Here’s a well-balanced 3-day Kyoto itinerary designed to help you experience the best of
the city’s historic temples, beautiful nature, and vibrant culture.
Day 1: Eastern Kyoto – Temples & Old Streets
🛕 Morning: Higashiyama Area
Kiyomizu-dera Temple – One of Kyoto’s most famous temples with sweeping
views.
Walk along Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka – Charming preserved streets full of souvenir
shops, tea houses, and snacks.
🍵 Lunch Recommendation
Try local Kyoto-style dishes like yudofu (tofu hot pot) or matcha soba in a
traditional setting.
🏯 Afternoon: Gion & Maruyama Park
Yasaka Shrine – Vibrant Shinto shrine at the heart of Gion.
Stroll through Maruyama Park, especially pretty during cherry blossom season.
Explore Gion – Spot geishas (especially in the early evening) and enjoy the old-world
vibe.
🌙 Evening: Pontocho Alley
Narrow lantern-lit alley with excellent kaiseki and izakaya options.
Optional: Book a tea ceremony or a geisha performance for a cultural treat.
Day 2: Arashiyama & North Kyoto
🎋 Morning: Arashiyama
Bamboo Grove – Get there early to avoid crowds.
Tenryu-ji Temple – UNESCO temple with beautiful gardens.
Togetsukyo Bridge – Scenic river view.
Optional: Monkey Park Iwatayama (short hike with great views + monkeys).
🍙 Lunch near the river
Try soba, tempura, or bento sets from local shops.
🌿 Afternoon: Kinkaku-ji & Ryoan-ji
Head north to see:
o Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – Iconic gold-covered temple.
o Ryoan-ji – Famous for its Zen rock garden.
🌇 Evening: Nishiki Market / Kawaramachi
Walk and eat through Nishiki Market.
Explore nearby Teramachi and Shinkyogoku shopping arcades.
Casual dinner (try Kyoto sushi or yuba dishes).
Day 3: Southern Kyoto – Fushimi Inari & Optional Day
Trip
Morning: Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
Go early to avoid crowds and hike part of the mountain trail (2–3 hrs for full loop).
🍶 Lunch & Sake in Fushimi Area
Visit Fushimi Sake District:
o Try sake tasting at Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum.
o Eat at a local izakaya or ramen shop.
Afternoon Options (Choose One):
1. Uji (20 mins by train) – For matcha fans.
o Visit Byodo-in Temple and enjoy premium matcha.
2. Tofuku-ji Temple – Close to Fushimi, famous for zen gardens and autumn colors.
3. Kyoto Imperial Palace & Garden – For fans of history and quiet green space.
🎎 Evening: Free or Cultural Experience
Relax at a public bath/onsen (Kurama Onsen or Funaoka Onsen).
Try a kimono rental and evening stroll.
End with a quiet dinner at a ryotei (traditional Kyoto restaurant).
💡 Tips
Get the Kyoto City Bus & Subway Pass for affordable transport.
Stay in Gion, Kawaramachi, or Kyoto Station area for best access.
Book temples and experiences (like tea ceremonies) ahead during peak seasons.
