When is the Best Season to Visit Kyoto?

The winter season encompasses December to February (and usually halfway through March), and they are the coldest months of the year in Kyoto. 
The reason why it gets so chilly in Kyoto is because of its geographical location.
Kyoto is a basin surrounded by mountains in the north, east and west. 
This makes the temperature seem colder than it actually is.
Though it hardly goes sub-zero, it is highly recommended that you bring plenty of winter attire for a day out.
Out of the many classic tourist attractions in Kyoto, there are some places that are especially beautiful in winter when combined with the snowy landscape. 

Here are a few must-visit places in winter.

Don’t miss the chance to see the golden temple blanketed in snow!

The stone steps lined with red lanterns contrasts beautifully with the white snow, creating a mystical atmosphere.

The seemingly monochromatic scenery of Tenryu-ji in winter is registered under the world heritage, with the entire compound blanketed in snow.

This location is designated as one of the three most beautiful snow landscapes in Japan “冬景色の日本三景” which makes it a must-visit if you are ever in Kyoto when it is snowing.

Due to its temperate climates and scenic beauty, spring in Kyoto is very pleasant. 
Spring offers the most beautiful scenes of cherry blossoms (sakura) which is unique to Japan. 
Spring season is when Kyoto’s beautiful cityscape becomes even more serene and colourful with cherry blossoms blooming alongside historical shrines and temple grounds. 

Here are some of the recommended places to visit in Kyoto in spring.

Ride on the popular train with no windows for a liberating ride through cherry blossoms!

Located in a basin, Kyoto offers one of the hottest summers in Japan.
Despite the heat, there are various cooling events and festivals that are sure to entertain you.
Some events like festivals are held from evening to night when the temperatures are cooler than the day, so you may put it in your itinerary for the night after a day of touring the city of Kyoto. 
We have an article on 8 Must-Visit Festivals in Kyoto for more information on festivals in Kyoto!

Here are some of the events in summer.

As aforementioned, the best times to visit Kyoto are in the spring and autumn seasons, which makes September to November a very suitable time to visit Kyoto. 
As the autumn deepens, Kyoto becomes even more colourful with the flourishing red, brown, and green of the momiji autumn leaves. 
The autumn foliage in Kyoto is exceptionally beautiful when combined with the elegant cityscape and historic buildings dotted throughout the city.
One thing to keep in mind is that the temperature fluctuates drastically in November, so it is worth it to make sure you have suitable clothing with you.
In some of the momiji places, you may have to walk through mountainous areas and gravel roads so make sure to bring a pair of shoes with you as well!

You might wonder where you should see, especially with so many charming places to visit, so here is a selection of some of the most appealing places to enjoy autumn in Kyoto.

Popular for its cherry blossoms, Kiyomuzudera is also known for its momiji leaves that surround the famous stage!

Usually off-limits to the public, it is open only in the autumn season when the momiji leaves become vibrant. It is also popular on social media with many people commenting on the beautiful reflection of the scenery on the floors of the temple.