When is the best season to visit Kyoto?

Kyoto is very attractive visiting in every season. Spring and fall are the best seasons to go for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In summer there are a number of festivals, and summer activities you can try. In winter there are clear blue skies despite the cold, it very nice to soak in Onsen hot spa in cold winter.

Spring

Sakura Cherry Blossoms

People visit temples and shrines to enjoy "Hanami", cherry blossom viewing in spring, or gather at parks and have Hanami parties. Some temples and shrines in Kyoto extend their opening hours for 'night viewing' of their blossoming cherry trees. If you are visiting Kyoto from the end of March to beginning of April you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Summer

Summer Activities

In some locations where rivers flow, restaurants, bars and cafes offer Kawadoko dining. Kawadoko is a large wooden dining decks set up at the restaurants or cafes besids or above the river. People enjoy Kawadoko dining and spend relaxing time in hot summer. It is usually available from late spring to autumn.

Autumn

Autumn leaf viewing

Most temples, gardens, and parks in Kyoto have deciduous trees which have beautiful colors in late November. People enjoy a bracing walk and take pictures.

Winter

Onsen Hot Spas

Winter is best season to visit Onsen, Japanese style hot spring. Each Onsen offers a wide variety of themed spa baths indoors or outdoors, and different types of hot spring water.