This summer, Kyoto City warmly welcomes travellers and culture lovers to explore some of its most treasured cultural landmarks through the Kyoto Summer Special Openings 2025, a limited-time program offering exclusive access to sacred and historically significant sites usually closed to the public.

Running from Friday 11 July to Tuesday 30 September 2025, this year's program marks its 50th anniversary and invites visitors to enjoy spaces rarely accessible under the theme “Waterscapes to Visit in Summer and Modern Architecture Masterpieces of Kyoto.” For the first time, special evening light-up events will also be introduced, allowing guests to experience the magic of Kyoto's heritage in the cooler, serene hours after sunset.

Daytime Highlights

Shosei-en Garden: Enshin-do Hall
Step inside this 17th-century hall for the first time in history. Once the residence of the head of Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, Enshin-do offers exquisite views of a traditional garden and features silver swallow-shaped nail covers, each uniquely crafted.
Admission: Adults ¥500 (plus Garden Maintenance Fee) / Dates: 11 July to 30 September

Higashi Hongan-ji Temple: Goei-do-mon Gate
Climb Japan's tallest wooden temple gate for a sweeping view of Kyoto and its eastern mountains. The upper level, home to sacred Buddhist statues, is usually off-limits.
Admission: ¥800 / Dates: 11 July to 30 September

Pontocho Kaburenjo Theatre
Explore this 1927 theatre in Kyoto's historical geisha district. Visitors can see the stage, rehearsal rooms and backstage areas on a guided tour.
Admission: ¥800 / Closed: 3 and 11–15 September

Shozan Hogyokutei Villa
Nestled in a moss-covered garden in northern Kyoto, this post-war merchant residence features rare nandina columns and art from renowned Japanese painters.
Admission: ¥800 / Closed from 12.00 midday on 6 September

Ninna-ji Temple: Kannon-do Hall
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kannon-do Hall is adorned with brilliantly preserved 17th-century murals and houses 33 Buddhist figures. Tours are guided by a temple priest.
Admission: ¥700 / Free for under 18s / Closed: 18 July, 18 August, 18 September

Kamigamo-jinja Shrine
Visit one of Kyoto's oldest shrines, with guided access to two sacred buildings normally closed to the public. Kamigamo Shrine is famous for its traditional thatched roofs and spiritual atmosphere.
Admission: ¥800 / Closed: 16–18 July

Shimogamo-jinja Shrine
Enter the sacred inner precinct of this World Heritage-listed shrine and explore the historic kitchen used for preparing offerings. A highlight is its ancient forest, preserved since the 3rd century BCE.
Admission: ¥800

Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa
Wander through this well-preserved traditional residence built by the influential Mitsui merchant family. The second floor, with views of the garden and Kamo River, will be open to the public for a limited time.
Admission: ¥800 / Special Access: 29 August to 7 September

New This Year: Night-time Light-Up Events

Ninna-ji Temple Night Viewing
Experience the quiet beauty of Ninna-ji Temple illuminated at night. The five-storey pagoda and main hall are bathed in light, while the Kannon-do interior, rich with ancient murals, opens for evening access.
Dates: 11 to 21 July / Admission: ¥1,700 / Free for under 18s

Kamigamo-jinja Shrine “Visit to the Dragon God”
Take a twilight footbath in the sacred Nara-no-Ogawa stream as over a thousand wind chimes sing in the breeze. Enjoy traditional dances, flute music and cool refreshments in a mystical setting.
Dates: 14 to 23 July / Admission: ¥1,200 (Children aged 6–12: ¥600)

Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa Evening Opening
Relax with a drink on a veranda overlooking the garden, as this historic residence is beautifully lit for a peaceful summer night visit.
Dates: 18–21 and 25–27 July / Admission: From ¥1,200 including drink (Free for children under 12)

Planning Your Visit

Most venues are open from 10.00 am to 4.30 pm (last entry 4.00 pm). Night events run from 6.30 pm to 9.00 pm. Please check each location's specific schedule, as some may have different opening periods or temporary closures due to ceremonies or weather.

Official Website: LINK
Admission: Fees vary per location. Many sites offer free or discounted entry for children.
Access: All sites are reachable via public transport from Kyoto Station.

About Kyoto Summer Special Openings

Launched in 1975, the Kyoto Summer Special Openings program provides unique seasonal access to sacred and culturally significant spaces throughout Kyoto. Each year, a new theme highlights the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of Japan's cultural capital.

Discover Kyoto's hidden treasures this summer through its waters, architecture and evening light.

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