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Kyoto in Winter – 23 of the Best Things to Do and See in 2024-25!

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Kyoto in Winter

If you’re planning to visit Kyoto during the winter months, you’re in for the best time, as there is so much to see and do that visitors don’t typically get to experience between spring and autumn.

Whether you’re looking for some winter illuminations to get you in a festive mood, or seeking to escape into a warm and cozy kotatsu cafe on a cold day, this article has you covered! From sampling some of the region’s most popular winter dishes to soaking in a soothing volcanic hot spring bath surrounded by snow, whatever experience you have come to expect from Kyoto, this city just might surprise you. So, let’s dive in to see why Kyoto is one of the best places to go in winter.

Planning a trip to Japan in the winter? Check out my Japan Winter Itinerary for other activities, destinations, and trip ideas.

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Kyoto in Winter – 23 of the Best Things to Do and See!

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Winter Illuminations in Kyoto

Whilst Tokyo is famous for its dazzling winter light displays, Kyoto also has its own special events that are worth checking out to get you in the festive mood! The winter season really is the best time to visit Kyoto because in addition to the special light displays mentioned below, you’ll find that many of Kyoto’s most famous temples have beautiful ‘light-up’ events during winter.

1. Kyoto Station Illuminations

Photo courtesy of kyoto-station-building.co.jp

Kyoto Station is an architectural marvel and the gateway for visitors to Japan’s cultural capital. To celebrate its 15th anniversary, 125 steps of the main station staircase are lit up each night with a unique and dazzling light display from over 15,000 LEDs. The display, known as The Big Staircase Graphical Illumination Plus, features different types of light designs throughout the year, including New Year’s Eve, Spring, Autumn, and a Luxury Christmas display running from late November to the end of December.

This free and spectacular display takes place, between 3 PM and 10 PM every day until the end of January 2025, so be sure to add a stop here during your next trip to Kyoto.

  • WHERE: Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto

2. Synesthesia Hills Illuminations

Photo courtesy of Synesthesia-hills.jp

On the westernmost edge of Kyoto prefecture lies Synesthesia Hills, one of Kyoto’s premier winter audio and visual experiences. It was created on the grounds of Rurikei Onsen in 2018 and has attracted thousands of visitors each year to see the incredible display. The idea of combining light art installations with harmonizing music was developed with the intention of allowing you to experience a unique environment with all five senses.

Some of the innovative installations include the popular Spiral Light Tunnel, the Five Crystal Lake, Stardust Forest, Writing Garden, and the Ten Aurora Experience. Due to its popularity, Synesthesia Hills is now open year-round (weather permitting).

  • WHERE: Rurikei Onsen, Hirotani-1-14 Sonobecho Okawachi, Nantan, Kyoto

3. Bambio Illuminations

Up until the January 8th, 2024, the trees along the west exit of Nagaokakyo Station, and the entire Bambio Hiroba Park area close to the station are lit up with illuminations from traditional Japanese lanterns using locally made bamboo materials.

In addition to the bamboo light display, the small area of the main illumination includes illuminated figures, a large pyramid that is lit up at night, and large illuminated murals and paintings. Nagaokakyo Station is just a 12-minute train ride from Kyoto Station on the Tokaido-Sanyo Line, so if you’re in the area to view the Kyoto Station display, a short journey to Nagaokakyō Station will be worth your time.

  • WHERE: Nagaokakyō Station West Exit, 1-chōme-2 Kōtari, Nagaokakyo, Kyoto

4. NAKED Sakura Festival 2024

Photo Courtesy of Naked.co.jp

This creative display of visual art, which runs from March 7th to April 7th, enables visitors to see, hear, experience, eat, and drink the colors and flavors of spring through a unique exhibit of lights and projections around the grounds of the former Nijo-jo Castle, one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto. This spring, more than 300 cherry blossom trees spread throughout the castle grounds are elaborately decorated NAKED style to celebrate the season, this includes sakura flavored food and drink, as well as illuminations at night, and a huge cherry blossom projection at the castle’s Karamon gate.

The event is open every day between 6 PM and 10 PM, with the last entries at 9 PM. You can reach Nijo-jo Castle by train where the closest station is Nijojo-mae station in the Tozai line.

