Full 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary & Journey Information

When you’ve completed your issues to do in Tokyo record, let me gently nudge you only a couple hours away, as a result of a few of Japan’s most unforgettable experiences are ready in Kyoto. Hop on the bullet prepare and in about 2.5 hours, you’ll commerce Tokyo’s neon buzz for a metropolis stuffed with centuries-old temples, peaceable tea homes, and a meals scene that I’m nonetheless dreaming about. 

On this information, I’m sharing precisely how I’d plan the right 3-day itinerary for Kyoto, primarily based alone expertise. You’ll study what to see, what to do, and (very importantly) the place to eat.

Itinerary (Excellent for First Timers)

Kyoto Journey Planning Information

Finest Time to Go to

The quick reply is that spring and fall are onerous to beat. That stated, Kyoto is a year-round vacation spot, and there’s actually no unhealthy time to go. It simply is dependent upon whether or not you wish to courageous the climate or the crowds.

The preferred months (and the busiest) are March via Might and October via November, when the climate is comfy and the surroundings is at its peak. Spring brings these dreamy cherry blossoms (late March to mid-April), whereas fall delivers wealthy autumn colours and that crisp, cozy air. 

Summer time (June via August) is sizzling and humid, however nonetheless doable when you take breaks and keep hydrated (and don’t let the wet season scare you—it’s sometimes not fixed rain). Winter is colder, however a lot quieter, with fewer crowds and higher resort costs.

I’ve really been to Japan a number of occasions in December, and there have been manner fewer folks. It was a bit chilly, however truthfully not unhealthy in any respect when you bundle up.

How Many Days to Spend in Kyoto

If it’s your first time in Kyoto, give it at the very least three days. That’s sufficient to make stops on the highlights and with a bit of planning, you’ll be able to even slot in a fast day journey to Nara to see the native deer. However when you can stretch it to 5 days, Kyoto begins to really feel totally different. You’re now not shifting from one landmark to the following, you’ll be able to take the longer route on objective. 

The place to Keep in Kyoto

If it’s your first go to, I normally recommend staying someplace central so that you’re near most of the predominant sights, and downtown Kyoto could be the best choice for that. With that stated, Kyoto’s public transportation could be very simple to make use of, so you’ll be able to comfortably discover regardless of the place you keep.

I stayed at HANARE by Tokyu Keep Kyoto Sanjo ($$) in central Kyoto, and it ended up being such an important dwelling base for exploring the town. It was near the subway, but additionally solely a 15 minute stroll to Nishiki Market.

The room was surprisingly spacious for Japan, plus there’s a small kitchenette with a microwave, sink, and fridge, plus a contemporary lavatory with a rain bathe that felt like a bit of luxurious on the finish of the day. However what I beloved most? The washer and dryer that made packing a lot simpler (particularly when you’re making an attempt to journey lighter). Additionally they had a sake blissful hour and free Japanese snacks, which felt like a enjoyable little bonus.

Different Lodge Choices

• Reikaku Yasaka ($$$$): A refined machiya keep in Gion that blends historic attraction with fashionable luxurious, full with elegant interiors, a non-public backyard, and a chief location close to Yasaka Shrine.
• Sowaka ($$$$): A superbly restored ryokan turned boutique resort providing minimalist design, distinctive service, and a peaceable retreat proper within the coronary heart of Gion.
• Lodge The Celestine Kyoto Gion ($$$): A serene, upscale resort with conventional design touches, a calming public tub, and a quiet location simply steps from Kyoto’s historic streets.
• insomnia KYOTO OIKE ($$): A relaxed and classy resort that’s welcoming and cozy, making it a straightforward, no-fuss base after lengthy days of exploring Kyoto.
• Nohga Lodge Kiyomizu Kyoto ($$): A design-forward resort mixing modern fashion with native artwork and craft, plus a rooftop bar and an important location close to Kiyomizu-dera and Higashiyama.

Earlier than You Go

Paperwork Wanted

Earlier than you go, fill out your immigration and customs kinds via Go to Japan Internet. You’ll get a QR code that makes arriving in Japan a lot smoother.

Useful Apps

Suica:  Obtain Suica app in your cellphone after which add it to your Apple Pockets via the app. You possibly can add it on to your pockets with out downloading the app, however once I tried that, I wasn’t in a position to load cash and saved getting errors. Although, when you like, you’ll be able to attempt that first with these pockets directions. 

