5 Most Instagrammable Places in Kyoto

One of the most beautiful cities in Japan, Kyoto is a dream destination for photographers. Filled with nature, many temples and shrines, a canal, parks and the Geisha district of Gion, it is easy to imagine all the Instagram photos and understandable why #kyoto is mentioned over 11 million times on Instagram. While the photo opportunities and places to find inspiration in Kyoto are endless, here are 5 most Instagrammable places in Kyoto.

Arashiyama

A scenic and historic district, Arashiyama is on the edge of Kyoto and attracts many tourists. Some of the main attractions include the well-known Togetsukyo Bridge as well as the picturesque bamboo grove. Arashiyama is one of the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto and it is easy to see why. There are various temples dotting the base of the mountains and the Ōi River has many boats floating across making for some of the most enjoyable experiences and photos.

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Okazaki Shrine

A relatively small shrine and a lesser-known destination in Kyoto, the Okazaki Shrine is also known as the bunny shrine. Attributed to childbirth and the gods of fertility the shrine carries a common style of bunnies throughout. One of the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto, the cute bunnies range in size and material and can be found all throughout the shrine. It is a quieter and less touristy destination making it the perfect place to capture some great Insta moments.

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Fushimi Inari Taisha

One of the most famous destinations and famously photographed in all of Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the shrine found at the start of Inari Mountain. The shrine includes trails and a famous entrance known as a Torii leading to the temple. In fact, it is considered one of the highlights to see the many rows of torii gates which line the entrance, they are known as Senbon Torii. Along the way, there are many other smaller shrines visible and to access the top it is approximately a 2-hour walk, but definitely worth the trek.

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Yasaka Koshin-do Temple

The well-known Yasaka Koshin-do Temple is situated in Higashiyama and although it is a smaller shrine it has become very popular on Instagram. One of the most Instammable places in Kyoto, the most and iconic image among Instagram users is the colorful balls that adorn the temple known as kukurizaru which hold the wishes of visitors who pass through the temple. The colorful balls that look like tiny balloons and the temple together make for some great photo moments.

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Gion

The iconic Gion district is known as the Geisha district and the best place to spot a Geisha. From historic wooden buildings to the canal, there photo moments in Gion are endless. It is important to be respectful when photographing Geisha by simply photographing them as they walk down the street, or while they are performing but approaching them on the street is considered in poor taste. Gion is one of the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto with limitless options for special, unique and thoughtful photo moments.

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