Starting from Kiyomizu Temple, crossing over Sannenzaka to Chion Temple and ShourenTemple.

This course is a must; the King of tourist routes in Kyoto.

The Eastern part of Kyoto has been conserved over the years, and the traditional Kyoto atmosphere is present wherever you go. Depending on the seasons, many temples are lit up at night-time, creating a beautiful effect.

In contrast to the traditional ambience offered at Kiyomizu Temple and Koudai Temple, across to the western side of Higashiou Street, Yasuikonpira Shrine andYuureiame Shrine offer a little spookier occultist feel that you may enjoy.

Routes around Higashiyama・Gion・Kiyomizudera Temple・Yasaka Shrine area

From Tougetsu Bridge to Tenryu Temple・Okouchisanso through Gio Temple to Adashinonenbutsu Temple.

This is also a must while visiting Kyoto.

Depending on what season it is, the crowds can get a little overwhelming, so you may want to trek of the beaten path to Sagano.

Routes around Sagano・Arashiyama area

Traveling over the Philosophers Path from Ginkaku Temple to Nanzen Temple, this area is classified as a preservation district, limiting the types of new developments allowed. The major temples in this area, Ginkaku Temple, Nanzen Temple, Eikando and Houzen' Temple, along with the Sakura trees in the Springtime, fireflies in the beginning of summer and the foliage of Autum make this area around the Philosphers Path a great place to visit.

If you trek a little more, Shinnyodou Temple, Yoshida Shrine, Himukaidai Shrine and Heian Shrine are temples all in walking distance. If you feel up to it, Daimonji Mountain is another place to visit, giving you another site to enjoy in this area.

Close to the Philosophers Path is Kyoto University and the Hyakumanben District, which is home to a large student population. This offers a fairly laid back atmosphere that differentiates Sakyo-ku from other areas in Kyoto.

Routes around Ginkaku Temple・Nanzen Temple・Philosophers Path・Kyoto University area

From Kinkaku Temple to Kinugasa・Kinukake Road through Ryuuan Temple to Ninna Temple.

The Zen rock garden at Ryuan Temple is world famous, but the majority of the temples along this route have magnificent Japanese gardens of their own.

Routes around Kinkaku Temple・Kitano area

Traditional Sakyo-ku course.

Rice patties that dot the housing developments, wild foliage that grows all around, this route offers a very country feel.

It is important to make reservations before visiting Shuugakuinrikyu Temple.

Routes through Raku-Hoku・Shinsendou Temple・Manshu Temple・Shuugaku Temple area

From Daitoku Temple through Imamiyajinjya Shrine to Takagamine, Genkouan, Koetsu Temple, Souden Temple and towards Kamigamo Shrine.

It is a little bit of an uphill climb starting from Daitoku Temple, so it may be a good idea to start from Kamigamo Shrine instead!

This is a slightly longer course, so feel free to skips some sites if you wish!

Routes through Murasakino・Daitoku Temple area