Kyoto 7 Day Itinerary

Kyoto, Japan: A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Gion

  • Arrive at Kansai International Airport and take the train to Kyoto Station
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the famous Gion District, known for its geisha culture and traditional Japanese architecture
  • Explore the narrow streets and alleys, spotting traditional tea houses and shops selling traditional sweets
  • Stop by the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2: Fushimi Inari and Tofu

  • Start the day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain
  • Hike up the mountain and enjoy the stunning views of Kyoto
  • Visit the nearby Tōfuku-ji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture
  • Stop by a local tofu shop to try some delicious and fresh tofu
  • Explore the Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion), a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the temple

Day 3: Kinkaku-ji and Arashiyama

  • Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a stunning example of Japanese architecture and beauty
  • Explore the surrounding gardens and pond, taking in the serene atmosphere
  • Head to Arashiyama, a charming district known for its bamboo forests and traditional shops
  • Take a stroll through the bamboo forest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings
  • Visit the Tenryū-ji Temple, a beautiful temple surrounded by nature
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 4: Nishiki Market and Gion Nightlife

  • Start the day with a visit to Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” due to its wide variety of fresh food and cooking supplies
  • Sample some local specialties, such as pickled vegetables and grilled octopus
  • Visit the nearby Gion District at night, when geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) often perform on the streets
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 5: Kiyomizu-dera and Jishu Shrine

  • Start the day with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks
  • Explore the temple grounds and take in the stunning views of the city
  • Visit the nearby Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the god of love and matchmaking
  • Take part in the shrine’s famous “love stones” ritual, where visitors write their wishes on stones and leave them at the shrine
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 6: Uji Green Tea and Byodo-in Temple

  • Visit Uji, a small town known for its green tea plantations and production
  • Take part in a traditional green tea ceremony and sample some of Japan’s famous tea
  • Head to the nearby Byodo-in Temple, a beautiful temple famous for its architecture and peaceful surroundings
  • Explore the temple grounds and take in the serene atmosphere
  • Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 7: Nijo Castle and Departure

  • Visit Nijo Castle, a stunning example of Japanese architecture and history
  • Explore the castle’s beautiful gardens and take part in a traditional tea ceremony
  • Head back to Kyoto Station and depart for Kansai International Airport or your next destination
  • Reflect on an incredible 7-day journey through one of Japan’s most iconic cities