교토의 여름을 즐기는 방법: 현지인이 알려주는 팁

Japan is generally hot and humid in summer, but Kyoto can feel especially intense because of its geography. Situated in a basin and surrounded by mountains, the city tends to trap heat, and its inland location means it receives little relief from cooling sea breezes.

출처 : 기상청

As Kyotoites have lived with these conditions for centuries, the local culture has developed around the rhythms of summer. From building houses with earthen walls and wooden lattices to keep cool to setting up dining terraces over the river, locals have learned how to work with the weather rather than fight it.

You can do the same. Start your day early, slow down during the hottest hours, and plan your sightseeing around the cooler parts of the day. With a little local know-how, you can experience much more of Kyoto without letting the summer heat get in the way.

While on vacation it may be tempting to sleep in, during the summer in Kyoto getting up early to see the sights before the sun gets up to full power is truly the way to go. Many temples, shrines and other sights open early, which allows you not only to explore them before the heat builds, but also ensures that you will have a much more private, quiet experience, before most other visitors are up and about.

Two of the earliest sights to open are located conveniently close to Kyoto Station. To-ji Temple’s grounds open at 5:00 AM (the halls open at 8:00—9:00 AM). This marvel was founded back in 796 and is home to the tallest 5-story wooden pagoda in Japan. On the north side of Kyoto Station is 히가시혼간지 사원, which opens at 5:50 AM from March to October. Founded in 1602, the enormous Founder’s Hall built in 1895 is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.

Explore To-ji Temple’s grounds in the morning, to see the towering wooden pagoda

If you plan to visit 니조성 (which opens at 8:45 AM), stop by Shinsen-en Temple first, when it opens at 7:00 AM. Created in 794, it was originally an Imperial Palace garden and it is now a Buddhist temple (and according to legend Zennyo Ryuo, a dragon deity associated with rain, resides in the pond!).

Garden lovers will be thrilled to know that 교토 교엔 국립 정원 is open 24/7 and makes for a fantastic morning walk. The former residential district of the imperial court, it surrounds the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Nearby you will find the Somei Well at Nashinoki Shrine, a famous water source where you can fill up your water bottle from 6:00 AM.

If you want to experience a quieter side of Kyoto while the temperatures are still cool and sightseeing spots uncrowded, get an early start for this pleasant morning walk, which is one of my favorites.

A morning stroll through Shimogamo-jinja Shrine and its surrounding forest is a lovely way to start your day in Kyoto

Start your walk at 시모가모 신사, one of Kyoto’s oldest and most important shrines which opens at 6:30 AM. Located where the Kamogawa and Takanogawa rivers meet, the shrine is surrounded by ancient woodland and streams, making it a refreshing place for an early summer morning. A clear stream emerges just beneath Inoue-sha Shrine.

From the shrine, walk through Tadasu-no-Mori Forest, an ancient woodland that has survived within the city for centuries. The shaded paths lead through one of Kyoto’s last remaining areas of primeval forest before emerging at the Kamogawa River. Wildlife such as birds and amphibians can be spotted near the river.

Enjoy the breeze by the Kamogawa River, and hop across the stepping stones nearby

Continue toward Kamogawa Park, right by where the Kamogawa and Takano rivers meet. Hop across the famous stepping stones, some of them shaped like giant turtles, and see if you can spot the hawks, ducks and herons that live along the riverside.

If you have time, cross the Demachibashi Bridge to check out Demachi Masugata Shopping Arcade, a traditional covered shopping street where local residents shop for fresh produce, fish, sweets and everyday goods (some shops open around 9:00 AM). Look for the giant mackerel hanging from the top of the arcade!

If you have had an early start, taking a quick nap at your hotel after lunch is a pleasant way to rest during the hottest hours of the day. But if you still have energy to spare, head indoors to explore while still keeping cool.

In central Kyoto, you can opt to learn about Japan’s rich manga culture at the 교토 국제 만화 박물관, or check out the shopping (and amazing food shops) at the Daimaru or Takashimaya department stores. Art lovers who want to beat the heat should head to the eastern side of the city, around Higashiyama, to check out the marvels on display at the KYOCERA Museum of Art (大原)에서 땔감과 숯 등을 머리에 이고 교토 시내로 팔러 나온 ‘오하라메’(大原女)가 있습니다. 그 뒤에는 교토의 서쪽, 라쿠사이 지역 교토 공예미술관.

The afternoon is also the ideal time to book classes and hands-on activities, which can range from learning how to cook traditional Japanese dishes to experiencing a tea ceremony, doing a photoshoot in samurai armor, making a washi paper lamp, watching a performance of geiko/maiko dancing and more.

Night strolls in Kyoto are when the poetry of the city really comes alive. Some recommended places to wander and explore are Pontocho, with atmospheric little streets lit with lanterns and where you can book a special dinner on a noryo-yuka terrace overlooking the Kamogawa River. The evening is also a great time to see 야사카 신사 in the Gion district, which is lit with lanterns after dark.

Dining on noryo-yuka terraces overlooking the river is a Kyoto summer tradition

Getting the right gear can make a surprisingly big difference when exploring Kyoto in summer. Many of these practical items are budget-friendly, easy to find, and make useful souvenirs to use back home as well.

Higasa, or sun umbrellas, are used by locals of all ages, providing welcome, portable shade that can make a noticeable difference when walking under the summer sun. You can find these at department stores and specialty shops. Combine this with a fan, whether it be a handheld electric version, nifty wraparound neck fan, or the traditional folding variety, which can be a lifesaver in stuffy areas like busy buses or train platforms.

If you plan to attend a summer festival or just want to try some local, old-school fashion, jinbei are one of the most comfortable options. This traditional Japanese summer wear comes in a matching set of shorts and wrap shirt, usually made from lightweight materials like cotton or hemp. Jinbei come in a number of colors and patterns, and can often be purchased at kimono shops, department stores and even some major clothing retailers.

Mint spray, which can be found at most drugstores, is another useful item to help you keep cool and comfortable all day long. Spritz this mint alcohol spray onto your clothing before putting it on to create a cooling effect on your body.

People of all ages wear jinbei during the summer, to stay cool and stylish

Locals also rely on certain drinks and foods to beat the heat. One thing to look for are shioame or salt candy, which can be commonly spotted at drugstores, convenience stores and grocery stores. These hard candies contain salt to help you replenish that lost when sweating, and often come in very Japanese flavors like sour plum and ramune soda.

When reaching for something cold and refreshing to drink, why not try mugicha? A traditional tea made from roasted barley and served chilled, it is a popular summer drink in Japanese households. Mugicha is available at most convenience stores and vending machines during the summer.

If you need to seriously cool down, then you can’t go wrong with kakigori, Japanese shaved ice. A common sight at festival food stalls, these icy treats are topped with your choice of syrup, available in flavors such as matcha or strawberry. Many cafes and specialty shops offer fancier versions as well, topped with fresh fruit, homemade syrups and other tasty delights.

Kakigori shaved ice is a much beloved summer treat, with lots of flavors to choose from

With a little preparation and an early start, your summer trip to Kyoto should be one to remember!