Kyoto / 10 photo spots
10 Instagram spots around Kyoto
Kyoto’s temples, gardens and mountain districts offer details from golden architecture to bamboo groves and paths lined with trees.
Explore the map
Photo spots on the map
1 of 10 photo ideas has sourced location coordinates. The initial view is for orientation. An area marker does not indicate an exact photo position.
Select a highlighted number to show its sourced location on the map. Every name links to the photo spot.
If the map does not load, use the OpenStreetMap link or the photo spot list.
Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.
Destination reference: GeoNames (CC BY 4.0). Spot coordinates: Wikidata, CC0. Selection, association and some calculations by You, Me, Away.
Kinkaku-ji
The Golden Pavilion stands beside a mirror pond dotted with rocks and pines. Include its reflection when the water is calm for a balanced composition.
Search Google MapsKiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera’s wooden veranda projects from the hillside above Kyoto. Photograph the supporting columns and roofline, or look outward across the city from the temple.
Search Google MapsFushimi Inari Taisha
The vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha form repeating lines. Use their rhythm to lead the eye through the frame and towards the path beyond.
Search Google MapsArashiyama Bamboo Grove
The tall bamboo in Arashiyama creates a natural vertical pattern. Point the camera along the grove’s path or look upward to emphasise the height.
Search Google MapsTogetsu-kyo Bridge
Togetsu-kyo Bridge crosses the Katsura River with Arashiyama Mountain behind it. A wide photograph can combine the bridge, river and wooded slopes.
Search Google MapsDaikaku-ji
Daikaku-ji’s grounds include Osawa Pond and the former palace’s Shinden Hall. Use the pond as foreground when composing a wider view of the temple setting.
Search Google MapsJojakko-ji
Jojakko-ji sits on the slopes of Mount Ogura among maple trees. Its pagoda and the surrounding foliage make a layered architectural and natural composition.
Search Google MapsNison-in
At Nison-in, a path lined with maple trees leads beyond the main gate. Use the approach to build depth and draw attention towards the temple.
Search Google MapsGio-ji
Gio-ji’s grounds combine trees, bamboo and a carpet of moss. A close composition of the green textures offers an alternative to a broad temple view.
Search Google MapsOtagi Nenbutsu-ji
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is known for its many individual statues. Choose a small group and focus on their different expressions rather than the whole collection.
Search Google Maps