3-Day Ultimate Kyoto Itinerary: From Kyoto Classics to Hidden Gems

Getting to Kyoto

From Tokyo

Shinkansen: From Tokyo Station, the Tokaido Shinkansen “Nozomi” takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes to reach Kyoto Station. The “Hikari” takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Airplane: From Haneda or Narita Airport, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Kansai International Airport or Osaka Itami Airport. From Kansai Airport, the JR Kansai Airport Line limited express “Haruka” takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach Kyoto Station. From Osaka Itami Airport, the Hankyu Kanko Bus takes approximately 50 minutes to Kyoto Station.

From Osaka

Shinkansen: From Shin-Osaka Station, the Tokaido Shinkansen “Nozomi” takes about 13 minutes to reach Kyoto Station. Alternatively, the JR Tokaido-Sanyo Line Special Rapid Service will get you there in about 30 minutes (at a cheaper price).

From Nagoya

Shinkansen: From Nagoya Station, the Tokaido Shinkansen “Nozomi” takes about 35 minutes to reach Kyoto Station.

Day 1: Explore Kyoto’s Icons in Gion and Higashiyama

Kiyomizu-dera - A Sacred Site of Worship for Over a Thousand Years

Access: From Kyoto Station, take the city bus to Kiyomizumichi (approx. 15 minutes). From here, it's a 10 minute walk to Kiyomizu-dera.

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples, visited by locals for protection from misfortune and blessings for love. Perched on Mount Otowayama, its main hall extends dramatically over a cliff, built entirely without nails using a traditional joinery method called “tsugite.” Within the grounds, you’ll also find shrines dedicated to Mizuko Jizo, guardian of lost children; Okuninushi, the god of love; and the popular Jishu Shrine—all worth exploring.

Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka - Stroll and Shop Along Stone-Paved Streets

Access: Approx. 5-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera.

After exploring Kiyomizu-dera, take a stroll through the nearby cobblestone streets of Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Kiyomizuzaka. These historic lanes are lined with traditional wooden houses, teahouses, and quaint shops selling local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the striking Yasaka Pagoda, a favorite photo spot. Be sure to also pop into Yasaka Koshin-do Temple, a photogenic nook decorated by countless colorful hanging ball talismans.

Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine - Sever Bad Relationships and Foster Good Ones

Access: Approx 10-minute walk from Sannenzaka.

Tucked away in Gion’s Higashiyama district, Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine is a lesser-known spot in the area. It’s earned a great following among locals, who believe that it helps one cut ties with bad relationships and form positive new ones. Dating back to the 7th century, it enshrines Emperor Sutoku and the deity Omononushi. The shrine’s most distinctive feature is the “Break and Make” stone—a large, igloo-shaped stone believed to hold spiritual power. Visitors write their wishes on paper, attach them to the stone, and crawl through its small tunnel, symbolizing the release of unwanted bonds and the beginning of better connections.

Lunch: Kaiseki Cuisine at Gion Kawakami, a Michelin Star Restaurant

Access: Approx. 7-minute walk from Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine.

For lunch, dine at Gion Kawakami, a Michelin one-star restaurant considered one of Kyoto’s best spots for traditional “kaiseki” cuisine (read all about this traditional form of Japanese food here). In a calm and sophisticated setting, you'll relish plate after plate of the chef’s signature kaiseki course, which has a stellar reputation with foodie influences and Japanese celebrities.

Hanamikoji Street and Yasaka Shrine - Stroll Through Kyoto’s Geisha District

Access: Approx. 6-minute walk from Gion Kawakami.

Next, head to Hanamikoji Street to explore the warm, evocative streets, which capture the essence of Kyoto’s old world charm. Extend your walk to the Shirakawa Canal and cross the Kamo River into the narrow laneways of Pontocho (and be sure to visit again at night, when all the restaurants and bars are lit up beautifully).

Next, walk down to Yasaka Shrine, another of Kyoto’s spiritual landmarks. Its striking vermilion structures serve as the head of all Yasaka Shrines nationwide. Geisha and maiko often visit Utsukushii Gozen-sha Shrine, a smaller shrine on the same grounds, as it venerates the goddess of beauty, so be sure to find it!

Join a Tea Ceremony at the Birthplace of Japanese Tea Culture!

Access: Take a bus from Shijo Keihan-mae to Gojo Takakura (approx. 8 minutes), then walk for about 6 minutes. Alternatively, walk 30 minutes or take a 15-minute taxi ride from Yasaka Shrine.

Since you’re in Kyoto, the birthplace of the Japanese tea ceremony, there’s no better place to experience this timeless tradition firsthand. On this tour, a friendly tea master will guide you through the customs and proper use of tea utensils, gently leading you step-by-step through your first tea ceremony, connecting you with centuries of history.

