Guia de Viaje por el Sur de Kioto

Southern Kyoto is a quieter, more residential area than the northern part of the city. However, there are still many interesting tourist attractions to visit in southern Kyoto.
Southern Kyoto is a beautiful and culturally rich region that offers something for everyone. It is a popular place to visit, whether for its history, culture, or natural beauty.

What to see in southern Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

This shrine is one of the most prominent and revered in all of Japan. With a history dating back to the 8th century, Fushimi Inari is a special place you can’t miss if you’re exploring the Kansai region. Fushimi Inari is the main shrine dedicated to the deity Inari, with around 40,000 shrines throughout Japan honoring this god. Located on the outskirts of Kyoto, in Fushimi Prefecture, it’s easily accessible from Kyoto and Nara, making it a must-see during your trip to the Kansai area. Additionally, the shrine is open 24 hours a day, making it perfect for tight or difficult-to-plan itineraries. Inari is the god of rice and, therefore, the patron saint of merchants, as a good rice harvest was once associated with prosperous business. This explains one of the shrine’s most striking features: the thousands of torii that extend along its 4 kilometers of paths. These torii, donated by merchants who carve their names or the names of their businesses on them, create a fascinating covered passageway that seeks the blessing of the god Inari. Walking the 4 kilometers of paths between the torii is a beautiful experience that we definitely recommend. However, keep in mind that it can be a tiring walk, as the shrine is located at the foot of Mount Inari, which involves constant climbing. By the time it’s time to descend, you may feel quite tired. If you visit the shrine during the intensely hot summer, the walk can be demanding. Remember to bring sports drinks, water, and a snack. But it’s definitely worth it! A hike of approximately three or four hours will allow you to visit the shrine, walk through the thousands of torii, and find yourself surrounded by lush nature at the top of Mount Inari. Of course, there are many different routes that you’ll discover as you go, all marked on the maps you’ll find on the mountain.

Tofuku Temple

An important Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 1236 by the monk Enni, who introduced the Rinzai tradition of Zen Buddhism from China, this temple has been a center of Zen study and practice for centuries. The architecture of Tofuku-ji Temple is stunning, with its extensive gardens, elegant pavilions, and traditional gates. One of the highlights is the Tsutenkyo Bridge, a wooden structure that spans a beautiful canyon of maple trees. During autumn, the bridge and trees are covered in vibrant red leaves, creating a spectacular landscape. This temple consists of several buildings and sub-temples, each with its own beauty and significance. The Main Hall, known as Hondo, is a place for meditation and religious ceremonies. Additionally, you’ll find tea rooms, moss gardens, and other structures that invite contemplation and inner peace. Tofuku-ji Temple is especially renowned for its tea culture and tea ceremony. Throughout the year, tea-related events are held, where visitors can experience the elegance and spirituality of this Japanese tradition. Within Tofuku-ji, valuable cultural treasures are also housed, such as ancient paintings and scriptures, which represent the rich history and heritage of Zen Buddhism in Japan. People from all over the world visit the temple in search of tranquility, natural beauty, and spirituality. Zen Buddhism enthusiasts, as well as lovers of architecture and nature, find inspiration in this sacred place. This is a fascinating destination for those interested in Zen Buddhism, Japanese culture, and the serene beauty of its gardens and traditional architecture. Enjoy serenity and contemplation while exploring this remarkable temple.

Daigo Temple

An important Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 874, this temple has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its scenic beauty and spiritual significance. The temple is located on a wide mountainous area and features a beautiful landscaped garden that changes throughout the seasons. During the spring, the cherry blossoms offer a stunning spectacle, while in the autumn, the maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and orange, creating a mesmerizing landscape. Daigo-ji Temple consists of several important buildings, the most prominent being the Main Hall known as Kondo. Statues and religious treasures of great significance are housed here. Another notable building is the Five-Storied Pagoda or Goju-no-to, an iconic temple structure that offers panoramic views of the surroundings. This temple has great historical and cultural significance. During the Heian period, the retired Emperor Go-Daigo performed rituals and religious practices at this sacred site. Furthermore, the temple has been the scene of significant historical events, such as the reconciliation between samurai factions in the 16th century. Daigo-ji Temple houses a valuable collection of art treasures, including ancient paintings and sculptures that represent Japan’s rich Buddhist tradition. These works of art are considered national treasures and are admired for their beauty and profound spiritual significance. The temple attracts numerous pilgrims and tourists seeking to experience serenity and spirituality. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the beautiful gardens, admire the traditional architecture, and participate in religious practices such as meditation and sutra recitation.

