Multi Day Trips Kyoto

Multi-Day Trips in Kyoto

Kyoto, a city steeped in tradition and history, is a destination that warrants more than just a day trip. With so many temples, gardens, and cultural experiences to explore, a multi-day trip is the perfect way to immerse yourself in this enchanting city.

Itinerary Suggestions

3-Day Trip

  • Day 1: West Kyoto: Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), stroll through the beautiful gardens of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and explore the traditional shops and cafes of Sagano.
  • Day 2: Central Kyoto: Explore the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, and visit the impressive Nijo Castle. End the day with a stroll through the lively Gion district.
  • Day 3: East Kyoto: Visit the majestic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the charming Higashiyama district.

5-Day Trip

  • Add two more days to your trip to visit the nearby cities of Nara and Osaka. In Nara, visit the Todai-ji Temple, home to the largest bronze Buddha in the world, and explore the peaceful Nara Park. In Osaka, explore the vibrant Dotonbori area and try some of the city’s famous cuisine.

Tips and Essentials

Accommodation

  • Kyoto has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels.
  • Consider staying in different areas of the city each night to minimize travel time and maximize exploration.

Transportation

  • Kyoto has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and subways.
  • Purchase a prepaid IC card (such as ICOCA or SUICA) for convenient travel throughout the city.

Food and Drink

  • Be sure to try some of Kyoto’s famous local cuisine, such as kaiseki (multi-course) meals, shojin-ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), and yudofu (boiled tofu).
  • Don’t forget to try some matcha-flavored sweets and drinks at one of the many cafes throughout the city.

Weather

  • Kyoto has four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cool winters.
  • Be sure to pack accordingly and stay hydrated during the summer months.

Insider’s Tip

Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus One-day Pass, which grants unlimited access to Kyoto’s public buses for one day. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the city.