom Viewing Party Dates: March 14 (Friday) -April 13, 2025(Sunday) Nijo-jo Castle, a World Heritage Site, is home to approximately 300 cherry trees of 50 varieties. Cherry blossoms are usually short-lived, but the blooming period of cherry trees at Nijo-jo Castle differs depending on the variety, allowing visitors to enjoy them for as long as one month.   Experience an enchanting fusion of art and history at NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2025 Sakura. This special nighttime event transforms the historic Nijo Castle into an immersive cherry blossom wonderland, featuring breathtaking projection mapping on the iconic Karamon Gate, as well as digital art installations across seven key locations within the castle grounds.   In addition to the artistic hanami (cherry blossom viewing), the event offers a delightful selection of seasonal food and drinks at the South Gate and Ninomaru Palace Courtyard. Indulge in sakura-themed sweets, beverages, alcoholic drinks, and even vegan-friendly hanami favorites while soaking in the magical atmosphere.   Event Hours: 18:00–22:00 (Last entry at 21:00) *Illumination viewing areas will be limited.   ▼Check this article▼ 5 castles in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. From World Heritage Sites to the Newest Castles, Places to Visit for Sightseeing Dates: March 14 (Friday) – May 6, 2025 (Tuesday, National Holiday) Higashiyama is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto. Kodai-ji Zen Temple is one of the most popular temples. During this period, the entire temple grounds, including the hall, garden, and bamboo grove, will be illuminated. The cherry blossoms in the Hashin-tei garden in front of the Hojo (main building) are especially wonderful when illuminated. The pink cherry blossoms standing alone in the white sand garden of Karesansui (dry landscape garden) are showered down like a shower. The dignified appearance of the cherry blossoms in the spotlight is a sight to behold.   Illumination Hours: 5PM-10PM (Last entry at 9:30PM) ▼Check this article▼ The latest in 2025 | 22 Cherry Blossom Spots in Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo) Dates: March 26 (Wednesday) – April 6, 2025 (Sunday) Jodo Shu head temple Chion-in is especially famous for the cherry blossoms in front of its national treasure, Sanmon. The beauty of the pretty pink cherry blossoms against the massive and powerful Sanmon is nothing short of impressive. In addition to the approximately 200 cherry trees, the National Treasure Mieido and Daishoro, an important cultural property, are also illuminated, making it a must-see.   From Chion-in to Maruyama Park and Kodai-ji Zen Temple, famous for the “Gion-no- Yozakura” (cherry blossoms at night in Gion), and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, it is recommended to visit all the famous night cherry blossoms in Higashiyama, Kyoto, at the same time.   Illumination Hours: 5:45PM-9:30PM (Last entry at 9PM)   ▼Check this article▼ The latest in 2025 | 22 Cherry Blossom Spots in Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo) Dates: April 2(Wednesday) -April 6, 2025 (Sunday) The Shinen of Heian Jingu Shrine is a Japanese garden representative of the Meiji era. Of the vast grounds totaling approximately 33,000 square meters, the red weeping cherry trees in the south and east shrine gardens are famous, and are illuminated at night.   Illumination Hours: 6:15PM-9PM (Last entry at 8:30PM)   One of the most popular spring events at Heian Jingu Shrine is the “Heian Jingu Shrine Sakura Otoyo” concert, held at the Higashi Shin’en Kihin-kan. Set by the tranquil waters of Seiho Pond, this event offers a magical experience where visitors can admire illuminated cherry blossoms while enjoying live performances of traditional Gagaku and classical music. Unlike traditional concerts, this event does not have designated seating. Instead, guests can leisurely stroll through the illuminated gardens of the shrine while listening to the enchanting melodies by the pond. * A separate ticket is required for the concert. There are two ticket options: Concert Admission: Includes access to Higashi Shin’en (concert venue) and Minami Shin’en (cherry blossom illumination). General Admission: Grants access to Minami Shin’en (cherry blossom illumination only).   ▼Check this article▼ Kyoto Goshuin Guide: 6 Goshuin from Famous Shrines to Recommended Goshuincho Dates: March 20 (Thursday, national holiday) -April 6, 2024(Sunday) Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Osaka, selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots. cherry blossoms start blooming around mid-March and the park is dyed in beautiful pink. Until early April, the cherry trees along Higashioji Street will be illuminated. The rows of lustrous cherry blossoms lining both sides of the road are a sight to behold. During the daytime, there will be special openings of the “Pan-an and Banri-an” tearooms in the vast Japanese garden, and tea ceremonies at the “Pan-an” (for a fee). Why not experience a typical Japanese spring scene with cherry blossoms and tea?   ▼Check out this article too▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! Dates: March 22 (Saturday) – April 6, 2025 (Sunday) (subject to change depending on blooming conditions) About 10 minutes by Hankyu train from Kobe-Sannomiya station, and about 20 minutes by Hankyu train from Osaka-Umeda station. The rows of cherry trees along the riverside, which can be seen from the platform of Hankyu Shukugawa Station, are one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Hyogo Prefecture, selected as one of the 100 best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan! Approximately 1,660 cherry trees and 1,520 pine trees are planted along the riverside avenue. In particular, the view of Mt.Kabuto and the cherry blossoms from the bridge just outside Hankyu Kurakuen-guchi Station is spectacular.   At night, “Nishinomiya Tourism Association” and “Kurakuen Stores Meeting”, a shopping association around Kurakuen-guchi Station, sponsor a illumination event, which can be enjoyed free of charge. The cherry blossoms are reflected on the surface of the river like a mirror, creating a spectacular scene.   The area around Kurakuen-guchi Station is a residential area, so there are many families and unique restaurants scattered around the area. This is a spot where you can fully enjoy the charm of cherry blossoms from the perspective of everyday Japanese people. Dates: March 28 (Friday) – April 6 (Sunday), 2025 Himeji Castle, designated as a World Heritage Site and a National Treasure, is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot. At night, around 100 cherry trees in the Nishi-no-Maru Garden, an area normally closed to the public, are beautifully illuminated. This creates a breathtakingly magical atmosphere, offering a completely different experience from the daytime scenery. Himeji Castle is also called “Shirasagi-jo” (White Egret Castle) because it looks like a white egret with its wings spread. The collaboration of its majestic figure, which rises white in the darkness under the lights, and the cherry blossoms is a sight to behold.   Illumination Hours: 6:30PM-9PM (Last entry at 8:30PM)   ▼Check this article▼ 5 castles in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. From World Heritage Sites to the Newest Castles, Places to Visit for Sightseeing The cherry blossoms are illuminated only for a short period of time in spring! Enjoy the heart-stopping scenery and make it a precious memory of your trip.

The latest in 2025 | 22 Cherry Blossom Spots in Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Hyogo)

From famous cherry blossom viewing spots to hidden gems, here are some of the best places to view cherry blossoms by area for your reference in the spring of 2025.   -INDEX- [KYOTO area] [KYOTO Arashiyama area] ・Togetsukyo Bridge, a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Arashiyama ・Randen (Keifuku Electric Railway)  Cherry blossom Tunnel ・Tenryuji Temple, where you can enjoy cherry blossoms while overlooking the city of Kyoto ・Daikakuji Temple, where you can enjoy cherry blossoms reflected on the surface of water [KYOTO Higashiyama area] ・Keage Incline is popular for its rows of cherry trees in full bloom ・Kodaiji Temple, a popular cherry blossom viewing spot for its illumination ・Cherry Blossom Walk “Philosopher’s Walk” ・Heian Jingu Shrine, famous for weeping cherry blossoms [KYOTO Nishiyama area] ・Shobo-ji Temple to enjoy cherry blossoms at a temple called Ishi-no-tera ・Phantom Sengan Cherry Blossom, Oharano Shrine ・Commonly known as the Temple of Flowers, Shouji-ji Temple ・The entire mountain is dyed pink at Yoshimine Temple [OSAKA area] ・Japan Mint, Cherry Blossom Passage ・Osaka Castle Park with a spectacular view of the castle and cherry blossoms ・Osaka Sakura Cruise ・Ikeda Satsukiyama Ryokuchi, cherry blossom viewing spot for the whole family ・Hanami from Late February! Flower Expo Memorial Park Tsurumi Ryokuchi [HYOGO area] ・The cherry blossoms