9 Best Things to Do in Kyoto in January

If you’re going to visit, you want to include things in your itinerary that you can only see or experience at that time of year. This article introduces the January events, situations, and recommended spots in Kyoto for those looking to make the most of their trip.

*Please note that event dates may change. Please check the official websites of the venues for the most up-to-date information.

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About Kyoto in January

Temperature

January in Kyoto can be quite cold, with minimum temperatures dropping to 1-2 degrees Celsius. While it does snow occasionally, there are also many sunny days, so sightseeing is generally not heavily impacted. However, considering the long hours spent outdoors, it’s essential to have good thermal protection such as thick coats, scarves, and gloves. Additionally, as the humidity is low, bringing hand cream and lip balm for dry skin is recommended.

Events

Many events take place in Kyoto in January, such as “Hatsumode” (first shrine visit of the New Year) and New Year festivals. Especially during the first three days of the New Year, many shrines and temples are bustling with visitors. Don’t miss the illuminated “Kinkakuji” (Golden Pavilion) and “Miyama Kayabuki no Sato” for their stunning snow scenery.

Travel

If you’re traveling to Kyoto in January, as long as you are well-prepared for the cold, you can enjoy the unique winter landscapes. It is recommended to use city buses and subways to efficiently visit tourist spots. Crowds are expected at popular “Hatsumode” spots and snow scenery locations, so early planning is crucial.

January Fashion

Since January in Kyoto is cold, thick coats, down jackets, and thermal wear like “Heattech” are essential. Additionally, make good use of scarves, gloves, and hats to ensure proper thermal protection. Choosing non-slip shoes for safety is also advised.

Enjoying Events and Festivals

In January, various New Year events and festivals are held in Kyoto. These events provide an excellent opportunity to experience traditional Kyoto culture. Here are some events you can enjoy at specific spots:

“Miyama Kayabuki no Sato” Snow Lantern Festival

At “Miyama Kayabuki no Sato”, a representative tourist spot in Miyama Town, there is a light-up event from late January to early February. This place, which retains the original landscape of Japan, becomes a magical scene with accumulated snow. The illuminated snow landscape is as beautiful as a painting.

“Shimogamo Shrine” Kemari Hajime

At “Shimogamo Shrine” in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, “Kemari Hajime” is held every year on January 4th. This traditional event features young samurai in colorful costumes playing “kemari” (a traditional Japanese ball game) without letting the ball touch the ground. It is a popular event among tourists and offers a chance to feel Kyoto’s history and culture.

“Rokuharamitsu-ji” Kofuku-cha Ceremony

At “Rokuharamitsu-ji” in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, the “Kofuku-cha Ceremony” is held during the first three days of the New Year. This ceremony offers tea that prays for good health, containing umeboshi (pickled plum) and konbu (tied seaweed). Visitors can drink this tea to wish for a healthy year.

Popular “Hatsumode” Spots for New Year’s Blessings

Kyoto has many spots for “Hatsumode”. Here are some particularly popular shrines and temples to visit to welcome the New Year.

“Yasaka Shrine”

Known affectionately as “Gion-san”, “Yasaka Shrine” hosts the “Okera Festival”, a New Year’s tradition in Kyoto. During this festival, people take home sacred fire to use as a source of heat for making New Year’s “zoni” (rice cake soup) at home, believed to bring good fortune. Many visitors come to this shrine to welcome the New Year.

“Fushimi Inari Taisha”

“Fushimi Inari Taisha” is famous for its “Senbon Torii” (thousands of red torii gates). During the New Year, the “Saitan-sai” is held, creating a beautiful contrast between the red torii gates and the snow. It is highly recommended to visit and pray for a peaceful new year.

“Heian Shrine”

At “Heian Shrine” in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, the “Saitan-sai” is held on January 1st and the “Genshi-sai” on January 3rd. The shrine is particularly crowded during the first three days of the New Year, but the spacious grounds allow for a relaxed “Hatsumode” experience.

Enjoy Winter Kyoto Cuisine

In winter, warm, comforting dishes are popular in Kyoto. Here are some spots where you can enjoy delicious winter cuisine.

“Gion Uemori”

At “Gion Uemori”, you can enjoy a kaiseki meal featuring “yudofu” (tofu hot pot) and “yuba” (tofu skin). The restaurant offers private rooms and counter seats, making it perfect for both lunch and dinner. It caters to various needs.

“Izama”

At “Izama”, you can enjoy “obanzai” (Kyoto-style home cooking). The “Nine Varieties of Obanzai Set” is particularly recommended, allowing you to enjoy nine colorful small dishes at once. It is a spot where you can savor the taste of Kyoto in a modern Japanese space.

“Kamigamo Shrine” Yakujo Nanakusa-gayu

At “Kamigamo Shrine”, the “Yakujo Nanakusa-gayu” (Seven Herb Porridge) is distributed at the beginning of the year. This traditional porridge is made in the same way it has been for generations and warms the body. It is available only during the first three days of the New Year, so be sure to try it.