As soon as it’s arrange, it’s extremely simple. You possibly can load cash with Apple Pay and to make use of it you simply faucet your cellphone at subway gates, buses, merchandising machines, and even some outlets. You don’t even have to open the app. For detailed directions, see the JR-East web site.

Google Translate: Each time I’m in Japan I rely closely on the Google Translate app. Whereas many individuals converse some English, loads don’t—and menus, indicators, and even issues like your resort thermostat might solely be in Japanese. The digital camera function alone is value it!

Go Taxi: GO Taxi is mainly Japan’s model of Uber, besides it calls licensed taxis as a substitute of personal automobiles. The perfect half is you’ll be able to see your fare upfront, which takes away any guesswork. I used it proper after touchdown at Haneda Airport and it was utterly stress-free. 

Fast tip: taxi doorways open and shut mechanically, so don’t attempt to do it your self. I could have made that mistake a few times.

Google Maps: Google Maps might be your greatest buddy in Kyoto. I used it in every single place, and it by no means failed me. It tells you precisely which prepare or bus to take, how lengthy every leg will take, and even how far you’ll be strolling between stations. It takes a lot of the stress out of figuring issues out in a brand new place.

Just a few real-life ideas that made a giant distinction for me:

• When you’ve got baggage, choose the wheelchair-accessible route possibility. It will information you to elevators as a substitute of stairs. In any other case, it’s possible you’ll end up hauling a suitcase up and down extra steps than you’d like.
• Attempt to keep away from rush hour with massive baggage. Trains get very crowded, and house is tight.
• When you’re on board, place your baggage close to the prepare doorways the place there’s normally a bit extra room.

And if issues don’t go completely, that’s okay. It occurs. Should you get on the flawed prepare, simply hop off on the subsequent cease and reassess. I can’t inform you what number of occasions I stated to my husband, “I want a minute,” and stepped off to the aspect to regroup.

Attending to Kyoto from Tokyo by Bullet Prepare (Shinkansen)

The preferred approach to get to Kyoto from Tokyo is on the bullet prepare. Why? As a result of, not solely is it a bucket record expertise, going by a neighborhood prepare might take as much as 5 occasions as lengthy. The Shinkansen takes you 450km in about 2 hours and quarter-hour. 

I booked all of our bullet prepare tickets utilizing the SmartEX app, and I’d do it the identical manner once more in a heartbeat. Sure, you’ll be able to completely purchase tickets on the station, however I’ve realized over time that my journey days go an entire lot smoother once I take away as many “determine it out on the fly” moments as doable (particularly once I’m drained, holding a suitcase, and simply wish to get the place I’m going).

Listed here are just a few ideas I picked up alongside the best way that made the expertise really feel simple as a substitute of overwhelming:

• Reserve your seats upfront. It’s not required, however in order for you management over the place you sit (and belief me, you would possibly), it’s value it.
• For that Mount Fuji second, select seats D or E when touring between Tokyo and Kyoto (both course). On a transparent day, you would possibly get a unbelievable Mount Fuji view. 
• Baggage is doable, however plan forward. The overhead racks can match a decent-sized suitcase when you can carry it. In case your bag is over 160cm, you’ll want to order a seat with baggage house (reserving the final row is right, as a result of it has additional baggage house straight behind it, however these seats go rapidly).
• Arrive about 20–half-hour early. Stations like Tokyo and Kyoto are splendidly environment friendly…and in addition a little bit of a maze the primary time via.
• Comply with the indicators for Shinkansen. On the station, observe indicators for Shinkansen. Your prepare ought to have a quantity (and a reputation, like Hikari, Nozomi or Kodama) which you will note on the indicators within the station and on the platform.
• In your prepare’s platform, every automotive quantity might be listed at every gate to enter the prepare, simply discover your automotive quantity and wait there. 
• Don’t skip the meals halls. Each Tokyo and Kyoto stations have unbelievable choices. So, seize a bento field and snacks earlier than boarding.

Getting Round

Getting round Kyoto might be completed by subway, bus or taxi–we used all three! You need to use your loaded Suica card for the subway and bus, the taxis might be booked and paid for upfront with the GoTaxi app. Many elements of the town are tremendous walkable too.

