The Perfect 2, 3, or 4-Day Kyoto Itinerary
Looking for the perfect 2, 3, or 4-day Kyoto itinerary? You’ve come to the right place. I’ve curated the ultimate Kyoto itinerary for first-time visitors.
Kyoto is a city where tradition and modernity blend into a cultural treasure trove. Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto now boasts a bevy of ancient temples, serene gardens, and aromatic markets. After spending nearly a month in Kyoto across multiple trips, I’ve curated an ideal Kyoto itinerary filled with idyllic strolls through bamboo groves, indulgent stops for Kyoto cuisine, and glimpses of geishas in the historic Gion district.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through a thoughtfully crafted Kyoto itinerary designed to maximize your time while ensuring you soak in the city’s charm at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or longer, you’ll find a balance of must-see landmarks, hidden gems, and immersive cultural experiences.
How many days to spend in Kyoto ↴
While most people blitz through the city in 48 hours or visit on a single-day trip, that hardly paints a full picture. I spent a week in Kyoto on my most recent trip, and even then I left feeling like I could have spent longer exploring. Ideally, everyone could spend a full week in Kyoto too, but limited PTO combined with the fact that Kyoto is one of the most expensive cities in Japan can make extended time here quite prohibitive. Still, I recommend spending a minimum of four days in Kyoto. Four days is optimal to ensure you squeeze in temple visits, vintage shopping, and lots of sightseeing.
Is 2 days in Kyoto enough
One of the biggest questions I get asked in my DMs is whether two days is enough time to visit Kyoto. The answer is ‘yes’ and also a resounding ‘no.’ Two days is not enough time to see everything, but it’s a start. With two days in Kyoto, you’ll have time to pop into some of the city’s best cafés, wander a few notable temples, and hit its renowned vintage shopping. You might have to move at a faster pace, but I recommend visiting Kyoto to any first-time visitors in Japan, even if that means a quick 48 hours.
When to visit Kyoto ↴
The best time to visit Kyoto depends on your travel preferences. Kyoto has two major tourist seasons: spring (often referred to as “Cherry Blossom Season” when the sakura are in bloom) and autumn (when the foliage peaks). Summer is also busy since many foreign families are making the most of school holidays, but Japan is hot in the summertime, so I would advise against it.
Spring (March-May) | Cherry blossoms (sakura) are in full bloom, so Kyoto gets incredibly crowded. The temperatures are pleasant and mild, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F). Aim for peak blossoms from late March to early April, but book your accommodation well in advance, as it's a busy season.
Summer (June- August) | Kyoto is lush and green, but it’s also hot, humid, and prone to rain in June (rainy season). Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous festivals, takes place in July.
Autumn (October- November) | The fall foliage transforms Kyoto into a canvas of red, orange, and gold. Iconic spots include Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tofuku-ji Temple, and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Cool and comfortable, with temperatures around 12°C (54°F) to 20°C (68°F). Mid to late November is typically the peak for autumn colors.
Winter (December- February) | During the winter, Kyoto is relatively quiet regarding tourist numbers. The city sees occasional snowfall, which creates magical scenes at its many temples. The temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F).
How to get to Kyoto ↴
Nearest Airports to Kyoto
Because Kyoto does not have its own airport, international travelers typically fly to a major international airport in Japan and then use domestic transportation to reach Kyoto.
Kansai International Airport (KIX) | Closest major international airport to Kyoto, about 75 minutes away by train.
Narita International Airport (NRT) | Near Tokyo, for those planning to visit Tokyo first.
Haneda Airport (HND) | Tokyo’s other major international airport.
Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) | Located in Nagoya, around 2 hours from Kyoto.
How to get from the Airport to Kyoto
The closest airport to Kyoto is Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka. You can take the JR Haruka Express to Kyoto Station for roughly ¥3,000. This price is cheaper with a Japan Rail Pass or regional rail pass.
Alternatively, you can take the Airport Limousine Bus to Kyoto Station. Tickets cost approximately ~¥2,600. If you’re not concerned about budget, you can take a private taxi, but be prepared to spend around ¥20,000–30,000.
how to get to Kyoto by train
Japan boasts one of the world's most advanced and well-connected train systems. Japanese trains are punctual (the average delay is less than 1 minute), clean, and safe. However, navigating the train system can be, admittedly, confusing.
Despite Kyoto being over 300 miles away from Tokyo, the Tokaido Shinkansen bullet train completes the trip in just 2 hours. This is your fastest train option, which is great for those with a tight itinerary. The Hikari Shinkansen bullet train only takes approximately 20 minutes longer. The slowest bullet train option is the Kodama train (2 hours 40 minutes). The JR Pass can be used on both the Hikari and Kodama trains with an additional fee.
