
I visited the Nintendo Museum in Uji, Kyoto...
Are you troubled by dates that gradually get stuck in a rut? In addition to famous shrines and temples, Kyoto offers a wide variety of fun facilities such as handmade crafts, theaters, museums, and archives.
In this issue, we’ll introduce a wide variety of date spots recommended by our editorial team—from classic favorites to hidden gems. Check out the places that catch your eye and head out to create some special memories. (TEXT by Hana Toba, EDIT by Kanako Horike)
[TeamLab BioVortex Kyoto], a museum offering a new kind of art experience, opened in 2025 just a 7-minute walk from Kyoto Station. With a total floor area of approximately 10,000 square meters, the museum features over 50 exhibits—from walking through light to being surrounded by countless spheres! Many works change when touched or evolve continuously in response to their surroundings, offering an otherworldly experience that feels like stepping into a different dimension. Since the exhibits include some physical challenges, be sure to wear comfortable, activewear to take on the adventure.
"The High-Speed Spinning Bouncing Ball at Aomushi House," where you walk on a sphere that appears to be spinning at high speed. Even adults may find it surprisingly difficult to keep their balance—and might get completely absorbed in it.
In “The Forest of Resonating Lamps: One Stroke – a Year in the Mountains,” visitors are enveloped by countless lamps. It’s a magical sight to see the lamps glow more brightly in response to human presence, with the light spreading from one lamp to the next.
<Rates
Admission Fees: Adults 3,400 yen and up (ages 18 and older); Middle and High School Students 2,800 yen (student ID must be presented upon entry); Children 1,800 yen (ages 4–12); Discount for People with Disabilities 1,700 yen and up (discount applies to one accompanying person)
*Adult and disabled discounts are subject to price fluctuation depending on the admission date.
*+200 yen if purchased onsite.
*Flexible pass with no specified admission time 12,000 yen for both adults and children
<Ticket Reservations
To purchase ticketsThe official website for [teamLab BioVortex Kyoto]Online reservations are required
*Purchase by specifying the time of admission. No re-entry allowed.
An aquarium is a must for a first date. Located within [Umekoji Park], just a short distance from Kyoto Station, the [Kyoto Aquarium] offers excellent access, making it a great spot to visit casually. Spanning 10 different areas, the aquarium showcases approximately 10,000 creatures representing 200 species, including the “Kyoto River” area featuring giant salamanders and the “Kyoto Sea” large tank, which recreates the waters off Kyoto. Be sure to check in advance for the wildly popular animal shows featuring dolphins, penguins, and more. After you’ve had your fill of the aquarium, enjoy the wide variety of culinary delights available around [Umekoji Park].
360-degree panoramic aquarium "GURURI" allows visitors to experience the fantastic sea world of jellyfish drifting in the water.
[Uzumasa Movie Village] is scheduled to undergo a full renovation from 2026 to 2028. On Saturday, March 28, 2026, as part of the first phase of the renovation, cultural experiences centered on the Edo period and 10 new food spots to enjoy while strolling through the town will debut, transforming the park into an immersive theme park that adults can also enjoy. Nighttime operations will also begin, so be sure to enjoy the evening atmosphere.
*Check here for the village's closure period (January–March 2026) and operating areas.
This immersive live show featuring intense “han-cho” gambling makes you feel as if you’ve stumbled into an Edo-period gambling den. Win or lose—it all depends on the roll of the dice!
“A sake experience facility based on the concept of ”taking home memories you can only make in Kyoto.” No prior knowledge is required, making it a popular destination even for sake beginners. The experience begins by tasting a variety of distinctive sake to discover your personal preferences. As you use all five senses to appreciate the differences in aroma and flavor, once you find your favorite, you’ll use a flask to create your very own original sake, which you can take home as a souvenir of your trip. Located within walking distance of Shijo Kawaramachi and [Kiyomizu-dera Temple], it’s a great spot to visit while sightseeing in Kyoto.
You can try it out without a reservation, so feel free to stop by. 5,900 yen per person (Duration: approx. 45 minutes)
A hot new spot that opened in 2024 in Uji and Ogura, Kyoto. Opened as a public relations facility for [Nintendo], the second floor features exhibits of the various toys, game consoles, and software the company has produced since its founding—so you’re sure to have lively conversations while reminiscing about the good old days. In the hands-on exhibition area on the first floor, you can use coins to experience classic games that have been reimagined with the latest technology. When you’re tired from playing, take a break at the café, where you can order a custom burger tailored to your taste. Finally, be sure to check out the museum shop, which offers a wide selection of limited-edition merchandise!
There are also hands-on exhibits that are perfect for dates, such as a game in which pairs of people work together, and the Love Tester SP, in which people hold hands and try various tests to raise their level of love.
It is fun to choose a souvenir to commemorate your date. Game Hardware Keychain Collection 1983-1999, 1,320 yen per piece. You'll have to wait until after you purchase to see what you get out of the total of six types in the collection.
<Rates
Adults 3300 yen / Junior high and high school students 2200 yen / Elementary school students 1100 yen / Preschool children free
<Ticket Reservations
Tickets must be reserved in advance and are currently sold by lottery.
Reservations arehere *A Nintendo Account (free to create) is required.
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