Kamogawa River (Kamo River)

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.

River Walking Path Cultural Site

Location

Address

Kamogawa River, Kyoto

Neighborhood: Central Kyoto

Coordinates

35.004724, 135.765032

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Open 24 hours

tuesday Open 24 hours

wednesday Open 24 hours

thursday Open 24 hours

friday Open 24 hours

saturday Open 24 hours

sunday Open 24 hours

Admission

Adults

free

Children

free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half-day

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

comfortable shoes water camera

seasonal

jacket (winter) light raincoat (summer)

not allowed

none

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

food $10-20

souvenirs $5-15

bike rental $10-15/hour

Dress Code

casual, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, none

Booking Tips

• not required
• not applicable
• not applicable
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

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

train

$20-25 1 hour 30 minutes

bus

$15-20 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: within the city center

walking

free varies by starting point

bus

$1.20-2.40 10-20 minutes

taxi

$10-20 5-15 minutes

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

hello こんにちは (Konnichiwa)

thank_you ありがとう (Arigato)

where_is どこですか (Doko desu ka)

how_much いくらですか (Ikura desu ka)

beautiful きれい (Kirei)

ticket チケット (Chiketto)

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

#Kyoto #KamogawaRiver #JapanTravel

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

#Gion #KyotoLife #TraditionalJapan

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas private property

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit may be needed

drone policy check local regulations

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

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

4.8

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

+81 75-800-5500 (Kyoto Tourism Information Center)

not applicable

https://www.kytc.or.jp/en/

Social Media

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