It’s also incredibly easy to get from Osaka to Kyoto. The train ride is less than 15 minutes long, and trains run as early as 6 AM.
There are also non-Shinkansen train options that do not run as fast but they do operate regularly. These trains are also less expensive than Shinkansen trains. You can purchase train tickets online or at ticket counters within train stations. I suggest booking a seat online in advance. I booked all my train journeys in Japan exclusively through Klook.
How to get around Kyoto ↴
Many of Kyoto’s main sites are within walking distance from one another. However, the city is sprawled, so walking everywhere isn’t possible.
Luke and I used the bus for most of our Kyoto explorations. Bus trips cost a flat rate of JPY 230, eliminating the stress of calculating your fare. Google Maps was very accurate, and most bus stops had English and Japanese stop names posted, so navigating was a breeze. Be prepared to be your most punctual, as buses show up exactly on time. To ride, enter through the rear door and take a ticket from the machine by the door. Exit through the front door when you reach your destination and drop your fare in the slot. It’s best to have exact change!
Taxis within Kyoto are common for short distances, but public transport (buses and trains) are often just as efficient. If you’re hell-bent on using taxis, I found this fare calculator that helps you estimate your ride costs.
There is also a metro system throughout Kyoto. We used this several times without any complications. Make sure you download Google Maps offline so that you don’t have to worry about having service at all times.
Getting a SUICA card in Kyoto
You can use a Suica card to ride the public trains and buses in Kyoto. The main advantage of a Suica card is that it reduces cash payments. Like the London underground, it’s a tap-in-tap-out system of payment. If you’re nervous about handling foreign currencies, having a Suica might be an easier way to pay for transport around the city.
You can use a Suica card on any of the following train systems:
Kyoto City Bus
Kyoto Bus
Keihan Kyoto Bus
Keihan Bus
Keihan Kyoto Kotsu Bus
West Japan JR Bus
Kintetsu Bus
Hankyu Bus
JR West
Kyoto Municipal Subway
Kintetsu Railway
Keihan Electric Railway
Hankyu Railway
Keifuku Electric Railroad (Randen)
Eizan Electric Railway
Essential travel tips for Kyoto ↴
Transport + luggage in Japan
The most confusing part of traveling in Japan is navigating the train system(s).
Purchase a Japan Rail Pass | If planning to use the Shinkansen multiple times, it’s a cost-effective option for unlimited travel on eligible trains.
Regional Rail Passes | Consider the Kansai Area Pass or ICOCA & Haruka combo if focusing on Kyoto and nearby cities.
SIM Card or Pocket Wi-Fi | Get internet access for navigation.
Luggage Delivery Services | Use services like Takkyubin to send large luggage directly to your Kyoto accommodation.
safety in Japan + Kyoto
Japan is remarkably safe for travelers. It’s widely regarded as one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare compared to global averages. Japan is also famous for its honesty—lost items, including wallets and phones, are often turned in to the police and returned to their owners. I’ve visited both as a solo traveler and with my partner numerous times, and I’ve never encountered any situations that felt unsafe or uncomfortable.
For your safety, it is worth remembering that Kyoto is a high-traffic city that’s extremely popular with tourists. While pickpocketing is super rare, it can happen. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, like you would anywhere.
Start your day early
Kyoto’s attractions can get crowded, particularly during peak seasons. Visiting popular spots like Fushimi Inari or Kinkaku-ji early in the morning ensures a more serene experience.
plan ahead
People are sometimes surprised to find that many things are closed on Mondays. I recommend arriving on a Tuesday or later in the week to ensure things are upon for you to enjoy. Making reservations in advance can save you time and stress, whether for accommodations, tea ceremonies, or guided tours.
2-, 3-, or 4-Day Kyoto Itinerary ↴
Day 1: Weekenders Coffee Tominokoji, boutique shopping, Nishiki Market, Nijō Castle, Menbaka Fire Ramen, & Pontocho Alley
Day one of this Kyoto itinerary is set up to introduce you to the city. I recommend starting with a cup of expertly brewed coffee at Weekenders Coffee Tominokoji. Weekenders has a reputation for being one of the best coffee shops in Kyoto. A small wooden bench sits outside the café, serving as its only seating, which makes getting here early ideal. It’s well worth watching the baristas do their thing
Once you’re properly caffeinated, acquaint yourself with some of the unique shopping Kyoto is known for. I highly recommend visiting Wakabaya and Kohchosai, two beautiful home goods stores.
While you’re in the area, have a wander through Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s famous 5-block-long market. Nishiki Market is filled with hundreds of food stalls and souvenir shops. It’s regarded as Kyoto’s largest traditional food market, but to be brutally honest, I thought the market would feel more…authentic. Each time I’ve gone the market is teeming with tour groups and travelers, resulting in an overcrowded atmosphere I don’t particularly enjoy. Still, if it’s your first trip to Kyoto, it’s a must. There are plenty of restaurants and food stalls in the market area to choose from for lunch.
