Kyoto
Kyoto holds the essence of Japan’s traditions. Between serene bamboo forests and the golden Kinkaku-ji, the past feels alive. Participate in a tea ceremony, feeling the matcha’s bitter touch, as the tales of samurais and geishas whisper in the wind.
Chapters
Local Tips
• Fushimi Inari Shrine
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Kinkaku-ji
• Gion District
• Tea Ceremonies
• Crowds at Landmarks
• Summer Heat
• High Accommodation Prices
Currency: –
Festivities: –
Kyoto Guide
Guide for 1 Day
Morning
- Start your day at Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s largest traditional food market, and try some local delicacies such as Yatsuhashi (a sweet rice cake) and Tofu Donuts.
- Next, visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and enjoy the panoramic view of Kyoto from the temple’s balcony.
- Stroll through the charming streets of the Higashiyama District and explore the many traditional shops and cafes.
Midday
- For lunch, head to Gogyo Ramen, famous for its burnt miso ramen and other unique ramen creations.
- Take a short walk to the Yasaka Shrine, one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto, and learn about the shrine’s history and rituals.
Afternoon
- Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii gates that lead up the mountain and provide stunning views of the city.
- Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a peaceful and serene forest with towering bamboo stalks.
Evening
- For dinner, head to Pontocho Alley, a narrow street lined with traditional restaurants and bars.
- Enjoy a drink at Mujyuan, a cozy and intimate bar that specializes in local sake and shochu.
- End your day at Gion Corner, where you can watch a traditional Japanese dance performance and learn about Kyoto’s geisha culture.
Guide for 2 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Wagokoro Izumi, known for its delicious rice dishes and savory soups.
- Explore the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and marvel at its shimmering gold exterior.
- Visit the serene Ryoan-ji Temple and its world-famous Zen rock garden, a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Midday
- Savor a delicious bowl of udon noodles at Yamamoto Menzou, a popular noodle restaurant in the heart of Kyoto.
- Experience the traditional art of tea-making at En Tea Ceremony, where you can learn about the history and cultural significance of this beloved Japanese practice.
Afternoon
- Stroll through the picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a tranquil forest of towering bamboo stalks.
- Discover the hidden gem that is Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts a stunning five-story pagoda and beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.
Evening
- Indulge in a mouth-watering kaiseki dinner at Miyako Yasai Kamo, a restaurant that specializes in seasonal vegetables and fresh seafood.
- Sip on a craft cocktail at Bar K6, a stylish and sophisticated bar with a cozy atmosphere.
- End your night with a visit to Pontocho Alley, a narrow street lined with traditional teahouses and restaurants.
Day 2
Morning
- Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Comeda Coffee, a cozy coffee shop that serves up delicious pastries and sandwiches.
- Explore the magnificent Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant torii gates that wind up the mountain.
- Take a scenic stroll through the historic district of Gion, known for its charming streets, traditional architecture, and geisha culture.
Midday
- Treat yourself to a delicious bowl of ramen at Ippudo Ramen, a popular chain restaurant that serves up some of the best ramen in Japan.
- Visit the fascinating Manga Museum, where you can learn about the history and art of Japanese comics.
Afternoon
- Discover the hidden gem that is Sanjusangendo Temple, home to 1,001 statues of the goddess Kannon and a beautiful Japanese garden.
- Stroll through the lively Nishiki Market, where you can sample local specialties like pickled vegetables, fresh seafood, and mochi.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Kyoto Gogyo, a restaurant that specializes in rich, flavorful bowls of ramen and gyoza dumplings.
- Savor a cold beer at Kizakura Kappa Country, a cozy pub that serves up a variety of local craft beers and snacks.
- End your night with a visit to the Gion Corner, where you can experience traditional Japanese arts like tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and puppet theater.
Guide for 3 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s largest traditional food market offering a wide range of local products and snacks.
- Get a glimpse of Kyoto’s past at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of Japan’s Imperial Family.
- Explore the beautiful gardens and stunning architecture of the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with a delicious bowl of ramen at Kyoto Ramen Koji, a food court featuring some of the best ramen shops in the city.
