2-Day Kyoto Japan Itinerary: Culture, Temples and Cuisine

Day 1: Cultural Explorations

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Start your day with fresh sushi and a variety of local street foods at Nishiki Market, the culinary heart of Kyoto.
Take the subway to Shijo Station, then walk 5 minutes to Nishiki Market.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning Golden Pavilion, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a tranquil pond.
Take the bus from Nishiki Market to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Ryoan-ji Temple

Visit this famous Zen garden known for its rock formations and serene atmosphere.
Walk 15 minutes from Kinkaku-ji to Ryoan-ji.
JPY500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Menbakaichidai

Savor the unique experience of 'fire ramen', where your noodles are served with a flaming twist.
Take a bus from Ryoan-ji to Menbakaichidai.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through the enchanting bamboo forest and feel the tranquility of this natural wonder.
Take a bus from Menbakaichidai to Arashiyama.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features beautiful gardens and is one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto.
A short walk from the Bamboo Grove.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen

Indulge in a steaming bowl of tonkotsu ramen, a local favorite.
Take the train back to downtown Kyoto.
JPY1200, 1 hour

6:30PM

Evening stroll in Gion District

Wander through the historic streets of Gion, and if lucky, catch a glimpse of a geisha.
Walk 20 minutes from Ippudo Ramen.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Insights

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica Coffee

Start your day with exceptional coffee and a light breakfast in a stylish environment.
Take a short walk from your accommodation.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Walk through the famous torii gates that lead up the mountainside and enjoy scenic views.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover this Zen temple with beautiful gardens and unique architecture.
Take the train back to Tofuku-ji Station.
JPY400, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kyo-Sai

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch, featuring multiple seasonal dishes presented beautifully.
Walk to the restaurant nearby.
JPY4500, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sanjusangendo Temple

Home to 1,001 statues of Kannon, it's both a spiritual and artistic experience.
Take a bus from Kyo-Sai to Sanjusangendo.
JPY600, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Nijo Castle

Take a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning architecture and gardens.
Walk or take a bus from Sanjusangendo to Nijo Castle.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Katsukura

Feast on delicious tonkatsu, deep-fried pork cutlet served with fresh cabbage and rice.
Head back to downtown Kyoto.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Relax at Pontocho Alley

End your trip with a pleasant stroll through the lantern-lit alley known for its intimate restaurants and vibrant nightlife.
Take a short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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