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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Oda.
Oda is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, a captivating world of excitement that is simply begging to be explored.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Oda:
1. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a historic temple located in eastern Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its panoramic views of Kyoto and its beautiful architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds and view the many shrines, halls, and pagodas throughout.
The main hall, built in 1633, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see for its impressive wooden architecture.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Kiyomizu-dera is the famous Kiyomizu Stage, a wooden veranda that juts out from the main hall.
The view from the stage offers breathtaking views of Kyoto and is particularly stunning during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons.
Insider travel tips: – The temple becomes particularly magical at night when it is illuminated. Check the temple’s website for information on when night illuminations are scheduled.
– If you want to avoid the crowds, plan to visit early in the morning when the temple opens at 6: 00 AM.
2. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds; wear comfortable shoes as the hike can be steep and strenuous at times; try some of the local street food vendors outside the shrine for a taste of traditional Japanese cuisine.
3. Ginkaku-ji Temple
Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a beautiful Zen temple located in the Higashiyama District of Kyoto, Japan.
What to see or do: – Wander through the meticulously maintained temple gardens, which are designed to be enjoyed in any season.
Don’t miss: The Silver Pavilion itself, which despite its name, was never actually covered in silver. Its understated beauty is emblematic of the wabi-sabi aesthetic and provides an immersive experience in Zen Buddhism.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to visit in the early morning for the best chance at quiet and serene contemplation.
4. Nijo Castle
An Edo-period castle located in the heart of Kyoto.
What to see or do: Visit the Ninomaru Palace, which includes beautiful paintings on sliding screen doors.
Take a walk through the castle’s gorgeous gardens, where you’ll find a variety of cherry blossom trees and a large pond.
Explore the castle grounds, which include impressive walls and moats.
Don’t miss: The nightingale floors of the Ninomaru Palace, which sqeak like birds when walked on. The castle is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Take your shoes off before entering the Ninomaru Palace to preserve the delicate paintings.
Check out the nearby Nishiki Market for some delicious street food.
5. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a natural forest located in the western outskirts of Kyoto city, Japan. The Grove consists of densely packed bamboo trees that soar high above, casting a serene ambiance.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll on the lush green pathway amidst the soaring bamboo trees. The walkway is 500 meters long and creates a serene atmosphere for visitors to experience nature’s beauty.
Stop by Tenryuji Temple, located nearby, and witness the tranquillity of the zen garden. You can also rent a bike to explore the area around the bamboo grove.
Don’t miss: The picturesque view of the bamboo grove, especially during sunrise and sunset, is something you shouldn’t miss. The light filtering through the dense bamboo forests gives a magical feeling to the surroundings.
Also, don’t miss the chance to indulge in the local delicacies like matcha ice cream and mochi at the street vendors nearby.
Insider travel tips: The bamboo grove is highly crowded, especially on weekends.
Visit early morning on weekdays to avoid the crowds, and be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the pathway can be slippery.
To make the most of your visit, book a guided tour that offers an in-depth understanding of the place. Lastly, remember to carry your camera to capture picture-perfect moments at the exquisite location.
6. Kinkaku-ji Temple
Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Oda, Japan. It is a Zen temple that reflects the culture and history of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s buildings and gardens, including the famous Golden Pavilion. The walk through the gardens is tranquil and peaceful, with several picturesque spots for photos.
Don’t miss: The Golden Pavilion is undoubtedly the highlight of the temple and should not be missed. Its every detail is breathtaking, but to fully appreciate it, it is best to view it from different angles.
Insider travel tips: It is best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Also, be prepared to take off your shoes before entering certain parts of the temple.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the exterior of the Golden Pavilion is currently being renovated, but it is still open to visitors.
7. Tenryu-ji Temple
Tenryu-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important Zen temples in Japan.
Located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, it was founded in the 14th century and is the head temple of the Tenryu-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism.
What to see or do: Explore the tranquil gardens, which are considered one of the best examples of Japanese garden design. The garden features a large pond, various bridges, and walking paths surrounded by seasonal flowers and trees.
Visit the Hojo (Abbot’s quarters) and admire the traditional architecture and view of the garden. The temple also has a museum displaying cultural treasures, including calligraphy and paintings.
Don’t miss: The Sogenchi Teien or “The Garden of the Cloud Dragon” was designed by Muso Soseki and is a must-see when visiting Tenryu-ji.
