kyoto 1 day trip

1 Day Kyoto Itinerary, Japan (2024 GUIDE)

This 1 Day Kyoto Itinerary is the perfect guide for first-timers visiting the cultural capital of Japan.

From ancient temples and shrines to shopping streets and nourishing restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

There are so many things to do in Kyoto that you could quite literally spend weeks exploring this magnificent city.

But don’t worry – if you only have a short time frame to visit, seeing the top Kyoto attractions in one day is totally possible.

In this 1-day itinerary for Kyoto, I have included a complete list of the top places to see as well as some useful information on how to get around, where to stay in Kyoto, and a map of the city.

Table of Contents

1 DAY KYOTO ITINERARY OVERVIEW

To get the most out of your Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary, see below for a list of must-see attractions that I have included in this post:

• Kinkaku-ji Temple
• Ryoan-ji Temple
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest 
• Fushimi Inari (Tori Gates)
• Maiko Theatre (Geisha Girl Performance)
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple

KINKAKU-JI TEMPLE

For the first stop on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary, I highly suggest paying a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple in Kyoto’s northwest, where you’ll find the famous Golden Pavilion, located on a small lake in the middle of a serene garden.

The building dates back to 1397, and was once the holiday retreat villa for a prominent Japanese Shogun!

You can expect to spend about an hour exploring the temple and its surrounding gardens.

To reach Kinkaku-ji Temple on your Kyoto day trip itinerary, you can take the Kyoto City Bus 205 from Kyoto Station to Kinkakuji-michi bus stop, or Kyoto City Bus 59 from Sanjo-Keihan to the Kinkakuji-mae stop, or taxi directly to Kinkaku-ji Temple.

→ Click here for the pin location on Google Maps

ENTRANCE FEE & OPENING HOURS:

The entrance fee to visit Kinkakuji Temple is 400¥.

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 9 am – 5 pm.

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

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Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

RYOAN-JI TEMPLE

Ryoan-ji Temple is the site of Japan’s most famous rock garden, attracting hundreds of visitors every day.

Meditating with the view of this immaculately well-kept Cultural World Heritage site is the next best place to visit on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary!

From Kinkaku-ji Temple, it’s a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride to reach Ryoan-ji Temple.

The entrance fee to enter Ryoanji Temple is 500¥.

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 8 am – 5 pm – Plenty of time to visit on a day in Kyoto.

ARASHIYAMA BAMBOO FOREST

Next up on this itinerary is the world-famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. A trip to Kyoto wouldn’t be complete without having visited Arashiyama!

Kyoto’s bamboo forest is one of the most photographed attractions in the city and experiencing it through your own eyes is even better than any picture you would have seen of this place!

There is one main path leading through the Kyoto bamboo grove and when you enter the parallel tunnel of bamboo trees, you’ll feel like you’ve just entered another realm.

You will also notice the temperature drop when you are wandering through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove as the canopy above almost completely cuts out the sun.

The nature that surrounds Arashiyama is absolutely breathtaking and chances are you’ll spot a few monkeys in the area too, so keep your eye peeled.

A personal recommendation – make sure to come just after sunrise as photos will look even more stunning and you’ll avoid the group tours.

Talking about group tours, in case you don’t feel comfortable visiting by yourself, I recommend taking this early bird tour to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . Many people prepare their 1 day Kyoto itinerary from Osaka only for that!

BEST TOUR IN KYOTO

A must-do when visiting Kyoto is joining a Kyoto Early Bird Tour !

It includes a professional guide, a tour of the Bamboo Forest and other spots, and the Kinkakuji Temple!

The Bamboo Forest in Kyoto is located in Arashiyama, northwest of the city center.

Find your way to Saga Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano line using the JR Pass and it’s a short 10-minute walk from here.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest entrance fee is FREE, which is another great reason to visit on your one day in Kyoto itinerary.

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 5:30 am – 11:30 pm, and that is so convenient if you plan a day trip to Kyoto from Osaka.

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FUSHIMI INARI

Continue the adventure on your one day Kyoto itinerary by journeying through the world-famous Tori gates of Fushimi Inari.

This must-see shrine consists of a pathway lined with over 10,000 Tori gates that extends 4km up to the very top of Mount Inari.

It takes around two hours to walk to the very top and back down again, however, you can turn back at any time you want!

Along the pathway, you will also see many stone foxes, symbolizing the messenger of Inari – the god of rice… and business!

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is also known for its beautiful architecture and gardens, making it an ideal spot for photographers looking to capture some amazing shots and it’s a great idea for what to do in Kyoto in 1 day.

Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Railway Station using the JR Pass and ride it two stops to JR Inari Station.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is FREE to enter and it’s open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

MAIKO THEATER

One of the most exclusive experiences to add to your Kyoto 1 day itinerary is meeting a traditional Geisha performer.

Geisha are highly skilled entertainers who appear at high-end dinners, private parties, and special events to add a special touch to the proceedings, and are rarely seen in public.

Many foreigners tend to run around the red light district areas to try to get a glimpse of a Geisha girl or pay large sums of money to have a private performance.

Luckily, for travelers on a budget, there are some cheap options to get a taste of what a Geisha show is like!

I personally recommend the Maiko Theatre. While training to become Geisha between the ages of 15 and 20, these girls are known as ‘Maiko’, and this theatre gives you the rare opportunity to get to see one of them close up!

Take the bus from Kyoto Station to Kawaramachi Gojo bus stop, then walk for 2 minutes, or 3 minutes walk east from Keihan Shimizu Gojo station (exit 4).

It is relatively inexpensive at 3300¥ for their basic show, including a special dance and Q&A session, and you can take as many photos of (and with) her as you like!

Opening hours are Monday to Sunday from 10 am – 7 pm.

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KIYOMIZU-DERA

Next on this itinerary for Kyoto is a visit to the Kiyomizu-dera (Water) Temple.

The walk leading up to the temple is almost as exciting as the temple visit itself, with a multitude of traditional buildings, shops, and restaurants.

Kiyomizu-dera is built into the side of the mountain, and from the huge verandah, you can see spectacular views of the hillside and the entire city.

Below the Kiyomizu-dera temple, you can find the reason why people make pilgrimages here from around Japan and the world – the Otowa Waterfall, a must-see on a Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

The waters are divided into three streams, and visitors use long poles with cups attached to drink from the streams.

Each stream has a different meaning and benefit – long life and health, success in school/career, and love. However, you can only drink from one… so choose carefully!

Make your way to Kiyomizu-michi street and follow it uphill until you reach the popular Kiyomizu-dera (Water) Temple.

The Kiyomizu-dera Temple entrance fee is 300¥.

This Kyoto tourist spot is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, and that’s plenty of time to include it with other spots what to see in Kyoto for the day.

Last but not least on this Kyoto day itinerary is Gion, a must-do when taking a Kyoto day trip from Osaka or Tokyo.

From Kiyomizu-dera, you can meander down the iconic Sannen-zaka alleyway, a historical, stone-paved street lined with many traditional Japanese buildings, shops, cafes, and inns.

Sannen-zaka is also surrounded by several famous landmarks such as Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, Yasaka-no-to Pagoda, and Kodaiji Zen Temple.

Once you reach the bottom of the hill, you’ve basically arrived at Gion, home to various red-light districts where you might be lucky enough to spot a Geisha! My favorite is Hanamikoji Street.

I recommend timing your arrival here for around 5:30 pm, as this is when the Geishas start leaving their homes to go to work (…and avoid the paparazzi of foreigners while doing so!)

Be careful though, you can be fined for taking photos of them, as it is considered highly disrespectful.

Put the cameras down for this one, and enjoy the chance to see one in the moment!

RELATED ARTICLE → 7 DAY JAPAN ITINERARY

WHERE TO STAY IN KYOTO

There are thousands of accommodations to stay on a Kyoto 1 day trip, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations that I personally recommend for your Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

LUXURY: HOTEL GRANVIA KYOTO

MID RANGE: TUNE STAY KYOTO

BUDGET: PIECE HOSTEL SANJO

TRADITIONAL RYOKAN

If you’re looking for an authentic experience to add to your 1 day in Kyoto itinerary, I highly recommend staying at a traditional Ryokan (Japanese-style inn) during your stay.

My personal favorite is Kyoto Ryokan Kinoe which is conveniently located in central Kyoto just 5 minutes walk from Gion.

