Kyoto Japan 7 Day Itinerary
Kyoto 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Kyoto
- Morning: Arrive at Kansai International Airport and take the Haruka Express train to Kyoto Station ( approx. 1 hour, ¥2,850)
- Check-in: Stay at a traditional ryokan like Gion Nanba or a modern hotel like Hotel Gion Corner
- Lunch: Try some delicious ramen at Ichiran Kyoto
- Afternoon:
- Visit the famous [Nijo Castle](https://nijoj Castle.org/) (¥600, 9:00-16:00)
- Explore the nearby Kyoto Imperial Palace (free, 9:00-17:00)
- Evening: Stroll around the lively Gion District and spot geishas
- Dinner: Enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine at Ganko Takasegawa Nijoen
Day 2: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Uji
- Morning:
- Visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine (free, 24/7)
- Hike the thousands of vermilion torii gates
- Lunch: Try some local specialties at Tofuya Ukai in Uji
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Uji River and take a stroll along its banks
- Explore the Byodo-in Temple (¥500, 9:00-17:00)
- Evening: Return to Kyoto and enjoy dinner at Kyubey Gion
Day 3: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Tenryu-ji Temple
- Morning:
- Visit the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest (free, 24/7)
- Explore the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple (¥500, 9:00-17:30)
- Lunch: Try some local cuisine at Arashiyama Yoshimura
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Okochi Sanso Villa (¥1,000, 9:00-17:00)
- Take a stroll along the Katsura River
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Gion Karyo
Day 4: Philosopher’s Path and Nanzen-ji Temple
- Morning:
- Take a stroll along the peaceful Philosopher’s Path (free, 24/7)
- Visit the nearby Nanzen-ji Temple (¥500, 9:00-17:00)
- Lunch: Try some delicious soba noodles at Soba & Sake Kanpai
- Afternoon:
- Explore the Kyoto Handicraft Center (free, 10:00-18:00)
- Visit the nearby Sanjusangendo Temple (¥500, 9:00-17:00)
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Kyoto Kawayanagi
Day 5: Nishiki Market and Gion District
- Morning:
- Visit the famous Nishiki Market (free, 9:00-18:00)
- Try some local specialties and fresh seafood
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at Gion Nanba
- Afternoon:
- Explore the Gion District and spot geishas
- Visit the nearby Kennin-ji Temple (¥500, 9:00-17:00)
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Ganko Sushi
Day 6: Kurama Onsen and Kibune
- Morning:
- Take a day trip to the hot springs of Kurama Onsen (¥500, 9:00-22:00)
- Soak in the natural hot springs
- Lunch: Try some local cuisine at Kurama Onsen’s restaurant
- Afternoon:
- Visit the nearby Kibune District and explore its traditional shops
- Take a stroll along the Kurama River
- Evening: Return to Kyoto and enjoy dinner at Kyoto Tofu Kiyomizu
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
- Departure: Take the Haruka Express train back to Kansai International Airport (approx. 1 hour, ¥2,850)
Things to Know
- Kyoto is a city best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes!
- Many temples and shrines have dress codes, so dress modestly
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases to show respect for the culture
- Don’t tip at restaurants or bars, as it’s not customary in Japan
Transportation
- The Haruka Express train connects Kyoto Station to Kansai International Airport (approx. 1 hour, ¥2,850)
- The city has an extensive bus and subway network (single ride: ¥210-240, 1-day pass: ¥600)
- Taxis are also available, but more expensive
Tips
- Try to avoid visiting during peak seasons (March-May, September-November) for smaller crowds
- Respect the local culture and traditions
- Learn some basic Japanese phrases to show respect for the culture
- Don’t eat while walking, as it’s considered impolite
I hope you enjoy your trip to Kyoto!