Asia Encounters

2025-05-06 12:49:07

Explore Kyoto’s Secrets: Must-Visit Eastern Sights

Why Visit Kyoto

Before we visited Japan, we were intrigued by Kyoto. Name recognition still draws tourists. Unfortunately, tourists go to the same few places in Kyoto, causing overcrowding. Kyoto is still a must-see place where you can immerse yourself in Japanese art and architecture, culture and cuisine. You can enjoy geisha performances, cherry blossoms, elaborate kimonos, Zen karesansui gardens, and tea ceremonies.

Kyoto is a former capital of Japan as well as the home of the Emperor. As a result, 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines are located in Kyoto. You can easily get templed out! This blog promises valuable insights about which places you should visit and why.

This post is a one-day self-guided walk on the eastern side of Kyoto. We have listed all six Kyoto itineraries in the section Visiting Kyoto below.

Author & Photographer: George Mitchell

George’s Bio

Our advice is not influenced by affiliate links — we have none. Our itineraries, photos, and advice come from three years of travelling around the world, including three months in Japan. We are avid hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. We are students of art and architecture, culture and cuisine.

All the sights in this itinerary can be found on our custom Japan Kyoto Google Map. The points of interest are appended with their Google Maps Ratings, which range from G0 to G5.

Japanese Names

Name suffixes show the type of building. So “ji”, “dera” or “tera” is a generic Buddhist temple. The suffix “in” is a Buddhist temple in a garden, especially a Zen temple. For more useful information, see the Guide to the Japanese Language.

Generally, I write the names of sights in Japanese (Romaji) because asking for directions with English names will be futile. Writing Kōmyō-ji Temple is redundant, but sometimes I add “temple” for those readers who missed this section.

East Kyoto

The Emperor of Japan was often just a figurehead. The real power was often held by the shogun and his daimyos. For a discussion on Japanese social strata, capitals, and historical periods, see Japanese Capitals and Art Periods. There were four major capitals in Japan, including Kyoto. This post is a walking itinerary on the east side of Kyoto.

Ginkaku-ji

Fee: JPY 500 (USD 3.52)
Hours: Mar to Nov 08:30 to 17:00; Dec to Feb 09:00 to 16:30
Bus 203: 7 mins. from Demachiyanagi Station to Jodo-ji then walk 10 mins.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=23497582" title="Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto, Japan By Oilstreet - Own work, CC BY 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=23497582" class="has-alt-description">Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto CC BY-SA Wikipedia

Ginkaku-ji (G4.6) is celebrated for its appalling history and its calming Zen design principles. The architecture reflects subtle elegance rather than ostentation. But don’t come here expecting to see a silver-clad pavilion. The sun lit up some beautiful trees and rocks surrounding a pond, but not the “Silver Pavilion”.

Tranquil Forest, Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto

Behind the pond, a trail went up to a spring. Again, there were nice highlights of thick green moss, orange autumn leaves, and green bamboo trees.

Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa

The historical background is appalling. From 1447 to 1462, there were earthquakes, floods, pandemics, famine, and uprisings. Despite these disasters, Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa promoted the Ōnin War. Kyoto was destroyed, and the war spread throughout Japan. Instead of helping the people, the Ashikaga were more interested in their own palaces. Unscrupulous Yoshimasa (first name) was like Roman Emperor Nero, but he had a strong aesthetic sense.

In contrast to this devastation, Yoshimasa planned to imitate his grandfather’s Gold Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji). In 1483, Yoshimasa built his retirement villa, which was then in the countryside outside of Kyoto. Architect-painter Sōami intended to plate the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) with silver to compete with the Gold Pavilion(Kinkaku-ji). But it was never done.

After Yoshimasa’s death, the buildings were converted into a Zen temple as per his will. After more years of war, the temple was restored in the 17th century. Reconstruction was done according to the original plans. But since Kinkaku-ji was burned down in 1950, this temple is the last building remaining from the Ashikaga shoguns.

Togu-do and the Tea Ceremony

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6361597" title="Togu-do, Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto, Japan By Dingy - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6361597" class="has-alt-description">Togu-do, Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto, CC BY-SA Wikipedia

The Togu-do is one of the oldest surviving structures from the original temple complex. It was built as a private worship hall for Yoshimasa. The hall originally housed an Amitabha Buddha statue, reflecting Yoshimasa’s faith in Jodo Shinshū (Pure Land) Buddhism.