The garden is divided into four parts, each with a different theme and each featuring stunning scenery. The garden changes with each season, so visit during different times of the year to experience the ever-changing beauty.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in autumn when the leaves turn red and yellow, giving the garden a breathtaking view.
8. Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a must-visit attraction for those interested in Japanese history and architecture. The palace was once the residence of the imperial family until the capital was moved to Tokyo in 1869.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the several buildings within the palace, such as the Shunko-den and the Kogosho, which served as living quarters for the imperial family and remain in their original condition.
The palace grounds also feature beautiful gardens and courtyards.
Don’t miss: The Higashi-no-ma, or State Room, is the highlight of the visit. This grand room offers visitors a glimpse into the imperial family’s lifestyle with its exquisite interior design and impressive decorations.
Insider travel tips: – Reservations are required to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace and can be made online or at the Imperial Household Agency office in Kyoto.
9. To-ji Temple
To-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in the country.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the impressive 55-meter tall pagoda that is the tallest wooden tower of its kind in Japan. The temple grounds also feature beautiful gardens, statues of important Buddhist figures, and other temple buildings to explore.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the temple’s famous wooden statues of Kongo Rikishi, two fierce-looking guardians of the Buddha who are over 800 years old and stand over 6 meters tall.
The statues are considered national treasures and are some of the most impressive examples of the Heian period’s sculpture.
Insider travel tips: Plan to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and consider hiring a guide or joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the temple.
Additionally, the temple grounds offer some of the best places in Kyoto to admire the sakura (cherry blossoms) in Spring or the autumn foliage in Fall.
10. Sanjusangen-do Temple
A Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
What to see or do: The highlight of Sanjusangen-do Temple is the 1001 life-size statues of Kannon, arranged in 10 rows, each with 50 statues. Visitors can also admire the temple’s intricate architecture and beautiful gardens.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon, which is considered a National Treasure of Japan. Also, don’t miss the temple’s traditional archery competition, held annually on the second Sunday in January.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the temple’s schedule before visiting, as it may be closed to visitors during certain events or ceremonies.
Photography is not allowed inside the temple, so be respectful of this rule.
It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as visitors will need to remove their shoes to enter the temple.
11. Nishiki Market
A bustling covered food market in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.
What to see or do: Stroll through the narrow alleys and sample local delicacies such as pickled vegetables, fresh seafood, grilled mochi, and wagashi sweets. Watch skilled artisans create traditional Japanese knives and sample premium matcha tea.
Don’t miss: The famous Nishiki Tenmangu shrine located at the market’s eastern end, which is said to bring good fortune to visitors.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and bring cash as many of the vendors do not accept credit cards.
Look out for seasonal specialties like Hiyashi Kakigori (shaved ice) in the summer and Nabe hot pot in the winter. Don’t be afraid to haggle for a good deal, but always be respectful and polite.
12. Kyoto Tower
Kyoto Tower is a 131 meter tall observation tower, located near Kyoto Station.
What to see or do: Take the elevator to the top observation deck for panoramic views of the city. There is also a small museum and gift shops on the lower levels of the tower.
Don’t miss: The observation deck offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and cityscape, especially during sunset and at night when the city is lit up.
Insider travel tips: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing the Kyoto Tower’s “Top Deck Admission Ticket” for access to the highest observation deck and a complimentary drink at the tower’s bar.
13. Philosopher’s Path
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14. Yasaka Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the architecture of the main hall, stroll through the beautiful gardens or participate in one of the many traditional festivals celebrated at the shrine.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the shrine lit up at night during the annual Gion Matsuri festival held in July.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and consider renting a kimono to fully immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese experience while exploring the shrine and surrounding area.
15. Pontocho Alley
A narrow alleyway filled with traditional tea houses, restaurants, and bars in Kyoto’s city center.
What to see or do: Walk through the atmospheric alley and take in the traditional architecture, often lit up by lanterns at night.
Stop for a meal or try some local drinks at one of the many establishments, including sake bars and geisha houses.
Don’t miss: Watching the kamishibai (street storytelling) performances that take place on the street during the evening.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the second half of July to see the annual Pontocho Festival, which features traditional music and dance performances. Note that some of the establishments in the alley have strict dress codes and require reservations, so plan accordingly.