Kyoto Japan 4 Day Itinerary

July 18, 2024

Kyoto Itinerary: 4 Days of Cultural Immersion

Morning: Start at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Take a hike up the mountain for breathtaking views.
Lunch: Try some delicious kaiseki (multi-course Japanese cuisine) at Gion Nanba, a traditional restaurant in the heart of Gion district.
Afternoon: Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. Explore the surrounding streets, filled with traditional shops and tea houses.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style dinner at Ganko Takasegawa Nijoen, featuring seasonal ingredients and beautiful garden views.

Morning: Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Emperor of Japan. Stroll through the beautiful gardens and explore the palace’s impressive architecture.
Lunch: Head to Nishiki Market, a narrow shopping street lined with over 100 food stalls and shops, offering a wide range of local specialties.
Afternoon: Explore the Nijo Castle, famous for its “nightingale floors” that squeak when walked upon, designed to alert guards of intruders.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, a serene walking path lined with cherry blossom trees.

Morning: Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Take in the stunning garden views and tranquil atmosphere.
Lunch: Try some delicious shojin-ryori (Buddhist cuisine) at Shigisan, a vegetarian restaurant with a peaceful atmosphere.
Afternoon: Explore the beautiful gardens and temples of Daitokuji, including the famous Daisen-in Temple.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at En Tea House, a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

Morning: Visit the Kyoto Handicraft Center, where you can try your hand at various traditional crafts, such as pottery and weaving.
Lunch: Head to Kyoto Station Building, which offers a range of modern restaurants and cafes with great views of the city.
Afternoon: Explore the trendy Gion Shirakawa area, known for its fashionable boutiques and cafes.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Yakiniku Jumbo Han no Daidokoro, a popular restaurant serving high-quality wagyu beef.

Ryokan Sanga: A traditional Japanese inn offering comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
Hotel Gion Nanba: A modern hotel located in the heart of Gion district, with easy access to Kyoto’s main attractions.

Kyoto City Bus: An efficient way to get around the city, with many routes covering popular tourist areas.
Subway: Kyoto has a comprehensive subway system, making it easy to navigate the city.
Walking: Kyoto is a walkable city, and exploring on foot can be a great way to discover hidden gems.

Buy an ICoca card, which can be used to ride public transportation and make purchases at many shops and restaurants.
Dress modestly when visiting temples and shrines, covering your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Learn some basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello) and “arigatou” (thank you), to show appreciation for the local culture.
Be prepared for crowds at popular tourist spots, especially during peak travel seasons.

Geisha performances: Catch a glimpse of Kyoto’s traditional geisha culture at various tea houses and restaurants throughout the city.
Festivals and events: Check the city’s event calendar to catch one of Kyoto’s many festivals, such as the famous Gion Matsuri in July.
Day trips: Consider taking a day trip to nearby Nara or Osaka to explore more of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.