7-Day Itinerary for Kyoto: Explore the City’s Hidden Gems

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Kyoto

• Morning: Arrive at Kansai International Airport and take the train to Kyoto Station ( approx. 1 hour journey)
• Visit Nijo Castle (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its “nightingale floors” that squeak when walked upon
• Explore nearby Ninna-ji Temple (), famous for its beautiful garden and Zen rock gardens
• Afternoon: Wander around Gion District (), known for its geisha culture and traditional Japanese architecture
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style dinner at Ganko Sushi or Kikunoi Restaurant

Day 2: Fushimi and Uji

• Morning: Visit the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine (), famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates
• Explore the nearby Tofuku-ji Temple (), one of the most important Zen temples in Japan
• Afternoon: Head to Uji (), a city famous for its green tea and matcha production
• Visit the Byodo-in Temple (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful garden
• Evening: Return to Kyoto and enjoy a stroll around the Kiyomizu-dera (), one of the most iconic landmarks in Japan

Day 3: Nishiki and Pontocho

• Morning: Explore the Nishiki Market (), a narrow shopping street famous for its 100+ food stalls and local delicacies
• Visit the nearby Kyoto Handicraft Center () to learn about traditional Japanese crafts
• Afternoon: Wander around Pontocho Alley (), a historic district known for its traditional restaurants, bars, and shops
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at En Tea House or Urashima Tea House

Day 4: Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama

• Morning: Visit the famous Kinkaku-ji Temple (), also known as the Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Explore the nearby Ryoan-ji Temple (), famous for its Zen rock garden and beautiful architecture
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama (), a popular district known for its bamboo forests, temples, and scenic views
• Visit the Tenryu-ji Temple (), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a stroll along the Hozu River

Day 5: Kiyomizu-dera and Ginkaku-ji

• Morning: Explore Kiyomizu-dera (), one of the most iconic landmarks in Japan
• Visit the nearby Jish Shrine (), famous for its beautiful garden and stone torii gates
• Afternoon: Head to Ginkaku-ji Temple (), also known as the Silver Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Enjoy a stroll around the surrounding Shijo Karasuma () shopping district

Day 6: Philosopher’s Path and Kiyomizu-dera

• Morning: Explore the famous Philosopher’s Path (), a scenic walking path lined with cherry blossom trees and temples
• Visit the nearby Eikan-ji Temple (), famous for its beautiful garden and traditional Japanese architecture
• Afternoon: Return to Kiyomizu-dera () and explore the surrounding hills and valleys for stunning views of Kyoto

Day 7: Departure from Kyoto

• Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
• Take the train back to Kansai International Airport (approx. 1 hour journey)