This cozy Ryokan offers spacious tatami mat rooms, 24-hour baths, and multi-course meals served for breakfast and dinner.

Staying here will make you feel like you’re a traveler back in Edo-era Japan, and it’s a great base for a Kyoto 1 day itinerary!

OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN KYOTO

Didn’t find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs above.

Use the interactive map below to search all the available hotels for your Kyoto day tour itinerary. Simply enter your dates of stay and hit the search button!

MORE THINGS TO DO IN KYOTO

If you have more than one day in Kyoto, be sure to check out my Kyoto travel guide which includes 25 AMAZING things to do in Kyoto!

Read More: Kyoto Travel Guide – 25 AMAZING Things To Do

Best day trips from kyoto.

The best day trips from Kyoto are to Nara and/or Osaka.

Nara was once the ancient capital of Japan and plays home to some of the country’s most important cultural places, including the world’s largest wooden structure.

Some of the best things to see in Nara on a day trip from Kyoto are the famous Todai-ji Temple which houses the world’s largest Daibutsu (bronze Buddha statue) and a visit to the Nara Deer Park where it’s said that when you bow to the deer, they will bow back!

Osaka is the 3rd largest city in Japan and is most popular for its modern architecture, historical castles, buzzing nightlife, and sensory-overload shopping malls.

The top attractions to visit in Osaka on a day trip from Kyoto are the Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi shopping malls, Osaka Castle, Amerika-mura (America Town), and Universal Studios Japan.

Even if you have limited time on your Kyoto one day itinerary, I highly recommend going to Osaka for the day or half day.

Alternatively, you can see the city first and then proceed from Osaka to Kyoto on your Japan holiday.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR KYOTO

For first-timers planning a one day trip to Kyoto, here are some useful travel tips to know before you go.

STAY AROUND CENTRAL KYOTO

While pretty much all areas of Kyoto are good to stay in, Central Kyoto is the most convenient. And since it’s near the main train station, you can even organize a day trip to Kyoto from Tokyo.

This puts you right at the center of all the main attractions in Kyoto, making it easier and less time-consuming to explore around.

From Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari to Ginkaku-ji and Nijo Castle, most of the major landmarks are located within Central Kyoto, so there’s no need to walk for hours or take a taxi or a bike.

Staying centrally also allows for easy access to popular restaurants, shopping areas, and more, basically providing an optimal base for a few days.

Also, if you plan a Kyoto day trip from Tokyo, you can easily get around town and come back later or the day after to the train station.

VISIT THE KYOTO ATTRACTIONS EARLY

Kyoto receives 87 million tourists per year on average, so visiting the tourist spots in Kyoto early is a great way to avoid crowds and walk around peacefully.

The popular things to do in Kyoto and all the major attractions are packed with tourists, so it’s wise to go early in the morning when the lines are shorter.

Plus, you’ll benefit from cooler temperatures, which is a plus in the summertime.

COME IN APRIL FOR CHERRY BLOSSOM

To see the cherry blossoms in Kyoto, consider coming in early April when you can really experience the city in full bloom.

The cherry blossom starts in late March but the peak comes in April, and this is precisely where you can see the city as beautiful as ever.

DON’T TIP

When it comes to Japan, one thing to keep in mind is that tipping is seen as rude and, therefore, it’s better not to tip. In fact, it could even be seen as an insult by the locals.

Instead of tipping, show a sign of appreciation either verbally or with a bow to express gratitude for the service provided. This applies to restaurants and ryokans too.

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Getting travel insurance should be an essential consideration when traveling in Japan. Unfortunately, accidents can happen, and it’s always best to be prepared for the worst.

Additionally, make sure you commit only to reputable companies and read the fine print carefully!

I personally use Heymondo and am very happy with their policy, coverage, and customer service. Check them out here below when planning a day trip in Kyoto.

MOBILE DATA:

When you arrive in Kyoto Japan, you’re going to want to get online, and purchasing a sim card is very simple. You can do this at the airport on arrival at one of the retail stores.

Alternatively, I recommend purchasing an eSIM in advance with pre-loaded mobile data so you can get online as soon as you land and stay connected on your trip.

Forget plastic SIM Cards… Get an eSIM!

Say hello to eSIM – a virtual SIM card pre-loaded with mobile data so you can get online and stay connected around the world.

OneSimCard is the best eSIM for travel, with low-cost data packages available in 150+ countries.

Simply buy online, install it on your smartphone, and you’re good to go!

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of Kyoto.

WHAT TO PACK FOR KYOTO

When planning a one day trip Kyoto, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

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Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

GENERAL TIPS FOR JAPAN

Most Japanese people can speak English, so if you are ever lost or need help with something you will be able to converse in English.

Also, all the signs at the airports, train stations, shopping malls, etc. are written in both Japanese and English.

The currency in Japan is Yen (¥) and the exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = 130 ¥.

There are plenty of ATMs in Japan located in the majority of convenience stores, in front of banks, inside hotels, etc. where you can easily withdraw cash to have with you during your trip.

HOW TO GET AROUND JAPAN

The easiest and most convenient way to discover Japan is with a Japan Rail Pass that is valid for use on the vast majority of railways and local buses operated by JR (Japan Rail) throughout the country.

Choose between an Ordinary Pass, or choose the Green Class Pass if you’re looking to travel in more comfort with reclining seats, a footrest, extra leg space, and a travel magazine.

The JR Pass includes the Shinkansen (bullet train), Limited Express, Local Trains, Monorail, JR Buses, and the Miyajima Ferry.

You could even take a Kyoto 1 day itinerary from Osaka if you’re planning to visit both.

The Japan Rail Pass is definitely the best ticket to have when planning your Japan itinerary, and you can then take the Tokyo to Kyoto bullet train!

Travel Japan with the JR Pass!

Get a 7-day, 14-day, or 21-day JR Pass for your trip to Japan and enjoy unlimited travel on trains and buses!

The JR Pass is valid on the Shinkansen (bullet train), Limited Express, Local Trains, Monorail, and JR Buses.

BEST TIME TO VISIT JAPAN

The best time to visit Japan depends on what you plan to do.

I personally prefer the spring and summer months in Japan (April – September) when temperatures are warm and the landscapes are vividly green.

However, visiting Japan in winter (December – March) is absolutely magical because the landscapes are completely covered in glistening white snow.

Visiting Japan in winter also means you have to opportunity to go skiing and snowboarding in Japan’s alpine regions .

VISA FOR JAPAN

Japan is visa-free for travelers from over 65 countries and you can stay in Japan for up to 90 days on a tourist visa. 

Click Here to see the full list of nationalities that are eligible for the free 90-day tourist visa. 

You don’t need to apply online for this as you will be granted a 90-day tourist visa at the airport when you arrive.

More Japan Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Japan!

FINAL THOUGHTS – KYOTO ITINERARY

After 7 eventful days exploring Japan, my short one day itinerary Kyoto by far exceeded my expectations!

With many fun activities to do and attractions to see, Kyoto is well worth adding to your Japan Itinerary . I guarantee you won’t regret taking a Kyoto one day trip!

If you have any questions at all about this 1 Day in Kyoto Itinerary , please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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A PERFECT Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary: First Timer’s Guide

• by Danika Clark
• January 4, 2024

Where ancient traditions and modern life meet, Kyoto is a bucket-list travel destination. From its enchanting bamboo groves to beautiful temples to modern city life, Kyoto offers travelers the best of both worlds. This Kyoto 1 day itinerary allows you to explore both.

I been lucky enough to visit Kyoto twice and I have truly fallen in love with this cultural capital. I was SO excited to visit here, so I did more than enough research before stepping foot in Kyoto! Not to my surprise, I LOVED Kyoto. It was everything I had ever hoped for in a city!

With only 1 day in Kyoto, I have crafted a whirl-wind itinerary that takes you to ALL the best spots in the city. This Kyoto 1 day itinerary is sure to leave you wanting more from this incredible city!

Table of Contents

The perfect kyoto 1 day itinerary for first timers, early morning: breakfast.

With only a Kyoto 1 day itinerary, aim to have an early breakfast! You’ll want to make the most out of your time in this awesome culture hub of Japan.

Stop by a 7/11 or FamilyMart for breakfast. Unlike in America or Europe where 7/11 is cheap gas station food, here it’s high quality.

7/11 in Japan has a variety of healthy snacks and breakfast options. They will even heat it up for you behind the counter!

