Kyoto is one of those magical places that stays with you long after you leave. As Japan’s former imperial capital, it’s a city that beautifully blends ancient history with modern life, making it an absolute must-visit in the Kansai region.
When I first arrived in Kyoto, I was immediately struck by the peaceful atmosphere despite it being a big city. There are temples and shrines around every corner, each with its own unique story and stunning architecture—I remember feeling like I’d stepped into a living postcard.
Kyoto is also where you’ll find the heart of Geisha culture and those charming historical districts that transport you to a different time. Walking through the lantern-lit streets of Gion in the evening was one of the most enchanting experiences of my trip.
But here’s the thing: this city has so much to offer that it can feel overwhelming to decide what to see and how to make the most of your time, especially if you only have two days in Kyoto or so. That’s where this Kyoto itinerary comes in!
Based on my own adventures and over a decade of experience in travel, I’ve put together a plan that covers the best of Kyoto without making you feel rushed. Plus, I’ve added some bonus suggestions in case you can squeeze in a little extra time. Ready to explore Kyoto with me? Let’s go!
Table of Contents
Day 1: Kiyomizu, Temples & Tea Ceremony
The itinerary you’ll find below is a DIY itinerary.
However, if you prefer to visit Kyoto with a guide, I recommend the Private Kyoto Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Personalised which can be customized to last from 2 to 8 hours and is perfect for your first day in town.
Led by an expert, you’ll visit the most iconic locations around the city, learning about its culture and history as you enjoy a Kyoto itinerary based on your own interests. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
You can otherwise check out these other walking tours in Kyoto or these bike tours.
Wander Around the Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Your 2-day itinerary in Kyoto starts with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera, one of the most famous temples in Kyoto. Founded over 1,200 years ago on the hillside of Mt. Otowa, the temple overlooks the city, offering spectacular panoramic views from the impressive wooden stage in the main hall.
It’s one of the most iconic features in the temple, as it’s perched 42.6 feet (13 meters) above the hillside and supported by wooden pillars that were built without the use of a single nail.
You’ll also find a stunning three-story vermilion pagoda, which stands out against the green of the forest, a Shoro bell tower near the entrance, and a small shrine, Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of matchmaking and love. It’s no surprise it’s one of the most popular ones!
Opening Hours: Daily from 6 AM to 6 PM.
Entrance Fee: 500 yen (3,40 USD).
Admire the Hokan-ji Temple
Your next stop is Hokan-ji Temple, otherwise known as the Yasaka Pagoda. Getting around Kyoto is fairly simple, and most of its iconic attractions are within walking distance from each other, so you’ll make your way to Hokan-ji on foot.
This astonishing five-story pagoda was originally built in the 6th century, although the current structure was reconstructed in the mid-15th century.
The traditional building towers over the rooftops of the wooden houses and shops that line the cobblestone streets around it.
The pagoda only opens during the weekends and holidays, but it can be admired from the outside any day, and that’s more than enough!
Opening Hours: Saturday, Sunday and Holidays from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Entrance Fee: 400 yen.
Visit the Yasaka Koshin-do Temple
You’ll continue your temple-hopping morning at Yasaka Koshin-do Temple (also called Kongoji). This is a small Buddhist temple better known for the colorful kukuri-zaru that surround it completely.
These round talismans are shaped like hanging monkeys and covered in vibrant fabric, and they symbolize the suppression of human desires.
The talismans are also covered in messages left by visitors, and you can leave your own! At the temple you’ll also see a statue of Shomen Kongo, the guardian god the site is dedicated to.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Entrance Fee: Free.
Snap a Photo of Kodaiji Temple
A short walk away is the Kodaiji Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple with stunning zen gardens carefully designed with ponds and paths to create a serene atmosphere.
It’s especially beautiful during Autumn and Spring, when the trees change and become vibrantly orange and yellow, or pink with the cherry blossoms.
The main structures in Kodaiji, aside from its landscaped gardens, are the Main Hall, an elegant structure surrounded by lush foliage, and Kaisan-do, a black and white structure with astounding carvings and lacquerwork.
There’s also a Bamboo Forest here that isn’t known, so if you want to escape the crowds of the famous Arashimaya forest, you can visit this one.