  • WHERE: 541 Nijo-jo Castle Dori, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto

5. Light Cycles Kyoto

Photo Courtesy of Lightcycles-kyoto.com

To celebrate its 100th anniversary, Kyoto Botanical Gardens has organized a new light and sound display inviting the public to experience a new side of nature through four separate installations designed to help you connect with nature in a unique, immersive sensory experience.

The four experiences; Light Will Find You, Memory of Water, Invisible, and Forest Frequencies, use a combination of shifting scenery, audio effects, light patterns, and sounds from nature to make you use all of your senses and feel as if the plantlife is communicating with you. Most of the experience takes place indoors and lasts for about 45 minutes.

  • WHERE: Kyoto Botanical Gardens, Shimogamo-Hangicho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City. Friday, October 18 – Thursday, December 26, 2024

6. NAKED Autumn Festival 2024

Photo Courtesy of Naked.co.jp

Before the NAKED Sakura festival, which takes place in the same location in early March, this latest art illumination event from creative production company NAKED, at Nijo-jo Castle, provides visitors with a Kyoto autumn experience to engage all five senses.

You can wander the grounds of the UNESCO World Heritage site and explore the digital light displays on the castle walls and trees, try one of the autumn-inspired drinks or dishes at the food stalls, and take in the music and the aromas, to experience autumn in a new and creative way. On your way out, you can pick up a traditional Japanese lantern customized with your name to take home.

  • WHERE: Nijo-jo Castle, Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto. 6 PM – 10 PM, Friday, October 25 – Sunday, December 8, 2024

Incredible Winter Views in Kyoto

7. Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate is a large sandbar covered in pine trees that connects the two ends of Miyazu Bay in northern Kyoto prefecture. It is one of Japan’s three most celebrated scenic sights as named by Japanese scholar Hayashi Gahō, and is a popular tourist attraction year-round.

December to February are the best months to see the stunning frosted white treeline stand out across the icy blue water. It is something to behold. From the nearby observatory, a range of other attractions, parks, and shrines can also be found.

Amanohashidate can be reached by train directly from Kyoto station in just over two hours along the Hashidate line, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from the city center.

  • WHERE: Monju, Miyazu, Kyoto

8. Arashiyama Bamboo Groves

Photo courtesy of Duong Thinh

One of the most popular sites in Kyoto is the famous bamboo grove and surrounding area. Known for its spectacular natural beauty, cherry blossoms, and autumn leaf viewing season, visitor numbers drop in the winter months as the bamboo forest takes on a magical quality under a dusting of snow.

If you’re going to be in Kyoto or the Kansai area then the best time to see the frosted bamboo forest is between late December and late February. Even in winter, the popular walking route through the grove can still become quite busy during the day, particularly at weekends, so an early morning visit is recommended.

  • WHERE: Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward

9. Kinkaku-ji

What could be a more breathtaking view than a clear blue sky over the brilliant white snow-covered roof of the iconic Golden temple, and the immaculate surrounding gardens, also covered in a crisp white blanket of snow?

The famous Temple of the Golden Pavilion is one of Kyoto’s most popular tourist attractions and a Unesco world heritage site which seems to become even more popular in the winter months when the snow falls and the shining gold leaf walls stand out even more against the white backdrop. Make sure you bring your winter gear and be ready to brave the crowds, but the views will be worth it.

  • WHERE: 1 Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward

10. Kiyomizu-dera

This 1,200-year-old Buddhist temple in the eastern part of Kyoto is famous for its large wooden terrace which comes out from the main hall and hangs over the hillside, drawing visitors year-round for its scenic views, particularly during cherry blossom season and autumn leaf viewing season.

As you ascend the steep footpath towards the temple you will find a wide variety of shops and restaurants in the area which have welcomed tourists and temple visitors for centuries. Although it is much quieter in the winter months, if you’re lucky enough to arrive after some snowfall you will be in for a truly unique and magical sight.

  • WHERE: 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward

Onsen in Kyoto

11. Tenzan-no-yu Onsen

A traditional Japanese onsen is a must-try experience if you are looking for somewhere to warm your bones. This onsen and spa complex is located in the west of the city close to Arashiyama. It offers a variety of different styles of public baths and natural hot springs, including traditional thermal baths, cold baths, and a sauna. 

The onsen sources its heated water from a high-sodium mountain spring which it claims increases the softness of your skin. As with many public onsen in Japan, tattoos are prohibited however the spa offers several other services to help you relax after a long day of sightseeing in Japan’s cultural capital, such as its source and ceramic foot baths, and fish therapy for your skin.