So, to maximize your time in the morning, stop at 7/11 for breakfast. Believe it or not, this is a very Japanese thing to do!

Morning: Bamboo Grove and Monkey Park (8:30-10:30)

Your first stop on this Kyoto 1 day itinerary is Bamboo Grove. I recommend arriving by 8:30am at the latest. Kyoto is a very popular tourist destination, and the Bamboo Grove tops most travelers’ lists.

To beat the crowds and get an awesome picture here, you’ll want to arrive as early as possible. Trust me, it’s worth it!

How To Get To The Bamboo Grove from Kyoto

To get to the Bamboo Grove, there are two different trains you can take.

From the Kyoto Station, you can jump on the JR/Sagano/San-in Main Line to the Saga-Arashiyama Station. This journey takes about 15 minutes. Once you arrive at the Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s a quick 10-minute walk to the bamboo forest.

If you are not staying near Kyoto Station, you can take the local Kyoto Subway. This Kyoto subway easily connects most parts of Kyoto. From your station in Kyoto, purchase a ticket on the Purple Hankya Kyoto Semi Line. You will need to get off at Arashiyama Station. From here, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Bamboo Grove.

This will be your easiest option if you are staying near Gion, Nakishi Market, and other touristy parts of town.

You will see lots of other tourists on the train heading to the same spot as you. So, you can follow the crowds to find the bamboo forest. However, if for some reason there are no crowds, there are signs that will point you in the right direction. 

Bamboo Grove (8:30-9:30 am)

Once you arrive at the Bamboo Grove, you are transported into a world unlike any other. Here, the bamboo trees soar into the sky! It’s incredible.

Use the morning time to take photos. This place gets PACKED. Which is why it’s the first thing on our Kyoto 1 day itinerary!

The Bamboo Grove consists of many paths weaving through the tall trees. It’s best to wear good walking shoes here.

See the Monkeys in the Park (9:30-10:30 am)

A must-do on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary while you are in the area is to see the snow monkeys! These adorable monkeys are located in the Iwatayama Park.

The Iwatayama Park is home to over 120 snow monkeys, also known as the Japanese Macaques. These monkeys are known to be playing in hot baths. They are distinct because of their red faces. They truly are so cute!

To visit the Monkey Park from the Bamboo Grove, it is less than a 20-minute walk. To get there, you will need to walk back through the town towards the Arashiyama Subway Station. Next, cross the Togetsu-Kyo Bridge.

The Togetsku-Kyo Bridge is a beautiful wooden bridge that crosses over the Katsura River.

Once you are over the bridge, make your way to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. It’s a bit of a hike, but well worth it!

Grab a Coffee (10:30-11:00 am)

Between the Bamboo Grove and seeing the Monkeys you will pass through the tourist town. Here, you will find lots of shops, delicious restaurants, and cute coffee shops. It’s the perfect break on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

You had an early morning, so if you have extra time, grab yourself another coffee and enjoy the atmosphere.

The most famous coffee shop in the area (and with undoubtedly the best views) is % Arabica – Arashiyama . However, this place gets crazy busy, so if you are in a rush it might be best to go somewhere else.

Lunch: Nishiki Market (12:30-2:30 pm)

The next stop on your Kyoto 1 day ininerary is Nishiki Market. From the bamboo grove head to Nishiki Market. Nishiki Market is a large outdoor market with lots of delicious food to choose from. This narrow market is 5 streets long, meaning it has hundreds of restaurants and shops for you to explore.

Nishiki Market is known for its traditional and rich history. This 400 year old market is home to many of the most famous foods in Kyoto too!

How to Get from The Bamboo Grove to Nishiki Market?

To get from the Bamboo Grove to Nishiki Market, you will need to get way on the train.

If you have the JR pass, you can ride the JR train from Saga-Arashiyama Station to Kyoto Station. Then, connect from the Kyoto Station onto the subway Green Karasuma Line. This takes around 45 minutes.

The quickest way is to take the subway from Arashiyama Station to Sai Station. From here, connect to the Hankyu Kyoto Line. Then, get off the train at Omiya Station.

Omiya Station is one street away from the market.

Things To Do At Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is the best spot in Kyoto for foodies. This market has it all and really is bustling during the lunch rush. You should arrive here around 12:30. This gives you enough time to enjoy a nice sit down meal and then some added time for exploring.

Eat Tako Tamago – A small baby octopus with a quail’s egg in the head. I’m not going to lie, this one is a bit far-fetched for me. But, when in Japan!

Mochi – This rice cake is a delicious sweet treat found all over Japan. Try some mochi in this market! There are many different forms of mochi – you can’t go wrong with any of them.

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street – This famous shopping street is packed with stores. Here you can stock up on anything you need or peruse for some souvenirs. There are more than enough options in this area.

Afternoon: Fushimi Inari Taisha (3:00 – 5:00 pm)

The top thing to do on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary is to visit the Fushimi Inari Taisha. This popular Shinto shrine is famous for its hundreds of orange Torii gates. This path is one of the most photographed spots in all of Japan!

The Fushimi Inari Taisha also gets PACKED! But, with only a Kyoto 1 day itinerary, it’s important to make every second count. So, you’ll have to brave the crowds to visit here.

How to get to Fushimi Inari Taisha

To get to Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto, you will need to find your way to the Fushimi-Inari Station. This is located on Kyoto’s subway line that runs through the city.

From Nishiki Market to Fushimi Inari Taisha, it’s a quick 25-minute ride from Gion-Shijo Station to Fushimi-Inari Station along the red Keihan Line.

What To Do at Fushimi Inari Taisha

When you enter the Fushimi Inari Taisha, you are first greeted with gift shops, temples, and other things to see before you find the famous orange Torri gate walkway.

You will find lots of crowds and people in this front second, as well as the beginning of the Torri gate walkway.

However, explore further down the Torri gate walkway to get away from people. This walkway is actually a 2.8-mile loop and is considered moderately challenging. The best part is that the whole hike is FILLED with the beautiful orange Torii gates. You’ll want to bring water for the hike! 

Once you get past the busy crowds at the beginning, later in the hike you will have many opportunities to take photos by yourself with the orange gates.

If you are feeling up for it, you should hike the whole way! At the top, you are greeted with a beautiful view of Kyoto.

You can easily spend an hour or two at this stop on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

Usually, I am a bit skeptical of somewhere so famous. I am scared it will be too crowded or not live up to the hype. However, I LOVED the Fushimi Inari Taisha. It was a highlight of my trip.

Give yourself a good two hours here to hike, explore the temple, take photos, and browse the shops.

Evening: Gion District (5:00 – 8:00 pm)

Another iconic stop on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary is the Gion District. The Gion District is the historical and traditional area in Kyoto. This place is picture-perfect. These beautiful streets transport you back to traditional Japanese culture.

Spend your time in Gion shopping and eating. Gion has many famous restaurants in the area that are worth a try. 

One of the most famous shops in Gion is actually is Starbucks! This Starbucks is said to be one of the most beautiful and unique Starbucks in the world. So, to be festival, I recommend just stopping by and having a look.

When visiting Gion on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary, you can’t go wrong just roaming around and discovering new streets. Each turn you take transports you to a new beautiful street with unique shops and restaurants.

The Gion District is built on the side of a hill, so there are many hills and steps in this area. The Gion District leads up the hill, and at the top is home to the Yasaka-jinja Shrine. This is another beautiful shrine that has another fantastic view of Kyoto. It’s free to walk around the grounds, however, you’ll need to pay if you want to go inside.

Night: Take a walk, eat more food, enjoy a tour, or Karaoke!

After a busy day in Kyoto, you will probably be pretty tired by the time the night falls.

But, if you still have energy to add more to your Kyoto 1 day itinerary, you have a couple of options for things to do once the sun goes down.

Shirakawa Canal – This canal is a beautiful canal right in the heart of the city. It has a beautiful walking path that many people utilize during their time in Kyoto.

Pontocho Alley – A famous alley in Kyoto home to many restaurants and bars. If you’re still hungry after the Gion District, you’ll want to go here. It’s a photographer’s dream as well. This beautiful street is stunning at night.

Take a Night Tour – Night tours allow you to see the city in a completely new way. At night, the Japanese lanterns light the streets. This is where the modern and the traditional sides meet. 

Karaoke – When in Japan you MUST Karaoke! Karaoke is the best thing to do at night. Here, you can rent out private rooms and sing your heart out. 