Opening Hours: Daily from 7.30 AM to 5.30 PM (April through October) and from 7 AM to 5 PM (November through March).
Entrance Fee: 600 yen for adults. Children accompanied by an adult have free entry.
Travel Back in Time at Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka Streets
Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are two historical streets that will make you feel as if you’ve taken a trip back in time. Showcasing the essence of old Japan, these enchanting alleys are lined by incredibly well-preserved wooden machiya houses, the country’s traditional townhouses.
The streets are slightly slanted, and the beautiful tea houses and shops alongside them are a draw on their own, even if most tourists head to the area for the photos. Because as you can imagine, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets are very photogenic.
Not only that, but they’re cursed. According to the legend, if you trip and fall on Sannenzaka, you’ll have three years of bad luck… so better watch your step!
You’ll be able to buy artisanal crafts, souvenirs, and local pastries as you wander up and down the alleys. But don’t eat too much, because you’re next stop is the coffee break you were probably craving by now.
Stop by the Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya
You won’t have to walk far to enjoy a steaming cup of caffeine, because Starbucks is one of the wooden buildings along Ninenzaka Street.
It’s one of the most unique Starbucks coffee shops in the world, housed in a Japanese machiya house and blending seamlessly with the old-looking surroundings. Nothing but the characteristic logo stands out!
Indoors, you’ll find a tatami mat seating area, and sliding paper doors that divide the rooms, emulating the traditional tea houses. While you can get your favorite coffee order, why not grab a matcha latte and enjoy it on the tatami floor, fully immersing yourself in the local culture?
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Walk Along the Philosopher’s Path to Ginkaku-ji
The Philosopher’s Path, or Tetsugaku No Michi in Japanese, is a scenic stone walkway that follows a small canal lined by cherry trees, offering the most picturesque stroll through the city.
The path is named after a local philosopher, Nishida Kitaro, who’s believed to have walked along this peaceful path in contemplation many times.
The walk is quite long, but it’s absolutely beautiful, taking you past lush greenery (and cherry trees in bloom if you’re there in the spring!) small shrines and temples, cute shops and cafés, and along the water canal.
The walk from Starbucks to the beginning of the canal takes you through the beautiful Maruyama Park, past its ponds and a few shrines. The Philosopher’s Path then winds along the canal, immersing you in a rural neighborhood as you make your way to the Ginkaku-ji temple.
Visit the Ginkaku-ji Temple
Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a 15th-century structure built as a shogun’s retirement villa, which became a Zen temple after his death.
Funny enough, its nickname comes from the original intention to cover the temple in silver foil… which never happened.
The temple has a natural wood exterior that blends with the surrounding nature, which is lush with vegetation and trees, ponds, and has lovely pathways you can stroll along to explore the moss-covered gardens.
The actual pavilion can’t be accessed, as it’s preserved as a historic site, but you can walk around it and soak up the peace and serenity that offers a welcome respite from the bustling downtown.
Opening Hours: Daily from 8.30 AM to 5 PM.
Entrance Fee: 500 yen ($3.20) for adults, and 300 yen ($1.90) for children.
Spend the Evening in Pontocho Alley
The lively Pontocho Alley is a narrow street that runs parallel to the Kamo River and is lined by the famous machiya houses. But you’re not heading there for more sightseeing!
Pontocho Alley is renowned for its vibrant nightlife that strikingly contrasts its historic atmosphere. The lantern-lit alley is home to various restaurants, both traditional and modern, that showcase the best of Kyoto’s culinary scene, humming with the buzz of diners coming and going.
During the warmer months, most restaurants will open elevated terraces in which you can enjoy an al fresco meal or drink with views of the river.
I recommend taking a stroll down the beautiful alley to soak up its atmosphere (and maybe spot a Geisha if you’re lucky!) before choosing an eatery to indulge in a sumptuous dinner.
➤ enen is a highly-rated BBQ restaurant where you can try the famous Wagyu beef and other meat cuts prepared on tabletop grills.
➤ You can otherwise check out Sushi Kezaemon if you’re in the mood for sushi and seafood bites, or Itsukichaya Pontocho for traditional Japanese cuisine. Reservations are required for all restaurants.
