5 Photogenic Buildings & Streetscapes in Kyoto | Instagram-Worthy Retro Architecture & Castles

Kyoto is full of special "photogenic spots" where history and beauty overlap. This time we have carefully selected 5 buildings and streetscapes that will make you reach for your camera. Grab your camera and head out to find that special shot!

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01 | Nijo Castle (Nijojo)

The scenery woven by the brilliant white castle walls and the elegant Karamon gate is just like a painting. During the spring cherry blossom season, the contrast between the castle and the pale pink petals reaches its peak! The best timing is the early morning hours when the soft light gently illuminates the stone walls. If you aim at the Karamon gate from the front at a low angle, the gold-leaf decorations will shine for a gorgeous shot.

📍 Access | Right by "Nijojo-mae" Station on the subway Tozai Line

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02 | Sannenzaka (Sanneizaka) & Ninenzaka

Townhouses lining the cobblestone slope, lattice windows, lanterns hanging from the eaves... Wherever you crop your shot, it makes a picture—a spot that concentrates the essence of Kyoto. During the autumn foliage season and on spring mornings with morning mist, the area is wrapped in a fantastical atmosphere. By composing your shot looking up from the bottom of the slope, you can capture photos with depth and dimension. The sweet spot is before 7 a.m. on weekdays when there are fewer people!

📍 Access | About a 5-minute walk from the "Kiyomizu-michi" city bus stop

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03 | Former Butokuden (Budo Center)

A massive Western-style building constructed in the Meiji era. The contrast of brick and white walls gives off a European atmosphere—a hidden spot that will make you do a double take and ask, "Is this really Kyoto?" The hours when the afternoon western sun warmly tints the red brick are especially recommended. Of course you can shoot the whole building from a distance, but even just a close-up of the arched windows makes a great picture.

📍 Access | About a 10-minute walk from "Marutamachi" Station on the subway Karasuma Line

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04 | Fushimi Sake Brewery District (Fushimi / Chushojima Area)

A retro-filled landscape where sake breweries with white walls and black lattices continue along the river. The promenade along the Horikawa River, where Jikkokubune boats come and go, is a treasure trove for photogenic shots. In spring it co-stars with the cherry blossoms, and in summer the green of fresh maple leaves stands out beautifully against the white walls of the breweries. Try a water-surface reflection photo that makes use of the breweries mirrored on the river!

📍 Access | About a 5-minute walk from "Kintetsu Tambabashi" Station on the Kintetsu Line or "Chushojima" Station on the Keihan Line

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05 | Kyoto Prefectural Office Old Main Building

One of the oldest still-in-use government office buildings in Japan, constructed in the Meiji era. The imposing exterior in the Neo-Baroque style looks just like a movie set. In spring the cherry blossoms in the courtyard come into full bloom, and the combination of the Western-style building and Japanese flowers creates a dreamlike space. Portraits using the grand staircase at the main entrance are also stylish and popular! During special open periods, you can also photograph the interior.

📍 Access | About a 5-minute walk from "Marutamachi" Station on the subway Karasuma Line

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