Kyoto Japan 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Kyoto, Japan

Day 1 - Arrival & Exploring Eastern Kyoto

  • Arrive at Kansai International Airport or Osaka’s Itami Airport. You can easily reach Kyoto by airport bus (Haruka) or train (JR Kyoto Line).

  • Check-in at a Centrally Located Ryokan or Hotel: Consider staying in Gion, Higashiyama, or Kawaramachi for easy access to major attractions. Some recommendations include Kyoto Ryangoku Hanakumo, Gion Kanpai-Yado, or Hotel Granvia Kyoto.

  • Visit Kiyomizudera Temple: One of the most famous temples in Japan, offering stunning views over Kyoto. It’s a short walk from Chion-in Temple and Yasaka Shrine. (Admission: 400 yen)

  • Explore Sannen-zaka & Nennenzaka Streets: These charming streets in Higashiyama district are lined with traditional machiya houses, cafes, and souvenir shops. Try a matcha soft serve at Yoiya (地弥屋) or a traditional Kyoto dessert, yatsuhashi, at Nishikawa Hanemon (西川はねもん).

  • Experience a Traditional Japanese Dinner: Dine at a Kaiseki restaurant. Gion Karyo (祇園かりよ) offers an exquisite kaiseki experience, while Kyoto Machiya Izuju (京都町家いずうじ) is more casual and budget-friendly.

Day 2 - Western Kyoto & Arashiyama

  • Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine: Catch an early train to Inari Station for the iconic torii gates trail. (Admission: Free)

  • Explore Arashiyama: Stroll through the Bamboo Grove, visit Tenryu-ji Temple and the beautiful Togetsukyo Bridge. You can also take a scenic riverboat ride or rent a bike to explore further. (Admission: 500 yen for the bamboo grove)

  • Lunch at Arashiyama: Try katsudon (deep-fried pork cutlet bowl rice) at Katsugyo (かつギョー).

  • Head to Kyoto Imperial Palace Park: Spend the afternoon exploring this beautiful park, once the residence of Japan’s Emperor. The palace is not open to the public, but the gardens are free to enter.

  • Dinner in Pontocho Alley: This historic district is filled with izakayas (Japanese pubs). Try Kikufuji (菊藤) or Yoshimura (吉村) for a unique Kyoto dining experience.

Day 3 - Northern Kyoto & Ginkaku-ji

  • Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): This beautiful Zen temple is surrounded by a stunning garden and offers a tranquil atmosphere. (Admission: 500 yen)

  • Explore Philosopher’s Walk: A beautiful walking path lined with cherry blossom trees in spring, leading to Ginkaku-ji. Stop at cafes along the way for a break.

  • Visit Kyoto University and Heian Shrine: Take a look around the university campus, then visit Heian Shrine, one of Kyoto’s newest shrines. (Admission: Free)

  • Lunch in Demachiyanagi: Try okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) at Mizuno (みずの).

  • Afternoon at Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion, covered in gold leaf. It’s a short bus ride from Ginkaku-ji. (Admission: 400 yen)

Day 4 - Southern Kyoto & Fushimi Inari

  • Visit Tofuku-ji Temple: This temple is famous for its beautiful autumn leaves and stunning gardens, especially the Tsutenkyo Bridge. (Admission: 300 yen)

  • Lunch in Shimogamo-jinja: Try local specialties like obanzai (Kyoto-style dishes) at Mugen Cafe & Restaurant (無限カフェ).

  • Afternoon at Fushimi Inari: If you missed it on Day 1, revisit Fushimi Inari for a second visit or explore other shrines in the area like Jingo-ji Temple.

Day 5 - Day Trip to Nara or Hiking Mt. Higashiya

  • Day Trip to Nara: Visit Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Nara Park to see the famous deer. It’s a quick trip from Kyoto by train.

  • Hike Mt. Higashiya: For those who prefer a more active day, consider hiking Mt. Higashiya, which offers stunning views of Kyoto. It’s easily accessible via JR Nara Line.

Things to Know:

  1. Transportation: Kyoto has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains (JR and subway). Consider getting a 2-day or 3-day JR Pass if you plan to travel outside of Kyoto.

  2. Etiquette: Follow Japanese customs such as removing your shoes at temples and shrines, not blowing your nose in public, and not pointing with your index finger (use your whole hand instead).

  3. Currency: Japan uses the Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities but have cash on hand for smaller shops or restaurants.

  4. Language: While many people can speak some English, especially in tourist areas, it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Japanese.

Enjoy your trip to Kyoto!