Recommended Hotel in Kyoto: The Thousand Kyoto

For accommodation in Kyoto City, we recommend The Thousand Kyoto. Located right by JR Kyoto Station, it’s a convenient base for exploring the city. Its sleek and warm aesthetics present a dynamic blend of modern comfort with the calming influence of Zen design, making it a natural extension of Kyoto’s streetscape. We love the Terrace Suite, which has a private terrace facing the garden; along with the Japanese Suite, meticulously crafted to reflect Zen design.

The Thousand Kyoto also contains several high-end dining options, including Scalae, a creative Italian restaurant, and Kizahashi, which serves traditional kaiseki cuisine. Alternatively, you can head out to dine at Kyoto Station, which houses numerous hit restaurants like Ippudo, Toyama Black Ramen Iroha, Hakata Ikkousha, Kanazawa Maimon Sushi, Miyazaki Sake Bar Ebisu, and Hokkyokusei.

Day 2: Nature-Rich Arashiyama in Northwest Kyoto

Sagano Romantic Train - Begin Your Journey With a Scenic Valley Ride

Access: Take the JR San'in Main Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (approx. 15 mins), then walk 1 minute to Torokko Saga Station.

To kick off your day in Kyoto’s popular Arashiyama district, we recommend a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train (Sagano Sightseeing Railway). This retro train runs through the lush valleys of Arashiyama along a 7.3-kilometer route connecting four stations, presenting the pinnacle of Kyoto’s rich mountain wilderness on a 25-minute journey.

The train’s open design grants an invigorating 360-degree view of the surrounding scenery. In spring, you’ll see dainty pale pink cherry blossoms, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. For the best views, choose a seat on the left side. The conductor shares detailed insights about local attractions, and as you near Arashiyama Station, traditional Japanese folk songs add a special charm. Be sure to wave to boats below as the train crosses the Hozugawa River!

Hozugawa River Boat - A Refreshing Ride Back to Arashiyama!

Access: After arriving at Torokko Kameoka Station (approx. 25 mins), walk 5 minutes to the Hozugawa River boat dock.

While you can return to Arashiyama by train, for a more leisurely trip, we recommend a ride on the Hozugawa River Boat. You’ll board a traditional wooden boat expertly manoeuvred by a local boatman and slowly make your way down the mountainous river gorge. During the 16-kilometer journey, the pristine river waters, majestic rock formations, and thick forested landscapes promise a deeper appreciation for the region’s beauty, while thrilling rapids add a kick of adrenaline! Also, if you’re visiting Kyoto in the peak of summer, the Hozugawa River Boat is a great way to sightsee while keeping cool.

Tip: When planning your Arashiyama itinerary, look up the Sagano Romantic Train and Hozugawa River Boat schedules in advance to make sure they line up with your plan!

Lunch: Buddhist Cuisine at Michelin-Starred Shigetsu

Access: Approx. 5-minute walk from the Hozugawa River Boat Ride End Point.

Shigetsu serves authentic “shojin” Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, directly run by Tenryuji Temple, one of Arashiyama’s most famous temples. The restaurant has earned a Michelin Green Star and is a popular spot for a peaceful meal after touring the temple grounds. The menu is based around seasonal vegetables and wild mountain plants, painstakingly prepared to be full of flavor without the use of meat, seafood, eggs, or strong-smelling ingredients like leeks, garlic, and chives. Rooted in centuries of Buddhist tradition, each vibrant dish offers a deeply satisfying experience.

Walk Around the Iconic Landmarks of Arashiyama

Next, set out on foot to explore Arashiyama’s main attractions. Start by continuing your foray into Buddhist culture next door at Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the majestic architecture and stunning landscaping around the Sogen Pond. From there, venture into the Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo stalks sway and rustle in the wind.

Next, wander over to Arashiyama Shopping Street, where you can savor local specialties like tofu, senbei (rice crackers), and ice cream. Then head over to the Togetsukyo Bridge for another postcard view of Arashiyama.

If you’ve got more time, hike up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Here, you can feed free-roaming Japanese macaques, backed by panoramic views of the Kyoto cityscape.

If you’re still not ready to leave, or are returning to Arashiyama another day, we suggest a stroll over to the humble Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street, a nook often overlooked by tourists. Along the way, you’ll pass Rakushisha, the rustic home of a celebrated haiku poet. Near Saga Toriimoto is Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple, known for its surreal grounds filled with around 8,000 stone statues; as well as a beautiful bamboo forest away from the crowds.

Kinkaku-ji - Kyoto’s Golden Temple

Access: From Arashiyama Station, take the Randen tram for approx. 17 minutes to Nishi-Oji Sanjo Station. After that, take a bus for about 15 minutes to the Kinkakuji-michi bus stop, and from there, it’s about a 2-minute walk to Kinkaku-ji.

