The Best Time to go to Kyoto
According to insidekyoto.com, the best seasons to discover Kyoto are during fall (October/November) and spring(March/April/May). The atmosphere is incredibly lovely and aesthetically pleasing.
Nonetheless, due to its mild climate, Kyoto is a worthwhile destination throughout the year. Summers (June/July/August) in Kyoto are known for their hot and humid conditions, whereas winters (December/January/February) are cold.
Beyond the weather, Kyoto is always abundant with exhibitions, art festivals, art fairs, and other events to visit. If you are considering a trip to Kyoto this spring, here are five recommendations for places to explore.
1. NODE HOTEL – 461 Toroyama-cho, Nakagyo, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
A hotel designed as an “art collector’s residence” integrates art into daily life, featuring works by various artists such as Barry McGee, Tomoo Gokita, Shinro Ohtake, Nobuyoshi Araki, Yukimasa Ida, and more. The aim of this contemporer hotel is to create a welcoming community connecting locals and visitors.
2. Ace Hotel – 245-2 Kurumaya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
The hotel collaborated with architect Kengo Kuma and Commune Design for a renovation. The lobby, open to the public, showcases a wooden ceiling with small lights, blending East and West. Visitors can explore various exhibitions, DJ events, and projects on diverse topics at this “community space.”
3. The Screen – 640-1 Shimogoryomae-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
The Screen is a unique hotel near the Kyoto Imperial Palace with 13 guest rooms designed by Japanese and international creators like Asuka Irie, Kan Sano, and others. Each room, such as Room No. 202 by Hideyuki Nakayama and Room No. 302 by Rinran Tonda, has a distinct theme and design, offering guests a diverse and enjoyable selection experience.
4. Roku Kyoto – 640-1 Shimogoryomae-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Roku Kyoto is the inaugural LXR Hotels & Resorts property in Asia by Hilton, known for distinctive designs in unique global locations. The hotel, located near Takagamine mountains and Tenjin River, is designed by Blink Design Group, resembling an artisan’s residence on Hon’ami Kōetsu’s former grounds.
5. Cherry Blossom in April to May
In April, spring is in full swing. The first 10 days are busy for sightseeing, with cherry blossoms peaking. Weather is mostly warm but prepare for occasional cold days. The latter half of the month is quieter and pleasant. Kyoto Festivals and Events In April to May include Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) at various prime locations such as Maruyama-koen Park, Kyoto Gosho, Kamo-gawa River, Kyoto Botanical Gardens, and Gion’s Shimbashi district.
6. Jidai Matsuri in October & Fall Foliage Season in November
October and November offer sunny days and cool evenings, making it a comfortable time to travel. The leaves change color at the end of October. In Kyoto, top places to view fall foliage include Tofuku-ji Temple, Nanzen-ji Temple, Ginkaku-ji Temple, Honen-in Temple, and Takao village with its maple-covered mountainsides.
7. Kyoto Wand Cafe – 311-1 Kitatōryōchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Kyoto Wand Café provides a serene escape for travelers exploring the tranquil sights of Japan’s previous capital, Kyoto. The café is meticulously designed to evoke the essence of multiple generations captured in film photographs, offering visitors a delightful retreat within an architectural blend of traditional and contemporary elements.
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