Different Important Suggestions

Language: Regardless that you’ll discover that many individuals converse English, there are nonetheless loads of moments, particularly off the overwhelmed path, the place you would possibly run right into a little bit of a language hole. So, I at all times suggest having Google Translate useful in your cellphone.

Forex: The native forex is the Japanese yen, and U.S. {dollars} aren’t sometimes accepted, so it’s value planning forward. I normally alternate a bit of cash earlier than leaving or withdraw money on the airport once I land, simply to make these first few hours really feel simple and stress-free. Money is commonly used at smaller eating places, markets, and native outlets. In any other case bank cards are extensively accepted. 

Tipping: In Japan, tipping isn’t a factor, so don’t fear about leaving additional at eating places, taxis, or resorts. 

Security: Kyoto is taken into account a really protected metropolis in Japan, with low crime charges. After all, it’s at all times sensible to remain conscious of your environment and take regular precautions, however you’ll be able to really feel comfy exploring by yourself.

For up-to-date journey advisories and security ideas, you’ll be able to examine the U.S. Division of State web site right here: journey.state.gov. 

Finest Issues to do in Kyoto

Stroll Thinker’s Stroll (Tetsugaku no Michi)

This ended up being a kind of unexpectedly significant moments for me. The Thinker’s Stroll is a straightforward two kilometer stroll alongside a canal that follows a route as soon as utilized by physicist and thinker Nishida Kitaro. After we went, locals stopped alongside the trail to wish with us, and one sort artisan handed us tiny leaf boats to throw within the water for luck.

Go to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Ginkaku-ji was based in 1482 by Ashikaga Yoshimasa as his retirement villa and have become a Zen temple after his demise. Regardless of the nickname Silver Pavilion, it isn’t silver however a restrained picket construction with plaster ending that displays wabi-sabi aesthetics. The actual draw is the mossy gardens and the karesansui, a raked sand backyard that channels Zen calm.

Tenjuan (Nanzen-ji advanced)

Tenjuan is a subtemple contained in the bigger Nanzen-ji advanced, with origins tied to the 14th century and later reconstructions within the early 1600s. The beautiful website is greatest recognized for 2 contrasting gardens: an austere dry backyard close to the primary corridor and a water backyard that depends on seasonal streams and ponds. There’s additionally veranda seats which can be nice for simply taking all of it in, particularly in autumn when maple leaves flame crimson.

Nijo Fortress

Nijo Fortress served because the shogun’s Kyoto residence and is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. The advanced consists of huge moats, outer partitions, and the Ninomaru Palace, famed for its nightingale flooring that chirp when walked upon and sliding doorways painted by Kano college artists. The layered gardens mix strolling paths with fastidiously positioned pines and ponds.

Be sure to purchase the ticket that features the inside, as a result of that’s the place you’ll see the painted sliding doorways and get the total expertise.

Hanamikoji Avenue

Hanamikoji-dori threads via Gion, Kyoto’s historic leisure district the place picket buildings and delicate crimson lantern lights combine with the quiet buzz of eating places opening for the night time. As soon as dwelling to teahouses the place geisha carried out, you would possibly see a geisha as we speak, however don’t go chasing that second, respect the environment first and any encounters second.

Shirakawa Canal

The Shirakawa Canal runs alongside the sting of Gion and dates again centuries, initially used to move items via the district. Right this moment, it’s one of many prettiest and most peaceable corners of Kyoto. Stone paths line the water, willow bushes dip into the canal, and conventional teahouses sit simply behind them. Should you can, come within the early night when the lanterns begin to glow.

Pontocho Alley

Pontocho Alley runs parallel to the Kamo River and is full of slender, conventional buildings that now home every part from tiny yakitori spots to multi-course kaiseki eating places. Reservations for well-liked spots are clever, however dipping right into a small izakaya is commonly the best choice. Right here’s a pair to attempt:

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a piece of quick walkways stuffed with towering bamboo stalks that grew to become well-known on social media, which implies that it’s full of vacationers. An early arrival is essential in order for you photographs with out crowds; we arrived at 8:00 and there have been solely a handful of individuals. A go to is completely paired with the close by Tenryu-ji Temple.

