Overview
The Kamogawa River, also known as the Kamo River, is a historic and scenic river that flows through the heart of Kyoto. It is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and enjoying the city's natural beauty.
The river has been an important part of Kyoto's history and culture for centuries, serving as a source of water, transportation, and recreation.
Location
Address
Kamogawa River, Kyoto
Neighborhood: Central Kyoto
Coordinates
35.004724, 135.765032
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • cherry blossoms
- • green foliage
summer
hot and humid, rainy season (June-July)
- • riverfront dining
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall colors
- • crisp air
winter
cold, occasional snow
- • festive lights
- • holiday markets
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No admission fee
- Open 24/7
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate
- • none
Medical facilities: nearby hospitals and clinics
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, none
Booking Tips
- • not required
- • not applicable
- • not applicable
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Kyoto Official Travel App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Event Calendar, Restaurants and Cafes, Transportation Guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: nearby cafes and restaurants, some public areas
Charging Stations: cafes and restaurants along the river
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Distance: 112 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: within the city center
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: The river is a beloved part of Kyoto's landscape, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city
Historical Significance: The Kamogawa River has been an important part of Kyoto's history, serving as a source of water, transportation, and recreation for centuries
Insider Tips
- The river is especially beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons
- Rent a bike to explore the riverside paths and nearby attractions
Local Recommendations
- • Try local street food like yakitori and takoyaki
- • Visit the nearby Nishiki Market for local delicacies
- • Explore the historic Gion District in the evenings
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Shijo Ohashi Bridge
Best Time: Golden hour (late afternoon)
Tips: Capture the river and cityscape from the bridge
Result: Stunning views of the river and surrounding area
Gion District along the river
Best Time: Early morning or late evening
Tips: Photograph the traditional buildings and riverbanks
Result: Charming shots of Kyoto's historic district
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Kamo Shrine
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 7 minutes
Type: Shinto Shrine
Gion District
Distance: 0.8 km
Walking: 10 minutes
Type: Historic District
Nishiki Market
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 12 minutes
Type: Market
Yasaka Shrine
Distance: 1.2 km
Walking: 15 minutes
Type: Shinto Shrine
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Distance: 1.5 km
Walking: 20 minutes
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during cherry blossom season"
- "Rent a bike to explore the riverside"
- "Try local street food along the river"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (20)
Kyoto & Uji: Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Osaka or Kyoto
Kyoto Nishiki Market Food and Culture Walking Tour
Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Scenery Customized Private Tour
Kyoto Gion Private Tour with a Local Guide – Geisha District
Half Day Kyoto Sagano Bamboo Grove & Arashiyama Walking Tour
Osaka 1 Day Walking Tour with River Cruise from Osaka or Kyoto
4.5-Hour Kyoto Bike Tour with Lunch and UNESCO Zen Temples
Nara 8hr Private Tour - Kyoto DEP. with Licensed Guide
Kyoto Evening Gion Food Tour Including Kaiseki Dinner
Kyoto Heritage Run - Venture through historical Kyoto landmarks
Kyoto Hiking Tour: The Nature and Legends of Kurama and Kibune
Kyoto Arashiyama and Nara Tour with Sagano Train, Giikawa Honpo
Kyoto Gion Night Guided Walking Tour for 3 Hours
Kyoto Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized
Kyoto Luxury Sake, Whisky and Cocktail Tour
Kyoto: Arashiyama Highlights and Monkey Park in 3 Hours
Three-Hour Private Guided Tour to Arashiyama, Kyoto
Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour
Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Kyoto, Arashiyama
Kyoto Sagano Insider: Rickshaw and Walking Tour
Quick Info
Available Tours
35
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
free