One Day Wonders in Eastern Kyoto: Temples and Tea

Day 1: Temple Hopping

Kyoto, Japan

7:00AM

Nanzenji Temple

Begin your day at the peaceful Nanzenji Temple, known for its stunning architecture and serene gardens that open early for an exquisite experience.
Take a taxi or walk to Nanzenji Temple.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours

8:30AM

Eikando Temple

Explore Eikando Temple, famous for its beautiful autumn leaves and tranquil pond, making for picturesque morning scenery.
Walk from Nanzenji Temple to Eikando Temple, about 10 minutes.
JPY 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Breakfast at Ippodo Tea

Savor a traditional Japanese breakfast while sipping high-quality matcha in a historic tea shop setting.
Walk for about 15 minutes to Ippodo Tea.
JPY 1,200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Coffee at Blue Bottle

Recharge with a carefully brewed cup of coffee at the stylish Blue Bottle Café nearby, perfect for a short break.
A quick 10-minute walk from Ippodo Tea.
JPY 700, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Bishamon-do Temple

Head to Bishamon-do Temple, which opens at 8:30 AM; enjoy the quieter atmosphere before crowds arrive.
Travel approximately 20 minutes by bus to Bishamon-do Temple.
JPY 300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch near Fushimi Inari Taisha

Indulge in a delicious lunch of inari sushi or soba noodles at a local restaurant near Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Take a bus or train to Fushimi Inari Taisha, about 20 minutes.
JPY 1,000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up the mountain.
Easily walk from the lunch spot to the Inari Shrine.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Wander through Kiyomizu-dera Temple, enjoying breathtaking views of Kyoto from its famous wooden stage.
Take a bus from Fushimi Inari to Kiyomizu-dera, about 30 minutes.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Higashiyama District

Stroll through the charming Higashiyama District, filled with traditional shops, tea houses, and cultural experiences.
A short, enjoyable walk from Kiyomizu-dera.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Yasaka Pagoda

Admire Yasaka Pagoda’s stunning architecture and photograph the pagoda against the setting sun; it's a sight to behold.
Walk from Higashiyama District to Yasaka Pagoda, around 10 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner in Gion

Conclude your day with a delightful kaiseki dinner in Gion, experiencing the best of Japanese haute cuisine in an atmospheric setting.
Stroll to Gion, which is just adjacent to Yasaka Pagoda.
JPY 5,000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability