Ultimate Day Trip in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at %Cafe Du 2%

Start your day with a delightful breakfast featuring traditional Japanese dishes like tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette) and fresh seasonal fruit, set in an ambiance that reflects modern Kyoto.
Take a short walk from your hotel to Cafe Du 2, ideally located in the city center.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a picturesque start to your sightseeing.
Take bus number 101 or 205 directly to Kinkaku-ji, which takes around 40 minutes.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the magical bamboo forests that feel like a scene out of a movie, immersing yourself in nature's beauty.
From Kinkaku-ji, take a bus back to the city center then take the train to Arashiyama Station.
JPY250, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at %Sushi Iwa%

Enjoy lunch at a local sushi spot where fresh seafood is served with expert craftsmanship, embracing Kyoto's unique take on sushi.
A pleasant 10-minute walk from the Bamboo Grove to Sushi Iwa.
JPY3000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha

Venture to the iconic shrine famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that wind up the mountain, offering stunning views of the city.
Take a train from Arashiyama back to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the Nara Line to Inari Station, about a 30-minute journey.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Gion District

Wander the historic streets of Gion, where you might catch a glimpse of a Geisha while enjoying the traditional wooden machiya houses.
From Fushimi Inari Taisha, take the train back to Kyoto Station, then a subway to Gion-Shijo Station, taking around 40 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at %Gion Karyo%

Indulge in a kaiseki dinner at this upscale restaurant that beautifully presents seasonal ingredients from Kyoto for a traditional culinary experience.
A short walk from the Gion district, only about 10 minutes.
JPY8000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening stroll along the Kamo River

Conclude your day with a relaxing walk by the Kamo River, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and views of the illuminated city.
Head west from Gion Karyo, taking just around 10 minutes to reach the riverside.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability