Photogenic Spots in Higashiyama — From Yasaka Street to Kiyomizu-zaka

Photos that capture the ordinary moments of daily life.
Photos that preserve time spent with loved ones.
Natural expressions only family can bring out.
Expressions only friends can capture.
Looks that only a partner can photograph.
How many precious photos do you have?
In this article, we’ll introduce ways to take “living photos” — snapshots that bring back joyful memories — while enjoying Kyoto’s seasonal scenery and historical townscape.

The Beauty of Japan’s Four Seasons
One of Japan’s greatest treasures is its four seasons.
And Kyoto’s seasonal landscapes are particularly breathtaking.
They say, “No matter how many times you visit Kyoto, it always looks different.”
Kyoto’s ever-changing beauty has captivated countless people, drawing many back every season without fail.
Each season — spring, summer, autumn, and winter — adds its own color and atmosphere to Kyoto’s natural beauty, giving photos a different vibe each time.
While strolling through the city, you’ll surely want to capture these uniquely Kyoto moments.
Let’s explore some recommended photo spots you can walk to from our store, focusing on the picturesque path from Yasaka Street to Kiyomizu-zaka.

Step off the main road into Yasaka Street, and a gently sloping path of stone pavement welcomes you with its quintessential Kyoto charm.
Straight ahead stands the iconic Five-Storied Pagoda of Hōkan-ji, commonly known as “Yasaka no To.”
Visiting during sunrise brings a sense of energy and renewal.
Lining both sides of the street are shops selling Kyoto souvenirs and traditional sweets — a perfect photo opportunity!
The road continues all the way to the World Heritage Site Kiyomizu-dera.

Just before the pagoda on the right is a photogenic spot that’s gone viral on social media.
Though commonly known as Yasaka Kōshindō, its official name is Daikokuzan Kongo-ji Temple.
It enshrines “Kōshin,” symbolized by a monkey figure, which is also the origin of the colorful “kukurizaru” charms.
Look for the bright orange gate. Once inside, start by offering a prayer at the main hall.
The temple grounds are filled with vibrant, round charms resembling beanbags — these are “kukurizaru,” guardian monkeys with bound hands and feet that represent restraining desires.
Write your wish on one and hang it for a fun and symbolic photo.
For flattering shots, try poses that elongate the neck to enhance a slim look.
Looking upward adds cuteness, while looking down with your eyes gives a mature impression.
The vibrant background will stand out on any social media feed.
Pair it with a rented kimono — an easy must-have item — and strike a pose with the kukurizaru backdrop.
Address: 390 Kinen-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Phone: 075-541-2565
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Free / Kukurizaru: 500 yen
Note: Photography is not allowed without offering a prayer.
Access: 3-minute walk from “Kiyomizu-michi” or “Higashiyama Yasui” bus stop

One of the best spots for capturing Yasaka’s famous pagoda.
Continue up the gentle slope past the pagoda for about 200 meters, then turn around.
You’ll see the majestic tower framed by stone-paved streets and traditional Kyoto buildings — an unforgettable view.
The view of the tower from above, especially at sunset, is breathtaking and photo-worthy.
Address: 388 Yasaka Kamimachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission: 500 yen (middle school and up)
Closed: Irregular days (check by phone)
Note: Children under middle school age not permitted due to steep stairs.
Access: 3-minute walk from “Kiyomizu-michi” or “Higashiyama Yasui” bus stop

Named because it lies below Sannenzaka (Three-Year Slope), Ninen-zaka is lined with traditional Japanese houses with tiled roofs.
Its classic Kyoto atmosphere makes it a perfect photo spot from any angle.
There are also charming cafes and shops selling Japanese crafts — ideal for kimono strolls.

This area is carefully preserved, showcasing Kyoto’s authentic charm.
After the rain, the wet stone pavement glistens with elegance and romance.
Try posing at a slight angle to show one sleeve for a graceful look — step one foot forward and pull the other slightly back, then hold the sleeve tight to display it neatly.
You can capture a mood-filled photo while showing off your kimono style.
In spring, the area is packed from early morning to evening light-up time when the weeping cherry blossoms are in bloom.

Now You Know the Spots!
Photos taken in Kyoto blend seamlessly into the cityscape, preserving not just moments but fleeting beauty.
We recommend capturing these once-in-a-lifetime memories dressed in kimono — the perfect match for this timeless city.

Kimono naturally bring out elegance.
Even everyday scenes become photogenic just by adding a kimono to the frame.
Now that you know the best locations, the next question is:
How can you take photos that you’ll want to look back on again and again?
Smiling and flashing a peace sign is lovely, but if every photo looks the same, it can get repetitive.
Try breaking eye contact with the camera.
Look at something in your hand or off into the distance.
This adds a sense of grace and refinement.
A slightly melancholic expression can also be quite moving.
If you're photographing your hands, be mindful of what you're holding — cherry blossom petals, autumn leaves, an ema (wish plaque), or a colorful handball.
Kyoto is full of photogenic items — choose one that represents a cherished memory.
A petal from the cherry blossoms you saw with your family, an ema you wrote with your partner, or a fortune you drew with friends — these details bring depth and emotional meaning to your photos.

Don’t Forget the Obi!
One thing people often overlook is the back of the kimono — especially the decorative obi.
In casual kimono, the obi’s knot is where the stylist’s skill shines.
There are hundreds of ways to tie it, and its appearance changes depending on the angle.
Take side or rear-view shots to capture the obi’s beauty and vary your pose.
A backward glance not only shows off your hairstyle and profile, but adds elegance and atmosphere to the shot.

Kyoto is full of photo spots you can enjoy while strolling.
Photos with loved ones capture not just the moment, but the atmosphere, too.
You’re sure to find one special image that could only be taken here.
Photos have a mysterious power.
They bring back memories, warm your heart, and sometimes reveal things you didn’t notice at the time.
Kyoto, too, holds a mysterious charm.
When the power of photos and Kyoto combine, unforgettable memories are captured in a single frame.
That may be why so many people come to Kyoto just “to take photos.”

Revisiting familiar spots for photo memories is lovely, and discovering new shops or places adds excitement, too.
Photos capture fleeting moments — and it’s that transience that makes them beautiful.
Kyoto looks different every time.
So why not return and press the shutter with care, creating photo memories you’ll treasure forever?
Each new photo will become a beautiful piece of your story.


Website: www.okamoto-kimono.com
Instagram: @rentalkimonookamoto
TikTok: @rentalkimono_okamoto
Facebook: Rental Kimono Okamoto
X (formerly Twitter): @okamotokimono
Lit.link: lit.link/rentalkimonookamoto