10 Spring Cherry Blossom Spots in Kyoto to Visit in a Kimono🌸

Spring in Kyoto is a special season when cherry blossoms bloom in all their glory and the entire city is enveloped in soft spring colors. If you enjoy renting a kimono, you'll want to efficiently visit popular places known as "Kyoto cherry blossom spots," "Gion kimono photography," and "Kyoto photogenic landmarks." This time, we'll introduce Kyoto's classic cherry blossom spots recommended for spring, ordered by their accessibility from "Kyoto Kimono Rental Hanaemi," a kimono rental shop located in the Gion Hanamikoji Building.

Introducing a carefully selected list of popular cherry blossom spots to visit from Kyoto Kimono Rental Hanaemi

1. Gion Shirakawa (about 2 minutes walk)

Located just outside Hanaemi, this is one of the best cherry blossom spots in the Gion area. The scenery of the cherry blossoms, willows, stone pavement, and townhouses along the Shirakawa River is the very definition of "spring in Kyoto." The soft scenery in the daytime and the dreamy atmosphere at dusk make your kimono look even more beautiful.

2. Kamogawa River (about 5 minutes on foot)

This is a cherry blossom-lined spot that represents spring in Kyoto. You can take photos while leisurely strolling along the river, so it's recommended for those who want to capture natural kimono photos. It's also close to Gion, making it an easy stop to visit while sightseeing.

3. Maruyama Park (approximately 10 minutes on foot)

Maruyama Park is extremely famous as a "Kyoto cherry blossom spot." The large weeping cherry tree is a symbol of spring and is perfect for those who want to take a gorgeous photo. It is also lit up at night, creating a romantic atmosphere that is different from the daytime.

4. Yasaka Pagoda (about 15 minutes on foot)

The Higashiyama-style townscape, five-story pagoda, and spring cherry blossoms. This is a popular photogenic spot for Kyoto tourists, and it goes perfectly with a kimono. We also recommend taking a photo looking back halfway up the slope.

5. Kodaiji Temple (about 15 minutes on foot)

This is a charming temple nestled in the Higashiyama area. In spring, the cherry blossoms that adorn the temple grounds are beautiful, and there are plenty of photo spots where you can look great in a kimono, such as the stone pavement, bamboo grove, and Hojo Garden. The townscape around Nene no Michi is also very Kyoto-esque, making it a perfect stroll from Gion. There are also years when special nighttime viewings and illuminations are held, making it a great place for those looking to capture a magical photo.

6. Heian Shrine (approximately 15 minutes by bus)

This is a cherry blossom spot in Kyoto known for its vast shrine gardens. The combination of the red weeping cherry blossoms, pond, and bridge is like a painting. You can take your time taking photos here, so it's recommended for those who want to take photos in a kimono with a calm atmosphere.

7. Kiyomizu-dera Temple (approximately 25 minutes on foot)

It is a staple of Kyoto tourism and is a particularly popular cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. The view of the cherry blossoms from the stage of Kiyomizu is breathtaking. There are also many photo spots around Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka on the approach to the temple where you can look great in a kimono.

8. Nijo Castle (Train and walk approx. 25 mins)

Nijo Castle, a registered World Heritage Site, is also famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. The contrast between the castle walls and the cherry blossoms is gorgeous and goes perfectly with traditional Japanese clothing. If you choose a morning time, you can take photos more leisurely.

9. Nanzenji Temple (Train and walk approx. 25 minutes)

The combination of the Suirokaku arch, cherry blossoms, and fresh greenery is a popular spot. The slightly quiet atmosphere makes it perfect for those who want to take sophisticated kimono photos. It's a hidden gem in the Higashiyama area.

10. Arashiyama (Train + Walking approx. 45 mins)

Arashiyama in Kyoto is a popular tourist destination where the entire mountain is painted pink with cherry blossoms in spring. The view of Togetsukyo Bridge, cherry blossoms, the flowing river, and the mountain ranges is truly spectacular, making it a must-see photo spot in Kyoto in spring. We also recommend combining this with a stroll through the bamboo forest.

Hanaemi is recommended for kimono rentals in Kyoto

Hanaemi, located in the Gion Hanamikoji Building, is conveniently located within walking distance of several cherry blossom viewing spots. Its greatest appeal is the ability to efficiently visit nearby as well as slightly more remote locations.The best time to see the cherry blossoms is usually from late March to early AprilIf you choose to go early in the morning or on a weekday, you can avoid the crowds and take your photos at your leisure. Enjoy a special time in spring in Kyoto, where the cherry blossoms and kimonos intertwine. Be sure to take a memorable photo while touring the photogenic sights🌸