Friday, Feb 6
Sunrise
5:58 AM
Sunset
5:25 PM
Showing times for Friday, February 6, 2026(Today)
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12:00 AM
Condition
Night
Sunrise is best in Kyoto
Temple gates open at dawn, offering peaceful photography without tourists. Bamboo Grove is magical in morning light.
Traditional architecture glows warmly at sunset, though many temples close before the best light.
Photography tips for Kyoto
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is empty at sunrise—arrive by 6am in summer.
Fushimi Inari's thousand torii gates are crowded by 9am; start climbing at dawn.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) opens at 9am, but the pond reflections are best in early morning.
Gion's geisha district streets are quiet and photogenic at both golden hours.
Philosopher's Path along the canal is magical with cherry blossoms at sunrise.
Pontocho Alley's lanterns create a unique atmosphere at blue hour.
Nijo Castle's walls catch beautiful evening light from outside.
Kiyomizu-dera's wooden terrace offers city views at sunset (check closing time).
Autumn foliage at Tofuku-ji Temple is world-famous—visit at opening time.
The Kamogawa River offers reflections and local atmosphere at golden hour.
Best photography spots in Kyoto
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
sunriseTowering bamboo forest path
Tip: Free access, arrive before 7am
Fushimi Inari Shrine
sunriseThousands of vermillion torii gates
Tip: Hike uphill for emptier sections
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
sunriseGold-leaf covered temple on a pond
Tip: Opens 9am, but morning light is best from outside
Gion District
sunsetTraditional geisha neighborhood
Tip: Hanamikoji Street is most photogenic
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
sunsetFamous wooden terrace with city views
Tip: Check seasonal closing times
Tofuku-ji Temple
sunriseFamous for autumn maple foliage
Tip: Opens at 8:30am in autumn
Philosopher's Path
sunriseCherry tree-lined canal walk
Tip: Peak cherry blossoms late March/early April
Pontocho Alley
sunsetNarrow lane with traditional restaurants
Tip: Lanterns illuminate at dusk
Weather Tips
Kyoto has hot, humid summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are ideal for photography.
Best Months
Late March/early April for cherry blossoms, or mid-November for peak autumn colors.
Annual Overview
Year Heatmap
See how golden hour times shift throughout the year in Kyoto. Plan your trips around the best light.
Hover over cells to see details
Light Conditions
Night
Stars, low light
Blue Hour
Twilight, city lights
Golden Hour
Warm, soft light
Daylight
Bright, even
Planning your Kyoto photography trip? Start documenting your adventure.
Japan Travel JournalMore cities in Japan
Planning a trip to Kyoto?
Use these golden hour times to capture perfect photos, then organize them into a beautiful travel journal with TripMemo.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Golden hour and blue hour in Kyoto, explained.
When is golden hour in Kyoto?
Golden hour happens shortly after sunrise and before sunset, but the exact times change by date. Use the date picker above to see golden hour times for Kyoto on your travel dates.
When is blue hour in Kyoto?
Blue hour is the twilight period before sunrise and after sunset. The exact blue hour window depends on the date and location—check the times shown on this page for Kyoto.
Is sunrise or sunset better for photography in Kyoto?
Sunrise is generally recommended in Kyoto. Temple gates open at dawn, offering peaceful photography without tourists. Bamboo Grove is magical in morning light.
What are the best photography spots in Kyoto?
Top photography spots include Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Each location has optimal times for either sunrise or sunset photography.
How accurate are these sunrise and sunset times?
Times are calculated using the city's coordinates (35.01°, 135.77°) and local time zone. They're designed for planning photography and travel itineraries.
How long does golden hour last in Kyoto?
Golden hour typically lasts 20–40 minutes. At Kyoto's latitude (35°N), it stays fairly consistent throughout the year.
What's the best time of year to visit Kyoto for photography?
Late March/early April for cherry blossoms, or mid-November for peak autumn colors.
What should I know about weather in Kyoto?
Kyoto has hot, humid summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are ideal for photography.
How should I plan a golden hour shoot?
Aim to arrive 15–30 minutes early to scout your spot, set up your gear, and be ready when the light peaks. Consider a second shoot during blue hour right after sunset.
Can I save these golden hour times for my trip?
Yes! Use the date picker to check times for your specific travel dates. Consider using TripMemo to document your golden hour photos and create a travel journal of your Kyoto trip.