Birdwatching in Kyoto
Kyoto is famous for its rich history, ancient temples and stunning gardens. Turns out that it’s also a great place to go birdwatching. Here are some of the best spots to see Japanese birds while you're exploring this incredible city.
Kyoto Botanical Gardens
About: The Kyoto Botanical Gardens is a hidden gem. Founded in 1924, it is the oldest and most comprehensive public botanical garden in Japan. Its diverse plant life and different ecosystems offer up some great birdwatching. Definitely worth the entry fee and also paying the additional charge to go into the observatory (if you like looking at plants from around the world). There is a cafe in the centre of the Gardens but I recommend ‘In the Green’ which is located on its perimeter.
Location: maps.app.goo.gl/YPkUtFr1LpP1BphF6
eBird list: ebird.org/hotspot/L2150867
Cafe: In the Green - maps.app.goo.gl/WeKsa4ZCiVu1gb1AA
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
About: Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is a vast green oasis in the heart of the city, surrounding the Kyoto Imperial Palace. This expansive park features beautifully landscaped trails, seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms and wisteria, and provides a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. You could easily spend 4-5 hours wandering through its landscaped paths - check out the pond near the Ainomachi entrance and forested areas out the back.
Location: maps.app.goo.gl/3S9b34YQf13MvroB7
eBird list: ebird.org/hotspot/L1757949
Cafe: School Bus Coffee Bakers - maps.app.goo.gl/efynCC2bPaUZAFXr5
Kamo River at Shijo-Ohashi Bridge (Gion)
About: The Kamo River flows throughout Kyoto and the birdwatching is particularly good around the iconic Shijo-Ohashi Bridge in the Gion district. You might see a different waterbirds (including Little Egrets), birds of prey and a Common Kingfisher flashing by. During Summer, this area is also the home of a range of shorebirds. Start at the bridge and then walk down either fork of the river.
Location: maps.app.goo.gl/YdwYaFMFPMJUom2s8
eBird list: ebird.org/hotspot/L4938756
Cafe: COYOTE Roastery - maps.app.goo.gl/bKznd5TssrdHoYUr8
Takaragaike Park
About: Takaragaike Park is located in northern Kyoto. Walk around the loop track that runs along the edge of the lake (Takaragaike Pond) edge to see both waterfowl and bush birds. There are lots of spots along the way to sit and admire the pond. Towering in the background is the Kyoto International Conference Centre, the place where the Kyoto Protocol was signed.
Location: maps.app.goo.gl/wgmWWjLe1ffqd11Q8
eBird list: ebird.org/hotspot/L1480278
Cafe: NIWA Cafe at the International Conference Centre - maps.app.goo.gl/KGsN2rw1xw7L97xs6
Other recommendations
You might also like to birdwatch at Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Kinkaku-ji Temple.