along the river are magnificent at Shukugawa Park ・Oji Zoo where you can enjoy cherry blossoms even with small children ・Sumaura Sanjo Yuen Park, where you can enjoy the view overlooking the Seto Inland Sea and cherry blossoms ・Takarazuka Hana no michi, a beautiful walking path to Takarazuka Grand Theater ・Kokoen Garden, a Japanese garden in Himeji for cherry blossom viewing There are many picturesque cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto. You can never miss the famous spots! I want to go to a place where there are as few people as possible! Here are some cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto by area that will fulfill both of your wishes. Arashiyama is rich in seasonal changes. The clear Oigawa River and the graceful appearance of the Togetsu Bridge over it attract people’s hearts no matter what time of year they visit. In spring, the view of cherry blossoms, mountains, river, and bridge together is magnificent. The view of the Togetsukyo Bridge over the overflowing cherry blossoms and Arashiyama beyond is as beautiful as a picture scroll.   For a unique hanami experience, consider renting a boat or taking a traditional roofed boat to enjoy the cherry blossoms along the Katsura River. Even on crowded days, you can appreciate the stunning view of Togetsukyo Bridge and the sakura from the calm waters.   ▼Click here for a model course that allows you to quickly capture Arashiyama sightseeing in half a day. Kyoto Arashiyama Sightseeing Half-day Model Course! Capture the bamboo forest, temples, nature, and major spots! A tunnel of cherry blossoms appears between Narutaki and Utano Stations on the Randen Kitano Line. Someiyoshino cherry trees line both sides of the line for about 200 meters. The retro trains that run through the cherry blossoms are also attractive. Tenryuji Temple was built by Ashikaga Takauji. It is a beautiful spot with cherry blossoms in the distance, such as weeping cherry trees blooming against the backdrop of Dahouden Hall and Mochikyo-no-oka overlooking Arashiyama in spring. Cherry trees are planted around Osawa Pond, the oldest man-made garden pond in Japan, and visitors can enjoy a 1-kilometer walk around the pond. The cherry blossoms reflected in the water mirror are also beautiful. Higashiyama is home to a concentration of Kyoto’s most famous sights. The area, which is easily accessible from downtown Kawaramachi, Kyoto, is dotted with cherry blossom viewing spots. Please enjoy the town of Higashiyama dyed in pink. A total of 582 meters of inclined railroad near Nanzenji Temple, and now visitors can freely walk on the rails. In spring, you can enjoy the romantic scenery amidst the rows of cherry trees that fill the area. This Zen temple was built by Nene to mourn the loss of Hideyoshi. In spring, weeping cherry trees in the Hojo Garden bloom beautifully, their bright pink color shining on the white sand of the garden.   During the nighttime viewing, the Hojo front garden with weeping cherry trees will be illuminated. Friday, March 14, 2025 – Tuesday, May 6, 2025 (national holiday) 17:00 (light-up) – 22:00 (reception closes at 21:30)   ▼Check this article▼ 7 cherry blossom illumination in Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo. Fantastic Japanese Spring Nights The Philosopher’s Path, a scenic 2km walkway connecting Ginkaku-ji Temple and Nanzen-ji Temple, is lined with countless cherry trees. No matter how far you walk, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking sakura! The side trips to shrines and temples scattered along the way are also enjoyable and make you lose track of time. Most of the cherry trees that adorn Heian Shrine are red weeping cherry trees. As the name suggests, these cherry trees are bright red in color. The contrast with the vermilion shrine pavilions is magnificent.   In early April, Heian Shrine’s Higashi-Shin’en and Minami-Shin’en Gardens are illuminated, creating a magical nighttime sakura viewing experience.    ▼Check this article▼ 7 cherry blossom illumination in Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo. Fantastic Japanese Spring Nights There’s even a spot away from the city center of Kyoto where you can enjoy the cherry blossoms! Enjoy the cherry blossoms in a relaxing atmosphere at this ancient shrine nestled in the nature of Nishiyama.   ▼Kyoto Nishiyama is the next hot spot in Kyoto! For more information, please click here. Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! The “Garden of Birds and Animals,” lined with stones that resemble animals and birds, is a beautiful spot where weeping cherry trees stand dignifiedly. The most notable cherry blossom on the grounds of Oharano Shrine is the “Sengan-zakura” (cherry blossom with a thousand eyes). It is said to be a phantom cherry blossom that blooms for only two or three days, and if you are lucky enough to see it, your wish will come true. At Shouji-ji Temple, commonly known as “Flower Temple,” about 100 cherry trees spread their branches spontaneously. The temple is famous for the “Saigyo Cherry Blossoms,” which are said to have been planted and loved by the monk Saigyo. Various varieties of cherry trees, including higanzakura (higan cherry), shidarezakura (weeping cherry), yamazakura (mountain cherry), and botanzakura (botan cherry), color the spring scenery in the precincts. The temple is also famous for its dynamic view. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Kyoto. There are many cherry blossom viewing spots in the Osaka area, including cherry blossoms to be enjoyed in the city and in parks. Japan Mint Bureau is a regular spot that is often voted No. 1 in the ranking of Osaka’s cherry blossom viewing spots. Although the grounds are not accessible during the day, they are open for a limited time only during the “Cherry Blossom Passage,” which is held when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. *In 2023, online pre-registration (first-come, first-served) was required, but no information is yet available for 2024.   Cherry blossoms at Japan Mint are mainly late-blooming yaezakura, and many types of cherry trees can be enjoyed while walking along the 560-meter promenade. Each cherry tree is planted with a different variety of cherry blossom, so find the one you like best! This lush green park stretches around Osaka Castle and offers a spectacular view of cherry blossoms with the castle tower in the background.   The Nishinomaru Garden, surrounded by important cultural properties, is famous for its approximately 300 cherry trees, mainly Someiyoshino.   The castle tower and the pink-colored cherry blossoms are a spectacular view unique to Japan.   ▼Check this article for recommended castle spots other than Osaka Castle! 5 castles in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. From World Heritage Sites to the Newest Castles, Places to Visit for Sightseeing The “Naniwa Tanken Cruise with Rakugo Storytellers,” which offers sightseeing in Osaka City with the entertaining guidance of Rakugo storytellers, will be operated as the “Cherry Blossom Special Cruise” for a limited time in spring.   This is a very popular cruise every year, where you can enjoy the rows of cherry blossom trees that are slightly tinted with spring colors from the surface of the river. The cruise takes about 120 minutes and you can see the cherry blossoms along the Okawa River. Satsukiyama Ryokuchi, located in Ikeda, Osaka, is a popular spot where you can enjoy a free zoo, hiking, barbecues, and playground equipment all day long. On weekends during the holiday season, the park is crowded with families with children and hikers. From the entrance of the park to the Hinomaru Observatory at the top of the mountain, Someiyoshino and Yamazakura cherry trees are in full bloom everywhere. Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park is a spacious park featuring a rose garden, almond trees, and a variety of seasonal flowers, making it a perfect spot for families and couples alike.   This park is unique for its long cherry blossom viewing season, starting from late February. Various cherry tree species are planted here, including Kawazu-zakura, Okame-zakura, and Somei Yoshino, allowing visitors to enjoy hanami for an extended period.The Kawazu-zakura, which reaches full bloom from late February, features bright and vibrant pink petals, creating a stunning sight. More than half of the approximately 1,400 cherry trees in the park are Somei Yoshino, and when they reach full bloom, the entire park is beautifully dyed in soft cherry blossom hues. Additionally, from mid-April, visitors can admire the delicate blue nemophila flowers covering the Windmill Hill Flower Garden, adding another layer of seasonal beauty. There are many places famous for cherry blossoms in the Hyogo area. Kobe, Takarazuka, Himeji, etc., offer a different atmosphere from Osaka and Kyoto. Shukugawa Park has a beautiful view of the cherry blossoms reflected in the river. It has been selected as one of the “100 Best Places for Cherry