2-Day Rail Trip Itinerary in Kyoto: Temples, Bamboo Forests, and Pontocho Alley

Day 1: Temple and Nature

Kyoto, Japan

9:00 AM

Arrive at Kyoto Station

Check in at your hotel near Kyoto Station to drop off your bags and prepare for a day of exploration.
Walk from the station to the hotel, approximately 5 minutes.
JPY 0, 1 hour

10:15 AM

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Experience the enchanting beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene atmosphere.
Take the JR train from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (approximately 20 minutes), followed by a 10-minute walk.
JPY 0 (Free entry), 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sagano (Arashiyama)

Enjoy a flavorful traditional Kyoto lunch at Sagano, renowned for its local specialties and tranquil setting.
Walk back to the main road, approximately 5 minutes.
JPY 2000, 1 hour

1:15 PM

Explore Kinkakuji Temple

Visit the breathtaking Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, admired for its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings.
Take a taxi or public transport from Arashiyama (approximately 30 minutes).
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Head to Pontocho Alley

Stroll through Pontocho Alley, a narrow dining lane famous for its traditional tea houses and a perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink.
Take a taxi or bus to Pontocho Alley (approximately 20 minutes).
JPY 0 (Free to explore), 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Izuju in Pontocho

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Izuju, known for its fresh sushi and local flavors right in the heart of Pontocho Alley.
Walk to the restaurant within Pontocho Alley.
JPY 4000, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel to relax after a wonderful day filled with sights and delicious food.
Walk back to the hotel, approximately 15 minutes.
JPY 0, 30 minutes
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for your next adventures.
Enjoy breakfast in the hotel dining area.
JPY 1800, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create picturesque trails up the sacred Mount Inari.
Take the JR train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station (approximately 5 minutes), then walk to the shrine.
JPY 0 (Free entry), 2 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Savor lunch at Nishiki Market, indulging in a variety of local dishes and exploring the vibrant market atmosphere.
Take the train back to Kyoto Station, then walk to Nishiki Market (approximately 15 minutes).
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Explore Gion District

Stroll through the historic streets of Gion, lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a geisha.
Walk to Gion from Nishiki Market (approximately 10 minutes).
JPY 0 (Free entry), 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Kyoto Station

Head back to Kyoto Station to gather your belongings and prepare for departure.
Walk to the nearest bus stop/taxi point (approximately 10 minutes).
JPY 0, 30 minutes
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