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Kyoto is getting ready to let visitors peek behind some very old, very beautiful curtains this spring. As part of the Kyoto Special Exhibition of Non-Public Cultural Properties, a selection of temples and shrines—many of which are usually closed to the public—will open their doors for a limited time, offering a rare look at the city’s hidden cultural treasures.
First Phase Kicks Off in Early Spring
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The exhibition will roll out in two phases, with the first phase running from March 1 to April 12 at five locations, mainly within Kyoto City.
The biggest headline here is Kenninji Temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward, which will open its Seiran-in sub-temple to the public for the very first time. Visitors will be able to admire a newly completed dry landscape garden, as well as a striking white dragon painting stretching across the ceiling—a feature that’s already generating plenty of buzz.
Also included in the first phase are:
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The main gate of Konkai-Komyoji Temple in Sakyo Ward
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Sainenji Temple in Shimogyo Ward
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Byodoji Temple, also in Shimogyo Ward
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Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine in Yawata, Kyoto Prefecture
Each site offers a different slice of history, from temple architecture to sacred artwork rarely seen outside of special occasions like this.
More Sites Coming Around Golden Week
If one phase isn’t enough (and let’s be honest, it probably won’t be), a second phase is planned for late April to early May, coinciding with Japan’s Golden Week holidays. Details on participating locations and schedules are expected to be announced in February, giving travelers plenty of time to fine-tune their spring plans.
Supporting Preservation Through Admission
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The exhibition is held with special support from The Asahi Shimbun, and admission fees will go directly toward the preservation and repair of cultural properties—so your ticket is doing double duty as both sightseeing and cultural conservation.
Admission is set at 1,000 yen (USD $6.41) for adults and 500 yen (USD $3.21) for junior high and senior high school students, with fees charged per location. Reservations aren’t required, though viewing periods and opening hours vary by site, so checking ahead is still a smart move.
A Spring Visit With Extra Meaning
Whether you’re visiting Kyoto for cherry blossoms or planning a culture-focused getaway, this spring exhibition offers a rare chance to step inside spaces normally kept off-limits—and help preserve them for future generations at the same time.
Official details and schedules can be found via Kyoto City’s tourism guide, making it easier than ever to plan a history-filled spring stroll through Japan’s former capital.