- Take a walk along the picturesque Philosopher’s Path, a scenic walking trail lined with cherry blossoms and maple trees.
Afternoon
- Discover Kyoto’s hidden gem, the Kennin-ji Temple, known for its beautiful Zen gardens and serene atmosphere.
- Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture at the Gion Corner, a cultural center offering performances of traditional music, dance, and theater.
Evening
- Experience a traditional Japanese dinner at Pontocho, a narrow alley lined with traditional restaurants and teahouses.
- Sip on some sake at Mitsuya Sake Brewery, a local brewery that has been producing sake for over 300 years.
- End your night with a stroll through the charming streets of Shimogyo-ku, one of Kyoto’s oldest neighborhoods.
Day 2
Morning
- Wake up early and catch a beautiful sunrise at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of bright orange torii gates.
- Take a morning hike up to the Mount Hiei summit and enjoy the stunning views of Kyoto from above.
- Visit the Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its breathtaking autumn foliage and beautiful Zen gardens.
Midday
- Grab a quick lunch at Menbakaichidai, a popular ramen restaurant known for its fire ramen, where the chef sets the bowl on fire before serving.
- Explore the fascinating Uji district, home to the famous Byodoin Temple and the Ujigami Shrine, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Afternoon
- Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Ponto-cho district, home to some of Kyoto’s best bars and nightlife.
- Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene forest of towering bamboo trees that’s perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
Evening
- Satisfy your taste buds with some delicious Kyoto-style sushi at Musashi Sushi, a popular sushi restaurant located in the heart of downtown Kyoto.
- Head to Kyoto Beer Lab, a craft beer bar that features a rotating selection of local and international beers.
- End your night with some live music and drinks at the UrBANGUILD, a popular music venue in the Kita-ku district.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at La Madrague, a cozy French bakery in Kyoto.
- Visit the Nanzen-ji Temple, a beautiful temple complex with multiple sub-temples, gardens, and tea houses.
- Explore the Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion, a stunning temple with a beautiful garden and a peaceful atmosphere.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with some delicious okonomiyaki, a savory pancake filled with various ingredients, at Makino Okonomiyaki, a popular local spot.
- Experience the tranquility of the Enko-ji Temple, a hidden gem with beautiful gardens and a serene atmosphere.
Afternoon
- Take a leisurely stroll through the Shugakuin Imperial Villa, a beautiful imperial villa with stunning gardens and architecture.
- Visit the Honen-in Temple, a peaceful temple with beautiful cherry blossom and autumn foliage gardens.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious shabu-shabu dinner at Yakiniku Hiro, a popular local spot that serves high-quality beef and a variety of dipping sauces.
- Sip on some locally brewed craft beers at Kyoto Brewing Company, a popular brewery with a cozy taproom.
- End your night by taking a walk through the vibrant Kyoto Station, one of the city’s busiest transportation hubs and a hub of activity and entertainment.
Guide for 5 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Wagokoro Izumi, a cozy restaurant that serves local Kyoto cuisine.
- Next, visit Kinkaku-ji Temple, a stunning golden temple surrounded by a tranquil garden.
- Finally, head to Nishiki Market, an exciting food market with local delicacies and unique souvenirs.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen at Mendokoro Takaoka, a popular ramen shop.
- Then, explore the Gion district, famous for its traditional architecture and geisha culture.
Afternoon
- Visit the Philosopher’s Path, a picturesque trail lined with cherry blossom trees and temples.
- Next, head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a peaceful forest with towering bamboo stalks.
Evening
- Indulge in a kaiseki dinner at Kikunoi, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves exquisite Japanese cuisine.
- After dinner, enjoy a drink at Bar K6, a stylish bar with a cozy atmosphere.
- Finally, end your night at Pontocho Alley, a narrow street with traditional Japanese bars and restaurants.
Day 2
Morning
- Start your day with a cup of coffee at Kurasu Kyoto, a trendy coffee shop with a minimalist design.
- Next, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a historic temple with a stunning view of Kyoto.
- Finally, explore the Higashiyama district, a charming area with traditional shops and restaurants.
Midday
- Savor a delicious bento box at Yasaka Jinja Shrine, a shrine with a beautiful garden.