Other Things To Do on your Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary

• Golden Temple place
• Free Walking Tour
• Tokyo Tower
• Tenryu-ji Shrine

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

Kyoto is a descent sized town with many options on where to stay. It’s important to be in a good location for your Kyoto 1 day itinerary to help save time. One of the charms about Kyoto is that everything is close together.

The best areas to stay in Kyoto are as close to the Gion District, Nishiki Market, or Kyoto Train Station as possible. However, as long as you are next to a subway line, you will be well connected to the city.

Best Budget Accommodation

• K’s Backpacker Hostel – This hostel is the best in Kyoto! Japan is not known for its social life in hostels. In fact, I found it quite difficult to make friends in Japan. However, once I stayed in this hostel everything changed. This hostel fosters community. There are lots of opportunities to meet fellow travelers. It also has all the amenities you would need – a full-size kitsch, great wifi, laundry, and more.

Hotel Musse Kyoto –  A 4.5 star hotel with great reviews. It’s located just between the Nishiki Market and Gion District. Here you will be in the center of all the action without breaking your budget.

How To Get Around Kyoto:

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around. Kyoto has the JR line, subways, and lots of walking paths. It’s a well-connected city and every tourist hot spot is easily accessible by subway or train.

I found during my trip I walked most places. It’s a very walkable and safe city. A lot of the major tourist attractions are near each other.

However, the Bamboo Grove is a bit farther from the other attractions. To get to the bamboo grove you will have to take a train or the subway.

There are also taxis in Kyoto, however, they are very expensive and I don’t recommend using them.

How To Get To Kyoto

To get to Kyoto you will need to fly, take a train, or travel by bus.

Kyoto does not have an airport. The closest airport to Kyoto is the Osaka International Airport. The airport is about an hour away by bus or train.

Traveling by train in Japan is an epic way to see the country. The Japanese are known for their high-speed and futuristic trains. These trains don’t come cheap, but they are usually the fastest way to get from one city to another in Japan.

Taking a bus in Japan is the slowest and cheapest way to travel to Kyoto. From Tokyo, you can take an overnight bus to Kyoto. This is very cost-effective as you also save on a night’s accommodation!

How Many Days in Kyoto?

It’s best to have 3 days in Kyoto, however a Kyoto 1 day itinerary is entirely possible! 3 days is enough time to see all the main sites, take a tour around the city, and enjoy all the city has to offer. I spent 2 days in Kyoto and really wish I had more time! I LOVED this city. Although it is small, ideally I would have 3 days in Kyoto.

Is a Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary Enough?

Kyoto is a must-see city. Even within a short 24 hours, you are able to see the major tourist attractions, enjoy the food, and get a feel for the city. Although it is a short amount of time, any time is better than no time here!

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Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary For Things to See in Kyoto in One Day!

Categories Asia , Itinerary , Japan

Kyoto is one of the prettiest and most iconic cities to visit in Japan and it must be on your Japan itinerary ! There are lots of things to do in Kyoto and places to visit in Kyoto but if you only have one day in Kyoto , that’s ok, you can see many of these on a Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

There are many reasons you may spend just 1 day in Kyoto , for me, it was because I was in Japan in Cherry Blossom season so accommodation in Kyoto was really expensive. Therefore I decided to base myself in Osaka and do an Osaka to Kyoto day trip to ensure I could still see the temples and Kyoto attractions I desperately wanted to see!

How To Do An Osaka to Kyoto Day Trip & Use Your JR Pass!(opens in a new tab)

In this Kyoto one day itinerary I am going to tell you how to visit the most iconic places to visit in Kyoto like the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion District, Kyoto Palace, Kyoto Park in the perfect Kyoto itinerary!

Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary

Things To Do in Kyoto in One Day

The two main, popular and iconic places to visit in Kyoto , in my opinion, are the Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . They have been made even more famous thanks to Instagram and Instagram often shows you photos with no one else in them making you think that you will see this too.

Well, if you want to see that you need to get to them early !

Of course, I could only visit one of the two sites early  because I was on a one day trip to Kyoto!

After looking on a map I realised that Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are opposite ends of Kyoto to each other and that  Fushimi Inari Shrine is much closer to Kyoto Station , so I decided to go there first and on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary , I recommend you do too whether you are staying overnight in Kyoto or not.

• More of my Must Read Japan Posts:
• How to do a Day Trip to Kyoto from Osaka!
• Free Things To Do in Japan’s Most Popular Cities To Visit!
• Visiting Himeji Castle on a Day Trip or via Hiroshima.
• My Guide to Kobe City & Why You Should Visit !
• Things To Do In Takayama & Why You Should Visit!

Fushimi Inari Shrine

If you are taking a day trip to Kyoto from Osaka like myself or perhaps from Kobe , to get to Fushimi Inari Shrine from Kyoto Station when you get off the train head to the ‘JR Nara Line D’ Train on platforms 8-10 . Check the train before you get on as you need to get the local train , not the rapid train as the rapid train does not stop at Inari.

The train from Kyoto Station to Inari Station takes 5 or so minutes and the station exit is across the road from the Temple Entrance so by 9:00 am, I was there!

Kyoto Travel Tip – If you want to see those iconic and very impressive Torii Gates with minimal people on your Kyoto 1 day itinerary, when you arrive do not spend time seeing the Temples at the bottom, head straight up the hill to the Torii Gates and follow them up for as long as you can!

I was really surprised by how long the Torii Gates go on for, they keep going and going! I turned around after about 30 minutes of walking but I could have gone much further. I didn’t expect the pathway to be such an incline either but it is although luckily there are quite a few stopping points on the way.

Kyoto Travel Tip – If you want to get a photo in the Torii Gates of the Inari Shrine with no people in it you need to keep walking, the further you get, the fewer people there are, however, this also depends on the time of day.

Alternatively to get a photo at the Inari Torii Gates with no one else in it, just take a selfie and block other people with your head as I have! 

One Day Trip Kyoto

If you would prefer to see Kyoto with a guide or combine your trip with a tour of Kyoto , these Kyoto tours all have good reviews and are reasonable in price. Kyoto holds so much history that a day out with a guide would be a good idea and going on the Kyoto hop on, hop off bus will make seeing Kyoto in one day much easier too:

By 10:00 am I was back down at the base by the Temples and the day tour groups of Kyoto were arriving which made it so much busier and I was so glad I got there at 9:00 am.

The Fushimi Inari Shrine does not shut so technically you can get there as early as you like and I recommend getting there as early as possible on your 1 day Kyoto itinerary/

Kyoto Street Food

Outside the Temple are Street food vendors selling lots of different foods. In fact, there’s lots of street food in Kyoto outside the tourist spots which is actually really nice and a great way to eat on the go and eat some fairly cheap eats too. I got an Okonomi Yaki which was really good for 500Yen which I don’t think is too bad for a popular Kyoto tourist site.

If you would prefer to sit down and get breakfast or brunch, or even just a coffee after that walk, a nice looking cafe close to Inari Shrine is Vermillion .

JAPAN SIM CARD

Stay connected in Japan by ordering a sim card in advance and picking it up at the airport you land in. There a huge range of sim card options in Japan which you can see and buy here !

If you prefer eSIM’s these days, here’s a great option for an eSIM Mobile Data Plan in Japan so you’re connected as soon as you land without the hassle of swapping sims and waiting for connection.

JAPAN RAIL PASS

I’m sure you know, or have heard, that the Japan Rail Pass is the best value for getting around Japan!

There are many providers for the JR Pass but this is the official provider and the one I used.

You need to get your JR Pass ordered BEFORE your trip and sent to your home address, so look into buying one here !

Not sure how the JR Pass works and wondering if it will save you money?

Read my JR Pass guide here!

I then headed to Fushimi Inari Station Railway which is across the across and different to the station I got off at and headed a few stops on the metro North to Gion Shijo . To use the metro/subway in Kyoto you can either by individual tickets or use a top-up Icoca Card.

Gion District

The Gion District is Kyoto’s famous Geisha District and an old area of Kyoto so it a must-see in Kyoto in one day. For me, this is what I imaged not only Kyoto to be like but Japan too. Especially after reading the book Memoirs of a Geisha which I read a few years ago and really recommend to you if you haven’t read it.