When you positively ought to make a cease right here, I really most popular the bamboo path at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple. It’s quieter, much less crowded, and simply as fairly.

Tenryu-ji 

Tenryu-ji dates again to 1339 and is certainly one of Kyoto’s most essential Zen temples, however what stood out to me wasn’t the buildings, it was the backyard. It’s designed round a central pond, and the encircling mountains are deliberately a part of the view, which implies it modifications with each season.

​Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple 

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple has roots going again over a thousand years, however what you see as we speak feels surprisingly playful. Throughout a restoration within the Eighties, over a thousand stone statues had been carved by totally different folks, not grasp artists, simply on a regular basis people. And you’ll inform, as a result of every one is a bit of bit totally different.

Some are smiling, some look a bit of mischievous, and some genuinely made me giggle out loud. It’s additionally a lot quieter than most locations in Kyoto, which makes it really feel extra private. It’s a bit exterior the primary space, so take a taxi (or bus) and provides your self time to wander.

Kinkaku-ji (Water Temple)

Kinkaku-ji is a kind of locations you’ve most likely seen 100 occasions in photographs, however footage can’t do it justice. Initially constructed within the 14th century because the retirement villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, what you see as we speak is a reconstruction after previous fires, however it stays true to that traditional Muromachi fashion. The highest two flooring are lined in gold leaf, and when the sunshine hits good, you’ll see it shimmering within the reflection of the Kyoko-chi pond.

Stroll Saga Toriimoto Avenue 

Saga-Toriimoto road preserves a slice of Meiji-era Kyoto with rows of machiya, slender lanes, and understated storefronts that offer you a glimpse into the town’s service provider previous. This stretch close to Arashiyama is much less crowded than central points of interest and the form of place the place you wander with out a plan. Possibly you pop right into a small pottery store, peek inside a tiny tea home, or decide up a neighborhood candy simply because it seems good (which I totally help).

Tip: It’s not a far stroll from Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple.

Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple

Adashino Nenbutsu-ji dates again to the Heian interval and was initially a website for funeral rites. It’s primarily recognized for 1000’s of small stone memorials that honor unknown souls. After which there’s the bamboo path. It’s not as well-known as the primary grove, however I really appreciated it extra. It’s smaller, a lot much less crowded, and simply as stunning, possibly much more as a result of you’ll be able to really take it in with out the noise and crowds.

Gio-ji (Tiny Moss Temple)

Gio-ji Temple is tiny, quiet, and extremely simple to overlook, which is precisely what makes it really feel so particular. Your entire backyard is roofed on this delicate, lush carpet of moss that wraps across the stone paths and bushes, creating what seems like a bit of inexperienced sanctuary tucked away from every part else.

Fushimi Inari-Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a kind of locations you’ve positively seen on Instagram, proper up there with the bamboo grove, and it’s simply as hanging in individual. Based within the eighth century and devoted to Inari, the kami of rice and prosperity, it’s well-known for its 1000’s of vivid vermilion torii gates that kind these winding tunnels up Mount Inari. As you stroll, you’ll cross smaller shrines, fox statues (they’re thought of messengers), and occasional lookout factors with views over the town.

You possibly can hike all the path, which takes about two to 3 hours, however most individuals (myself included) go partway up, get these iconic views, and switch again.

➞ Should you can, go early within the morning when there might be much less crowds skinny out, and positively stroll previous the primary set of gates (that’s the place numerous the vacationers hang around). 

Eat Your Means By way of Nishki Market

Nishiki Market has been round for the reason that early 1600s, beginning as a wholesale fish market earlier than rising into what locals now name “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” It stretches for about 5 blocks and is full of small, family-run stalls alongside newer meals distributors serving every part from grilled skewers to tempura crab legs.

You possibly can even decide up just a few edible souvenirs or one thing enjoyable on your kitchen (I introduced dwelling a set of the cutest ceramic chopstick holders formed like origami cranes).

The place to Eat in Kyoto

The Kyoto meals scene is spectacular, so it’s a place the place you’re going to wish to get pleasure from by making an attempt out numerous totally different locations. These are my suggestions. 