- Then, visit the Chion-in Temple, a grand temple with a serene atmosphere.
Afternoon
- Discover the hidden gem of Kodai-ji Temple, a temple with a beautiful garden and colorful autumn leaves.
- Next, head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, a famous shrine with thousands of torii gates.
Evening
- Dine at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku, a restaurant that serves high-quality wagyu beef.
- After dinner, enjoy a drink at Bar K6 Kyoto Station, a chic bar with a view of the city.
- Finally, end your night at Kyoto Tower, a landmark with a stunning night view of Kyoto.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a matcha latte at Maccha House, a cozy cafe that specializes in matcha drinks and desserts.
- Next, visit Nijo Castle, a historic castle with beautiful gardens and artwork.
- Finally, explore the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, a shrine with a flea market and seasonal festivals.
Midday
- Try some local street food at Nishiki Tenmangu Market, a market with a variety of food stalls.
- Then, visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, a grand palace with a rich history.
Afternoon
- Discover the unique art at TeamLab Borderless Museum, a digital art museum with interactive exhibits.
- Next, head to the Shugakuin Imperial Villa, a villa with a stunning garden and mountain view.
Evening
- Dine at Okonomiyaki Katsu, a restaurant that serves delicious okonomiyaki.
- After dinner, enjoy a drink at Bar Gaku, a cozy bar with a wide selection of drinks.
- Finally, end your night at Kiyamachi Street, a lively street with bars and restaurants.
Day 4
Morning
- Start your day with a refreshing smoothie bowl at Smoothie Stand Kyoto, a popular breakfast spot.
- Next, visit Sanjusangendo Temple, a historic temple with 1001 statues of Kannon.
- Finally, explore the Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcade, a covered arcade with a variety of shops.
Midday
- Enjoy a tasty soba lunch at Yamamoto Menzou, a small noodle shop.
- Then, visit the To-ji Temple, a temple with a five-story pagoda and a flea market.
Afternoon
- Discover the beautiful gardens and teahouses at Katsura Imperial Villa, a villa with a rich history.
- Next, head to the Honen-in Temple, a temple with a serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens.
Evening
- Dine at Shoraian, a restaurant that serves delicious tofu dishes.
- After dinner, enjoy a drink at Sake Bar Yoramu, a cozy bar with a wide selection of sake.
- Finally, end your night at Pontocho Kaburenjo Theater, a theater with traditional Japanese performances.
Day 5
Morning
- Start your day with a decadent breakfast at Cafe Bibliotec Hello!, a cozy cafe with a library-like atmosphere.
- Next, visit Byodoin Temple, a temple with a beautiful garden and a famous phoenix statue.
- Finally, explore the Momoyama district, a historic area with traditional houses and shops.
Midday
- Try some delicious udon at Udon Murakami, a popular udon shop.
- Then, visit the Daigo-ji Temple, a temple with a beautiful pagoda and autumn leaves.
Afternoon
- Discover the unique art and architecture at Enko-ji Temple, a temple with a beautiful garden and a modern art museum.
- Next, head to the Myoshin-ji Temple, a temple with a variety of sub-temples and gardens.
Evening
- Dine at Tempura Endo Yasaka Gion, a restaurant that serves delicious tempura dishes.
- After dinner, enjoy a drink at Bar Kura, a stylish bar with a cozy atmosphere.
- Finally, end your night at Shijo Street, a bustling street with shops and restaurants.
Guide for 1 Week
Day 1
Morning
- Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Nishiki Market before exploring the various food and craft vendors.
- Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple for stunning views of the city.
- Discover the history of Japanese cinema at the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
Midday
- Savor a delicious bowl of ramen at Ippudo Kyoto.
- Stroll through the tranquil Kodai-ji Temple.
Afternoon
- Take a relaxing walk through the scenic Philosopher’s Path.
- Learn about the art of tea at the Urasenke Tea Ceremony.
Evening
- Indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner at Miyako Yasai Kamo.
- Experience the lively atmosphere of Pontocho Alley.
- Sip on a cocktail at the elegant Bar K6.