  • WHERE: 616-8315 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, 峨野宮ノ元町55-4-7

12. Kamishichiken Oku

A traditional onsen ryokan located in the heart of one of the oldest teahouse districts in Kyoto, guests can enjoy the convenience of a relaxing stay after a luxurious onsen right in the heart of the city.

Roam the grounds of the ryokan’s traditional Japanese garden or have a drink at the bar. If you’re looking to explore the city, ask the English-speaking staff for recommendations at the front desk. The superior and deluxe-sized rooms also offer private open-air baths which can be a particular appeal to westerners with tattoos who may not be able to visit public onsens in the city.

  • WHERE: Kamishichiken Oku, 712 Shinseicho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto

13. Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho

This four-star hotel offers an elegant blend of simple and traditional Japanese design integrated with modern Japanese comforts. A short walk away from Umekoji Park and the Kyoto Aquarium, the hotel is also a few minutes walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi train station, putting the rest of the city within easy reach.

When the temperature drops outside, there’s nothing better than taking some time to relax in the communal hot bath or reserving one of the five private hot spring baths available to guests free of charge. For dining, the hotel restaurant offers a traditional Japanese menu, or you can explore the dozens of restaurant choices close by.

  • WHERE: 41-10,Sujakuuchihatacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto

Looking for somewhere to stay in Kyoto? Check out the 20 Best Kyoto Ryokan with Private Onsen.

Winter Dining in Kyoto

14. Shabu Shabu

Shabu-shabu is a traditional Japanese hotpot dish containing sliced meat, vegetables, and sometimes tofu in a boiled broth. Although it is a popular dish all over Japan, it is particularly enjoyed throughout the Kansai region during the colder winter months where it can be found in many restaurants and eateries. The name is an onomatopeia word that comes from the ‘swish, swish’ sound the ingredients make when stirred in the pot.

One recommended place to try this warming dish is Mishima Tei, a 150-year-old family-run restaurant close to the city center that offers a range of traditional Japanese dishes using locally sourced ingredients available season-to-season, including a range of shabu-shabu courses for every palette.

  • WHERE: 405 Sakuranocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto

15. Nabe

Nabe is a hot pot dish that is cooked in a round clay dish over a flame and mainly includes a combination of meat, noodles, and vegetables. It is extremely popular during the cold winter months. There are various styles and flavors of nabe including Chankonabe, packed with chicken, noodles, and vegetables, it is a useful dish to help sumo wrestlers gain weight.

If you’re looking for somewhere to try this great winter dish, Sakahoko is a popular specialist restaurant with English menus that has been serving this cheap and tasty dish for more than 50 years. Stop by and try a bowl of chankonabe, you might even spot a sumo wrestler chowing down in the corner!

  • WHERE: Sakahoko, 203-5, Shimokorikicho, Nakagyo-ku

16. Sukiyaki

Another winter staple that is popular among groups of friends or work colleagues is sukiyaki, a dish of beef, vegetables tofu, and noodles simmered in an iron pot in a soy sauce-based broth often at the table. Although there are two main styles, in Kyoto you are most likely to come across Kansai-style sukiyaki, which is prepared by cooking the meat first, followed by sugar, sake, soy sauce, vegetables, and other ingredients afterward.

Among the many places you will find the dish in Kyoto, Sukiyaki Iroha stands out. This 110-year-old restaurant specializes in the meat hotpot dish which it has been serving since its doors opened in 1911 when actors from the local theater across the Kamo River would visit after a performance. 

  • WHERE: 〒604-8015 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nabeyacho, 215

17. Sake Manju

An unusual take on the traditional and popular Japanese sweet dish, you will usually only see sake manju sold during the winter months because the ingredients are a byproduct of the sake fermentation process. This means that with the sake brewing months typically being November to March, sake manju is a seasonal delight you won’t want to miss.

Many popular confectionary shops will start selling this winter treat around late November. Toraya Karyo, located in Kamigyo ward, on the doorstep of the Imperial Palace, is an elegant cafe that offers a selection of beautifully made modern and traditional Japanese sweets, including sake manju during the winter months.