• Ashioto: This rapidly grew to become my favourite dinner spot in Kyoto. It’s a comfortable izakaya the place small plates are full of taste and creativity. We ordered six dishes, and whereas every part was unbelievable, the Tuna Cutlet with chive soy sauce stole the present. 
• Noodle store Rennosuke: A hidden ramen spot close to Kinkaku-ji is a Bib Gourmand Michelin discover. All the pieces was memorable
• Kyoto Tonkatsu Katsuda Shijokarasuma: A tiny katsu restaurant with a giant popularity. The parts preserve coming, every part is completely crispy, and it’s consolation meals at its greatest.
• Dangoro: An off-the-cuff little noodle store close to the bamboo grove, specializing in soba and udon. We had an udon bowl and a soba one for beneath $15!
• MOTOI Gyoza: Fast, low cost, and scrumptious. I like to recommend the papas gyoza with shrimp and leek or the wagyu gyoza.
• Nakashimaya: A standard obanzai-style restaurant, serving Kyoto-style dwelling cooking. Seasonal greens, small plates, and native substances make it really feel such as you’re consuming in a Kyoto dwelling. 
• Rokkaku Ace: A full of life izakaya in Nakagyo-ku. We knew we needed to attempt it when the signal stated “totally booked” on our first night time. The grilled shrimp is a should!
• Hikiniku to Come: For meat lovers, that is the spot! It focuses on charcoal-grilled hamburgers devoted to freshly floor meat and freshly cooked rice.
• Monk: Monk is a small, intimate spot specializing in wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes, featured on Chef’s Desk, so reservations are a should and onerous to get.

Tea, Espresso & Deal with Locations

• amam dacotan: The bakery is full of irresistible pastries, each candy and savory.
• Asarte Espresso: A tiny espresso store serving glorious espresso and irresistible pastries. Don’t miss the mandarin orange tart or the Yuzu and Earl Gray croissant.
• Fiveran: a pastry store the place you load up your little basket with recent baked croissants and goodies. 
• Le Labo Cafe: Hidden behind Le Labo Perfumery, you’ll discover this tiny café has a candy little backyard. 
• nota Dorayaki & Black Tea: Attempt the matcha dorayaki that are the fluffiest pancakes. 
• Rokujuan: I couldn’t resist getting the hanawarabi  (viral flower jelly). The flavour was simply okay, however the expertise is a ten/10. 
• Stardust: A comfortable spot for vegan meals and uncooked sweets, providing treats like uncooked cashew desserts, vegan custard tarts, carrot cake, scones, and creamy panna cotta.

Excursions to Take

Should you don’t wish to navigate the town by yourself, or have an additional day or two there are numerous nice excursions you’ll be able to take (Viator has among the greatest ones!). Listed here are just a few I like to recommend:

Excellent Kyoto 1-Day Bus Tour: That is the one I’d inform you to e-book if you wish to see quite a bit with out overthinking a single element. You’ll go to Kyoto’s greatest highlights like Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari, all in sooner or later, with out determining transportation. It’s a full day, sure, however every part is organized for you. Simply present up, sit again, and take it in.

World Heritage Kyoto & Nara Uji Genuine Matcha Expertise: If the concept of navigating a number of cities in sooner or later stresses you out, this tour removes all of that. You’ll go to Nara to see the well-known bowing deer and the Nice Buddha, then head to Uji for a correct matcha expertise. It’s a very nice mixture of tradition, historical past, and one thing hands-on, which makes the entire day really feel extra memorable.

Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Tradition Tour: Gion is gorgeous by itself, however I’ll be sincere, there’s quite a bit you’ll stroll proper previous with out realizing it. This tour fills in these gaps. You’ll find out about geisha tradition, wander the quieter streets, and listen to the tales behind what you’re seeing. Should you like understanding a spot, not simply taking a look at it, this one is value it.

Nishiki Market Brunch Strolling Tour: Should you’re a bit of hesitant about what to eat or the place to begin, that is such a straightforward manner in. You’ll attempt a wide range of native meals with somebody guiding you thru it, which takes the strain off ordering one thing unfamiliar.

Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya: For an immersive cultural expertise, the Kimono Tea Ceremony permits you to step into a standard kimono earlier than taking part in a guided matcha ceremony. You’ll study the customs, etiquette, and historical past behind this centuries-old ritual whereas making ready and having fun with matcha in a peaceful, intentional setting.

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