Hop on a bus and make your way to Nijō Castle. Luke and I stayed right around the corner from the castle and caught golden hour here on our first night in Kyoto, which I highly recommend. However, for the sake of this itinerary, head to Nijō Castle after Nishiki Market. The castle is open daily from 8:45 AM until 5 PM. Admission is JPY 1300.
After exploring the castle grounds, ramone lovers should head to dinner at Menbaka Fire Ramen where chefs light your ramen bowl on fire. The restaurant isn’t far from Nijō Castle, so I suggest walking.
Cap off your first day in Kyoto with drinks at Pontocho Alley, one of Kyoto's most atmospheric areas running one block west of the Kamogawa River. The alley is packed with restaurants and bars on both sides. Pontocho is the perfect place for a nightcap.
Day 2: Fushimi Inari, Vermillion Café, Tofuku-ji Temple, & Vegan Ramen Uzu
Start your second day in Kyoto at Fushimi Inari-taisha. Getting there early is imperative to beat the crowds of people who flock to visit the iconic vermilion torii gates. The trail leads up Mount Inari, and even a partial hike provides stunning views of Kyoto.
After visiting the shrine, stop for a coffee break at Vermillion Café. The café offers great coffee, matcha lattes, brunch, and light snacks. Enjoy your drink from the back patio, which has river views. You’ll forget you’re in a city altogether.
Before leaving this area, I suggest heading to Tofuku-ji Temple, just a short walk from Fushimi Inari. This temple is famous for its gardens and the stunning Tsutenkyo Bridge. It’s especially beautiful during autumn when the foliage transforms into a sea of red and orange.
Finish off the day with dinner at Vegan Ramen Uzu. The fully vegan restaurant is a concept by the minds behind teamLab Planets. The idea is that being in a physical space of moving art while eating fresh food helps us to focus on the experience and connect with it. My meal at UZU remains one of the best I had throughout my time in Japan. Every part of the experience was sensational, from the service to the taste.
day 3: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, Hōkyō-in + Otagi Nenbutsu-ji temples, Gion District, geisha tea ceremony
If you’re willing to brave crowds and an early morning, start the day at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walk through the magical bamboo forest and explore the Arashiyama district.
After exploring the bamboo grove, make your way to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, a temple filled with stone Buddha carvings. It might be my favorite temple we visited in Japan! From Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, you can take a public bus back to the train station to head back into central Kyoto. I recommend taking your time and wandering around the local cafés and restaurants for a more timely second breakfast.
You can also check out the other temples in northern Kyoto, including:
“Golden Pavilion” Kinkaku-ji Temple (JPY 500) | A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. While inarguably beautiful, the temple is also inarguably overcrowded, which sort of strips away from the experience in my opinion.
Gio-ji Temple + Moss Gardens (JPY 300) | I didn’t realize how meditative looking at moss could be, but the moss gardens in Gio-ji Temple really drew me in.
Adashino-Nembutsu-ji (JPY 500) | Each stone in the shrine represents a person who died without a next of kin.
After temple hopping, I highly recommend taking a stroll through Gion. This part of the city is particularly known for geisha spotting, as the women hurriedly run between appointments. On your walk, be sure to wander along Hanami-koji Street, lined with traditional wooden machiya houses.
For dinner, indulge in an authentic izakaya experience with small plates of Kyoto specialties like yuba (tofu skin), tempura, and sashimi.
Day 4: Kyoto’s underrated neighborhoods or day trip
On your fourth and final day in Kyoto, finish your time by exploring the city’s underrated neighborhoods. Admittedly, these were some of my favorite areas of Kyoto. Head to the city's northeast area and start the day at Botanic Coffee Kyoto with picture-perfect pancakes in an atmosphere akin to a grandmother’s home. Mismatched tables and chairs
Be sure to save room in your stomach for delicious gyoza at Chao Chao Sanjo Kiyamachi. These were recommended numerous times in my DMs, and I worried they wouldn’t live up to their hype. Instead, I’m happy to report that not only were they worth the wait in line, but they exceeded my expectations.
Alternatively, consider booking a day trip from Kyoto on your fourth day. Many travelers take the train to nearby Nara for the famous bowing deer or to Osaka, the culinary capital of Japan.
Psst…there are a list of day trips from Kyoto further down in this blog post 👀
Where to stay in Kyoto ↴
If you’re searching for the perfect area of Kyoto to stay in, consider one of the
Best neighborhoods in Kyoto
Gion District | If you’ve always dreamed of wandering cobblestone streets lined with wooden machiya houses, Gion is the place to be. Also known as Kyoto’s Geisha district, Gion is steeped in history and culture. You’ll find traditional tea houses, charming alleyways, and landmarks like Yasaka Shrine. Staying here means you’re right in the middle of Kyoto’s quintessential experiences. Just keep in mind that accommodations here can be on the pricier side, but the atmosphere is worth it.