Day 2
Morning
- Start the day with a tasty breakfast sandwich at Komeda Coffee.
- Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji).
- Explore the lush gardens and beautiful architecture of the Ryoan-ji Temple.
Midday
- Try some delicious sushi at Musashi Sushi.
- Discover the hidden gem of Gio-ji Temple.
Afternoon
- Learn about traditional Japanese handicrafts at the Kyoto Handicraft Center.
- Take a peaceful stroll through the bamboo groves of Arashiyama.
Evening
- Feast on some Japanese-style grilled skewers (yakitori) at Chabuya.
- Sip on some sake at the cozy and intimate Sake Bar Yoramu.
- Explore the quirky and creative cocktails at Bar Gaku.
Day 3
Morning
- Wake up with a delicious cup of coffee at Kurasu Kyoto.
- Visit the beautiful Heian Shrine and its expansive gardens.
- Explore the fascinating exhibits at the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with some savory okonomiyaki at Kiji.
- Wander through the charming streets of the Higashiyama district.
Afternoon
- Take a relaxing boat ride down the Kamogawa River.
- Visit the unique and colorful Sanjusangendo Temple.
Evening
- Dig into some mouth-watering Japanese-style fried chicken at Toriyasa.
- Sip on some locally brewed craft beer at the lively Bungalow.
- Experience the cozy and intimate vibe of Bar K6 Annex.
Day 4
Morning
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the charming and cozy Cafe Bibliotic Hello!.
- Take a scenic hike up Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.
- Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of Kyoto.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with some tasty udon noodles at Yamamoto Menzou Honten.
- Visit the iconic Gion District and its traditional architecture and geisha culture.
Afternoon
- Learn about the history of Japanese calligraphy at the Shodo Museum.
- Take a relaxing walk through the picturesque Maruyama Park.
Evening
- Feast on some delicious wagyu beef at Steak Otsuka.
- Sip on some unique and creative cocktails at the trendy Bar Trench Kyoto.
- Experience the cozy and intimate vibe of Bar K6 Ume.
Day 5
Morning
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the charming and cozy Cafe Bibliotic Hello!.
- Visit the impressive Nijo Castle.
- Explore the quirky and creative exhibits at the Kyoto City Zoo.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with some mouth-watering tonkatsu at Katsukura.
- Wander through the charming streets of the Kiyamachi district.
Afternoon
- Take a peaceful stroll through the serene Nanzen-ji Temple.
- Visit the fascinating International Manga Museum.
Evening
- Indulge in some delicious tempura at Tempura Endo Yasaka Gion.
- Sip on some creative and unique cocktails at the cozy Bar Lebowski.
- Experience the cozy and intimate vibe of Bar K6 Momo.
Day 6
Morning
- Wake up with a delicious cup of coffee at the trendy and stylish Weekenders Coffee Fushimi Inari.
- Visit the stunning Tofuku-ji Temple.
- Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Kyoto National Museum.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with some delicious soba noodles at Okina.
- Wander through the charming streets of the Pontocho district.
Afternoon
- Take a relaxing walk through the scenic Kyoto Botanical Gardens.
- Discover the fascinating world of Noh theater at the Minamiza Theatre.
Evening
- Feast on some mouth-watering sushi at Sushi Matsumoto.
- Sip on some unique and creative cocktails at the trendy Bar Ouch.
- Experience the cozy and intimate vibe of Bar K6 Kaki.
Day 7
Morning
- Enjoy a delicious and healthy breakfast at Morning Glory Cafe.
- Visit the iconic Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning gardens.
- Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Kitamura Museum.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with some delicious yakiniku at Yakiniku Hiro.
- Wander through the charming streets of the Shinkyogoku district.
Afternoon
- Take a relaxing walk through the peaceful Shimogamo Shrine.
- Visit the beautiful Byodo-in Temple.
Evening
- Indulge in some mouth-watering ramen at Menya Inoichi.
- Sip on some delicious and unique Japanese whiskey cocktails at the cozy Bar K.
- Experience the cozy and intimate vibe of Bar K6 Tsutsuji.
Where to Stay
Coming soon for Kyoto!
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Best Season
Coming soon for Kyoto!