Ujigami Shrine

This Shinto shrine is recognized as the oldest of its kind in all of Japan and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ujigami Shrine traces its roots back to the 3rd century and is believed to have existed since the Yayoi period, giving it unique historical and cultural significance. It is dedicated to the deity Ujigami, who is revered as the protective deity of Uji and its inhabitants. It is a sacred place that offers protection and blessings to the local community. The shrine’s traditional Japanese architecture is stunning. Its main building, known as the Honden, has been rebuilt several times over the centuries but still retains original elements of ancient Japanese architecture, giving it a historic charm. The shrine is surrounded by a beautiful forest, creating a stunning natural setting. Its serene and tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal place for reflection and contemplation, allowing you to connect with spirituality and find inner peace. Additionally, Ujigami Shrine is associated with the nearby Byodoin Temple, another important historical and tourist site in the Uji region. Both places are visited by tourists and pilgrims who wish to experience spirituality and immerse themselves in the area’s rich history. Its antiquity, traditional architecture, and natural setting make it a culturally significant destination and a place of respect and devotion for both visitors and the local community. Explore this shrine and be captivated by its history and spiritual beauty.

Jonangu Shrine

This Shinto shrine, also known as Jonan-jinja Shrine, is located in the Fushimi district and is considered one of Kyoto’s major Kamo shrines. With a history dating back to the 9th century, Jonan-gu Shrine is dedicated to the deity Kamo Wake-ikazuchi-no-Kami, who represents thunder and lightning. For centuries, this site has been revered and played a pivotal role in the religious rituals of Japan’s former imperial court. Here, visitors can experience a deep sense of devotion as they pray for protection from natural disasters and seek blessings for health and prosperity. The shrine boasts stunning architecture and is surrounded by exquisite natural surroundings. Stepping into its grounds, visitors will find themselves immersed in an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity as they admire the sacred buildings and marvel at their beauty. In addition to its religious significance, Jonan-gu Shrine is known for the events and festivals it hosts throughout the year. One of the most notable is the annual Jonan-sai festival, held in September, featuring religious ceremonies, parades, and traditional activities. This is a special time to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich culture and traditions. Jonan-gu Shrine is not only a spiritually significant destination but also a culturally enriching place in Kyoto. It attracts visitors from around the world seeking to experience the spirituality and tradition of Shinto. It is a place of beauty and devotion, where you can connect with the history and culture of the region in a unique way. Enjoy your visit to Jonan-gu Shrine and allow the serenity and spirituality of the place to envelop you as you explore its rich history and its connection to Japan’s Shinto tradition.

Ninna Temple

One of the main attractions of Ninna-ji Temple is its beautiful garden, known as the Omuro Garden. This garden is designed in the Japanese dry garden style, characterized by its simplicity and elegance. Here you can enjoy a serene pond, picturesque bridges, and a variety of trees and flowers that create a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. The temple’s architecture is also impressive. The main building, called Kondo, is an outstanding example of Heian-era Buddhist architecture. With its curved roofs and meticulous design, this building showcases the period’s artistic mastery. In addition to the Kondo, the temple features other important buildings, such as the main gate building and the Treasure Hall. These buildings bear witness to the temple’s rich history and culture. Ninna-ji Temple is also known as the birthplace of the Omuro Shingon school of Buddhism. This school focuses on the practice of esoteric Buddhism and has had a great influence on Japanese Buddhist tradition. Here you can learn about this fascinating tradition and immerse yourself in its ancient wisdom. Its beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and importance in Buddhist tradition make this temple a popular destination for visitors. Enjoy the serenity and beauty this sacred place offers.

Southern Kyoto Travel Guide