Arriving early morning, Himeji Castle 姫路城 rises above its brilliant walls framed by cherry blossoms in full bloom. This is the White Heron Castle in spring — where hanami culture, history, and Japan’s iconic sakura scenery converge into one unforgettable experience. Before the crowds arrive and the petals begin to fall, here are the 11 sights you won’t want to miss.
Steeped in history and culture, Nanzenji Temple 南禅寺 is one of the 5 great Zen temples in Kyoto and occupies a huge piece of land. It offers many attractions that will enchant travelers: a rare Roman-style aqueduct, the largest temple gate in Japan, Zen rock gardens, and stunning autumn colors.
Inside a 100-year-old machiya or traditional townhouse near Nanzenji, Blue Bottle Coffee Kyoto is a must-visit for both coffee lovers and interior design buffs. Sipping a good cup of coffee in a cafe that pays homage to Japanese aesthetics and heritage while melding with modern coffee culture sure has its draw.
% Arabica is one of Kyoto’s best-selling coffee stands, popular among locals & international visitors who flocked to its cafes in Kyoto and around the world. With a latte art champion and a specialty coffee trader at its helm, % Arabica quickly became one of the must-visit cafes for coffee lovers in Kyoto.
Nestled in the quieter part of the renowned Arashiyama district is Jojakko-ji 常寂光寺. A charming temple hidden away at the base of Mount Ogura, its unassuming rustic beauty is often underrated. During autumn, it’s a place where Japanese maple leaves, ginkgo trees, and moss meet in an explosion of colors.
IZAMA 居様 serves up Kyoto home-style food, platter meals or obanzai おばんざい in a traditional Kyoto townhouse. Concocted of skillfully arranged small dishes, the chefs brings the natural flavors, colors, and Kyoto style of cooking to the forefront. Read our review on IZAMA’s seasonal bento box obanzai.
Planted on the mountainside of Mount Rokko in Kobe, Nunobiki Herb Gardens 神戸布引ハーブ園 is Japan’s largest herb garden and home to 75,000 herbs and flowers. It is a must-visit if you love flowers, herbs, and nature. There are lots of see, do, and learn at this beautiful botanical garden.
Freundlieb フロインドリーブ is a bakery-cafe housed within the former Kobe Union Church which was built in 1929. This German bakery and its beautiful cafe have many locals flocking to its door to savour their breakfasts and lunches, partake of its quiet elegance, and pack home breads & cookies.
Fujiwara Palace Ruins 藤原宮跡 in Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture is a must-see during spring when both cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers are in bloom, creating a gorgeous flower field set against a background of mountains.
Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺), Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion, glimmers in gold and casts a perfect reflection across a tranquil pond. This iconic gold temple attracts photographers and travelers all over to capture that perfect reflection photo in all seasons. Get travel tips on Kinkakuji – a must-see during autumn in Kyoto!
