A Recommended 2-day, 1-night Travel Itinerary For Kyoto

November 6, 2023 / Travel, Kansai

Kyoto has long been a beloved destination for global travelers, making it an essential stop for many first-time visitors to Japan. In this guide, we will introduce the fundamental attractions of Kyoto, such as Kiyomizu Temple, Nijo Castle, Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and more. These are year-round destinations, with special recommendations for the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

There are various transportation options to reach Kyoto. You can fly to Kansai Airport and then proceed to Kyoto, or you can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) or tram from major cities, depending on your itinerary. Here are some time estimates:

  • From Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station by Shinkansen: About 2 hours and 15 minutes.
  • From Osaka Station to Kyoto Station by Shinkansen: About 30 minutes.
  • From Fukuoka Station to Kyoto Station by Shinkansen: About 2 hours and 43 minutes.

For hotel bookings near Kyoto Station: Booking.com Agoda.com Hotels.com
For domestic flight comparisons within Japan: Skyscanner
Klook packages: Randen and Kyoto Subway One-Day Pass (unlimited rides within a day)

Table of Contents show

On the First day, Let's Depart Early!

To fully savor a day in Kyoto, we recommend depositing your luggage in coin-operated lockers at Kyoto Station or your hotel. Kyoto's many slopes and stairs make carrying luggage quite challenging, so exploring in a light state is more convenient.

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If your hotel is distant or your luggage doesn't fit into coin-operated lockers, consider using the Shinkansen Hachijo Exit delivery service, which provides temporary storage and hotel delivery.

10:00 - Stroll Through the Thousand Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine

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Start by taking the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station (a 5-minute ride). Upon disembarking, you'll find the entrance to Fushimi Inari Shrine. Remember to purify your hands and mouth before entering.

Fushimi Inari Shrine, which captivates visitors from around the world, is considered the origin of Inari worship throughout Japan. The shrine features messengers of Inari, foxes, holding various items in their mouths such as "balls," "keys," "scrolls," and "sheaves of rice." I recommend observing these items as you stroll through the shrine's grounds.

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After your visit, venture into the seemingly endless tunnel of Vermilion Torii gates known as the Senbon Torii. It creates a fantastical spectacle as if you've entered another world.

If you explore all the routes, it's a 2-hour walking itinerary. If you lack confidence in your time and energy, you can return halfway.

There are coffee shops near the main shrine and around the station, providing a place to rest if needed.

  • Fushimi Inari Shrine (伏見稲荷大社) Information
  • Address: 68 Fushimi Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture Google Map
  • Phone: 075-641-7331
  • Website: https://inari.jp/

11:00 - Access to the Scenic Kiyomizu Temple District

Next, take the Keihan Main Line from Fushimi Inari Station to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (a 6-minute ride). After exiting the station, follow the signs to Kiyomizu Temple. Along the way, you'll encounter many narrow alleys, each with its name, providing an opportunity to savor the authentic Kyoto lifestyle.

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From Gojo-zaka, ascend Chawanzaka(茶わん坂), a slope lined with kimono rental shops and souvenir stores. At the top of Chawanzaka, you'll reach Kiyomizu Temple.

Explore Kiyomizu Temple

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Upon entering the Niomon Gate, you'll be greeted by a vermilion three-story pagoda. This angle offers an excellent opportunity for picturesque photos. Before visiting, please cleanse your hands and mouth at the Ottawa Waterfall.

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You can purchase protective amulets at the temple. From the renowned Kiyomizu Stage, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto's cityscape. Adjacent to Kiyomizu Temple is the Love Shrine, known for matchmaking. It attracts a diverse crowd, from young women seeking love to couples. Popular amulets include "Yorokobi" (¥500) for attracting love and "Love" (¥2,000) with heart-shaped gold and silver keychains.

Please note that the main hall of the Love Shrine is currently closed for restoration, with an estimated three-year renovation period. Check the official website for restoration updates.