Togu-do, Ginkaku-ji, Kyoto

Togu-do contains the oldest surviving tea ceremony room in Japan. This era saw innovative developments in the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and Zen-influenced art.

Zen Gardens

What we really like in Ginkaku-ji were the exquisitely designed gardens. The temples blended seamlessly with the water-based gardens in the photos above.

There was also a raked karesansui (dry landscape) garden called the “Sea of Silver Sand”. We were told it was in the shape of China’s West Lake with Fuji-san behind it. We did not find it particularly creative. But, it offers a tranquil space for reflection and meditation. The gardens are based on the Zen design principle of wabi-sabi—the beauty of imperfection and transience.

Philosophers’ Path

Walk: 225 m, 3 mins, from Ginkaku-ji; 2 km, 29 mins. from Demachiyanagi

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=90527" title="Philosophers' Path, Kyoto, Japan By David Monniaux - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=90527" class="has-alt-description">Philosophers’ Path, Kyoto CC BY-SA Wikipedia

Tetsugaku no Michi (G4.6) means Philosophers’ Path. It is a (usually) serene 2-km trail in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. On our first time, we did this walk after we visited the eastern temples. We turned west at Reikan-ji, which is just south of Anraku-ji Temple. It was a very pleasant 18-minute walk north along the canal. Many visitors feel that the most evocative stretch is the section near the Honen-in Temple.

As it was dusk, there were virtually no tourists — just locals going about their daily business. It was quiet, almost village-like. While there were some tourist shops and modernization, it had not yet spoiled the atmosphere. We went into the Shirakawa-dori food market and got a good deal on mandarin oranges. We ate on one of the benches beside the canal.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3172309" title="Sakura Viewing, Philosophers' Path, Kyoto, Japan By Sdalu CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=3172309" class="has-alt-description">Sakura Viewing, Philosophers’ Path, Kyoto CC BY-SA Wikipedia

Even though it was just a pleasant walk, we enjoyed this area so much that we returned during the day. This time there were many loud Asian tourists, but at least there were few cars.

We ambled under lots of cherry trees, but it was autumn (November). In the spring (April), this is one of the most famous and crowded sakura (cherry blossom) viewing places in Kyoto. We headed south from Reikan-ji to Eikan-dō Temple. This walk was more natural, and one part was along a low cliff with no houses.

Eikan-dō Temple

Fee: JPY 600 (USD 4.17); Autumn: JPY 1000 (USD 6.95)
Hours: 09:00 to 17:00; Nov 11 – Dec 5: evening also
Walk: 1 km, 19 mins. from Philosopher’s Path north end

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=77468579" title="Interior, Eikan-do, Kyoto, Japan By Zairon - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=77468579" class="has-alt-description">Interior, Eikan-do, Kyoto CC BY-SA Wikipedia

Many travellers appreciate beginning their stroll near Eikan-dō Temple (G4.6) at the southern end of the Philosophers’ Path. This temple, with its serene gardens and rich history, sets a reflective tone before you continue along the canal-lined route.

Autumn Leaves, Eikan-dō, Kyoto

We visited Eikan-dō, but we were not impressed by the grounds. We did not go visit the hall as there were streams of tour groups entering. In retrospect, looking at the photos online, we should have visited the interior.

Tea Ceremony

Tea Ceremony, Urasenke Chado Centre, Kyoto
When we visited many years ago, we attended tea ceremonies at the Urasenke Chado Centre (G4.3) in Kyoto and a teahouse in Nara. We noticed the flowers in the background, which were used to create a connection with nature. The ceremony often involves a shared appreciation of tea’s flavour, fragrance, and aesthetic presentation.
Tea Ceremony, Urasenke Chado Centre, Kyoto
The act of preparing and serving tea is a meditative ritual, refined by Zen Buddhists. Every movement is deliberate and precise. Even the cleansing of utensils and whisking of matcha (green tea) is performed with mindful attention. The tea utensils are designed with subtle asymmetries and irregular textures. Zen celebrates wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection and transience. The tea ceremony is a meditative practice that invites silent introspection. It creates a meditative space where the bustle of everyday life just falls away.

Today, there are other more highly rated places like Tea Ceremony Gen-An (G4.8) near Ginkaku-ji. Two other places are near Kiyomizu-dera in the south: Tea Ceremony Nagomi (G4.9) and Tea Ceremony Ju-An (G4.9).

