About the Tourism Situation in Kyoto
Oh, Kyoto in mid-April! You’re in for a treat—but yes, you’ve heard right, it can get packed. I visited Kyoto last spring, and let me tell you, the crowds were no joke. Places like
Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove felt like a sea of people, with selfie sticks and tour groups everywhere. It was a bit overwhelming at times, but honestly, it didn’t ruin the magic of the city. Kyoto has this timeless charm that somehow shines through even the busiest moments. That said, I totally get wanting to avoid the crowds. My friend and I (also in our 30s!) made it our mission to find quieter, off-the-beaten-path spots, and we stumbled upon some real gems. Since you’re not into cherry blossoms or the typical touristy stuff, I’ve got some sweet (literally) recommendations for you.
Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Sweet Spots
One of our favorite discoveries was Kagizen Yoshifusa, a traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets) shop in the Gion district. It’s tucked away on a side street, and the vibe is so serene compared to the bustling main streets. We tried their matcha parfait, and oh my gosh, it was life-changing. The balance of bitter matcha and sweet red bean paste was perfection. Plus, the shop has this old-world charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Another spot we loved was Kyo Hayashiya, near Kyoto Station. They specialize in matcha and warabi mochi, and it’s the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing. We ended up sitting there for way too long, chatting and indulging in way too many sweets. (No regrets, though—those desserts were worth every calorie!)
Quiet Corners of Kyoto
If you’re looking for a peaceful place to wander, I’d recommend Shimogamo Shrine. It’s one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, but it’s often overlooked by tourists. The surrounding Tadasu no Mori forest is so tranquil, and it feels like a world away from the city. We spent a lazy afternoon there, just soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the quiet. Another hidden gem is Tofuku-ji Temple. While the main hall can get busy, the Hojo Garden is a serene escape. The minimalist rock garden is so calming, and we practically had the place to ourselves. It’s a short train ride from Kyoto Station, and you won’t have to deal with buses—win-win!
A Funny Mishap
Okay, I have to share this funny moment from our trip. We decided to visit Nishiki Market early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Well, we got there too early—like, most shops weren’t even open yet. We ended up wandering around for an hour, sipping coffee from a vending machine and laughing at our over-eagerness. When the shops finally opened, we went a little overboard trying all the samples. (Pro tip: pace yourself with the free snacks—they’re addictive!)
Final Thoughts
Kyoto is such a special place, and even with the crowds, it’s worth every moment. If you’re strategic about timing and willing to explore beyond the main attractions, you’ll find plenty of quiet, delicious, and beautiful spots to enjoy. And honestly, sometimes the best memories come from those unplanned, imperfect moments—like arriving too early or eating one too many sweets. If you’ve been to Kyoto, I’d love to hear your favorite hidden spots or tips for avoiding the crowds! Drop a comment below and let’s swap stories. 😊