Kinkaku-ji Temple is another of Kyoto’s unmissable icons. Founded in 1397 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its golden pavilion and beautiful gardens draw countless visitors each year. The temple’s formal name, Rokuon-ji, comes from the posthumous title of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi period (1336-1573). However, it is better known as Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, thanks to the gold leaf that covers its exterior. This unique architectural style blends Heian-era palatial design with Zen Buddhist elements, augmented by the picturesque strolling pond garden that surrounds it.

Recommended Hotel in Kyoto #2: Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo

Just a short walk from Kyoto Station, Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo is another of our picks for Kyoto accommodation. Its main draw is undoubtedly the soothing natural hot springs; the perfect remedy to a big day of sightseeing. Guestrooms feature traditional tatami mats augmented by the comfort of modern bedding and amenities.

Breakfast is also worth mentioning, with dishes made with fresh local ingredients, such as the Tofu Skin Seafood Rice Bowl featuring tofu skin from an old Kyoto tofu shop. Plus, ramen is served from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm—perfect for a warm bite before bed.

Day 3: Dive Deeper Into Kyoto Culture in Uji and Fushimi

Byodoin Temple - A World Heritage Site in Uji

Access: From Kyoto Station, take the Nara Line for approx. 25 minutes to Uji Station. Then walk 12 minutes to Byodoin Temple.

While Kyoto City has plenty to keep visitors entertained, we also recommend taking a day trip out to the neighboring city of Uji, home to the historically significant Byodoin Temple. Founded in the mid-11th century and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this landmark is a worthy addition to any foray into Kyoto's cultural heritage. The temple's most famous structure is the dazzling Phoenix Hall, which features on the 10 yen coin.

Inside this elegant pavilion resides a striking statue of Amida Buddha, showcasing the artistry of the Heian period (794-1185). The hall's distinctive architecture is said to evoke the image of a phoenix in flight, leading to its name. Adding to its splendor are the two gleaming golden phoenix statues that adorn the roofline. Beyond the Phoenix Hall, visitors can explore the temple's Hoosho-kan museum, which houses historical artifacts, and plenty more.

A visit to Byodoin Temple is not complete without indulging in the delights of Byodo-in Omotesando Street. This vibrant path is dotted with cafes specializing in Uji's world-famous matcha tea, with an enticing selection of matcha sweets to boot. Be sure to save space in your luggage for hand-crafted souvenirs from shops that have stood on the street for generations.

Lunch: Kyoto Kaiseki at Byodoin Omotesando Chikurin

Access: Approx. 1-minute walk from Byodoin Temple.

Right by Byodoin Temple, Byodoin Omotesando Chikurin presents sophisticated kaiseki cuisine themed around Kyoto's seasonal ingredients. The restaurant uses only fresh, locally sourced produce and pure underground water to let the true flavors of Kyoto shine through.

Discover the Depth of Matcha at Mitsuboshien-Kanbayashisannyu-Honten

Access: Approx. 1-minute walk from Byodoin Omotesando Chikurin.

For a deeper appreciation of Uji matcha, head to Mitsuboshien-Kanbayashisannyu-Honten. Within the shop's relaxed setting, visitors can experience the age-old practice of manually grinding matcha using a stone mill, facilitating a more direct engagement with the nuanced aroma and flavor that earned Uji matcha its global reputation. Anyone from complete beginners to tea connoisseurs can join this hands-on activity, with knowledgeable instructors gently explaining the fundamentals of tea ceremony and the history of matcha.

Fushimi Inari Taisha - Wander Through the Thousand Torii Gates

Access: Return to Uji Station and take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station (approx. 15-25 minutes). Fushimi Inari Taisha is a short walk from Inari Station.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of more than 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan. Its Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates), where thousands of vibrant vermilion torii form a seemingly endless tunnel up the mountainside, has become practically synonymous with Kyoto.

Exploring the shrine grounds, you’ll also spot countless fox statues and other fox motifs, who are regarded as divine messengers in the Inari faith. Fox-themed amulets are popular among visitors, featuring distinctive designs that reflect their cultural significance. Being one of Kyoto's most popular attractions, Fushimi Inari is extremely crowded during the day. However, it is open 24 hours, so you can beat the crowds by visiting in the early morning or late at night.

What Else to Do in Kyoto?

We hope you enjoyed our 3-day itinerary covering the best of Kyoto City! Of course, with so much history and culture, this Kyoto itinerary is just scratching the surface, and there’s plenty of reasons to stick around longer. If you have extra days, we recommend a visit to Nijo Castle, the Kyoto International Manga Museum, Nishiki Market, the Kyoto National Museum, the Philosopher's Walk, Heian Jingu Shrine, Nanzen-ji Temple, Kamigamo Shrine, Shimogamo Shrine, the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, and Kifune Shrine.

Following Kyoto, Osaka is just a quick train trip away, perfect for indulging in top-notch food. Or head to Nara to explore ancient temples and mingle with the famously friendly deer. For something more spiritual, experience a monk’s daily life on Mount Koya or relax in the 7 hot springs of Kinosaki Onsen!