Honen-in

Fee: free
Hours: 06:00 to 16:00
Walk: 790 m, 10 mins. from Ginkaku-ji via Philosophers’ Path

Gate, Honen-in, Kyoto

We enjoyed a short visit to Hōnen-in (G4.4). A path through the forest brought us to a good view from the bottom of the stairs. The moss-covered, thatched gate symbolizes purity and simplicity.

Karesansui, Honen-in, Kyoto

Here we met the twin sand mounds known as the Byakusadan. The mounds offer paintings in raked sand (karesansui) that are changed with the seasons.

Hōnen

The monk Hōnen converted people to a sect based solely on faith. It requires the chanting of Nembutsu: “Namu Amida Butsu” to reach nirvana. The sect became known as Jodo. Today, the Pure Land sect is the largest in Japan.

Woman Raking Leaves, Honen-in, Kyoto

We went behind the building where many people were sitting and reading. This is one of the quieter temples as it is not on the tour group route. We felt a deep sense of solitude. We walked through a heavily treed area with many cedars. An old woman with a stooped back was raking up the fallen autumn leaves.

Anraku-ji

Fee: JPY 500 (USD 3.52)
Hours: Sat-Sun 09:00 to 16:30 Apr-May, Nov-Dec
Walk: 294 m, 4 mins. from Honen-in; 2.8 km, 33 mins. from Demachiyanagi Station

Moss-lined Stairs, Anraku-ji, Kyoto

Anraku-ji (G4.2) is known for its picturesque maple-lined approach and thatched-roof entry gate. Moss lines both sides of the stairway leading to the thatched gate. The entrance is so modest as to be invisible.

The Shaped Path, Anraku-ji, Kyoto

It was not open, though we could look into the front garden with its round-shaped trees. Anraku-ji is not open to visitors year-round like many other temples in Kyoto. In fact, it maintains quite limited public access. It is a popular spot during the spring and fall foliage (momigi) seasons. The ground is padded with moss, a soft contrast to the exposed tree roots.

Moss and Trees, Anraku-ji, Kyoto

Jodo Sect

Buddhism, like Christianity, had sectarian disputes that led to violence. Jodo was a made-in-Japan sect that simplified Buddhist doctrine, which appealed to many Japanese. The new Jodo sect was opposed by Enryaku-ji (Tendai sect) and Kofuku-ji (Hossō sect). These two sects had a powerful army of warrior monks (sōhei). Many members of the Emperor’s court had converted to Jodo. Then two favourite concubines not only adopted Jodo but also became nuns. Rumours were spread that the concubines were in love with Anraku and Juren. The enraged Emperor had Anraku and Juren executed in 1207.

Hōnen went into self-exile. After he returned, he built the temple in 1211 to honour Anraku. The original Hondo of the 13th century was destroyed. The current hall dates to 1581. It houses a sublime image of Amida Buddha.

Nanzen-ji

Fee: free; Hojo: JPY 600 (USD 4.22); Sanmon Gate balcony: JPY 500 (USD 3.52);
Hours: Mar-Nov 08:40 to 17:00; Dec-Feb 08:40 to 16:30
Train: 25 mins. from Demachiyanagi to Sanjokeihan, then walk 10 mins.
Walk: 1 km, 18 mins. from Anraku-ji

Nanzen-ji (G4.5) is one of Kyoto’s most revered Zen temples. But originally it was the retirement villa for Emperor Kameyama. Later, it became the head temple of the Rinzai Zen sect. Nanzen-ji is admired for its rich history and serene natural settings.

Nanzen-ji Sanmon Gate

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7567257" title="Sanmon Gate, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto By 663highland - Own work, CC BY 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7567257" class="has-alt-description">Sanmon Gate, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto

One of its most striking features is the expansive, imposing Sanmon Gate, constructed in the early 17th century. This gate offers breathtaking views of Kyoto from its balcony.

Nanzen-ji Hatto

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7567279" title="Hatto Hall, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto By 663highland - Own work, CC BY 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7567279" class="has-alt-description">Hatto Hall, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto

Hatto Hall serves as a Dharma (lecture) hall for monks, where Zen teachings and sermons are delivered. Hatto Hall is not accessible to visitors.

Nanzen-ji Hojo

Fusuma Paintings, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto
The Hojo (the abbot’s residence) looks like a very simple building from the outside. But inside, it is decorated with magnificent painted fusuma (sliding panels). The Kanō painters were renowned for their distinctive brushwork and the elegant integration of Chinese techniques with Japanese aesthetics. The Kanō style perfectly complements the Zen atmosphere of Nanzen-ji.