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You can also make a wish by scooping water from the famous Ottawa Waterfall. There's a teahouse within the temple where you can enjoy sweets and udon noodles, providing a place to rest if you're hungry.

Stroll Along Kiyomizu Temple's Approach

Sannenzaka (Sanneizaka) - Hunt for Kyoto Cuisine and Souvenirs

Sannenzaka is dotted with numerous souvenir shops and restaurants. One such establishment is "Ochanokosaisai(おちゃのこさいさい)," famous for its seven-spice blend. At the entrance, you'll find an array of dried red peppers. The seven-spice (650 yen), stored in containers adorned with maiko (apprentice geisha) motifs, is a popular souvenir. Kyoto's fragrant Kinomi Gomashio (550 yen) is a delicious seasoning with a mild spicy and savory flavor, available for purchase according to your preferences.

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  • Sannenzaka (Sanneizaka) Information
  • Address: Sannen-zakat, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture Google Map
  • Ochanokosaisai Sannenzaka Main Store

Take a Stroll on Ninenzaka

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On Ninenzaka, you'll find a specialty incense store called "Niimi（にいみ）." The spacious shop features a variety of Kiyomizu-yaki incense burners of different sizes. There are also various fragrances available, ranging from sandalwood to refreshing citrus scents. Feel free to inquire with the staff to discover your favorite scent.

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Ninenzaka also hosts a Japanese-style Starbucks, built on a century-old residence. While its exterior appears weathered, it's a unique Starbucks worth visiting for a distinctive experience.

Let's Capture a Moment at Yasaka Dori

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At Yasaka Dori, renowned for its photogenic appeal, you'll encounter many tourists dressed in traditional kimono and young ladies in maiko attire. If you have passersby take photos with Yasaka Pagoda in the background, you can create unforgettable pictures.

  • Yasaka Dori Information
  • Address: Yasaka Dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture Google Map

From Nene no Michi to Ishibei Koji Lane

Next to Kiyomizu Temple, you'll find the picturesque stone-paved path known as Nene no Michi(ねねの道). This area often has rickshaws moving about. From this path, you can make your way to Ishibei-koji, one of Kyoto's charming streets.

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Let's take a slightly mysterious path through the shops on Nene no Michi. If you continue, you'll reach the delightful Ishibei-koji Street, surrounded by stone and wooden walls.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll on this elegant, quiet street, lined with restaurants and inns. Note that many houses are not to be photographed, so exercise caution when taking pictures.

  • Kodai-ji Temple Information
  • Nene no Michi（ねねの道）Information
    • Address: Nene-no-Michi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture Google Map
  • Ishibei Koji Lane Information
    • Address: 463-29 Shimokawara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture Google Map

14:30 - Visit Yasaka Shrine

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After exiting Ishibei-koji Lane, you'll come across the South Tower Gate of Yasaka Shrine. Enter Yasaka Shrine from there.

The main gate of Yasaka Shrine is, in fact, the Minami Romon gate. Yasaka Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year in front of its main hall. When visiting, please be mindful not to disrupt ongoing ceremonies.

15:00 - Take a Relaxing Stroll Along Shijo Street and Explore Sweet Shops

From the West Tower Gate of Yasaka Shrine, you'll find yourself on Shijo Street. Shijo Street is lined with numerous souvenir shops and cafes, making shopping around Shijo a popular pastime for many Kyoto tourists.

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We recommend purchasing souvenirs at Yojiya Gion Store(よーじや祇園店). Their limited-edition cherry blossom paper soap, "Sakura" (370 yen), and oil blotting paper "Sakura" 10-pack (3,560 yen) are compact and convenient for gifting. The 10-pack is excellent for distributing souvenirs, and they provide bags for separation.

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While strolling along Shijo Street, consider taking a break at Kagizen Yoshifusa (かぎぜんよしふさ), established in the Edo period. Try their "Kuzukiri" (1,080 yen) as you relax. The restaurant entrance is challenging to spot, but the noren curtain at the front is a landmark. The front section sells specialty sweets, while the back is a cafe.