▶️ The Kyoto Night Foodie Tour is another great way to discover the Pontocho district. You’ll be joined by a local guide, who’ll take you around the area and introduce you to its history and customs. You’ll get to sample local cuisine paired with sake and beer at various bars and restaurants along the way. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Day 2: Fushimi Inari, Food Markets & Gion
Day two can also be almost fully replaced by the Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour.
The excursion starts with a morning visit to the famous Fushimi Inari, followed by a trip to the Kinkaku-ji temple, and the magnificent Arashiyama Bamboo Forest before the crowds arrive.The trip ends at midday, leaving you the entire afternoon to make other plans! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Take a Hike at Fushimi Inari Shrine
I recommend heading to Fushimi Inari Shinto Shrine first thing in the morning, as it’s one of the most important – if not the main – attractions in the city, and it can get packed.
Fushimi Inari is a beautiful shrine dedicated to Inari, god of rice and crops, that’s renowned for the thousands of vermilion torii gates that wind through Mount Inari.
Besides astounding photo opportunities, the attraction features several smaller shrines, as well as the adorable statues of foxes, god Inari’s messenger animal, and forest trails that lead all the way up to the top of the mountain.
The shrine is free to visit, and it’s open 24/7, so you can be there as early as sunrise.
▶️ You can alternatively join a tour such as this Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Walking Tour with Guide. The 5-hour excursion takes you to the shrine early in the morning, ensuring you escape the crowds, and continues with a visit to the Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Arashiyama bamboo forest. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Opening Hours: 24/7.
Entrance Fee: Free.
Shop at the Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is a bustling covered shopping street that’s lined by hundreds of shops, stalls, and restaurants selling traditional delicacies, Japanese meals, fresh produce, seafood, and meats.
Often referred to as Kyoto’s Kitchen, this market showcases the city’s culinary heritage in full glory. It’s a must-visit for food lovers!
The market is a feast of colors and scents as the various stalls grill seafood, skewers and yuba (tofu skin) around you, and the shops sell vibrant sweets, pickled vegetables, and fruits.
But besides the largest variety of food you’ll find in Japan, Nishiki Market is also a great place to buy kitchenware, traditional cooking tools used in Japanese cuisine, and matcha whiskers. You may end up equipping your kitchen back home with Japanese utensils!
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Have Lunch at Ichiran Kyoto Kawaramachi or Kichi Kichi Omurice
You may get a bite when exploring the Nishiki Market, but make sure to have lunch at one of these locations. You won’t regret it!
Ichiran Kyoto Kawaramachi is a highly-rated ramen restaurant mainly recognized as the birthplace of the tonkotsu broth, which is based on pork bones. Tonkotsu Ramen is the star dish of the place, and you’ll get to customize your order by selecting the level of spiciness, extra ingredients, and even the firmness of your noodles!
Kichi Kichi Omurice specializes in one of the country’s beloved comfort dishes: omurice. Omurice is a rice dish that’s topped with an omelet and a special sauce, prepared by the restaurant’s head chef, who’s considered to be the region’s Omurice King. Other Western-style dishes, such as stews, soups, and croquettes are served as well.
Visit Kinkaku-ji
Kinkaku-Ji is a Buddhist temple that’s become one of the most important attractions in Kyoto. Also known as The Golden Pavilion, the building has three stories, two of which are covered with pure gold leaf.
Located by a large pond and backed by lush vegetation, Kinkaku-ji is located within the Tokuon-ji Complex, and it’s sacred for housing relics of the Buddha, specifically his ashes.
Aside from its religious significance, the temple is mesmerizing to look at, and a stroll around its grounds will grant you the best viewpoints to admire it. Inside the temple, you’ll get up close to different architectural styles that range from Japanese traditional and samurai styles to Chinese-inspired architecture.
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Take Part in a Tea Ceremony
Tea ceremonies are a very important ritual in Japan’s culture, originally designed by Zen monks as a way of meditation and grounding to the present moment.
The ritual takes place in a tea house, where participants sit on the floor and go through the process of preparing matcha green tea in an orderly way, following the careful steps of the tea master.
