Kyoto, Japan 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Central Kyoto

• Morning:

  1. Check-in at Hotel Granvia Kyoto or similar, conveniently located in Kyoto Station.
  2. Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at the hotel or nearby Cafe & Kitsune.
  3. Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace Park and Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Japanese Emperor.
  4. Explore the beautiful [Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)](https://www.ginkakuj Temple.com/) and its stunning gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Afternoon:

  1. Lunch at Nishiki Market, where you can try traditional Kyoto street food such as Kyo-ramen, Yudofu (tofu hot pot) and Obanzai (traditional Kyoto side dishes).
  2. Visit Kiyomizudera Temple and admire the stunning view of Kyoto from its main hall.
  3. Walk through Sannen-zaka & Ninnen-zaka, Kyoto’s historic and picturesque streets lined with traditional shops and restaurants.

• Evening:

  1. Dinner at Pontocho Alley where you can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine such as Kaiseki, Yakitori and Okonomiyaki.
  2. Take a relaxing walk along the Hozu River or watch the famous Gion Shimai Dance performance.

Day 2: Eastern Kyoto (Higashiyama)

• Morning:

  1. Breakfast at a local café near your accommodation.
  2. Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.
  3. Explore the Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama and take a scenic boat ride along the Hozu River (optional).

• Afternoon:

  1. Lunch at Arashiyama’s Okonomiyaki Nakanotoya, a popular spot for Okonomiyaki.
  2. Head to Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and enjoy its golden reflection on the mirror pond.
  3. Explore the Ryoanji Temple and its famous rock garden.

• Evening:

  1. Dinner at a local Izakaya or Ramen restaurant in Eastern Kyoto.
  2. Take a traditional Japanese bath at Yasaka Yumoto or similar public bathhouses.

Day 3: Northern Kyoto (Northern Higashiyama and Ginkakuji Area)

• Morning:

  1. Breakfast at a local café near your accommodation.
  2. Visit the Philosopher’s Path and walk along the beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring, or the vibrant autumn leaves in fall.
  3. Explore the Chishakuin Temple and its beautiful gardens.

• Afternoon:

  1. Lunch at a local restaurant near your destination.
  2. Head to Nijo Castle and learn about the Edo period architecture and history.
  3. Visit Kyoto International Manga Museum to explore the world of Japanese manga.

• Evening:

  1. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant serving Kaiseki or other traditional Kyoto cuisine.
  2. Enjoy your last night in Kyoto, perhaps by visiting Gion Corner for a taste of traditional Japanese arts and culture.