Shōgunzuka Mound — Attraction in Kyoto

This is a fantastic, unfortunately difficult to reach, temple in Kyoto. It is affiliated with the Shorenin in Higashiyama, and the same priest and staff manages both. They are both part of the imperial temple, the highest tanking Buddhist temple in Kyoto since the head priest is a member of the imperial family. The views from the observation deck are just amazing, and you can see all of Kyoto, all the way to Arashiyama. It’s perfect for viewing the Okuribi during the end of summer. This is also the site on which Emperor Kenmu stood and, looking out over the valley, decided to move the capital of Japan here to start a new era. According to the head priest, the view is impressive enough that it has been used for a few marriage proposals over the years. Apparently, they were also...

For the ticket cost of 600yen, plus whatever method of travel you use to get there, you receive a stunning, city-wide view of Kyoto, its parks and mountains, shrines, and even the not so distant city of Osaka.

Well worth the trip for the view alone, but the Shogunzaka Mound also features a small temple and a lovely garden to meander through.

Pro tip: while the initial platform view is breathtaking, allowing you to see Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Botanical Garden, and more, there is also a raised platform that is up a set of red stairs, down the path a bit. This raised view allows you to see Kyoto Tower, the south side of the river, and the skyscrapers of Osaka in the...

My favorite city view of Kyoto! Also nice history and a beautiful zen garden as a bonus.

This is the trick with this place~ go to chion-in temple and take a short hike up the hill. You’ll start by one of Japan’s biggest bells. And continue up the mountain. It’ll feel like an adventure! But don’t worry, as long as you take the widest path you’ll find your way. After the temple, you can continue on the road until you get another beautiful view- this time it’ll be free. I continued down a hiking path and you’ll end up at Kiyomizu-dera temple. It was a wonderful day and the hike plus this temple felt like...