One Perfect Day in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Traditional Breakfast at Ippudo

Start your day with a delicious Japanese breakfast at Ippudo, where you can enjoy a warm bowl of Tonkotsu ramen complemented with soft-boiled eggs.
Located conveniently in the city center, an easy morning walk will get you there.
JPY 1,200, 1 hour

9:15AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Visit the stunning Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that create an unforgettable hiking route.
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station, it’s just a 5-minute ride.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, the iconic Golden Pavilion surrounded by serene gardens and a tranquil pond, perfect for stunning photographs.
Take bus 101 or 205 from Fushimi Inari to Kinkaku-ji, it takes around 40 minutes.
JPY 400, 1 hour

12:45PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Enjoy a variety of local street food at Nishiki Market, where you can sample everything from sushi and mochi to pickled vegetables.
Take bus 101 back to Sanjo-kawaramachi, a short walk will get you to Nishiki Market.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

After lunch, make your way to the spectacular Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where you can walk through towering green stalks swaying gently in the breeze.
Take the train from Kawaramachi Station to Arashiyama Station, which takes about 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tenryu-ji Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and Zen architecture.
The temple is a short walk from the Bamboo Grove.
JPY 500, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Wrap up your day with a traditional kaiseki dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant, where you can experience a multi-course meal featuring exquisite seasonal ingredients.
From Arashiyama, take the train back to Gion Shijo Station.
JPY 6,000, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening Walk in Gion District

Finish your day with a leisurely evening walk through the historic Gion District, where you can spot geishas and enjoy the beautiful traditional architecture.
The Gion District is located right next to the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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