Kyoto, Japan
The perfect 5 days itinerary
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city on the island of Honshu. It's famous for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses. It’s also known for formal traditions such as kaiseki dining, consisting of multiple courses of precise dishes, and geisha, female entertainers often found in the Gion district.
What to do in Kyoto?
This 5 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Kyoto. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Higashiyama District
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera, a historic temple that offers stunning views over Kyoto. From there, walk through the preserved historic streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.
Afternoon
Visit the Yasaka Shrine, known for its beautiful lanterns. Then, explore the Maruyama Park, a popular cherry blossom spot. Finish your afternoon with a stroll through the Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses.
Evening
Dine at a traditional restaurant in Gion, where you might spot a geisha or maiko.
Day 2: Discovering the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Surroundings
Morning
Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a natural forest of bamboo in western Kyoto. Nearby, explore the Tenryu-ji Temple, known for its beautiful garden.
Afternoon
Take a scenic boat ride on the Hozu River. Afterward, visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park, home to a troop of over 100 Japanese macaque monkeys.
Evening
Enjoy a kaiseki meal, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner.
Day 3: A Day of Temples and Shrines
Morning
Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Then, head to Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning Zen gardens.
Afternoon
Explore the Sanjusangen-do Temple, home to 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Then, visit the Kyoto National Museum to learn more about Japan's history and culture.
Evening
Dine at Pontocho, a narrow alley lined with traditional dining establishments.
Day 4: Exploring the Philosopher's Path and Northern Kyoto
Morning
Start your day with a walk along the Philosopher's Path, a scenic canal path lined with hundreds of cherry trees. Visit the Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion.
Afternoon
Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Then, explore the Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its rock garden.
Evening
Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at a teahouse in Northern Kyoto.
Day 5: A Day of Relaxation and Shopping
Morning
Visit the Nijo Castle, known for its 'nightingale floors'. Then, relax at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Gardens.
Afternoon
Shop for souvenirs and traditional Japanese goods at the Nishiki Market. Then, visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Kyoto Tower, offering panoramic views of the city.