  • WHERE: 415 Hiro Hashidono-cho Ichijo kado Karasuma-dori Kamigyo-ku Kyoto

Winter Festivals in Kyoto

18. Yamashina Gishi Festival

Photo courtesy of gishimatsuri.com

On December 14 every year, locals and foreign tourists gather outside the gates of the Bishamon-dō Temple to watch reenactments of famous scenes from the popular Japanese story of the 47 Ronin who avenged the death of their master and sacrificed their own lives in the process. The warriors have since passed into legend as the embodiment of bushidō, the samurai code of honor, loyalty, and sacrifice.

The main event of the celebration includes a parade of local actors dressed as the famous samurai, who pass through the neighborhood stopping for a performance of taiko drumming before finishing outside the temple for the reenactments and prayers for the honored dead.

  • WHERE: Bishamon-dō Temple, 18 Anshuinariyamacho, Yamashina Ward

19. Tōka Ebisu

From January 8th to the 12th the first festival of the new year period is held within the grounds of the Ebisu-jinja Shrine in Kyoto to celebrate the birthday of Ebisu, the lucky god of fishermen and commerce. Events take place on the grounds of the temple on every day of the festival and are open to the public who visit the shrine to pray for success in the year ahead.

The five-day festival includes music, a tea ceremony, food and gift stands, mochi making, shrine presentations, and live displays of the kagura dance performed by shrine attendants to bless bamboo leaves which are then passed out to visitors.

  • WHERE: Kyoto Ebisu-jinja Shrine, 125 Komatsucho, Higashiyama Ward

20. Hatsumonde (first shrine visit of the new year)

If you will be in Japan over the New Year period, then Hatsumode is a unique treat for you to experience. From December 31st to around January 2nd or 3rd many Japanese people pay a visit to either their local shrine or one of the large temples to ring the bell and pray for luck and good fortune in the new year ahead. Visitors are of course welcome to join the queue and do the same, but be prepared for a crowd.

The ritual can be quite an event at some of Kyoto’s grand shrines where thousands can gather over this two or three-day period. Some recommended shrines include Fushimi Inari Shrine and Yasaka-jinja Shrine.

  • WHERE: Fushimi Inari Taisha, 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward

Other Winter Activities in Kyoto

21. Kobo-san Market

On the 21st of every month, To-Ji Temple opens its grounds to members of the public for the monthly ‘Kōbō-san’ a popular flea market held to honor the famous Buddhist monk Kōbō Daishi who oversaw the temple more than a thousand years ago.

The market offers everything from used household furniture and antiques to food, drink, and handcrafted items and gifts. As it is the last one of the year, the December flea market is usually packed with deal-hunters looking to strike a bargain. If you’re going to be in or around Kyoto on the 21st, you might find yourself a special souvenir before you head home.

  • WHERE: Tōji Temple, 1 Kujocho, Minami Ward

22. Fushimi Sake Tasting

Lovers of sake or those who have yet to try it for the first time should head over to the famous Fushimi sake-brewing district when brewing season is in full swing. You will have the chance to taste some of the region’s best as they brew their batches for the year.

The many sake breweries of this traditional Japanese district are known throughout Japan for using the local clear spring water in their sake, which produces a smooth and unique taste.

To really make the most out of your time in Fushimi, I recommend booking a sake brewery tour so you can really get to understand the sake brewing process and taste different kinds of sake.

  • WHERE: Fushimi

23. Kotatsu Cafes in Kyoto

There’s nothing cozier in wintertime in Japan than a kotatsu table, a low square table covered with a thick blanket that covers the tabletop. Modern kotatsu tables also usually come with electronic heaters built-in. They are extremely popular throughout Japan where they are often used by families at home during mealtimes.

Because of this popularity, it makes sense that kotatsu cafes and restaurants would also start popping up around Japan. One such cafe in Kyoto is Slow Jet Coffee located inside the entrance office to Kyoto City Zoo. The cafe offers a range of hot and cold drinks as well as sweet and savory crepes. Regular or kotatsu seating is available, making it a perfect spot for a bright winter day.

Other examples of kotatsu cafes in Kyoto include Epokhe Cafe, a cozy basement cafe around a 1-minute walk from Hirano Shrine that offers teas, signature coffees, and sweets.

  • WHERE: Entrance to Kyoto City Zoo, Okazaki Park, Okazakihoshoji-cho, Sakyo Ward

Heading to Kyoto? Download your Kyoto Bucket list for 2024, or check out my 3-day Kyoto itinerary and the best Kyoto food tours and experiences!

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