Kyoto 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Temple Hopping

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates forming a tunnel up the mountain. (5 minutes from Kyoto Station on foot)
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous temples in Japan. Take in the breathtaking views of the city from the stage’s wooden floor.
  • Evening: Explore the Gion District, known for its geisha culture, traditional Japanese architecture, and delicious street food.
  • Where to eat:
    • Try traditional Kyoto cuisine at Nishiki Market (5 minutes from Gion Station)
    • Visit Yamagishiya, a renowned tempura restaurant
  • Accommodation: Stay at the luxurious Hotel Gion Nanba, located in the heart of Gion District.
  • Tips: Try to visit Fushimi Inari early in the morning to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes for temple hopping.

Day 2: Gardens and Palaces

  • Morning: Visit the beautiful Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, surrounded by a serene garden. (15 minutes from Kyoto Station on bus)
  • Afternoon: Explore the Nijo Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its “nightingale floors” that squeak when walked upon to alert guards of intruders.
  • Evening: Stroll through the Imperial Palace gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Where to eat:
    • Try traditional Kyoto sweets at Kagiya, located near Kinkaku-ji
    • Visit Tsuruya Yuzen, a renowned soba noodle restaurant
  • Accommodation: Stay at the comfortable Hotel Okura Kyoto, located near the Imperial Palace.
  • Things to know: Try to visit Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.

Day 3: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Nishijin Textile Center, a museum showcasing traditional Kyoto textiles and crafts. (5 minutes from Nijo Station on foot)
  • Afternoon: Attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Shunkei-en, a tranquil garden surrounded by beautiful architecture.
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Pontocho Alley, known for its small bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
  • Where to eat:
    • Try traditional Kyoto cuisine at Kokoro, located in Pontocho Alley
    • Visit Han no Daidokoro Bettei, a renowned kaiseki restaurant
  • Accommodation: Stay at the stylish Hotel Gion Satsuki, located near Nishijin Textile Center.
  • Tips: Try to visit Nishijin Textile Center early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.

Day 4: Mountains and Water

  • Morning: Visit the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a peaceful oasis located on the outskirts of Kyoto. (30 minutes from Kyoto Station on train)
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll along the beautiful Katsura River, known for its picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at Ganko Sushi Nishiki, located in the heart of Gion District.
  • Where to eat:
    • Try traditional Kyoto cuisine at Sawamura, located near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
    • Visit Kyubey Ginza, a renowned sushi restaurant
  • Accommodation: Stay at the comfortable Hotel Granvia Kyoto, located near Kyoto Station.
  • Things to know: Try to visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.

Day 5: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the Gion District, known for its traditional Japanese architecture, geisha culture, and delicious street food.
  • Afternoon: Spend some time shopping at Nishiki Market, a famous marketplace selling local goods, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
  • Evening: Relax with a traditional Japanese massage or bath at Han no Daidokoro Bettei, a renowned kaiseki restaurant.
  • Where to eat:
    • Try traditional Kyoto cuisine at Kagiya, located near Nishiki Market
    • Visit Tsuruya Yuzen, a renowned soba noodle restaurant
  • Accommodation: Stay at the luxurious Hotel Gion Nanba, located in the heart of Gion District.
  • Tips: Try to visit Gion District early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.

Transportation

  • Kyoto Station: The main station in Kyoto, located near many hotels and restaurants. Take a train or bus from here to explore the city.
  • Bus: A convenient way to get around Kyoto, with many routes connecting popular destinations.
  • Taxi: Available at most stations and major intersections.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Furoshiki: Try traditional Japanese wrapping cloth at a local market or store.
  • Kintsugi: Visit a kintsugi workshop to see artisans repair broken pottery with gold or silver lacquer.
  • Traditional Japanese music: Attend a live performance at a local theater or club.
  • Geisha culture: Learn about the history and traditions of geishas in Kyoto.

Note: The above itinerary is just a suggestion, and you may want to adjust it based on your personal preferences and interests. Additionally, be sure to check the opening hours and admission fees for each location before visiting.