The Red Flowering Tree may be the intense reddish blooms of a Kanzan cherry tree. The red hues often symbolize vitality, transformation, and the fleeting beauty of life. This tree invokes themes of impermanence and renewal—a reminder to appreciate life’s transient moments. The rugged rocks symbolize solidity and permanence. They act as a counterbalance to the delicate, ephemeral nature of the flowering tree. This contrast is central to many Japanese landscape paintings, highlighting the interplay between change and constancy.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11987225" title="Fusuma Painting, Hojo, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto By Daderot - Self-photographed, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11987225" class="has-alt-description">Fusuma Painting, Hojo, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto

This painting is called Guntsuru-zu, which literally means “painting of a flock of cranes”. Cranes are venerated in Japanese culture and symbolize longevity, good fortune, and fidelity. Their elegant form evokes harmony with nature—a key element in Zen aesthetics.

Nanzen-ji Zen Karesansui Garden

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=866820" title="Karesansui, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto, Japan By hiro / Hiro2006, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=866820" class="has-alt-description">Karesansui, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto

Outside is a celebrated Zen karesansui garden. The dry landscape garden combines raked sand with moss, rocks, and trees. The stones are supposed to be tigers and their cubs—an arrangement that reflects both spontaneity and meticulous care.

Garden, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto

The garden is said to have been created by the famous tea master and garden designer Kobori Enshū. Kobori designed the karesansui garden of Ryotan-ji, Hikone. Note the use of borrowed scenery of temple roofs and mountains. There was a great feeling of space and greenness.

Nanzen-in

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2930552" title="Nanzen-in, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2930552" class="has-alt-description">Nanzen-in, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto CC BY-SA Wikipedia

Nanzen-in is a sub-temple within Nanzen-ji that was originally built as the personal chapel for Emperor Kameyama in 1264. It has a [strong]Kamakura Period[/strong] statue of Emperor Kameyama and a garden.

Momiji, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto CC BY-SA Wikipedia

Nanzen-ji is a good place to view the maple leaves in November. While it is a popular destination, Nanzen-ji felt less congested than iconic sites like Kinkaku-ji or Fushimi Inari Shrine. Visitors spread out over its expansive grounds.

Shōren-in

Fee: JPY 600 (USD 4.17)
Hours: 09:00-17:00
Walk: 1 km, 14 mins. south of Heian Jingu; 2 km, 22 mins. east of Nanzen-ji

Water Garden, Shoren-in, Kyoto

If you have more time, you can now see Shōren-in (G4.5). We really enjoyed visiting its beautifully manicured gardens and understated architecture. The atmosphere was pleasant and relaxing. This temple could be added to this itinerary. I already described Shōren-in Temple in the post Discover 3 Magical Hidden Gardens inside Crowded Kyoto.

Kyoto Resources

Japanese Capitals and Art Periods also describe social strata

Japan Kyoto Map, our custom Google itinerary

Kyoto, a Contemplative Guide, Gouverneur Mosher, Charles Tuttle Co.

This book is available online, but it is very expensive. We bought it in Kyoto. It is the ideal guidebook for Kyoto. His interesting stories give you a real insight into Japanese art, architecture, culture, and history.

Kyoto Attractions Map, web page

Kyoto Travel Map, PDF download

Visiting Kyoto

Karesansui, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto

When NOT to Visit

If you don’t like crowds, then you won’t like Kyoto. There are 50 million tourists per year visiting the former capital, and many of them are Japanese. But Kyoto is one of the best places to experience Japanese art and culture. It is still a must-see. To remediate this over-tourism, you can:

• Avoid the Sakura (cherry blossom) season — April;
• Avoid all national holidays — late April and mid-August;
• Avoid peak visiting hours — from 10:30 to 15:00 hrs, when the tour groups loudly invade the grounds;
• Avoid the heavily over-touristed places like Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest;
• Visit the less touristy sites.

Where to Visit

Kyoto has been organized into a set of self-guided walks by geographic area. The West Kyoto route includes the most famous but also the most overcrowded sights. Note that no place will be absent of people. The main group of tourists are the 125 million Japanese, and they are aware of all these places.

Kyoto’s Secrets: Gorgeous Gion to Kawaii Kimonos

Enchanting Kyoto: From Golden Temples to Maple Mysteries

Explore Kyoto’s Secrets: Must-Visit Eastern Sights

Discover 3 Magical Hidden Gardens in Crowded Kyoto

Discover 3 Charming Hidden Gems in Kyoto

Explore Hikone Castle & Gardens: Hidden Gems

Each walk (post) requires one day. If you want to do a thorough exploration of Kyoto, then you will need six days (seven nights).