There’s a river running through the Gion area of Kyoto with small traditional wooden merchant houses lining the streets. Because I was there at the start of April the Cherry Blossoms were also out in full bloom and it was extremely picturesque and a must-visit place in Kyoto!

It’s said that you are very lucky in Japan if you see a real Geisha, especially here in Kyoto, however, what you will most definitely see a lot of is tourists who have either hired Kimono’s which you can do here to save looking around many different shops or have had a full Geisha Makeover in Gion which you can book here , taking photos in the old backstreets of the area. Dressing up as a Geisha is possible with 1 day in Kyoto!

From Gion, I walked along the Shirakawa River in a loop until it reaches the main Kamo River  detouring via Okazaki Park and the Temple next to it and I really enjoyed this walk as it took me through a mix of buildings and the river kept changing shape and looks at every turn, so I would recommend you follow the same walkthrough Gion, Kyoto on your kyoto 1 day itinerary as there are all things to see in Kyoto in one day.

Walking alongside the wide Kamo River was absolutely stunning, I did not realise this side of Kyoto existed. In both directions of the running river ahead of me I could see the Mountains and I knew that the City of Kyoto was spread out between them.

Kamo River was a lovely place to walk in Kyoto and it took me to  Kyoto Park which is a huge rectangular Park in the Centre of Kyoto occupying a lot of space and is a nice place to walk around or enjoy a picnic in.

Kyoto Castle and Palace

Next up is another popular place to visit in Kyoto and that is Kyoto Castle and Palace aka Nijo Castle and Ninomaru Palace.

Unfortunately, this is not one of the free things to do in Kyoto and a ticket is needed to get into the Castle and Palace gates. The cost of entry to Kyoto Castle is 600Yen and 1000Yen for the Castle and Palace combined ticket.

I decided not to pay to enter as it was extremely busy and I was tight on time with only 1 day in Kyoto but the Castle was a good walking point to head to and I enjoyed walking the smaller streets that led me from Kyoto Park to Kyoto Castle.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

To end your day in Kyoto, lastly head to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove which is the  Kyoto Bamboo Forest. The reason I say to end here is because it is quite far out of the Centre of Kyoto.

To get to the Kyoto Bamboo Grove by public transport, at Kyoto Castle I got on the subway at Nijojo Mae Station  and carried on to the end of the line to Uzumasa-Tenjingawa Station and then got on another subway line to Arashiyama Station.

When getting the train to the Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, if you are getting a JR Line Train, be sure not to get on a rapid train as it doesn’t stop at Saga Arashiyama so make sure you check you’re getting a local train!

Kyoto Travel Tip – If you have a JR Pass , wherever possible always look for a JR line instead of a subway so you get the journey included in your pass and do not need to pay extra.

I knew the Bamboo Forest in Kyoto would be busy any other time than first thing in the morning and it was indeed a total tidal wave of people from the station all the way into the actual forest.

The Bamboo Forest in Kyoto for me had been really hyped up, especially on Instagram and I’ll say that I was a little disappointed in the fact that the actual line of Bamboo Trees that you see so many photos of really is not that long, looking up is of course very impressive and the Bamboo Tree’s are very unique but if it hadn’t been made famous online I don’t think it would be a great place to visit in Kyoto, and if you’re reading this and have no idea about this forest, I would go as far as saying if you only have one day in Kyoto you don’t need to push yourself to visit here.

Aside from the line of Bamboo Tree’s though there are lots of temples and there are more green spaces to wander and relax in, it was just way to busy for me in Cherry Blossom season to really enjoy it like this.

I did, however, enjoy the street food stalls that are located out by the road before the forest entry!

After visiting here I headed back to Saga Arashiyama on the JR line to Kyoto Station and then jumped on another JR train back to Osaka Station at about 16:00 meaning I had a nice day trip to Kyoto and definitely got some serious steps in as well as seeing this beautiful City.

JAPAN ON A BUDGET

Japan isn’t the cheapest country to travel but you can save money in Japan, here are my budget tips for Japan:

How to Save Money in Japan!

Free Things To Do in Japan!

Save Money with the JR Pass!

JAPAN ITINERARY

Here’s my 2 week Japan itinerary for first time visitors which will help you plan yours and you can adapt it whether you’re in Japan or longer or less time.

Accommodation in Kyoto

If you are able to stay in Kyoto for 1 or 2 nights, this is a great idea as it will mean you will have more time to explore in the morning and evening rather than taking the train back to Osaka.

Nice Hostels and Hotels I walked past and can see online have good reviews are:

The Limelight Kyoto

Bird Hostel

Ryokan Gion Hostel

For more accommodation in Kyoto, have a look at Booking.com here .

To SEE my day trip to Kyoto, watch my Youtube video here:

• For more of my Japan posts see:
• Visiting Himeji Castle on a Day Trip or as a Stop on the Train!
• My Complete Guide to Kobe & Why You Should Visit!
• Tokyo 2 Day Itinerary to See Best Places in Tokyo – DETAILED Guide

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The BEST Kyoto 1-Day Itinerary | Activities, Budget & More

If you’re planning to spend one day in Kyoto, you’re in the right place. A day trip to Kyoto will take you to a city where the old and new create the perfect skyline. A city where traditional meets modern.

No matter if you’re passionate about history, culture, food or nature, Kyoto has something for you. With stunning Japanese gardens, 1600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, Kyoto is a cultural melting pot. 

I visited Kyoto for a few days on my way from Osaka to Tokyo and  I absolutely loved it! If you’re planning your Japan itinerary , spending one day in this beautiful city is a must!

In this post, I’ll share with you everything you need to know to plan your Kyoto one day itinerary. Before getting into detail about this city’s tourist attractions, let’s talk about how to get to Kyoto.

1. How to get to Kyoto

The nearest airport to Kyoto is in Osaka. Osaka Kansai International Airport has amazing national and international connections but from there you’ll still have to take the train or a bus to reach Kyoto. 

Trains in Japan are blazing-fast, comfortable but not very affordable. However, if you plan to visit more than a city during your Japan trip, I recommend getting a  JR Pass  which includes unlimited train rides across Japan.

Trust me, you’ll save a lot of money with a JR Pass. The train connections are great and you can easily travel between cities like Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Tokyo or Hiroshima.

By bus 

Yes, trains in Japan are awesome but they are expensive too. If you have plenty of time and don’t mind spending a few extra hours on transport, you can easily travel around Japan by bus. 

You can take the bus from all major cities (Tokyo, Osaka) to Kyoto. To find out more about buses in Japan, click here . 

2. How to get around Kyoto

The easiest and fastest way to travel around Kyoto is by subway. The subway system works great and there are stations near all the major tourist attractions. 

Good to know: To save some money, you can buy a transport pass which will grant you access to buses, trains, and subway in the Kansai area. With this card, you won’t have to worry about buying tickets each time you want to use public transport. 

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

3. Kyoto one day itinerary

Is one day in kyoto enough.

24 hours in Kyoto might not seem like much, but it’s more than enough to experience the city’s vibe and visit the most important tourist attractions. However, don’t expect it to be a relaxing day.

You’ll have to wake up early in the morning and walk a lot. You’ll start the day by visiting two of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashyiama Bamboo Forest . It’s best to visit these first since they are located quite far from the city.

After visiting the Bamboo Forest, you’ll return to the city center and explore a few other fascinating attractions. So, are you ready? Here are the things to do in Kyoto in one day.

Good to know: I recommend getting a Kyoto sightseeing pass   which includes free entrance fee to all the major tourist attractions in Kyoto. 

Explore the beautiful Fushimi Inari Shrine

Our Kyoto one day trip starts with a visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Even if the name doesn’t sound familiar, I’m sure you’ve seen hundreds of pictures with this shrine. The traditional red gates called Senbon torii makes Fushimi Inari Shrine one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Kyoto.

There are more than 1,000 torii gates along the main path. The reason why there are so many red gates is that between 1603 and 1868 the custom was to donate a torii to make a wish come true or to thank for a wish that became true.

-> Read more about Japan here

Make sure to wake up early in the morning and get to this shrine as early as possible. Fushimi Inari is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists so it gets extremely busy during the day.

Although this shrine is beautiful and the perfect place to learn more about the Japanese culture, I’ve found it a bit too busy for my taste. Don’t be disappointed if all your photos will have dozens of tourists in the background.