A tea ceremony in Kyoto will introduce you to all the tools and methods to prepare the famous tea, and allow you to whisk your own matcha in a ceramic bowl as you learn about its benefits and enjoy it with Japanese sweets.
▶️ This Kyoto: 45-Minute Tea Ceremony Experience is the one I did when I visited Kyoto, and I can highly recommend it. It’s super comprehensive, it allows you to wear traditional kimonos for the ceremony, and it’s located right by the Kinkaku-ji Temple, so it’s very convenient. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Pass by the Yasaka Shrine
The Yasaka Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in the city, and it’s comprised of several buildings which include a main hall, a stage, and smaller shrines.
The shrine is over 1,350 years old, and it hosts the famous Gion Matsuri Festival, which takes place since the 9th century, every year in July.
You’ll find lantern-lined pathways to stroll in, courtyards, and vermilion gates that are very picturesque. The landmark was built to honor the Shinto god of storms and sea, hoping for protection and prosperity. It’s very worth a visit!
Opening Hours: 24 hours.
Explore Gion At Night
Once night falls, head to the district of Gion in downtown Kyoto, popular for being home to the famous Geishas. This bustling neighborhood is the cultural heart of the city, where most of the entertainment and artistic events take place, and as such, it comes to life after dark.
Gion is also home to upscale boutiques and restaurants that offer the perfect contrast to the otherwise traditional-looking streets and buildings.
As dusk envelopes the city, the historical alleys of Gion light up, and offer the perfect setting to, if you’re lucky, spot the Geishas as they walk to their appointments in the evening.
Start by strolling along the district’s main avenue, Hanamikoji Dori, a cobblestone street that’s lined by paper lanterns, restaurants, and shops.
If you turn toward the canal at the end of the street, you’ll find Shirakawa Lane, which runs parallel to the waterway and is lined by the most beautiful cherry trees, which bloom with small pink flowers during cherry blossom season. It’s a magical setting for an evening stroll!
▶️ You can alternatively join this Kyoto: Gion and Higashiyama Walking Tour to explore the lively district with a local guide. You’ll learn about the Geisha, who still live and perform here, and get insights into the traditions of Japan’s entertainment districts as you wander around its main streets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
After the visit, head to one of the restaurants in Gion for a scrumptious Japanese dinner. One of the best options is the Koba Beef Steak Mouriya Gion, a top-notch steak house serving high-quality meat cuts with a great selection of sides. Reservations are required.
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu is a highly-rated Teishoku restaurant that offers friendly service and authentic cuisine, which you can enjoy paired with a beer or sake. The place is small and homely, which adds to the warm atmosphere.
You could also pop by the family-run Teppan Taverna Tenamonya for flavorful gyoza and seafood dishes, or taste the popular duck soup and ramen noodles from Gion Duck Noodles.
Craving dessert? Stop for matcha-flavored ice cream, sweet, or drink at the renowned Saryo Tsujiri Tea House.
Where To Stay in Kyoto
LUXURY: Ace Hotel Kyoto is a five-star accommodation with elegant, modern decor and spacious rooms. It features a restaurant, a fitness center, a terrace, and a 24-hour front desk. An a la carte breakfast is served daily.
TRADITIONAL LUXURY: Sowaka is an upscale hotel boasting traditional Japanese architecture and decor, keeping their rooms simple and seemingly transporting you into the past, while providing high-end amenities and service.
MID-RANGE: Hotel Legasta Kyoto Shirakawa Sanjo is the hotel where we stayed. The location is great, offering easy access to most attractions. The rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a private bathroom, a kettle, a safety deposit box, and a TV. We were very comfortable there.
ON A BUDGET: The Pocket Hotel Kyoto Karasuma Gojo features single, twin, and quadruple rooms with a shared bathroom. There’s also a shared lounge, and there are facilities for disabled guests. The location is also good, situated right by a metro station and only one stop from Kyoto Station.
