10 Peaceful Places to Escape the Crowds in Tokyo and Kyoto

For first-time visitors to Japan, it would be almost criminal not to visit big-ticket sights in Tokyo and Kyoto. But rather than robotically checking the boxes, you can craft a more grounded-feeling itinerary by mixing in a few under-the-radar attractions in addition to the must-see spots. 

This approach will give you a chance to commune with worthy temples and gardens that offer a bit of welcome solitude in between the well-worn tourist path locales that might require a bit more bobbing and weaving around other well-meaning visitors. Lest we give you the wrong idea, these sights are all decorated and important in their own rights. Some figure into many domestic tourism agendas but are still less traveled by foreign tourists.

Tokyo and Kyoto Hidden Gems: 10 Crowd-Free Places Worth Visiting

Tokyo

Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple are iconic for a reason, but there are many other interesting stops that are bound to captivate. Tokyo is vast — you can take a train for more than an hour and still be in the city proper. A lot of the beauty of visiting different sites can be found in the coming and going and immersing yourself in varied, unique streets and neighborhoods.

Hie Shrine

Although the sizeable, hillside-located Hie Shrine is considered one of the major shrines of Tokyo, it’s not overrun with tourists. It has all the majesty of iconic torii gates (which number more than 90) yet still remains rather peaceful. Visitors will appreciate the outdoor escalator that makes the steep terrain easier to navigate. On certain days of the week, you can visit the small treasure house with a collection of 17th-century artifacts, including swords and historic calligraphy. Hie is also known for the sacred monkey sculptures that look over and protect it.

Zojoji Shrine

Founded in 1622 in homage to the Jodo sect of Buddhism, Zojoji is important to Japanese history, as it was the family temple of the Tokugawa clan that ruled during the Edo time period. It is almost hidden in plain sight, with an extremely central position in the shadow of Tokyo Tower. Zojoji’s impressive red main gate, also known as Sangedatsumon, is sure to wow and is remarkably intact, having survived many earthquakes and wars (including the bombings during World War II). Don’t miss the main hall with its wooden edifice and whitewashed walls.

Nezu Shrine

This incredible Shinto site is almost 2,000 years old and its red torii gates are often photographed for their tunnel effect, much like some shrines in Kyoto. Nezu honors the god of seas and storms and is often visited for protection from their potential wrath. With an extremely lengthy history, Nezu was the site where Emperor Meiji sent envoys for divine blessing when he moved the capital of Japan from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1868. In addition to the torii gates, the complex includes an ornately designed two-story main gate, an azalea garden celebrated with a festival in spring, and a small shrine at the top dedicated to the god of rice and prosperity. 

Ueno Toshogu Shrine

Near Nezu lies Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located within the expansive and leafy Ueno Park (which is a worthy destination in its own right). Built in 1627, this important and highly decorated shrine memorializes the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan for more than 250 years. Highlights include the five-story pagoda, the wooden carvings of the shrine building, the peony garden and the Yomeimon Gate, which drips with gold leaf and has been called the most beautiful gate in Japan.

Gotokuji Temple

This one is farther afield, but worth the trip for cat-lovers (and definitely one for the Instagram crowd). Gotokuji celebrates the maneki neko, or beckoning cats, typically cast in white or gold. The raised paw is a luck signal — a left paw beckons customers to a business; a right paw invites personal fortune and wealth. You can buy your own maneki neko, make a wish and leave it in your spot of choice. Younger kids and teens may particularly enjoy seeing the hordes of identical cats waiting patiently to fulfill people’s hopes and desires.

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Kyoto

Although Kyoto has almost 2,000 temples and shrines, most international visitors barely scratch the surface, often visiting the same handful of places. We’re not suggesting you skip Kiyomizu or Kinkakuji — just augment with sites that feel lower-key and allow for peaceful reflection.

Another strategy is to spend time at the less touristed areas of popular spots. For example, the extensive red torii gates of Fushimi Inari are a huge draw, but rather than jostling with the masses along the main trail, you can find an utterly different vantage point and outlook along the many connected local trails.

Yoshida Shrine

This Shinto shrine dates to 859 and houses a grouping of temples and smaller sub-temples, making it a high-value stop near Kyoto University. Yoshida draws visitors for its Setsubun festival in early February — a ritual to ward off evil spirits — and a visit here also puts Shinnyodo and Kurodani Temples within easy reach. The parklike atmosphere makes it a welcome spot for appreciating local beauty and taking scenic photos, including plenty of torii gate shots.

Komyo-in Temple

Despite its location near Fushimi Inari, this under-the-radar Buddhist Temple and Zen rock garden manages to remain peaceful. The rock garden is an ideal spot to commune with nature and ponder one of those famous zen koans, and the surrounding area is prized for its gorgeous fall foliage. In fact, while this somewhat hidden spot is free to visit most of the year, it does charge a fee during the autumn leaf season.

Shinnyodo Temple

Close to Ginkakuji and the Philosopher’s Path, Shinnyodo is a Buddhist Temple of the Tendai sect, notable for its picturesque three-story pagoda, excellent examples of typical dry gardens and a Buddha statue in the main hall. The temple looks particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing, but makes a welcome and memorable stop any time of year. 

Honen-in Temple

Also near the Philosopher’s Path, Honen-in was founded in 1680 to honor the Buddhist monk Honen. The temple carries a spiritual aura and holds natural beauty in high regard, its ambiance shifting notably with the seasons. A thatched-gate entrance leads to manicured sand art mounds, a koi pond and traditional Japanese gardens.

Kokedera Temple

Located in western Kyoto, Kokedera — also known as Saihoji or the Moss Temple — is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Much is made of Kokedera as a place that brings visitors into harmony with nature, and it was reportedly Steve Jobs’s favorite spot in Japan (the Moss Temple is said to have influenced much of the clean design and simplicity found in Apple products today). Beyond the extensive gardens, visitors are encouraged to sit in the main hall and trace a pre-printed sutra to calm the mind, taking home a copy as a keepsake.

Planning Tips

• Seasonality factors strongly into enjoying a less crowded Japanese tourist experience. Cherry blossom season (from late March through April), Golden Week in early May and autumn for the changing leaves are extremely popular times to travel. By skirting these peak weeks, you’ll set yourself up for a more leisurely experience.
• You can further finesse your itinerary by visiting attractions at strategic times of day. You’ll typically find extra breathing room in early morning and late afternoon (just be sure to check closing times), and you’ll also avoid the heat of the day along with the largest influx of visitors.
• If you have extra time, consider sprinkling in day trips. These easily accessible destinations outside Tokyo provide a glimpse into different sides of Japan. They encourage families to slow down and take advantage of the chance to absorb aspects of Japanese culture more deeply.

Relevant Links:

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Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.