13-Day Family Friendly Kyoto Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

10:00AM

Check-In at Hotel

Arrive at your family-friendly hotel, the Hotel Granvia Kyoto, which provides spacious rooms and easy access to transportation.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto is located above the Kyoto Station.
JPY30000, 1 hour

11:30AM

Kyoto Aquarium

Start your adventure with a visit to the Kyoto Aquarium where you can see various marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Take the subway to Kujo Station (5 min), then walk 10 min to the aquarium.
JPY2000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Enjoy a family lunch at Nishiki Market where you can sample local delicacies such as yakitori and wagashi.
Take the subway from Kujo Station to Shijo Station (15 min), then walk to the market.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Shijo Avenue

Explore Shijo Avenue for shopping and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Walking distance from Nishiki Market.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Have dinner at Gion Karyo, an affordable and authentic kaiseki experience that caters to families.
Short walk to Gion.
JPY8000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Temples

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel your day.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji, a Zen temple renowned for its stunning gold leaf exterior.
Take bus 101 from Kyoto Station to Kinkaku-ji (40 min).
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a Nearby Soba Restaurant

Taste delicious freshly made soba noodles at Soba Shimizu near Kinkaku-ji.
Short walk from Kinkaku-ji.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ryoan-ji Temple

Next, head over to Ryoan-ji known for its rock garden and serene atmosphere.
Take bus 204 from Kinkaku-ji to Ryoan-ji (10 min).
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Ninna-ji Temple

Explore Ninna-ji, a UNESCO site with a beautiful pagoda and gardens.
Walk 10 minutes from Ryoan-ji.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nijo-jo Shokudo

Dine at Nijo-jo Shokudo, enjoying casual Japanese meals perfect for families.
Take bus 50 from Ninna-ji to Nijo-jo (30 min).
JPY2800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Adventures

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have another delightful breakfast before your day of exploration.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kyoto National Museum

Discover traditional Japanese culture at the Kyoto National Museum with exhibits for the whole family.
Take subway from Kyoto Station to Hanganji (10 min).
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a nearby Cafeteria

Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby cafeteria offering local bento boxes.
Walking distance from the museum.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Heian Shrine and Gardens

Explore the beautiful Heian Shrine, known for its stunning gardens and traditional architecture.
Walk 15 minutes from the cafeteria.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Sanjusangendo Temple

Home to 1001 statues of Kannon, this temple is a must-see for its awe-inspiring art.
Take bus 100 from Heian Shrine to Sanjusangendo (15 min).
JPY600, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Ninenzaka Saka

Enjoy your meal at Ninenzaka Saka, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious ramen.
Take bus back to Gion then walk to the restaurant (20 min).
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Arashiyama Day Trip

Kyoto, Japan

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fill up on breakfast before your exciting day in Arashiyama.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the enchanting bamboo groves and capture stunning family photos.
Take the JR Saga-Arashiyama Line to Arashiyama Station (30 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Todai-ji Temple

Visit Todai-ji, famous for its massive Great Buddha statue.
Use the local bus from Arashiyama to Todai-ji (30 min).
JPY600, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles with a view of the river at Arashiyama Yoshimura.
Return to Arashiyama Station (30 min).
JPY2200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Togetsukyo Bridge & Monkey Park

Discover the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park nearby.
Walk to the bridge from the restaurant (15 min).
JPY800, 2 hours

4:30PM

Okochi Sanso Villa

Experience the beauty of Okochi Sanso, the former villa of a famous Japanese actor.
Short walk from the monkey park.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Arashiyama Benkei

Savor a delightful dinner at Arashiyama Benkei, known for its delicious tempura.
Take bus back to Arashiyama Station then walk (30 min).
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Heritage

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare once again with a filling breakfast.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit Kiyomizu-dera, one of Japan’s most celebrated temples with breathtaking views.
Take bus 100 from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-dera (30 min).
JPY400, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kiyomizu Sannenzaka

Dine at Kiyomizu Sannenzaka, famous for its udon noodles.
Short walk from the temple.
JPY1800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Nanzen-ji Temple

Visit Nazen-ji Temple, a beautiful complex with a stunning garden.
Take bus 100 to Nanzen-ji (20 min).
JPY500, 2 hours

4:00PM

Philosopher's Path

Stroll along the Philosopher's Path, particularly lovely during cherry blossom season.
Fifteen-minute walk from Nanzen-ji.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cafe la Sieste

End your day with a relaxing dinner at Cafe la Sieste with various meal options for kids.
Walk back to Nanzen-ji (15 min).
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Natural Wonders

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a generous breakfast.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Arashiyama Park

Spend a day enjoying the beauty of Arashiyama Park where kids can run freely.
Take the JR Saga-Arashiyama Line (30 min).
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Aisen Kiccho

Enjoy a delightful meal at Aisen Kiccho overlooking the river.
Short walk from the park.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Take a Boat Ride on the Hozu River

Experience a scenic boat ride along the Hozu River, perfect for family bonding.
Boat service from Arashiyama Park.
JPY4000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visiting Kameyama Park

Explore Kameyama Park, known for its picturesque views and lush greenery.
Short walk from the boat pier.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Asai

Wrap up your adventure with dinner at Asai, known for its sushi and family-friendly atmosphere.
Take bus back to Kyoto main station (30 min).
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Experience Geisha Culture