Off The Beaten Track Kyoto

If you want to avoid the over-touristed places, then there are three posts to explore “hidden gems”. The 3 Charming Hidden Gems are Byodo-in, Sambo-in, and Shisendo – some of our favourite places. The 3 Magical Hidden Gardens in Crowded Kyoto are Shoren-in, Enryaku-ji, and Daitoku-ji (Daisen-in), located in the outskirts of Kyoto. Finally, Hikone is also a “hidden gem” because it is one hour away.

Other Places to See

You can find other hidden gems in Kyoto. That does NOT mean there will be no visitors. Most tourists in Japan are domestic, and the Japanese are well aware of these “hidden gems”. Here are a few places to consider when you’re seeking a more tranquil Kyoto experience.

Kyoto’s Less Visited Places

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji (G4.7) is renowned for its whimsical collection of around 1,200 stone Rakan (Buddha) statues, each with its unique, expressive face.

Saihō-ji in Koke-dera (G4.4) is famous for its enchanting moss garden. It keeps its visitor numbers low by requiring advance reservations for garden tours.

Myoshin-ji (G4.4) is made up of many sub-temples, many of which remain largely unexplored by international tourists.

Kyoto’s Most Visited Places

Not only are there 50 million tourists in Kyoto, but they mainly go to the same places. No wonder it feels overcrowded. If you do not like crowds, here are the places to avoid especially in April:

Kinkaku-ji (G4.5) is the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. Its shimmering gold façade against a reflective pond makes for a picture-perfect scene that draws massive crowds almost year-round.

Kiyomizu-dera (G4.5) has sweeping views but is extremely crowded, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage peak seasons.

Nanzen-ji (G4.5) is a Zen temple with beautiful gardens and historic buildings. It draws large numbers of tourists on weekends and in peak seasons.

Tenryu-ji (G4.4) is a Zen temple and garden famous for its cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and the nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

Fushimi Inari-taisha (G4.7) is a Shinto Shrine famous for its torii gates.

Gion is the geisha district, which has banned all photography due to unruly tourists harassing geishas.

Less Visited Cherry Blossom Places

Similarly to temples, why do you have to go to the well-known cherry blossom places? There are several off-the-beaten-path spots where you can enjoy quiet cherry blossom viewing amid traditional backdrops:

Kiyamachi district is very lively by day, but its canal area transforms in the evening. The illuminated cherry blossom-lined walkways here are less congested at night. They offer a hushed and atmospheric experience that’s both romantic and reflective.

Haradani-en (G4.4) is a hidden garden that is a treat for those who love weeping cherry trees. Open only during the blooming season, Haradani-en offers a tranquil, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The garden’s peaceful vibe and carefully preserved natural beauty make it a perfect retreat.

Takenaka Inari Shrine (G4.2) is part of Yoshida Shrine, which is near the summit of Mount Yoshida. It features a striking row of red torii gates. In the spring, the cherry blossom branches sprawling around these gates create a unique, magical tunnel effect. It has far fewer visitors than its more famous counterpart, Fushimi Inari-taisha.

The Nanzen-ji (G4.5) temple is historically significant and visited by many. Its expansive grounds and lesser-known garden areas lend themselves to quieter cherry blossom viewing. The temple’s tranquil setting allows for a reflective stroll beneath blossoming trees without overwhelming crowds.

Shinyo-do Hall and Kurodani Temple are less-noticed areas in Kyoto. Due to limited bus parking and its tucked-away location, this spot stays relatively serene.

Takano-gawa (river) is lined with cherry trees but enjoys a lower profile compared to the well-known Kamo-gawa. The riverside stroll under its cascade of blossoms is perfect for those looking for a nature walk.

Kyoto Weather

Season – Months	Temp °C	Temp °F
Spring: April–May	22.5°	72.5°
Summer: June–August	31.0°	87.8°
Fall: September–November	23.0°	73.4°

[strong]Kyoto Best Time[/strong]

March and April are the peak spring months due to the cherry blossoms. November is the peak autumn month due to the autumn leaves. June is the rainy season. August is the hottest month, with an average high of 33°C. September is very warm at 29°C.

[strong][strong]Kyoto[/strong] Getting Around[/strong]

[strong]Kyoto[/strong] is a small city of only 367,400 people.