The cafe space is spacious and comfortable, allowing you to savor the sweetness of Kyoto. In addition to Kuzukiri, they offer Warabi Mochi (900 yen) and green tea (500 yen).

16:00 - Stroll Through Gion

From Shijo Street, head west towards Hanamikoji Street, where you'll find the teahouse district where maiko resides. Here, you'll discover many restaurants, dessert shops, and galleries. If there's a menu outside, tourists can enter, but most of the restaurants in this area do not cater to first-time visitors.

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It's interesting to take a walk while watching the placards that indicate the names of maiko joining the "okiya" (geisha houses). By the way, this area on Hanamikoji Street gets quite crowded in the evening as people gather to catch a glimpse of maiko in their tatami rooms. Be sure to be respectful and not disturb them when taking photos.

  • Gion Hanamikoji Street Information
  • Address: Hanamikoji Street, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture Google Map

16:30 - A Riverside Stroll Along Kamogawa River

From Nishi-Hanamikoji, turn onto Dangiri-dori Street and head straight to reach the Kamogawa River.

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The Kamogawa River is a 23-kilometer-long river flowing north to south through Kyoto city, where it merges with the Katsura River originating near Mount Fuji. It's a river with an eternal history that has nurtured the millennium-old capital and Kyoto culture. Even today, amid a big city, it remains clean and clear, making it a beloved relaxation spot for many.

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You can descend to the riverbank from beneath the bridges and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverside. From May to September, outdoor seating is set up along the riverbank, making it a great option for dining by the river.

17:30 - Check into Your Hotel

Take the Keihan Main Line from Shijo or Sanjo Station and transfer to Tofukuji Station to the JR Nara Line, which will take you back to Kyoto Station (approximately 20 minutes).

Staying at a hotel near Kyoto Station is convenient, and it's best to book a hotel within walking distance of the station.

Hotels Near Kyoto Station: Booking.com Agoda.com Hotels.com

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If you can stay near Kyoto Station, it's a good idea to take a walk around Kyoto Tower, where there are many restaurants. You can explore a variety of menus and savor the flavors of Kyoto.

What's on Our Agenda for the Second Day?

If your hotel offers breakfast starting at 6:30 a.m., you can start your day early without wasting any time.

8:00 - Stroll Through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Take the JR Sagano Line and alight at Saga-Arashiyama Station (approximately 16 minutes). Follow the signs for about 15 minutes, and you'll arrive at Tenryu-ji Temple.

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From the north gate of Tenryu-ji Temple, you can access the Bamboo Grove Path. A leisurely walk through the bamboo grove with sunlight filtering through the tall, 10-meter bamboo stalks is truly awe-inspiring. It's especially recommended during the less crowded morning hours.

The Bamboo Grove Path opens at 9:00. If you arrive before 9:00, we recommend visiting Nonomiya Shrine.

8:45 - Visit the World Heritage Site, Tenryu-ji Temple

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Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds a meditation session from 9:00 to 10:00 am on the second Sunday of each month. Participation is free, and no reservation is required; anyone can join.

The meditation sessions are tailored for both beginners and those who have participated before. Beginners are carefully guided through the meditation process. It's an excellent opportunity to relieve the stress of daily life, clear your mind, and reflect on yourself.

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After the meditation experience, you can take a leisurely stroll around Tenryu-ji Temple, which is also famous for its beautiful gardens.

10:30 - Enjoy the View of the Katsura River from the Togetsukyo Bridge

After leaving Tenryu-ji Temple, head to the right and enter a street lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. Continue straight, and you'll reach Togetsukyo Bridge, which spans the Katsura River. From the bridge, you can enjoy beautiful views of Arashiyama in spring with cherry blossoms or in autumn with colorful foliage.