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast to prepare for a day of discovery.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Gion District

Explore the famous Gion District, home to traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture.
Take bus or walk (20 min) to Gion.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Geisha Museum

Introduce your family to the world of geishas at the Geisha Museum that showcases their history.
Short walk in Gion.
JPY800, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Gion Tokuya

Dine at Gion Tokuya known for its soba noodles and family-friendly environment.
Short walk from the museum.
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Kawai Shrine

Visit Kawai Shrine, a small but charming shrine located in Gion.
15-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Attend a Cultural Performance

Watch a traditional dance performance to learn even more about this beautiful art.
Event locations are often posted around Gion.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

End the day with a lovely dinner at Gion Karyo, known for its kaiseki meals.
Short walk from performance venue.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 8: Day at Fushimi Inari

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel for the day with breakfast at the hotel.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine and its iconic red torii gates.
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station (15 min).
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Inari Soba

Savor delicious soba noodles at Inari Soba located near the entrance of the shrine.
Short walk from Fushimi Inari.
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Tofuku-ji Temple

After lunch, take a short trip to Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its beautiful zen gardens.
Take bus from Inari to Tofuku-ji (10 min).
JPY300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Sanzen-in Temple

Discover the serene beauty of Sanzen-in Temple surrounded by nature.
Take a bus to Ohara then transfer (60 min).
JPY500, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ajiro

End the day with a peaceful dinner at Ajiro, famous for its traditional Japanese meals.
Return to Kyoto by bus (60 min).
JPY3200, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Art and Creativity

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

A delicious breakfast is vital to start the day.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kyoto International Manga Museum

Explore the world of manga at the Kyoto International Manga Museum, with thousands of volumes to enjoy.
Take the subway to Karasuma Oike Station (20 min).
JPY800, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sanjusan Gado

Dig into a tasty vegetarian lunch at Sanjusan Gado near the museum.
Short walk from the museum.
JPY2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Go for a Pottery Experience

Engage in a family pottery-making class at a local studio, everyone will enjoy this hands-on experience.
Book a class in advance and navigate based on location.
JPY4000, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kyoto Tower

Head to Kyoto Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Take bus or subway to Kyoto Tower (20 min).
JPY800, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Tokuya

Wrap up the day with dinner at Gion Tokuya, known for its delectable cuisine.
Take bus back to Gion (15 min).
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Outdoor Escapades

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Another good meal to start the day.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kurama Onsen

Relish a family day at Kurama Onsen, enjoying outdoor hot springs and beautiful nature.
Take the Eizan Railway from Demachiyanagi Station (30 min).
JPY800, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yudofu Izakaya

Have a unique lunch at Yudofu Izakaya, known for its tofu dishes.
Walk around Kurama (15 min).
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Hike through the Forest Trails

Take in the beauty of nature on a family-friendly hike through the surrounding trails.
Start from Kurama Onsen.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Kibune

Explore the charming town of Kibune for scenic views and relaxing moments.
Walk to Kibune from Kurama (30 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Kibune Katsu

Savor dinner at Kibune Katsu, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious sushi.
Short walk from the river.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Exploring Historical Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast to kickstart the day.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens.
Take bus 50 from Kyoto Station (20 min).
JPY1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kudo

Enjoy lunch at Kudo, offering local Kyoto cuisine in a welcoming environment.
Short walk from the castle.
JPY2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Kyoto Imperial Palace

Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace and its beautiful gardens.
Take bus to Imperial Palace (15 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Relax and enjoy the beauty of diverse plant life at the Botanical Gardens.
Walk 20 minutes from the palace.
JPY200, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hidarite

Bring the day to an end with dinner at Hidarite, famous for its ramen.
Bus back to Gion (20 min).
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Peaceful Retreat Day

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for another fulfilling meal at the hotel.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Experience tranquility at Nanzen-ji Temple and its lovely gardens.
Take bus 203 from Kyoto Station (20 min).
JPY600, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Ajiro Cafe

Dine at Ajiro Cafe known for its traditional Japanese dishes.
Short walk from Nanzen-ji.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore the Eikan-do Zenrin-ji

Discover the Eikan-do Zenrin-ji known for its beautiful scenery, especially in autumn.
Take a bus to Eikan-do Zenrin-ji (15 min).
JPY500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Philosopher's Path

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Philosopher's Path, famous for cherry blossoms.
Easy access from Eikan-do.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at 筑地 寿司大 (Tsukiji Sushi Dai)

End the day with fresh and delicious sushi at Tsukiji Sushi Dai.
Bus back to Gion (20 min).
JPY5000, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Last Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor your last breakfast in Kyoto before heading out.
Hotel Granvia Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kyoto Tower

Take one last trip to Kyoto Tower for stunning city views before saying goodbye.
Take the JR from Gion Station to Kyoto Tower (20 min).
JPY800, 1 hour

11:00AM

Pack and Check-Out

Head back to the hotel to pack and check-out.
Return to the hotel (20 min).
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kyoto Station

Enjoy lunch at Kyoto Station before departure, with lots of options available.
Within the station.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Departure from Kyoto

Bid farewell to beautiful Kyoto as you catch your train or flight.
Kyoto Station.
Free, Variable
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