Route by Auto	Distance by Road	Time by Road
Kyoto – Osaka	50 km	0:50 hrs
Kyoto – Nara	42 km	0:36 hrs
Kyoto – Uji	19 km	0:22 hrs
Kyoto – Kanazawa	360 km	3:04 hrs

Get the Rome2Rio app if you are travelling by bus or train. Generally, it is much faster to travel by train. These are the train fares and times.

Route by Train or Bus	Fare JPY	Fare USD	Time Hrs
Kyoto – Osaka	JPY 360 – 4,000	USD 2.40 – 26.62	0:12
Kyoto – Nara	JPY 590 – 630	USD 3.95 – 4.22	0:38
Kyoto – Uji	JPY 240 – 310	USD 1.60 – 2.06	0:21
Kyoto – Kanazawa	JPY 7,536 – 11,161	USD 50.14 – 74.27	2:09

If you are not renting a car but plan to see both Kanazawa and Kyoto, then consider a multi-city airfare.

Final Comments

We hope this post will encourage you to visit intriguing Kyoto despite the over-tourism. It is here where we learned about tea ceremonies and Zen karesansui gardens, temples and culture. You can discover traditional Japan without having to visit the overcrowded “famous” places.

Surprising Fact for Today

The Shogun or military dictator was the main power in Japan, not the emperor. For more surprising facts, read Unlock Japan: Insider Tips & FAQs.

Subscribe

Please subscribe to Japan Encounters because we offer valuable insights to improve your understanding and enhance your travels. We offer itinerary-based guides packed with the best sights and hidden gems. Let our knowledge help you fully appreciate every moment of your amazing journey to Japan.

Get travel tips and advice delivered directly to your inbox. The best part is that it is free.

Type your email…

Subscribe

This was only a taste of Nara. What questions do you have? If you have been to Japan, share your experiences with us. How long is/was your trip?

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Δ

---

Other Posts You May Like

Explore Hikone Castle & Gardens: Hidden Gems

Discover 3 Charming Hidden Gems in Kyoto

Why Nara Should Be on Your Japan Bucket List

Why Kanazawa Should Be on Your Japan Bucket List

Embracing ‘Kayama Country’

Why Nikko Japan Should Not Be Missed

Explore Hidden Gems in the Japanese Alps

Guide to Japanese Culture

Hidden Features of Japan

Insider Tips & FAQs

Is Japan Beautiful

Google Maps Ratings

Google Maps provides a rating from 0 to 5 for all sights, hotels, and restaurants (but not cities). All our recommendations are appended with the rating (prefixed with a G) from Google Maps. Google Ratings are based on feedback from locals as well as tourists. They are much more reliable than travel booking websites or tourist anecdotes.

We consider a score of 4 to 4.39 to be Very Good and 4.4 to 5 to be Excellent. Yet, in Japan, many must-see sights are rated by the Japanese as 4.2. Based on this, we would consider the range of 4.2 to 5 to be Excellent.

All photos and text © Terra Encounters;
except where noted CC BY-SA (Creative Commons Wikipedia)
Japan Encounters is a subsidiary of Terra Encounters

---

Terra Encounters

for in-depth advice

^{Terra Encounters}

Habitat Gardening

2026-04-01 14:50:10

Prepare Your Garden Soil

This Time: Prepare soil for native plants; Protect wildflowers that bloom early

---

How about some good gardening news? How about guidance that tells you to do a lot less than you expect to do? Well, I have some, but it's going to force you to break with some traditional gardening techniques, so you may feel a little uncomfortable at first.

If you've followed the process to this point you have purchased seeds or live plants and started the germinating and growing process in small pots or trays. Now, you're ready to get out there and prepare the soil for planting! For traditional gardening, that means cutting into the garden bed soil to loosen it, adding special amendments, and smoothing out the surface.

But I have good news for you: You don't have to do that for native plants! And if you do, you might be making the situation worse.

Let Go of Traditional Gardening Habits, Embrace Soil Communities

Native plants evolved to live in conjunction with certain neighbors. The plants, fungi, bacteria, insects, earthworms and more all existed in an interdependent community. The community was sustainable, resilient.

What’s more, soil has layers where different organisms live out their lives. Soil organisms take natural materials such as dried leaves and minerals and recycle them into nutrients used by the plants.

When you disrupt these communities, by digging through them or dousing them with pesticides, you interfere with processes that support thriving native plants and that could make your life easier.