How to get to Fushimi Inari Shrine –  take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto

Entrance fee – FREE

Be amazed by Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

One day in Kyoto would never be complete without a stop at Arashiyama . This forest was a big surprise for me. I expected it to be “just” a bamboo forest but it ended up being unreal. Walking along the tall bamboo pillars is a truly unique experience.

The forest is part of Sagano Bamboo Forest and it consists of a series of paths surrounded by beautiful bamboo. A walk inside Arashiyama Forest feels like a breath of fresh air from the noise and crowdedness of Kyoto.

While visiting the forest, I recommend taking a short detour and visiting the Tenryū-ji Temple too. The entrance fee to the temple is 500 JPY but it’s worth it.

How to get to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest –  the fastest way is to take the train from Kyoto.

Good to know:  A  JR Pass  is what you need if you plan to travel a lot inside the Kansai area. With it you’ll get unlimited train rides!

Go shopping at Nishiki Market & Teramachi Street

Our Kyoto one-day itinerary continues with a short session of shopping. A stop at  Teramachi Street is a must. With many local shops selling kimonos, clothes, accessories and home decor, this street is perfect for buying souvenirs.

After a shopping spree and some tiring sightseeing, it’s time to head to Nishiki Market and try some of the local delicacies. Here you will find anything from pickles to seafood and fried meat. 

Don’t hesitate to try some of the local dishes! Everything is simply delicious! Read my full guide about this shopping district here .

How to get to Nishiki Market and Teramachi Street –  take the subway from Arashiyama and change at Matsuo-Taisha Station.

Admire the Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrines is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto. Don’t be surprised if you see locals dressed in kimonos taking photos here.

It’s a very popular place for photo shoots. At the entrance of the temple, there are a few kimono rental places, in case you want to blend in and wear a beautiful kimono.

After visiting the temple, take a few minutes to walk around the Maruyama Park, situated right after the temple. It’s a great way to relax and unwind. Nobody said that visiting Kyoto in one day would be easy.

How to get to Yasaka Shrine – from Temabashi Street, Yasaka Shrine is just a short walk away

Find a geisha in Gion

A Kyoto day trip is never complete without visiting the famous Gion neighborhood. Have you read the “Memoirs of a geisha”? Or maybe, you’ve seen the movie. Yes, geishas are real and even though it’s an old tradition, they are still present in Kyoto today.

If you want to see a real-life geisha, head to Gion at 5.45 pm sharp. That’s when the geishas leave their homes to go to their appointments. Most of them will walk on back alleys to avoid tourists but you can also try to wait at Tatsumi Bridge.

If you want to make sure that you see a geisha, you can book a guided tour . You’ll also get the chance to learn more about the daily life of a geisha. 

When we visited Kyoto, I had the chance to see a maiko (geisha apprentice) and two geishas. They are extremely beautiful and it was an honor for me to see them. They are living works of art.

Good to know: Don’t try to stop them for photos. I’m sure they’re tired of all the tourists stopping them and asking for photos. You can photograph them from distance and still admire their beauty.

Seeing a geisha is the perfect end to your one day of sightseeing in Kyoto. Are you also planning to visit Osaka or Nara ? Read below my recommendations. 

Other AWESOME things to do in Kyoto:

• Visit Kyoto Tower
• Rent a kimono
• Take a day tour to explore the city!

4. What to visit beyond Kyoto

Good to know: If you plan more cities in Japan, I recommend getting a  transport pass .  A pass is less expensive than buying separate train tickets. It’s convenient and affordable.

Explore beautiful Osaka

If you want to explore more of Japan, I recommend visiting the incredible Osaka for a few days. This beautiful city has something for everyone. If you’re in search of adrenaline, you can visit Universal Studios Japan , if you’re passionate about culture, you can spend a few hours at the Osaka Castle.

If you like Pokemon, I totally recommend paying a visit to the  Pokemon Center.  Discover your favorite characters and bring your inner child to life! You can read more about Osaka here . 

Good to know: With   Osaka City Pass  for 1 or 2 days you’ll get free access to most of this city’s tourist attractions. This pass will save you lots of money. The pass also includes free transport around the city.

Explore Japan’s cutest city – Nara

Nara is the city where cute deer roam free. You’ll see them on the streets, inside the parks, on the sidewalks, everywhere! Nara is definitely my favorite city in Japan.

Buy some deer crackers and be ready to make some deer friends. They’re friendly and looking for attention! If you want to read more about Nara, you can check out my complete guide about this incredible city here .

5. Where to stay in Kyoto

I’ve searched for the best hotels in Kyoto, for each budget. If you’re looking for a good value for money hotel to spend one or more nights, I’ve got you covered. Here are my recommendations:

• Luxury –  Hotel Granvia  – beautiful pool, incredible views, excellent location, comfortable & luxurious rooms, breakfast included
• Mid Budget –  Solaria Hotel Premier  – excellent location, incredible architecture & views, clean & modern rooms, excellent facilities
• Budget –  Sanjo Okawa  – good location, clean & spacious rooms, good WiFi, access to washing machine

If you were wondering what to do in Kyoto in one day, I hope that this blog post helped you. It won’t be easy to visit all the main tourist attractions in one day but it’s totally doable. I am sure you’ll love Kyoto as much as I did.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to let me know in the comments section below.

May the travel bug bite you!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

Planned to visit Kyoto for 2 days after my Tokyo trip and my itinerary shall include Fushimi Inari Shrine on day 1 and Arashyiama Bamboo Forest on day 2.

Will you be able to advise me which pass to purchase?

Hey! I am sure you will love Kyoto! I recommend getting this pass for 2 days – https://www.klook.com/activity/9882-kyoto-osaka-sightseeing-pass-japan?aid=8265

Hi there This is great! thanks for posting. 2 quick questions, how far apart are the shrines and the bamboo forest, which should i actually do first? How do I get from one to the other? MissN

Hi! I recommend taking the train or subway. You should visit first the one that you’re the most excited about! The earlier you visit one of these attractions, the less tourists you’ll see.

Hi really liked this site 🙂 We are a mother & son (20 years old) who plan to be in Kyoto for 2 half days – will reach Kyoto around 1 PM in the afternoon & will leave around 2 PM next day afternoon. We are coming in the third week of March. We want to experience the best of Kyoto & also try sleeping in a capsule hotel. What would be your recommendations on some must dos & place to stay?

Hey. I’ve included all my recommendations in this post! There are so many awesome places to see! Have fun!

Hi, thank you for your very helpful travel guide to kyoto. Is there any way you can recommend a travel package for 1day in kyoto. We are 8 pax with an infant and a senior citizen traveller. Thanks .

Hey. I recommend this tour – https://www.klook.com/activity/646-kyoto-afternoon-exploration?aid=8265 . It’s perfect to see the highlights of the city!

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Kyoto in 1 Day: The Perfect Itinerary for Time-Pressed Travellers

BY Pelago by Singapore Airlines

19 JAN 24 . 4 MIN READ . GUIDES

Kyoto's 1-Day Itinerary

Kyoto, with its rich history, stunning temples, and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of experiences to enjoy within a single day. If you’re travelling on a tight budget, square away a day in this beautiful city with daytime explorations and night food tours galore to help you make the most of your 24 hours!

Here’s our recommended Kyoto 1-day itinerary:

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple
• Nishiki Market
• Kyoto Tower
• Fushimi Inari Taisha
• Higashiyama District
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• Gion District
• Pontocho Alley

Morning: Exploring Historic Temples and Traditional Culture

1. 8:30am: arashiyama bamboo grove and tenryu-ji temple, arashiyama rickshaw tour + sagano bamboo forest.

Begin your day in Kyoto on a positive note by heading to the Tenryu-ji Temple. This quiet Buddhist temple lets you immerse yourself in its beautiful pond garden and iconic views of Arashiyama. After your walk, head to one of Kyoto’s most famous spots: Sagano Bamboo Grove. Listen to the rustling bamboo leaves as sunlight filters through the dense forest – you’ll feel as if you are on another planet altogether.

Want a glimpse of landmarks where cars and buses can’t go? Take a rickshaw tour through Arashiyama ! It’s a perfect start to your Kyoto 1-day itinerary.

2. 10am: Kinkakujii (Golden Pavilion)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 臨済宗相国寺派 北山 鹿苑寺(金閣寺) (@rokuonji_kinkakuji.official)

After a refreshing walk at Arashiyama, head to the famous Kinkakuji, a zen Buddhist temple. The top two floors are covered in gold leaf and you can marvel at the shimmering light that reflects on the peaceful pond near the structure. You’ll find it hard to believe the temple was burned down a few times. It gets crowded during the day, so it is best explored in the morning.

