Kyoto, Japan 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Arrival & Temple Hopping

  • Morning: Check-in at a traditional Ryokan (e.g., Ginkgo Kyoto or Ryokan Sawanoya) and enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast.
  • Afternoon: Visit Kiyomizu-dera, a famous Buddhist temple overlooking the city. Nearby, explore Jishu Shrine and its love legends.
  • Evening: Wander through Gion district, possibly spotting a Geisha, and dine on traditional Japanese cuisine at Izuju or Kikunoi.
  • Tips: Kyoto is known for its Yukata (casual summer kimono), consider wearing one during your exploration of the city.

Day 2: Historic Sites & Fushimi Inari Shrine

  • Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji, famous for its rock garden.
  • Afternoon: Head to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the iconic shrine with thousands of torii gates. Don’t miss the hiking opportunity through the mountain trails.
  • Evening: Dine at a local Izakaya (Japanese pub) in Fushimi or enjoy traditional Soba noodles at Menya Koho.

Day 3: Arashiyama & Bamboo Forest

  • Morning: Visit Tenryu-ji temple, Sagano Scenic Railway, and the famous Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama.
  • Afternoon: Take a boat ride on Togetsukyo Bridge or rent a bike to explore the area further.
  • Evening: Dine at Hatsume, a restaurant specializing in Kyoto Obanzai (traditional Kyoto cuisine).

Day 4: Kyoto’s Arts & Crafts

  • Morning: Visit Kiyomizu-zaka Street and explore traditional shops selling pottery, textiles, and other crafts.
  • Afternoon: Head to Higashiyama district and visit Nanzenji Temple, Chishakuin Garden, and Eikando.
  • Evening: Dine at Kaiseki restaurant Yubai or Gion Namba for a multi-course meal of seasonal Kyoto delicacies.

Day 5: Day Trip to Nara

  • Morning: Take the JR train to Nara (approx. 1 hour) and visit Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park with its free-roaming deer, and Kasuga Taisha.
  • Afternoon: Explore more of Nara’s temples and shrines or relax in the city before returning to Kyoto.
  • Evening: Return to Kyoto and dine at a local Izakaya or try a Ramen restaurant like Ramen Ouka or Ramen Daiwa.

Day 6: Geisha District & Pontocho Alley

  • Morning: Visit the Silver Pavilion (Ginkaku-ji) and Philosopher’s Path.
  • Afternoon: Explore Gion district and Pontocho Alley, possibly spotting a Geisha. Visit Yasaka Shrine while you’re there.
  • Evening: Dine at a traditional Japanese restaurant in Pontocho Alley or try Kyoto-style vegan cuisine at Ace Cafe & Bar.

Day 7: Free Day & Departure

  • Morning to Afternoon: Spend your free day shopping for souvenirs, visiting any missed attractions, or relaxing in a local Onsen (hot spring).
  • Evening: Check out from your Ryokan and head to the airport or train station for your departure.
  • Tips: Invest in a JR Pass if you plan to travel extensively around Japan during your trip. Purchase a Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass for unlimited rides on city buses. Always respect local customs and traditions, especially at temples and shrines.