Alt text: Section of typical soil layers near the surface, humus at the top, with topsoil underneath, and subsoil below that. Native plant roots are adapted to grow in natural layers in soil. Mimicking nature provides them with better moisture and nutrition. Prairie-type garden soils are different from woodland-type garden soils, but they both have layers that should be preserved.

When your Habitat Garden supports soil communities, the soil communities take care of your native plants. Less digging means less fertilizing and less watering. How does that sound?

So, there are a few specific things you don’t need to do anymore to prepare soil for native plants:

• Don't “fix” your soil with amendments before planting.
• Don't use herbicides, fungicides, or pesticides.
• Don’t seal soil under layers of fabric and mulch.

Here's how you do prepare soil for native plants.

Clear Gently, Not Chemically

If weeds have overgrown the area set aside for your native plants, use physical methods like hand‑pulling, cutting plants at the base, or smothering areas with cardboard. This approach preserves soil life and lets healthy communities develop and mature.

Apply Organic Matter on Top

Compost and natural local plant debris are still useful! Sprinkle them on the surface to simulate the natural process of dead and decaying matter falling onto the soil. The soil community will take it from there. Native plants are adapted to soils that are leaner than traditional amendment-rich garden beds.

Leave Organic Cover—But Not Everywhere

Leaf litter, fallen stems, and plant debris provide shelter for overwintering insects and help protect soil structure. But don't forget the ground‑nesting bees. They need access to bare earth. Leave cover in place but avoid blanketing entire beds. Mulch lightly around new plants and let some topsoil stay open.

That's not too much, is it? You'll have more time to focus on the bird calls and butterfly swoops.

---

Seasonal Continuous Improvement: Early Spring

Protect early bloomers!

Early spring flowers – both planted and naturally occurring – are a lifeline. Native bees often emerge before most garden plants bloom, and these first flowers can mean the difference between surviving and struggling.

What to do (and not do)

• Let early wildflowers bloom undisturbed. Resist the urge to pull all “weeds”.
• Leave as many as possible to provide nectar, but not to annoy neighbors. If an area is visible to neighbors who may consider it unsightly, consider maintaining that area per traditional expectations while leaving a “hidden” area undisturbed for pollinators.
• Skip garden “tidying” that removes flowers before pollinators arrive.

While you are out enjoying Nature, pay attention to which plants attract the very first bees and insects. Plan to protect these early bloomers that play an important role in your Habitat Garden.

In spring, timing matters. What blooms first is often critical to the success of beneficial insects before the majority of other native plants start to bloom. Let them do their job.

In my garden, this area of wild violets has created a thick carpet of green leaves. It did not take long for a couple of plants to spread. Not only is this native wildflower food for early pollinators, it also creates a groundcover that is hard for weeds to penetrate. I do not disturb the soil as much, leaving the soil community can thrive. It’s cool under the leaves. I often find frogs hiding out there in the hot afternoons.

---

Resources

🪲 Soil Life

This guide from the Xerces Society builds your knowledge about soil invertebrates. You can actually see soil invertebrates, unlike bacteria, so they can help you gauge the health of your habitat soil communities.

🪱 Soil Health

This guide from the USDA's Natural Resource Conservation Service has even more tips to create healthier soil.

🐦 For a Wildlife-Friendly Garden, Test Soil First

If you are starting your habitat garden from scratch, you have an opportunity to get information about your soil that will simplify your planning and reduce future problems.

🦋 For Pollinators' Sakes, Don’t Spring into Garden Cleanup Too Soon!

More detail on do's and don'ts for spring garden activities in a habitat garden. It’s especially good with helping you determine when it’s OK to

🐛 Habitat Planning for Beneficial Insects

Download this PDF for a more comprehensive guide to developing a better habitat.

---

#HabitatGardening #BiodiversityGardening #Gardening #NativePlants #Nature #Environment #Conservation #Biodiversity #Invertebrates #SolarPunk #SolarPunkSunday #Thrutopia

I’m Joe Wynne, a gardener since 1965 when I started as a helper for my grandmother. We maintained irises then and I still have those plants today. I’m a former Tennessee State Park Naturalist, who now focuses on making my garden a habitat for native plants and native bees, birds and butterflies. It’s working! I share what I learn.

Follow me on Mastodon. See articles from others in my magazine on Flipboard: Habitat Gardening

© Joe Wynne 2025-2026

Habitat Gardening | @joewynne12 | Flipboard

The best things to plant (probably not what you think) and how to be successful. Beginners to advanced. Build a haven for native bees, butterflies, and birds against climate changes and habitat loss.

^Flipboard

Habitat Gardening

2026-02-18 20:56:41

Support Bird Nesting

This time: Make nesting easier for your birds; Improve your home habitat for birds.

---

If you are a garden hero, creating habitat to support populations of native birds, you not only get to enjoy the good feeling that comes from supporting nature, but you get to enjoy more bird song in spring.

Remember that many people and businesses clear out leaves and debris in the fall. This robs birds of nesting material! You can help fill the gap by making available prime resources and even help birds with nests away from your location. More nests mean more chicks.

To fill the gap, put out a variety of materials that most birds can use to build nests.

Break up twigs. Bird populations will need plenty of small twigs to make their nests. Make them available! Break up longer twigs until they are shorter than about 6 inches/15 cm. Create two or three small piles in different locations convenient to birds.

Set out long slender plant leaves. Some birds use old leaves for nests, especially if they are the slender kind. I have long leaves of irises and daylilies that I keep over the winter and then cut into smaller sections. I’ve seen these in nests in trees in my yard.

Make short strands of string and yarn available. While you're at it, cut sections of natural fibers to less than 6 inches for additional building materials. If you have fabric laying around, that can be cut into small pieces and be useful as well.

Leave moss where it grows. Some birds use moss to fashion their nests.

Leave spider webs alone. Your first reaction might be to knock down any spider web you see. Especially during the nest-building season, leave as many spider webs up as you can. Hummingbirds can use spider webs to pad their nests.

Make mud available. There are birds that use mud to add strength to their nests. If you don't know of a source of mud nearby, clear off an appropriate spot if you have one.

Don’t delay too long. When birds are ready to nest, they need the materials right then. I once left my garage door open most of the day in the spring while I was gardening. By the time I returned, a couple of Carolina Wrens had a nest 2/3 complete in the garage using a pile of twigs I had placed nearby.

Find more ideas in the Resources section below.

By the way, keep helping birds thrive through late winter. It is important to maintain their food. Birds need extra energy to survive the last of cold weather and the new activity of building nests. If feeding stops, they might find it difficult to survive.

The lantana here has died back for the winter with only its slender branches remaining. My neighbors would typically cut back something like this and clear all the debris away. I cut all the twigs and broke them up into smaller nest-building size sections. It only took a few minutes. Notice that I left the leaves on the ground to house bugs for the birds to eat.

This top part of a nest that fell to the ground in my yard shows the variety of types of materials used. Visible are twigs, pine needles, dead slender leaves (daylilies from my yard), small tree leaves. These are exactly the kinds of debris people remove for the sake of “fall clean up” or “garden tidying”. What’s a bird to do without your help?

---

Seasonal Continuous Improvement: Winter/Offseason

As you continue designing your habitat garden, consider ways you can make additional improvements for birds.

What do your local birds use to build nests? During the winter, you can examine last year's nests to see what your local birds prefer for nesting materials.

Are you using pesticides where birds feed? Most birds feed primarily on bugs. If you kill bugs, then the birds don't have enough food. When birds spend a summer eating bugs with poisons in their bodies, it sickens or kills them. If possible, plan to dispose of these chemicals and replace them with more sustainable practices.

Do you have good location for a brush pile? Put larger branches on bottom and smaller at the top. Birds will feed and nest here.

Find more ideas in the Resources section below.

---

Resources

🐦 Create a Bird-Friendly Habitat

• This guide includes eleven ways to create a bird habitat.

🐦 How to Provide Nesting Materials for Birds

• Tips include good ways to contain materials, like yarn and string.

🐦 16 Ways to Help Birds Survive Harsh Winters

• More information on the types of food that is most helpful in keeping birds alive, including the importance of suet and making “the bluebird banquet”.

[18 Feb 2026]

---

#HabitatGardening #BiodiversityGardening #Gardening #NativePlants #Nature #Environment #Conservation #Biodiversity #Invertebrates #SolarPunk #SolarPunkSunday #Thrutopia

I’m Joe Wynne, a gardener since 1965 when I started as a helper for my grandmother. We maintained irises then and I still have those plants today. I’m a former Tennessee State Park Naturalist, who now focuses on making my garden a habitat for native plants and native bees, birds and butterflies. I share what I learn.

Follow me on Mastodon. See articles from others in my magazine on Flipboard: Habitat Gardening

© Joe Wynne 2025-2026

16 Ways to Help Birds Survive Harsh Winters – Nest Hollow

^{Nest Hollow}