Blossoms” and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. The path lined with cherry blossom trees on both banks is a perfect walking course. You can also enjoy the cherry blossoms from the nearest station, Hankyu Shukugawa Station. At Hankyu Shukugawa Station, there’s a cute bench with a cherry blossom motif! Opened in 1951, Oji Zoo is one of the best leisure spots in Kobe where parents and children can enjoy a full day of close observation of animals. Oji Zoo is also a great place to enjoy cherry blossoms. There are about 480 cherry trees in the park alone, and nearly 800 cherry trees in the entire Oji Park. The collaboration of animals and cherry blossoms, including giraffes and elephants, is fascinating. Please enjoy the warm weather and be healed by the animals. Sumaura Sanjo Yuen Park is a popular amusement park for parents and children, where you can enjoy the view of the blue sky and the sea. You can get there by taking the Sumaura ropeway and gondola. You can see the collaboration of cherry blossoms with Osaka Bay and Akashi Strait. It is famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot in Kobe. The number of cherry trees in bloom here and there in the park is one of the largest in Kobe. The “Hana no michi” that leads from Hankyu Takarazuka Station to Takarazuka Grand Theatre is filled with cherry blossoms in spring. The tunnel of cherry blossoms in full bloom looks like a flower path on a stage. It is also popular among Takarazuka Revue fans.     ▼Check this article▼ Takarazuka you don’t know yet! A fun day at the Takarazuka Grand Theater for beginners Kokoen Garden is a popular tourist spot when visiting Himeji. This is a Japanese garden with World Heritage “Himeji Castle” in the background. The garden area is large along the southwestern part of Himeji Castle. The gardens are approximately ten thousand tsubos (about 3.5 hectares). Those who come to visit Himeji Castle must not miss out to come and visit this garden. This garden consists of 9 separate strolling-style gardens of different sizes and landscaping themes in the style of the Edo Period. Various types of gardens such as hills and ponds, tea ceremony gardens, bamboo groves, or flower gardens are designed to allow us to enjoy the beauty of the four seasons in Japan.   Adjacent to Koko-en Garden, Himeji Castle is another popular cherry blossom viewing spot, with numerous cherry trees blooming within its grounds. A stroll along the moat surrounding the castle offers a unique hanami experience, allowing visitors to admire the castle from all directions—east, west, south, and north—while enjoying the beautiful cherry blossoms.   ▼Check this article▼ 7 cherry blossom illumination in Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo. Fantastic Japanese Spring Nights You can only enjoy the cherry blossom-colored scenery of Japan during the short spring period. Please check it out as soon as possible and use it as a reference for your travel plans.

[2025] 7 Best Breakfasts in Kyoto | Near JR Kyoto Station and Popular Tourist Attractions

For sightseeing in Kyoto, starting your day early is highly recommended! As a worldwide popular tourist destination, Kyoto now boasts an increasing number of restaurants offering breakfast. This time, we’ll introduce some recommended breakfast spots conveniently located near famous attractions such as Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.   Index Introduction to Japanese Breakfast and Kyoto Breakfast The Secret to Exploring Kyoto: Visit popular spots from early morning 　[Higashiyama, Kyoto] Picnic with Onigiri Breakfast: Kyoto Gion Omusubiya Sankaku 　[Arashiyama, Kyoto] Freshly Baked Focaccia for Breakfast: Bread, Espresso and Arashiyama Garden 　[Shijo Karasuma] Traditional Kyoto Breakfast at Kyoto’s Market: Nishiki Hirano 　[Shijo Karasuma] Stylish Café Breakfast in Kyoto: Ogawa Coffee – Sakaimachi Nishiki 　[JR Kyoto Station] Start with Kyoto’s Classic Breakfast: Inoda Coffee – Hachijo Exit Branch 　[JR Kyoto Station] Breakfast Buffet with Traditional Pickles: Kamado-Takitate-Gohan Doi – Kyoto Station Hachijo Entrance 　[Fushimi, Kyoto] Enjoy Breakfast in a Relaxing Terrace Setting: Vermillion – cafe. Make Your Kyoto Journey Memorable Starting from Breakfast! A traditional Japanese breakfast typically includes white rice, miso soup, grilled fish, natto or seaweed, pickles, and umeboshi (pickled plum). Sometimes, it’s accompanied by tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet) or other small side dishes. While modern lifestyles have evolved, breakfast is still primarily seen as a meal enjoyed at home in Japanese culture.   Kyoto is also known as a city with a strong bread culture, consistently ranking among the top in bread consumption nationwide. Many long-loved cafés can be found throughout the city. In the mornings, it’s common for locals to enjoy a relaxing moment at their neighborhood café, savoring toast and coffee while reading the newspaper from their favorite seat. In Kyoto, more and more stores have begun offering breakfast to allow tourists to experience Japanese morning meal culture.   By starting your day early, not only can you enjoy a taste of Japan’s breakfast traditions, but you can also explore famous attractions before the crowds arrive.   Did you know that many temples and shrines are open for visits early in the morning? For example, Fushimi Inari Taisha is accessible at any time, Kiyomizu-dera Temple opens at 6 a.m., and Kenninji Temple Ryosokuin even holds early-morning Zen meditation sessions that visitors can join.   The atmosphere at temples and shrines in the morning is serene and sacred, offering a deeper appreciation of Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Pair this unique experience with a delightful breakfast, and make the most of your Kyoto mornings! Nearby Attractions: Yasaka Shrine, Gion, Kodaiji Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kenninji Temple, Kamogawa River   An onigiri, also known as omusubi, is a traditional Japanese food made by shaping rice into forms such as triangles, cylinders, or ovals, often wrapped in nori seaweed. Located right in front of Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto Gion Omusubiya Sankaku offers a delightful selection of onigiri crafted with locally sourced Kyoto ingredients. When it comes to classic onigiri fillings, options like plain salted rice balls, salmon, plum, and kombu are staples. Here you can also find unique flavors such as Kujo Negi Miso (made with Kyoto’s traditional green onions) and hearty options like Wagyu Yakiniku (Japanese grilled beef).   For the perfect pairing, grab some takeout miso soup from the shop and head to nearby Maruyama Park or Kamogawa River for a refreshing morning picnic! Nearby Attractions: Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Temple   This charming café, run by a popular bakery, is housed in a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese-style house. The ambiance is steeped in nostalgia, reminiscent of settings from old folktales, making it an enchanting space that captures the essence of Japan.   The café’s specialty is freshly baked focaccia. Their Japanese-style focaccia sandwiches, featuring fillings like mackerel and traditional sides such as stir-fried burdock root, are a must-try. The surprising harmony between these quintessentially Japanese ingredients and the focaccia will leave you impressed. The café also offers a delightful breakfast plate, featuring their signature sandwich paired with sides like salad and granola. Nearby Attractions: Nishiki Market, Rokkakudo Temple, Mikane Shrine, Nijo-jo Castle, Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto With Experience   Located within the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, Nishiki Hirano is a must-visit spot. Known for its hot, freshly cooked dashimaki tamago (rolled omelet) prepared right at the storefront, the shop also boasts popular items like the shrimp tempura skewer and their unique dashimaki burger. Breakfast here follows a traditional Japanese style, featuring a set of steamed rice, miso soup, dashimaki tamago (rolled omelet), and Kyoto-style home-cooked dishes. Dashimaki tamago is a classic staple of Japanese breakfasts! Enjoy the fluffy texture and rich flavor of this rolled omelet, soaked in savory dashi broth and perfectly cooked to bring out its full deliciousness. Nearby Attractions: Nishiki Market, Rokkakudo Temple, Mikane Shrine, Nijo-jo Castle, Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto With Experience   Established in 1952, this long-standing Kyoto coffee shop has embraced the concept of “a store that will last 100 years,” transforming a traditional machiya townhouse into a harmonious space blending tradition and innovation. Here, they serve ethical coffee alongside their delightful breakfast offerings. The morning menu features the Charcoal-Grilled Homemade Bread Toast Set, offering eight varieties to choose from. Highlights include the “Full Breakfast,” made with premium eggs and sausages, and the “Four Toppings Set,” which lets you enjoy the simple deliciousness of their bread. You can select from Kyoto-sourced wheat or whole-grain bread for your toast.   