Start your food adventure at Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, one of Japan's most revered Shinto shrines. Take a leisurely hike through the thousands of torii gates and enjoy the serenity of the shrine's lush surroundings. After your hike, make your way to Pontocho, a narrow alley in downtown Kyoto lined with traditional teahouses and restaurants serving local specialties such as kaiseki, tofu, and wagashi.
Start your day at Nishiki Market, also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". This five-block long open-air market is a foodie's paradise, offering fresh seafood, traditional Japanese snacks, and unique Kyoto specialties like tsukemono (pickled vegetables) and yuba (tofu skin). After exploring the market, head to nearby Gion District, a charming neighborhood known for its traditional ochaya (teahouses) and geisha culture. Savor a meal at one of the local restaurants, trying delicacies like kaiseki ryori and handmade soba noodles.
Getting around Kyoto is convenient and relatively inexpensive. The city has an extensive public transportation system consisting of buses and trains that can take you to most attractions. Taxis are also readily available but can be costly, especially during peak hours. A one-day bus pass costs around 600 yen ($5.50) and covers all city buses, while a single subway ride costs between 220-360 yen ($2-$3.50), depending on the distance.
If you have more time, consider visiting other famous Kyoto landmarks, such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kyomizu-dera Temple, and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. For those with less time, focus on the highlights of downtown Kyoto, including the dining districts of Pontocho and Gion, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine.
Kyoto does not have its airport, so visitors will typically arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX), located about 90 km (56 miles) southwest of Kyoto. Another option is Osaka International Airport (ITM), also known as Itami Airport, which is about 50 km (31 miles) north of Kyoto. Both airports offer various transportation options, including buses, taxis, and trains, to get to Kyoto.