3. 11am: Nishiki Market

Kyoto nishiki market food tour.

Early morning excursions are tiring, and we’re sure you need refuelling by this hour. If you’re wondering what to visit in Kyoto regarding food, there is no better answer than Nishiki Market . This small market has hundreds of stalls that let you sample Japanese street food like yuba (tofu skin), tsukemono (pickled vegetables), and matcha-flavoured snacks.  If you’re heading to Kyoto in the winter, delight your taste buds and learn about the city’s culinary heritage through a guided market tour .

Afternoon: Cultural Immersion 

4. 1pm: kyoto tower, kyoto tower admission tickets.

Night view of Kyoto Tower

A short distance from Nishiki Market is the Kyoto Tower , the city’s tallest structure. With an observation deck that sits 100 metres above the ground, this tower lets you take in panoramic views of well-known locations, including the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Toji Temple, and Chion-in Temple, and even Osaka on a clear day.

5. 2pm: Fushimi Inari Taisha

After catching stunning city views, spend some time in peace at Fushimi Inari, one of the most important Shinto shrines in southern Kyoto. Famous for its vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel-like path, a short hike will also take you to Mount Inari, from where you can catch panoramic views of Kyoto city below. But since we have one day, you can stop at the Yotsu-Tsuji intersection for a quick picture break instead of completing the 2-hour hike to the top.

6. 4:30pm: Higashiyama District

Kimono rental shiki sakura in kyoto.

Renowned for its preserved historic streets, traditional wooden machiya houses, and picturesque temples, Higashiyama gives you a glimpse of the yesteryears of Japan. Spend your early evening wandering through the cobblestone paths of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, lined with quaint shops, teahouses, and local artisans, offering an authentic immersion into Kyoto’s past. It is from here that you can catch a glimpse of Yasaka Pagoda. You can also rent a kimono here for beautiful pictures. 

7. 5:30pm: Kiyomizu-dera Temple

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by miicco7a (@miicco7a)

Kiyomizu-dera or the ‘Pure Water Temple,’ is one of the biggest highlights of any Kyoto trip. And it is the most beautiful when it’s illuminated at night. This revered UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its iconic wooden veranda. Don’t miss the Otowa Waterfall, where you can partake in a centuries-old tradition of drinking pure water from three streams, each believed to bestow a unique blessing – longevity, success in studies, or a fortunate love life. But beware, none of your wishes will be granted if you drink from all three. So don’t be greedy!

Evening: Culinary Delights

8. 7pm: gion district.

We’ve saved the best for last. All this walking will make you tired and hungry once more. This brings us to the best part of Kyoto’s nightlife: the Gion District. While you can see wooden houses in many places in Kyoto, this is the best. Gion is also synonymous with Japan’s age-old Geisha culture.

Geisha, often referred to as ‘geiko’ in Kyoto dialect, are highly trained professional entertainers. They are typically women who have undergone years of training to master various traditional arts, such as dance, music and singing. Maiko are apprentice geishas in the early stages of their training. While few geishas or maiko are in Kyoto, your best chance of seeing one is at Hanamikoji Street. If you have an open budget, you can eat at a traditional restaurant where a geisha works.

If you have more time and are wondering what to do when in Gion, spend some time discovering traditional tea houses and artisan shops. If you arrive early, participate in the team ceremony at En, a serene teahouse.

9. 9pm: Pontocho Alley

Nestled on the banks of the Kamogawa River, Pontocho Alley is a charming, narrow pedestrian lane that comes alive in the evening, with restaurants on both sides. Here, you can wrap up your day with many dining options.

In your one-day Kyoto itinerary, add a Kaiseki dinner at a local restaurant here. Kaiseki is a culinary tradition with a multi-course meal that showcases the Japanese’s seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation. Or, if you’re more into sake, head to a contemporary izakaya (Japanese pub) in this part of town for a nightcap before you call it a day.

There's More to Kyoto… 

There are many places that didn’t make the cut in our list for a 1-day itinerary to Kyoto but are equally worth going to if you have more time on hand, such as the unique Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto Imperial Palace. Besides, you can always tweak your itinerary to replace any destination in this suggested itinerary. Here are a few other ideas to make the most of your Kyoto day out:

10. Rent a Kimono 

Kyoto kimono/yukata experience | yumeyakata gojyo kimono....

A fun thing to do as a traveller when out in Kyoto is to rent a kimono , and dress the part. Transform into how locals lived in the past and capture stunning photos in traditional attire. You can rent one at Yumekan, where there are hundreds of options to choose from, in addition to over 200 different belts, so you can create your whole look.

11. Watch Japanese period dramas

Toei kyoto studio park entrance tickets.

Toei Kyoto Studio Park is the only theme park in Japan where you can catch the making of period dramas, also called jidaigeki films. Enjoy captivating performances, gain insights into the samurai and ninja culture, and even dress up as one! If you’re travelling with kids, this is a great place to go.

12. Kyoto City Tour

Nijo castle and kyoto heritage tour from kyoto.

Don’t want the hassle of chalking out an itinerary? You can book a Kyoto City Tour, which covers all prominent shrines and districts to make the best of your day. Another option lets you explore the city’s famous castles, temples, and shrines. Start your day at Nijo Castle, before heading to Kinkaku-ji Temple, followed by seeing the Emperor’s residence, Kyoto Imperial Palace.

Bonus: Travelling Essentials for a Memorable Trip

13. hankyu tourist pass , hankyu tourist pass (1 - 2 day).

If you’re on a budget trip, this is a must-have. Seamlessly explore Kyoto’s attractions, shopping districts and cultural sites with unlimited train rides with a tourist pass for Hankyu Railway lines. You can also head to Osaka and Kobe with this pass if you’d like to explore more of Japan after your Kyoto 1-day itinerary.

14. Kintetsu Rail Pass

Kintetsu rail pass 1, 2, 5 day plus.

Done with your one-day Kyoto tour? The Kintetsu Rail Pass is your key to effortless exploration beyond the city’s boundaries, bringing Osaka and Nara into your itinerary. You can take advantage of unlimited travel around Kansai for five days, uncovering this region’s beautiful sites.

15. Kyoto Skybus Hop-On Hop-Off Pass

In a different country, trains can be a hassle and leave you wondering what to do at a station in Kyoto. So hop on a bus instead. Skybus HO-HO pass lets you go on a sightseeing adventure with a flexible bus pass, offering a comprehensive city tour with the freedom to explore major sites.

Kyoto Express

With this comprehensive Kyoto 1-day itinerary, you’ll capture the essence of this gorgeous in just 24-hours, immersing yourself in its history, culture, and beauty.

Of course, if you have more time, we’d highly recommend spending more than one day here (like in this 3-day Kyoto itinerary , for example).

But if one day is all you have, then this itinerary will have you sorted.

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One Day in Kyoto Itinerary – Top Things to Do in Kyoto, Japan

Famous for its ancient temples, serene gardens, gorgeous ponds, and cherry trees in full bloom, Kyoto, located on the island of Honshu, was once the capital of imperial Japan. Even today, the city is recognized as the cultural heart of Japan, since a great number of the country’s unique traditions originated within its walls. Approach the city with a healthy dose of reverence and an open mind and experience true Japan in a big city with a subdued, small-town feel.

kyoto in a day

1. What’s the best time to visit Kyoto? 2. Kyoto festivals 3. A few facts about Kyoto 4. Kyoto temples 5. One Day in Kyoto Itinerary 5.1. Start Your Day Early and Visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine 5.2. Explore the Kiyomizu-dera Temple 5.3. Go for a Walk Along Philosopher’s Path 5.4. Grab a Bite to Eat 5.5. Take the Bus/Taxi to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) 5.6. Take a Taxi to Arashiyama District 5.7. Explore the Arashiyama District 5.8. Pick One of the Museums in the Nakagyō Ward 5.9. Check Out the RAN Theatre 6.0. Consider Your Options for a Night on the Town 7. Where to stay in Kyoto? 8. Kyoto Day Trips 9. Extra tips for visiting Kyoto

What’s the best time to visit Kyoto?

