Top 5 Kyoto Shrines & Temples to Visit Hands‑Free

株式会社大昌 Daisho
Jun 26
2 min read

Kyoto boasts many beautiful shrines and temples rich in history and tradition. When exploring, traveling light—dropping off your suitcase and going hand‑free—makes sightseeing much more enjoyable. Here are our top 5 picks!

1. Kiyomizu‑dera

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples. Enjoy the stunning views from the wooden stage and experience the blessings of Otowa Waterfall. With its many stairs and slopes, visiting hands‑free is highly recommended.

📍 Access: About 15 min by city bus from Kyoto Station

🎫 Admission: ¥400 (as of May 2025)

2. Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates—perfect for unforgettable photos. The mountain trail can be taxing with luggage, so go light for a more pleasant hike.

📍 Access: A short walk from JR Inari Station

🎫 Admission: Free

3. Kinkaku‑ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the dazzling pavilion and its surrounding garden at your leisure. Going hands‑free lets you fully appreciate the beauty without the burden.

📍 Access: About 40 min by city bus from Kyoto Station

🎫 Admission: ¥500 (as of May 2025)

4. Shimogamo Shrine

Nestled in the serene Tadasu Forest, this shrine offers a peaceful atmosphere. Walk along sun‑dappled paths and visit the Aioi-no‑Yashiro shrine, famous for match‑making blessings.

📍 Access: 10‑minute walk from Demachiyanagi Station

🎫 Admission: Free

5. Daigo‑ji

A UNESCO World Heritage site famed for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. With an expansive grounds to explore, going hands‑free makes the visit much more relaxing.

📍 Access: 10‑minute walk from Daigo Station (Subway)

🎫 Admission: ¥1,000 (includes Garan, Sanbō‑in & Reihōkan) (as of May 2025)

Enjoy Kyoto Light & Easy!

Utilize the DAISHO Hands‑Free Kyoto Carry Service: drop off your suitcase at Kyoto Station and have it delivered to your hotel—so you can walk light, move freely, and truly soak in Kyoto’s heritage and nature.

🔗 Learn more & reserve here

✔️ Summary

Visiting Kyoto’s shrines and temples often means navigating long lanes, slopes, and stairs—so traveling light makes all the difference. Go hands‑free, and fully immerse yourself in Kyoto’s history and natural beauty!