[2025] Introducing the top 5 first shrine visit spots in Kyoto and New Year's events!

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If you want to enjoy both Osaka and Kyoto, choose Hotel Noum OSAKA

From Hotel Noum OSAKA in Tenmabashi, Osaka , you can get to Gion-Shijo, the center of Kyoto, in about 45 minutes by Keihan train without having to transfer. It's the perfect location for those who want to mainly visit Osaka but also want to extend their trip to Kyoto.

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Top 5 places to visit in Kyoto

We will introduce you to the best places to visit in Kyoto for the first time in the New Year, as well as various events that take place in the New Year.

Celebrate the festive New Year at the bustling Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine is visited by many people throughout the year. On January 3, 2025 , the first Noh performance and Karuta ceremony will be held, allowing you to see traditional Japanese culture up close. Recommended for those who want to enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Picture courtesy of Photo AC

Practice calligraphy at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, famous for the god of learning

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also famous as a spot to see plum blossoms and autumn leaves. The Brush Beginning Festival and Tenma-gaki will be held from January 2nd to 4th, 2025. At the Brush Beginning Festival, you can pray for improvement in your calligraphy, and at the Tenma-gaki, you can try your hand at calligraphy.

Picture courtesy of Photo AC

Get rid of evil spirits at Kamigamo Shrine, a World Heritage Site

Kamigamo Shrine holds various festivals in the new year. The Mushajinji, which will be held on January 16, 2025, will involve shooting arrows at a target marked with the word "oni" (demon) to ward off evil spirits. Keep an eye out for the arrows being shot one after the other.

Picture courtesy of Photo AC

Pray for good health in the new year at Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple

Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple was founded by the monk Kuya during the mid-Heian period. Every year from January 1st to 3rd, Oubukucha tea made with fresh water drawn on New Year's Day is served to pray for good health and prosperity throughout the year .

*Imperial tea is 300 yen

Picture courtesy of Photo AC

Find bargains at Toji Temple at the beginning of the year

The Kobo Market is a festival held at Toji Temple on the 21st of every month. The first Kobo Market of the new year on January 21, 2025, is called the "Hatsukobo" and will feature many stalls selling antiques, pottery, plants, and more. There are also food stalls, so you can enjoy a festival-like atmosphere.

Picture courtesy of Unsplash

We recommend staying at "Hotel Noum OSAKA" as your base for your Kansai trip!

At Hotel Noum OSAKA, you can store your luggage before check-in and after check-out . If you leave your luggage before check-in and head to Kyoto, you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing.

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