Extra time? Other Things To Do in Kyoto in 3 Days or More
If you’re spending more than 2 days in Kyoto, you might want to check out some of the other must see attractions in the city. You can alternatively take a full-day trip to a nearby destination. No matter if you’re spending 3, 4 or 5 days in Kyoto, you’ll find that there’s plenty to do.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
No trip to Japan is complete without visiting a bamboo forest, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is arguably the most famous. This astounding natural attraction allows you to immerse yourself in the bamboo stalks, which let the sunlight filter through their leaves and gently sway with the wind, creating an otherworldly setting.
The uniqueness of the landscape and its spellbinding beauty attract not only tourists, but photographers, creators, and naturalists from all over the globe.
The forest is celebrated for offering an escape from the city, and for its serene, silent atmosphere, but it can get really crowded. You have to visit very early in the morning if you want to avoid the masses.
To reach Arashiyama, you can take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Train Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station, which is only a 10-minute walk from the forest. The trip takes around 15 minutes.
Day trip to Nara
Nara is a great day trip destination from Kyoto. The ancient capital of Japan is steeped in so much history and culture! One of the most striking attractions in the city, however, is not historical but natural: the deer from Nara Park!
Believed to be the messengers of the gods, and therefore sacred creatures, deer are allowed to roam freely in the park, and they’re really friendly.
Other things to do in Nara include visiting the iconic Todaiji Temple, the Buddhist Kofuku-ji Temple that’s home to Japan’s second-tallest pagoda, and the historical Nandaimon Gate.
To get there you can either take the Kintetsu Railway train or the JR Nara train from Kyoto Station. They’ll drop you off at Kintetsu Nara Station and JR Nara Station respectively. Check the transfer options here.
▶️ Alternatively, you can join this Kyoto and Nara UNESCO Sites & History Day Trip that includes roundtrip transfers, a guide, entrance fees, and a visit to all the major landmarks in the city. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Sake Tasting and Brewery Tour
If you have extra time in Kyoto, don’t miss the chance to dive into the world of Japanese sake. A sake brewery tour and tasting experience is a great way to learn about this iconic drink while sampling some of the best varieties Kyoto has to offer.
My guide to the best sake tasting experiences in Kyoto covers all the top spots, but my favorite is this one below.
▶️ Explore Kyoto’s Fushimi Sake District with the 3-Hour Kyoto Insider Sake Experience, a top-rated tour. Visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, learn the brewing process, and taste at least 10 different sake varieties—guided by a certified sake sommelier.
With tasting notes, a cheat sheet to remember your favorites, and perfectly paired Japanese Otsumami snacks, this tour is the ultimate way to dive into the flavors and traditions of sake. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Nijo Castle
Nijo Castle, built in the 17th century as the shogun’s residence, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The majestic building boasts feudal-era architecture, one of its most spectacular draws.
It’s an astounding example of the city’s ancient designs and holds great historical significance. The site also houses stunning gardens and two palace complexes that you can explore.
▶️ The Kyoto: Nijo-jo Castle and Ninomaru Palace Guided Tour lasts merely an hour, and it introduces you to the fascinating history and architecture of the castle and palace as you gain exclusive access to its rooms and gardens. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Day trip to Osaka
Osaka is another incredible city near Kyoto that you can visit on a day trip. The vibrant metropolis has plenty to offer, starting with its major landmark: the Osaka Castle.
Its frondous park and astounding architecture make it stand out big time! You should also visit the retro district of Shinsekai, renowned for its unique, quirky shops and restaurants, and the Dotonbori area to check out the neon lights that have made it famous.
Other attractions worth adding to your Osaka itinerary include the Umeda Sky Building, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the bustling Kuromon Ichiba Market where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to street food and souvenirs.
The best way to get to Osaka is by taking the Keihan Line, which departs from various stations in Higashiyama, including Sanjo, Gion-Shijo, and Kiyomizu-Gojo (in that order). You’ll get off at Osaka’s Yodoyabashi Station.
There’s also a bullet train connecting the cities, but it’s not exactly convenient, as it will drop you off fay from the city center, and you’ll have to take public transportation to reach the attractions, adding more time (and money) to the journey. Check the transfer options here.
And that’s it! I hope this Kyoto, Japan itinerary helps you plan the most perfect couple of days in the city, and fully immerse in its beauty and culture. Happy travels!
