Family-Friendly 2-Day Itinerary in Kyoto on a Budget

Day 1: Explore Traditional Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica

Start your day with aromatic coffee and freshly baked pastries at this popular local café, known for its unique blend and cozy atmosphere, perfect for families.
Head towards the Nishiki Market area via Kyoto City Bus.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Nishiki Market

Take a stroll through Nishiki Market, where the vibrant stalls offer samples of local foods, making it a fun and tasty cultural experience for kids.
Walk to nearby attractions from the market.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Head to the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famous for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside – a sight to behold and perfect for family photos.
Take bus number 100 from Nishiki Market to Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Enjoy a delicious and interactive lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu, where you can create your own savory pancakes, an experience the kids will love.
Walk to the restaurant near Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Gion District

Stroll through Gion, the historic geisha district, and keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of traditional geisha culture, making this a memorable cultural immersion for the family.
Walk from Okonomiyaki Katsu to Gion.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Participate in a Tea Ceremony

Experience a traditional tea ceremony where you and your family can learn about Japanese tea culture and enjoy matcha in a tranquil setting.
Find a local tea house in Gion for the ceremony.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Matsubune

Savor a budget-friendly dinner at Matsubune, specializing in Kyoto-style sushi, which will delight the taste buds of the whole family.
Walk from your tea house to the restaurant.
JPY1500, 1 hour

6:30PM

Evening Stroll at Philosopher's Path

Conclude your day with a peaceful evening walk along the Philosopher's Path, where the autumn leaves will be stunning, creating a perfect backdrop for family bonding.
Catch a bus or walk to the Philosopher’s Path.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Culture & Nature in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Ninety One

Fuel up with a great breakfast at Café Ninety One, known for its hearty breakfast options, making it a great start for your second day.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
JPY900, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Spend your morning at the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where your family can wander among towering bamboo stalks, feeling like part of a magical forest.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama Station.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Iwatayama Monkey Park

Head up to Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you and your family can meet and observe wild macaques in their natural habitat, a fun and interactive experience.
A 20-minute walk uphill from the Bamboo Grove.
JPY600, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sagano Café

Refuel with a delightful lunch at Sagano Café, a family-friendly spot offering local dishes with vegetarian options, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Walk back to the café from Arashiyama.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Tenryuji Temple

Discover the stunning gardens of Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where your family can enjoy the serene landscape while learning about its historical significance.
Take a short walk from the café to the temple.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Enjoy Views at Togetsukyo Bridge

Walk to Togetsukyo Bridge for picturesque views of the river and surrounding mountains, making this a perfect photo opportunity for your family album.
A 10-minute walk from Tenryuji Temple.
Free, 30 minutes

3:30PM

Relax at Maruyama Park

Return to central Kyoto and unwind at Maruyama Park, which is delightful in October with foliage colors, ideal for a family picnic or just relaxing.
Take a train back to Kyoto Station and then a bus to Maruyama Park.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Katsu Kyoto

End your trip with dinner at Katsu Kyoto, offering delicious and affordable bowl meals like donburi that are sure to please every family member.
Walk from the park to the restaurant.
JPY1300, 1 hour
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