The cherry blossom season in Kyoto is one of the highlights of traveling in Japan. With traditional architecture blending seamlessly with nature, every corner of Kyoto offers breathtaking cherry blossom photo opportunities. However, some locations provide particularly stunning settings that make for truly unforgettable pictures.
In this guide, we’ll introduce six must-visit cherry blossom photo spots in Kyoto for 2025, along with the best times to capture them and essential photography tips!
📸 Best 6 Cherry Blossom Photo Spots in Kyoto (2025)
| Location | Highlight | Best Time for Photos | Google Maps Link |
| Maruyama Park (円山公園) | Home to Kyoto’s most famous 80-year-old weeping cherry tree | Evening & Night | Google Maps |
| Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道) | A 2km-long canal lined with cherry blossoms forming a tunnel | Early Morning | Google Maps |
| Gion Shirakawa (祇園白川) | Traditional Kyoto townhouses with cherry blossoms along the canal | Before Sunset | Google Maps |
| Nijo Castle (二条城) | Cherry blossoms beautifully illuminated against historic castle walls | Night (Illumination) | Google Maps |
| Arashiyama (嵐山) | Stunning cherry blossoms along the river with mountain views | 9 AM – 11 AM | Google Maps |
| Daigoji Temple (醍醐寺) | A historically significant site with breathtaking cherry blossoms | 8 AM – 10 AM | Google Maps |
1️⃣ Maruyama Park (円山公園) – Kyoto’s Most Iconic Cherry Blossom Spot
📍 Location: Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City
📅 Best Time to Visit: Evening & Night
Maruyama Park is Kyoto’s most famous cherry blossom spot, home to an iconic 80-year-old weeping cherry tree (Shidare-zakura, しだれ桜) that creates a mesmerizing display when illuminated at night.
💡 Photography Tips:
✔ Visit after sunset to capture the beautifully illuminated cherry tree.
✔ Arrive on a weekday evening to avoid crowds.
✔ Use a tripod for long-exposure night shots to enhance clarity.
2️⃣ Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道) – A Tranquil Cherry Blossom Tunnel
📍 Location: Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City
📅 Best Time to Visit: Early Morning
The Philosopher’s Path is a scenic 2km-long canal walk lined with cherry trees that create a beautiful tunnel of blossoms. This peaceful pathway is ideal for capturing serene and dreamy cherry blossom photos.
💡 Photography Tips:
✔ Visit before 9 AM to enjoy the path without crowds.
✔ Capture the blossoms reflected in the water for a unique perspective.
✔ Use a wide-angle lens to emphasize the tunnel effect of cherry blossoms.
3️⃣ Gion Shirakawa (祇園白川) – Traditional Kyoto with Cherry Blossoms
📍 Location: Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City
📅 Best Time to Visit: Before Sunset
Gion Shirakawa is where you can capture Kyoto’s traditional townhouses (machiya) alongside stunning cherry blossoms. The atmosphere is particularly enchanting in the evening, when the street lanterns begin to glow.
💡 Photography Tips:
✔ Take photos during golden hour (5–6 PM) for warm, natural lighting.
✔ Look for reflections in the Shirakawa River to add depth to your photos.
✔ Wear a kimono for a more authentic Kyoto experience in your photos.
5️⃣ Arashiyama (嵐山) – Riverside Cherry Blossom Scenery
📍 Location: Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City
📅 Best Time to Visit: 9 AM – 11 AM
Arashiyama is famous for its picturesque scenery, where cherry blossoms beautifully complement the Katsura River. The iconic Togetsukyo Bridge (渡月橋) provides an unbeatable background, making it a must-visit photography spot.
💡 Photography Tips:
✔ Capture cherry blossoms with Togetsukyo Bridge as a backdrop for the best composition.
✔ Visit in the morning for clear blue skies and fewer crowds.
✔ Rent a boat to take unique cherry blossom shots from the river.
6️⃣ Daigoji Temple (醍醐寺) – A Historic Cherry Blossom Paradise
📍 Location: Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City
📅 Best Time to Visit: 8 AM – 10 AM
Daigoji Temple is one of Kyoto’s most historically significant cherry blossom spots, famous for the "Daigo Hanami" (醍醐の花見), an extravagant cherry blossom viewing event hosted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the 16th century. This location offers a perfect blend of traditional temple structures and stunning sakura.
💡 Photography Tips:
✔ Frame the cherry blossoms with the temple’s traditional architecture for a classic Kyoto shot.
✔ Enjoy a tea session under the blossoms for an atmospheric experience.
✔ Visit in the morning for a peaceful and serene setting with soft natural light.