The Golden Pavilion in Winter (Kinkaku-ji)

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Kyoto before you go.

You can find the latest updates on UNESCO: Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

The Mirror Pond in front of the temple creates a perfect reflection. During a calm winter day, the golden structure appears twice in your camera frame. Most visitors arrive early to see the snow before it melts in the sun. Admission costs 500 yen for adults and the gates open at 9:00 AM.

You can learn more about photographing the Golden Pavilion to get the best results. Use a polarizing filter to manage the glare from the snow and water. Be prepared for large crowds even during the coldest days of the year. The security staff will guide you along a set walking path.

The surrounding gardens also look beautiful when covered in frost. Small pine trees and stone lanterns wear white caps throughout the winter season. Stay on the designated paths to protect the delicate moss under the snow. This site remains a top choice for any winter itinerary in 2026.

Kibune Shrine and the Red Lantern Stairs

Kibune Shrine is famous for its long staircase lined with vibrant red lanterns. These lanterns provide a striking pop of color against the deep mountain snow. The shrine is located in a narrow valley north of the city center. It feels much colder here than in the downtown Kyoto districts.

The shrine holds special night illumination events during January and February 2026. These events only happen when there is significant snow on the ground. You can check the Kyoto City Official Travel Guide for live snow updates. The glowing lanterns create a romantic and mysterious atmosphere for evening photos.

To reach Kibune, take the Eizan Railway to Kibuneguchi Station. From there, a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk leads you to the shrine. The walk is beautiful but the road can be very slippery in winter. Wear boots with good grip to stay safe on the icy slopes.

The Kibune River flows right next to the shrine entrance. You can photograph the frozen river banks and small waterfalls nearby. Many local restaurants offer warm meals to help you recover from the cold. This spot offers a unique mountain village feel close to the city.

Kurama-dera Temple and Mountain Views

Kurama-dera sits high on a mountain overlooking the northern valleys. It offers some of the most expansive snowy views in the entire region. The hike up the mountain is steep but very rewarding for landscape lovers. You can see rows of cedar trees covered in heavy winter snow.

If you prefer not to hike, a small cable car is available for visitors. It costs 200 yen and saves you a long walk up the stairs. The main temple hall provides a wide terrace with panoramic mountain vistas. You will feel like you are standing above the clouds on misty days.

Before you start your climb, visit the giant Tengu statue near the station. This red-faced mountain spirit often wears a thick white coat of snow. It is a popular spot for a quick and fun winter photo. Make sure you have essential winter photography gear like extra batteries. Cold temperatures will drain your camera power much faster than usual.

The atmosphere at Kurama-dera is deeply spiritual and very quiet. You might hear the sound of snow falling from the tall trees. This location is perfect for those who want to escape the city noise. Allow at least three hours to explore the entire temple complex comfortably.

Best Snowy Landscape Spots in Northern Kyoto: Ohara

Ohara is a rural village nestled in the mountains of Northern Kyoto. It is one of the best snowy landscape spots in Northern Kyoto for quiet scenes. The village is famous for Sanzen-in Temple and its beautiful moss gardens. In winter, the green moss is replaced by a soft white blanket.

The village remains much quieter than the famous spots in Arashiyama. You can walk through narrow lanes between traditional farmhouses and frozen fields. The local residents often clear the paths early in the morning for visitors. This area feels like a step back into old Japan during winter.

You can find more details in our Kyoto winter photography spots guide for this area. Sanzen-in Temple features several wooden buildings that frame the snowy gardens perfectly. The Ojo Gokuraku-in hall is particularly beautiful when surrounded by white landscapes. Admission to the temple grounds is 700 yen for adults.

To get to Ohara, take bus number 17 from Kyoto Station. The journey takes about one hour and passes through lovely scenery. The bus ride itself offers many chances to see the changing landscape. Plan to spend a full morning or afternoon in this peaceful village.

Winter Photography Planning Tips for 2026

Planning is key to seeing snow in Kyoto because it melts quickly. The best chance for heavy snow is usually in late January. February also offers cold days with frequent light snow flurries. Check the best time for snow photos in Kyoto before booking. Early morning is always the best time to capture fresh, untouched snow.

• Check weather apps every evening for snow alerts.
• Carry hand warmers to keep your fingers nimble for shooting.
• Use a sturdy tripod for sharp images in low winter light.
• Wear waterproof shoes to keep your feet dry in slush.

Transportation can be slower during heavy snowfalls in Northern Kyoto. Buses are the main way to reach Ohara and Kinkaku-ji. Trains are more reliable for reaching the Kurama and Kibune areas. Always allow extra travel time to reach your chosen photography spots safely.

Most temples in Northern Kyoto open between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM. Arriving at the gates before they open ensures a clean landscape. You can capture the snow before other tourists walk through the gardens. Respect the temple rules and avoid using drones in these sacred areas.