For added convenience, Ogawa Coffee also has a branch inside JR Kyoto Station (menu offerings may vary). Nearby Attractions: Toji Temple, Kyoto Aquarium, Sanjusangendo Hall   JR Kyoto Station is a major transportation hub connecting Tokyo, Hiroshima, and other cities via the Shinkansen. While the station itself is home to numerous dining options, Inoda Coffee, established in 1940, stands out as one of Kyoto’s most iconic coffee shops. Known for its slogan, “Kyoto mornings start with the aroma of Inoda Coffee,” this café has long been a favorite among artists and cultural figures. Its enduring popularity stems from its rich, full-bodied coffee brewed with the traditional nel drip method and the staff’s heartfelt omotenashi (hospitality), ensuring every guest feels valued. For breakfast, try the “Kyoto Morning Set,” available until 11 a.m. This menu perfectly complements the elegant ambiance of the café, where dark brown tones create a calm and refined atmosphere. It’s an ideal way to enjoy a serene and graceful start to your day in Kyoto. Nearby Attractions: Toji Temple, Kyoto Aquarium, Sanjusangendo Hall   “Kamado-Takitate-Gohan Doi” is a restaurant operated by Doi Shibazuke Honpo, a pickle shop that has preserved the traditional methods passed down in Kyoto’s Ohara region for over a thousand years. “Shibazuke” is a type of pickle made by salting ingredients like eggplant, cucumber, and myoga ginger along with perilla leaves. It is considered one of the “Three Great Pickles of Kyoto.” At the restaurant located within JR Kyoto Station, you can enjoy a breakfast buffet featuring a variety of pickles, including shibazuke. The freshly cooked rice made on a traditional kamado stove and miso soup are all-you-can-eat! The buffet menu also includes “obanzai” dishes, such as simmered vegetables and macaroni salad, ensuring a satisfying meal to start your day. Nearby Attraction: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine   Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of Kyoto’s most popular destinations for international travelers. Since it gets very crowded during the day, an early morning visit is highly recommended. While you’re there, make sure to stop by the adjacent “Vermillion – cafe.” A relaxing morning coffee here will set the tone for a perfect day ahead. The highlight is its terrace seating surrounded by lush greenery and offering a serene, open-air atmosphere. With trees and a pond right in front of you, this location is particularly stunning during the fresh greens of spring and the vibrant hues of autumn. Even indoors, the cafe’s large windows allow you to enjoy the view, creating a cozy and relaxing ambiance. Pair your freshly brewed coffee with a Western-style breakfast featuring crispy bacon, warm bread, and poached egg. It’s the perfect way to start your morning near one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Experience Japan’s breakfast culture and explore attractions during quieter hours. Use this article as a guide to plan your itinerary and make your trip even more fulfilling!

Hokan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)

Standing at approximately 46 meters tall, the Yasaka Pagoda is a striking five-story pagoda and one of the most iconic landmarks in Higashiyama, Kyoto. It belongs to Hokanji Temple, which is said to have been founded during the Asuka period. The current pagoda was rebuilt during the Muromachi period and has since been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Blending seamlessly into Kyoto’s traditional streetscape, Yasaka Pagoda is a treasured cultural site that embodies the timeless charm of the ancient capital. Whether admired from afar or explored up close, its elegant structure and rich history make it a must-visit spot.

Terakoya Honpo (Arashiyama Main Store)

Founded in 1985 in the rural village of Ohara, Kyoto, Terakoya Honpo is a long-established Japanese confectionery shop specializing in traditional senbei (rice crackers) and okaki (bite-sized rice snacks). Using 100% domestically sourced glutinous rice, they produce high-quality treats with authentic flavors. At their Arashiyama Togetsukyo Store, the Hanami Dango, colorful rice dumplings topped with sweet bean paste, is a customer favorite. With its delicate sweetness and beautiful presentation, it’s a must-try treat.

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