Central Kyoto/Kyoto Station | For travelers who value convenience, Central Kyoto is a fantastic choice. You’ll be close to Kyoto Station, making it easy to get around the city and take day trips to nearby attractions. This area has a good mix of modern amenities and cultural spots, like Nijo Castle. As a bonus, Central Kyoto has plenty of restaurants, shopping centers, and mid-range hotels to suit most budgets.
Downtown Kawaramachi/Nishiki Market| Food lovers will feel right at home in the Nishiki Market and Kawaramachi area. Nishiki Market is often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen", as it’s filled with local delicacies. Similarly, Kawaramachi is a hub for trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants. This area is also great for shopping and for those looking for a lively atmosphere. Noise in this area could be an issue, so I’d recommend Nishiki for night owls.
Best hotels in Kyoto
The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto
The Junei Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West
Four Seasons Kyoto
Suiran
Kyoto's Underrated Neighborhoods ↴
If you’ve already explored the popular spots, diving into Kyoto’s lesser-known neighborhoods is a great way to round out your visit. Here are a few hidden gems to consider:
Shimogamo & Demachiyanagi
Shimogamo and Demachiyanagi is the perfect area for those looking to escape the crowds. You can stroll quietly around the Shimogamo Shrine and its lush Tadasu no Mori forest. There are also plenty of charming coffee shops and bakeries in the Demachiyanagi area to keep you fueled. I recommend trying yatsuhashi (a traditional Kyoto sweet) at one of the many local confectionery shops.
Higashiyama Beyond Gion
Higashiyama sits further east than most tourists tend to venture. Here, you’ll find quiet temples like Manshu-in and Shoren-in, where you can soak in the serenity without jostling with crowds.
Fushimi Sake District
If you’re a sake enthusiast, this district should be on your radar. The Fushimi area is dotted with traditional sake breweries that offer tastings and tours to travelers. Visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum to learn about the history of sake production in the region.
Where to eat + drink in Kyoto ↴
Osaka is known as the foodie capital of Japan, but we are well everywhere— including Kyoto! Here is a full list of everywhere we ate (excluding most cafés; coffee post coming soon) while in Kyoto:
Vegan Ramen UZU | creative, upscale vegan versions of Japanese food
Botanic Coffee Kyoto | has a fantastic breakfast spread served in a cozy, home-like setting
Mumokuteki cafe |casual café serving traditional Japanese food made vegan, sits above a gorgeous vintage store
Rabbit Bagels | serves bagels with unique flavors
Ain Soph Journey | a dedicated vegan restaurant
Boulangerie Fiveran | bakery selling breads, pastries, & sandwiches
Vermillion Café | perfectly located on the water with a gorgeous terrace
Premarche Diner | a mix of western and Japanese food
Café Mole | a gorgeous café, covered in greenery that serves delicious lunches (cash-only establishment)
Padma | located above a Lawson’s convenience store
Hyde + Away | gorgeous café selling decadent pastries on the more local side of the city
Gorka Durbar Kyoto | delicious Indian and Nepali, because sometimes a curry just hits
Nishiki Market | stall after stall of food, including some vegetarian options
Day Trips from Kyoto ↴
With more than 4 days in Kyoto, you can plan a day trip out of the city. Here are additional itinerary ideas to inspire you:
Nara (45 minutes by train) | Known for its free-roaming deer and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Spend a day exploring Nara Park, feeding the friendly deer, and enjoying the city’s relaxed vibe.
Osaka (15 minutes by Shinkansen train) | Osaka is worth a dedicated visit (Osaka itinerary coming soon). However, if you’re a little short on time, I highly recommend a quick day trip to Osaka.
Uji (20 minutes by train) | Famous for its high-quality matcha, Uji is a must-visit for tea lovers. Explore the Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and savor matcha ice cream or freshly brewed green tea.
Himeji (1 hour by train) | Home to Japan’s most famous and beautifully preserved castle, Himeji Castle, this city is perfect for history buffs. The stunning architecture and surrounding gardens make for a memorable day trip.
Kobe (1.5 hours) | Foodies flock to Kobe to try the world-famous Kobe beef.
Kurashiki (2 hours) | Widely regarded as the “Venice of Japan”, Kurashiki is a preserved town from the Edo era. It’s the perfect place to visit if you want to get further off the beaten trail in Japan.
Mt Koya/Koyasan (2.5 hours) | Travelers interested in Buddhism in Japan should consider a day trip to Mt Koya, a historically significant temple settlement that’s twelve centuries old.
