Kyoto Japan 3 Day Itinerary

Kyoto, Japan 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Traditional Kyoto

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day at Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a must-visit attraction in Kyoto. Take a stroll around the serene gardens and enjoy the reflection of the temple on the lake.
  • 10:30 AM: Walk to Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to Gion District for lunch at Gion Nanba, a traditional Kyoto-style restaurant serving delicious kaiseki cuisine. Try their seasonal menu!
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the narrow streets of Gion, known for its geisha culture. You might catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) hurrying to an appointment.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Visit Pontocho Alley, a charming street lined with traditional restaurants and shops. Enjoy dinner at Ganko Takasegawa Nijoen, serving Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine.
  • 8:30 PM: Take a stroll along the Kamo River and enjoy the city’s evening atmosphere.

Accommodation

Stay at Hotel Gion Nanba, a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

Day 2: Modern Kyoto

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum, showcasing a vast collection of manga and anime.
  • 11:30 AM: Head to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its “nightingale floors” that squeak when walked upon to alert guards of intruders.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Ichiran Ramen, a popular ramen chain with a unique, rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth.
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the trendy Shijo Kawaramachi shopping street, lined with boutiques and cafes.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Yakiniku Jumbo Han no Daidokoro Bettei, a high-end yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) restaurant.
  • 8:30 PM: Visit the Kyoto Station Building, a modern architectural marvel with a rooftop garden offering great city views.

Accommodation

Stay at Hotel Keihan Kyoto, a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and easy access to Kyoto Station.

Day 3: Nature and Spirituality

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a tunnel up the mountain. Hike up the mountain for stunning views.
  • 11:30 AM: Head to Tofukuji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and autumn foliage.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Shigisan, a restaurant serving seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
  • 2:30 PM: Take a stroll in the peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Return to Kyoto Station and enjoy dinner at Kyoto Ramen Street, a collection of ramen shops with various styles and flavors.
  • 8:30 PM: End your trip with a relaxing walk around the station area, reflecting on your amazing experiences in Kyoto.

Transportation

  • Use JR Trains or Subway Lines to travel between attractions. You can purchase a prepaid IC card like ICOCA or SUICA for convenient travel.
  • Consider purchasing a Kyoto Sightseeing Card, which grants access to public transportation and discounts at various attractions.

Tips and Essentials

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and shrines.
  • Learn basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello), “arigatou” (thank you), and “sumimasen” (excuse me).
  • Try traditional Kyoto sweets, like wagashi or yatsuhashi, at local shops or cafes.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions.
  • Respect geisha culture: refrain from taking photos of geishas or maikos without permission.

Other Interests

  • Visit the Kyoto Handicraft Center to learn about traditional crafts and shop for unique souvenirs.
  • Take a Maiko (Geisha) Makeover experience, where you can dress up as a maiko and take photos.
  • Explore the Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” which offers various local food stalls and shops.

Enjoy your trip to Kyoto!