Kyoto Japan 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Kyoto

Morning:

  • Check-in at your hotel (Recommended: Kyoto Granbell Hotel for its central location and modern amenities)
  • Breakfast at Cafe & Kichohan Omuro, a popular spot known for traditional Japanese breakfasts.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM:

  • Visit Kiyomizudera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most famous temples offering stunning views of the city.
  • Walk through the beautiful Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka, traditional streets lined with shops and cafes.

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM:

  • Lunch at Gion Karyo, a long-established restaurant serving traditional Kyoto cuisine in a beautiful machiya (traditional townhouse).

1:30 PM - 4:00 PM:

  • Explore the Gion District, known for its charming wooden buildings and geisha sightings. Visit Yasaka Shrine and take a walk along the Philosopher’s Path.

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM:

  • Visit the Kennin-ji Temple, one of Kyoto’s oldest Zen temples, and enjoy its beautiful garden.

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM:

  • Dinner at Pontocho Kaburenjo, a theater restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Maikai performances while dining.

Day 2: Discovering Kyoto’s Cultural Landmarks

Morning:

  • Breakfast at your hotel or grab a bento box from a local convenience store.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM:

  • Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
  • Next, head to the Tofukuji Temple to admire its beautiful autumn leaves (if visiting in November) or its Zen garden at any other time of the year.

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM:

  • Lunch at Menya Musashi, a popular ramen restaurant near Fushimi Inari.

1:30 PM - 4:00 PM:

  • Head to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take a scenic boat ride on the Hozu River.
  • Visit the Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning garden.

4:00 PM - 6:30 PM:

  • Return to central Kyoto and explore the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6:30 PM - 8:00 PM:

  • Dinner at Yubatoushi Kikunoi, a Michelin-starred kaiseki restaurant offering traditional Kyoto cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Kyoto is known for its beautiful temples and shrines, but remember to dress modestly (no shorts or sleeveless shirts).
  • Taxis can be expensive, so consider using the affordable and convenient Kyoto City Bus Pass.
  • English may not be widely spoken in some places, so having a translation app can be helpful.

Transportation:

  • Kyoto has an extensive public transportation system including buses and subways. A day pass can save you money if you plan to use it frequently.
  • Taxis are also readily available but can be expensive compared to other cities in Japan.

Tips:

  • Try some traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) at a tea house like Gion Tsujiri.
  • Don’t forget to take some Kyoto-themed souvenirs home, such as yatsuhashi (a sweet pastry) or traditional kimonos.

Enjoy your trip to Kyoto!