Kyoto Cherry Blossoms: Best Sakura Spots in Kyoto Away From Crowds

Cherry blossoms in Kyoto are expected to bloom in the fourth week of March, stretching until the end of the month.

As expected, the most popular spots will get very crowded around this time.

If you are wondering where to see cherry blossoms without the usual crowd, we've got you covered.

There are dozens of sakura spots in Kyoto.

However, a lot of them will be crowded with both locals and tourists celebrating hanami in this once-a-year event.

Hanami, by the way, is a traditional Japanese custom where people gather around cherry or plum trees to celebrate their beauty.

It translates to “flower viewing.”

Just a disclaimer: these off-the-beaten paths are not 100% empty.

There will still be people enjoying the cherry blossoms.

Nevertheless, these are not as crowded as, say, Philosopher’s Path or Maruyama Park during the sakura bloom.

Without further ado, here are some off-the-beaten-path places to view sakura in Kyoto Metropolis:

1. Shinshō Gokurakuji (Shinnyodō) Temple

This Buddhist temple is located on a hill that more often than not escapes the main tourist radar due to a lack of bus parking.

The temple has around 70 cherry trees and a beautiful pagoda backdrop.

It’s not that many compared to other parks and temples, but it surely is a great place to stay away from the crowd.

Admission: FREE

Hours: 9 am - 4 pm daily

Address: 82 Jodoji Shinnyocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8414, Japan

ALSO READ: 6 Best Things to Do in Kyoto After Day Tour

2. Konkai Kōmyō-ji Temple

This is one of the Head Temples of the Jōdo Sect of Buddhism.

The graves of Aizu and Kuwana men who fought during the Battle of Toba–Fushimi are rested at this temple.

This is not only a historic temple, but one that carries beauty and charm.

Located near Shinnyo-do, this temple has about 100 cherry trees.

A small pond surrounded by sakura and a three-tier pagoda offers fantastic, quiet photo opportunities.

Admission: FREE

Hours: 9 am - 4 pm daily

Address: 121 Kurodanicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8331, Japan

ALSO READ: Where to Find the Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Kyoto

3. Nakaragi Cherry Blossom Path

Philosopher’s Path might be the most popular pedestrian stone path in Kyoto, but there is one you should visit to avoid the crowds.

Nakaragi Cherry Blossom Path is particularly a scenic place in the spring when cherry trees are in full bloom.

This 800-meter pedestrian walkway along the Kamo River is lined with pink weeping cherry trees.

It feels like a "sakura tunnel" and is much less crowded than central river spots.

Admission: FREE

Hours: 24 hours

Address: 10-4 Kamoimaicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0821, Japan

ALSO READ: Kyoto Festival Guide: 8 Must-Watch Festivals in Kyoto

4. Takenaka Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari is definitely a crowd-drawer any time of the year.

But this Shinto shrine in Kyoto is a great alternative if you want to experience spring in Kyoto differently.

Located on Mt. Yoshida, this hidden gem is home to a row of red torii gates framed by a tunnel of Yoshino cherry blossoms.

Admission: FREE

Hours: 24 hours

Address: 3-64 Yoshidakaguraokacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8311, Japan

ALSO READ: What to See in Fushimi: 10 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Fushimi, Kyoto

While these cherry blossom spots in Kyoto can still attract people, the best time to visit would be around early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

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