Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is the most famous shrine in Kyoto and is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates leading to Mount Inari. Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the trails leading up to the shrine, and along the way, there are various food stalls and souvenir shops. Afterwards, visit the Nijo Castle, with its beautiful gardens, several buildings that showcase the beauty and power of ancient Kyoto, and glimpses into the daily lives of samurais during the Edo period.
Experience the serenity of the natural world at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, with its towering bamboo stalks rustling in the breeze. Enjoy a walk through the scenic gardens and explore the nearby Tenryu-ji temple. Next, head to the famous Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, where the glittering structure sits beside a tranquil pond. The temple is a symbol of Kyoto, with its two floors of gold leaf-covered walls and a reflecting pool.
The Kyoto International Manga Museum has an extensive collection of manga from all over Japan, and visitors can read and borrow books to read. There are workshops throughout the day to learn about the art of manga drawing. For animal lovers, head to the Kyoto Aquarium, known for its penguins, otters, and enormous whale sharks in the central tank. There are also informative exhibits about aquatic life around Japan.
Time travel to the Edo period at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, a theme park and film studio. Visitors can take pictures with characters from samurai movies, watch stunt shows and sword performances, and walk through the park's recreated Edo-era streets. Located nearby is the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, which is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar who became a god of learning. The grounds house several small shrines, torii gates, and beautiful gardens.
Travelers in Kyoto can easily use a combination of public transportation, such as buses, trains, and subways, to reach their destinations. Alternatively, one can rent a bicycle or hire a taxi for a more convenient option. Average transportation costs for eight trips throughout the itinerary are approximately 2000 yen per person. Travel times between locations range from 15 to 45 minutes.
If you have more time, consider exploring the historic districts of Kyoto, such as Gion and Pontocho. These areas are known for their traditional architecture, teahouses, and geisha. If traveling with young children, visit the Kyoto Railway Museum, which has real trains, interactive exhibits, and a simulator. For foodies, explore the Nishiki Market, where you can try various types of sushi, matcha, and traditional sweets. If you have less time, consider combining nearby locations to make the most of your day.
The main airport serving Kyoto is Osaka International Airport, also known as Itami Airport (ITM). It is located approximately 50 km from Kyoto city center and can be reached by bus, train, or taxi. Another option is Kansai International Airport (KIX), which is located 95 km away from Kyoto and can be reached by train, bus, or shuttle service.