Kyoto

Recommended Time to Visit Kyoto (Japan)

• 1-2 days: Visit the key cultural landmarks like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Kiyomizu-dera.
• 3-4 days: Explore the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the Zen gardens, and the Nijo Castle.
• 5+ days: Discover the lesser-known temples, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony, visit Gion District, and take a day trip to nearby Nara or Uji.

Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)

Day 1: Iconic Temples and Shrines

• Morning:
  • Start your day at Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kyoto’s most famous landmark. Admire the shimmering golden architecture reflecting in the surrounding pond.
  • Visit Ryoan-ji, a Zen temple known for its world-famous rock garden—a peaceful and meditative experience.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch at Ganko Sushi, a traditional restaurant serving Kyoto-style sushi.
  • Head to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where you can walk through the thousands of vibrant torii gates leading up to the shrine at the top of the mountain.
  • Explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine, dedicated to the god of rice and agriculture, and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Evening:
  • Enjoy dinner at Pontocho Alley, an atmospheric riverside street lined with traditional restaurants, tea houses, and kaiseki (traditional multi-course) dining options.
  • After dinner, take a stroll along the Kamo River, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the gentle breeze.

Day 2: Arashiyama & Historical Kyoto

• Morning:
  • Begin your day in Arashiyama, an area known for its lush natural beauty. Visit the Bamboo Grove and take a walk through the towering bamboo stalks for a magical experience.
  • Visit the Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with serene Zen gardens and incredible mountain views.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura, offering soba noodles with scenic views of the Togetsukyo Bridge.
  • Take a walk to the Togetsukyo Bridge and enjoy views of the Hozu River and surrounding mountains.
  • Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park, located on a hilltop with panoramic views of Kyoto and a chance to interact with wild monkeys.
• Evening:
  • Enjoy dinner at Kyoto Kitcho, a renowned kaiseki restaurant offering an authentic Japanese fine-dining experience.
  • Explore Gion District in the evening, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and tea houses. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a Geisha or Maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to appointments.

Day 3: Zen Gardens & Kyoto’s Hidden Gems

• Morning:
  • Visit the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famous for its large wooden stage that overlooks the city. Explore the temple’s extensive grounds, including the Jishu Shrine and the Otawa Waterfall.
  • Walk around the Higashiyama District, a preserved historic area with narrow streets, traditional shops, and beautiful views of the temple.
• Afternoon:
  • Have lunch at Nishiki Market, a lively food market offering a variety of traditional Kyoto delicacies such as pickled vegetables, tofu, and sweets.
  • Visit the tranquil Nanzen-ji Temple and its expansive Zen garden, one of Kyoto’s most serene spots for meditation.
  • Explore the Philosopher’s Path, a peaceful walk along a canal lined with cherry trees, temples, and quaint cafés.
• Evening:
  • Dine at Gion Karyo, a cozy restaurant in Gion offering seasonal Kyoto cuisine in a traditional setting.
  • Spend your final evening visiting the Kiyomizu-gojo area, where you can enjoy the ancient streets and temples illuminated at night.

Kyoto 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)

• Day 4: Visit Nijo Castle, known for its beautiful gardens and intricate “nightingale floors” that chirp when walked upon. Then, take a relaxing stroll through Kyoto Imperial Palace Park.
• Day 5: Take a day trip to Nara, where you can visit the Todai-ji Temple, the Great Buddha, and interact with the friendly deer in Nara Park. Alternatively, explore Uji, famous for its tea plantations and the Byodo-in Temple, featured on the 10-yen coin.