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Additionally, there are many shops in the vicinity of Togetsukyo Bridge known for their yudofu (tofu hot pot). If you're interested, you can give it a try.

11:30 - Explore the World Heritage Site, Nijo Castle

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From Arashiyama Station, take a tram to Randen-Tenjin-gawa Station (about 13 minutes), then take the escalator to the subway platform and ride the subway on the Tozai Line to Nijo-jo-mae Station. It's just a 6-minute tram ride from there to the entrance of the former Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle.

Purchase your tickets and start your tour. You'll receive a booklet at the ticket counter with information on the castle's history and a map to help guide your visit.

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Inside Ninomaru Palace, please note that it's not allowed to wear shoes, and photography is also prohibited. You'll need to follow a guided tour, during which you'll admire the magnificent murals and decorations.

  • Nijo Castle Information
  • Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture Google Map
  • Ticket Prices: Castle entrance ticket: 800 yen / Castle entrance ticket + Ninomaru Palace ticket: 1,300 yen
  • Phone: 075-841-0096
  • Website: https://nijo-jocastle.city.kyoto.lg.jp/

13:00 - Savor Delicious Cuisine at Kyoto's Nishiki Market

From Nijo-jo-mae Station on the Tozai Line, take a tram to Karasuma Oike Station (about 2 minutes). Transfer to the Karasuma Line at Karasuma Oike Station and take the tram to Shijo Station (about 2 minutes). From Shijo Station, it's a 4-minute walk to Nishiki Market.

Nishiki Market is also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen" and features around 130 shops and a 390-meter-long covered arcade. This market, with a history of about 400 years, is bustling with visitors looking for the taste of traditional, generational flavors.

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In recent years, it has become increasingly popular among international tourists looking to taste Japanese cuisine. The market is covered, making it a great option on rainy days. Here, you can try unique dishes such as sparrows and freshwater eel that you may not find elsewhere.

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I recommend visiting the Uchidatsukemono Honten (打田漬物), known for using carefully selected Kyoto vegetables and pickling them in barrels to bring out the flavors of the ingredients. You can also check out the Hatanaka Store (畠中商店), which offers small dried squid (from 100 yen) and octopus balls (from 200 yen) that are both sweet and savory, a delightful treat. Sawawa Japanese Maccha Sweets (さわわ) makes and sells matcha warabi mochi, a great place to buy souvenirs.

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Another option is Genzou, where you can experience the flavors of Kyoto. The restaurant is spacious, and the menu is extensive. Don't miss the Kyoto-style fried tofu and Kujo negi, as well as the Genzou pickles platter. Additionally, the Kyoto-style bonito fish soup udon is quite delicious.

15:30 - Shop for Souvenirs at Kyoto Station

From Shijo Station on the Karasuma Line, take the subway back to Kyoto Station, which is approximately a 4-minute ride, covering two stations. To allow ample time, I recommend arriving at Kyoto Station at least an hour in advance.

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Kyoto Station is quite large, and it takes time just to find a shop, so you can shop for souvenirs inside the Shinkansen (bullet train) platform area. Here, you can find almost anything, from Kyoto matcha-made snacks to pickles, shichimi togarashi (seven-spice seasoning), dried fish, and more, at prices similar to those outside.

Many of the restaurants within Kyoto Station are directly connected to or inside the station. So if you're feeling hungry, you can have dinner before your return journey.

Final Few Suggestions

How was the 2-day, 1-night trip to Kyoto that we introduced? In Kyoto, where traffic congestion can be severe, it's advisable to travel by tram as it makes travel planning easier. Additionally, there are many slopes and stairs to walk, so please wear comfortable and mobile-friendly footwear and clothing. While shrines and temples have restrooms, some may not provide toilet paper, so it's best to bring your own tissues."

For hotel bookings near Kyoto Station: Booking.com Agoda.com Hotels.com
For domestic flight comparisons within Japan: Skyscanner
Klook packages: Randen and Kyoto Subway One-Day Pass (unlimited rides within a day)

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