The weather in Kyoto is predominately temperate , which means that you can visit the city at any time of year . The rainy season lasts for close to a month and a half, from mid-June to late July. However, since it does not rain every day, even this period doesn’t prevent you from travelling. In general, the best time to visit Kyoto is in spring or fall , i.e. either in March/April/May or in October/November. In spring, you can enjoy the sight of cherry blossoms bringing the city to life, while in fall, you can see the gardens surrounding the Kyoto temples explode in a golden rhapsody of colors.

Kyoto festivals

If you have a choice, you may want to plan your visit around one of the numerous festivals in the city, to make your one day in Kyoto truly memorable. During the first three days of January, every Kyoto shrine, with Yasaka-jinja Shrine, Fushimi-Inari-taisha Shrine, and Heian-jingu Shrine being the most popular ones, receives its first shrine visit of the New Year . This is called Hatsumode. Soon after, on January 15 , Kyoto temple Sanjusangen-do hosts Toshiya, a famous archery contest . During the first week of May, the majority of Japanese workers are on holiday, called the Golden Week holiday .

You may want to avoid visiting Kyoto during this time since all the Kyoto attractions are extremely crowded and the hotels are significantly more expensive than usual. The biggest festival of the year is Gion Matsuri , on July 17, with a huge procession with festival floats marching through the streets of downtown Kyoto. Shogatsu (New Year’s) is also a pretty big deal in Kyoto and a good time to visit.

A few facts about Kyoto

The modern city of Kyoto is the capital of Kyoto Prefecture in Japan’s Kansai Region. For more than a thousand years, Kyoto was the Imperial capital of Japan. Originally, the city was named Heiankyo, meaning “ Capital of Peace ”, but it was later renamed to Kyoto, meaning simply “the Capital”. Today, Kyoto is the sixth largest city in Japan , even though it was one of the most populous cities in the world for many centuries, reaching half a million people by the 16 th century. In addition to three palaces and a castle, the city of Kyoto is home to more than 30 universities and colleges, and endless beautiful parks, gardens, and museums. Kyoto is also famous for the 1997 Kyoto Protocol on climate change. In an unrelated fact, the headquarters of video gaming giant Nintendo is located in the city, and its first game was launched here as well. You simply cannot visit Kyoto without hearing about kaiseki cuisine , the Japanese “haute cuisine”. The highest, most refined version of this exceptional facet of Japanese gastronomy is called shojin ryori .

Kyoto temples

Book a tour: Looking for some of the best reviewed tours while exploring the city? Be sure to check here and make your trip even better.

If you are not sure what to do in Kyoto, visiting some of the city’s numerous temples might be a good start. A word of warning, though: with more than 1600 temples in the city, choosing which temples to visit on your one day in Kyoto will not be an easy task. This Kyoto itinerary covers all of the most recognizable ones, as well as the shrines you simply must see in Kyoto.

One Day in Kyoto Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the best of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do on your one day in Kyoto.

Start Your Day Early and Visit the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

When it comes to Kyoto shrines, you absolutely have to see the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine on your one day in Kyoto. The main shrine of Inari, the Shinto god of rice, this shrine is located at the base of a mountain and famously has as many as 32,000 sub-shrines (bunsha (分社) all over the country. Visiting the shrine early in the morning is recommended , since it will give you a chance to avoid some of the crowds that are common later in the day, and you may even get a nice clean picture of the shrine’s traditional gates it’s famous for.

The rows of these gates, known as Senbon torii , are the real highlight of the shrine, with more than 10,000 of them along the main path. The torrii were all donated by Japanese businesses starting with the Edo period (1603 – 1868), since Inari was also traditionally worshipped by manufacturers and merchants as the patron of business.

Explore the Kiyomizu-dera Temple

The Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most visited temples in Kyoto, with an unparalleled hillside location that offers breathtaking views of Kyoto and the surrounding valley. The Kiyomizu-dera Temple was built as a place of worship for Kannon, the goddess of mercy. From the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, you can hop aboard the Keihan Main Line (railway) northbound from the Fushimi-Inari Station across the bridge west of the shrine.

Exit the train at the Tofukuji Station (2 nd stop) and then take a short 3-minute walk east until you reach the bus stop across the street from the Red Cross Hospital. Board bus 202 and ride for 6 stations until you reach the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop. From there, it will take you about 10 minutes to get to the temple. You will pass a number of charming shops along the way with assorted sweets, food, and souvenirs.

Go for a Walk Along Philosopher’s Path

After the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, go back to the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop and take the bus number 206. Ride the bus north for 6 stations, until you reach the Higashiyama Nijo Okazaki Koen Guchi Bus Stop. Then switch to bus 32 and ride it for 8 stops. Exit at the Honeninmachi Bus Stop. The nearby Philosopher’s Path is a pleasant stone path that follows a small stream with a number of interesting stops.

On a sunny day, it is the perfect place for a walk, with beautiful cherry trees and old houses on the side. It is one of the best places to visit in Kyoto in April  when the trees explode with color. All in all, the Philosopher’s Path is very mellow and, surprisingly, not overrun by tourists. The Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion) is a quaint little site with amazing views and gardens near the northern end of the path. It is worth a short visit if you happen to be nearby.

Grab a Bite to Eat

To save on time, you should take a short lunch break in one of the restaurants on the Philosopher’s Path. The Omen Ginkaku-ji Head Shop and Juugo stand out as two of the best options. The Omen Ginkaku-ji Head Shop serves some amazing Udon noodles, and the place itself feels very authentic, welcoming, and relaxing. However, if you to go for Soba noodles (and know the difference!), then check out Juugo for the finest fresh Soba made to order. Minimalist, yet friendly and in a nice location, the whole restaurant is run by just one man (seating for 8).

Take the Bus/Taxi to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

After lunch, take a short 5-minute walk west of the Philosopher’s Path until you reach the Shirakawa Dori (street). Take bus 204 from the Jodoji Bus Stop to the Kinkakujimichi Bus Stop (23 stops). From there, it’s only a short walk to the Kinkaku-ji Temple, one of the city’s most famous attractions.

The structure, built in 1397, is also known as Golden Pavilion , since it was once completely covered in gold leaf . Kinkaku-ji served as the retirement villa of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, a 15 th century shogun. The Silver Pavilion near the Philosopher’s Path was built by his grandson decades later and is modelled after Kinkaku-ji.

Take a Taxi to Arashiyama District

Although perhaps you wouldn’t have guessed as much, there are other places to visit in Kyoto apart from the numerous temples and shrines. Among them is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – one of the top sights in Kyoto. The best way to get there is by taxi . A taxi ride from Kinkaku-ji to Arashiyama shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes. At the price of approx. 1900 JPY or close to 17 USD, it is absolutely worth it, since it will save you from spending an hour or more riding the city’s buses and trains. As a side note, most travelers prefer taking the taxi – and you should too, especially if you’re struggling to make sense of the city’s public transport system.

Explore the Arashiyama District

The Arashiyama District is located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, named after the Arashiyama Mountain (meaning Storm Mountain ) across the Ōi River. The district is definitely one of the most interesting places to see in Kyoto, with the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove being its star attraction. A tranquil scenic spot, the grove is, in essence, a narrow pedestrian walkway bordered by tall bamboo plants. Only 10 minutes away, you will come across the Tenryuji Temple and the gorgeous Sogenchi Garden surrounding a quaint little pond.

Pick One of the Museums in the Nakagyō Ward

After the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, take a taxi to downtown Kyoto, more precisely, to Nakagyō-ku, one of the city’s eleven wards. Its name means “ central capital ward “, and the businesses there mostly revolve around shopping, tourism, and entertainment . Among the numerous museums and galleries in the city center, three stand out in particular: the Samurai & Ninja Interactive Museum and Show, The Museum of Kyoto, and the Kyoto International Manga Museum. All of them close relatively late. The Manga Museum is open until 6 PM, the Kyoto Museum until 7:30 PM, and the Samurai/Ninja Museum until 8 PM. The Kyoto International Manga Museum is a great place for a brief visit if you appreciate the art. Even if you don’t speak Japanese, you can still admire the comic books.

The Museum of Kyoto is mostly focused on the city’s history, art, and crafts. Our top recommendation, the Samurai & Ninja Interactive Museum and Show , features a fun and informative tour that will help you learn about the ancient arts of the Ninjas and the Samurai, and they’ll even let you try to throw stars and use blow darts. It is a great place to see if you are visiting Kyoto with kids, but adults will love it just as much.

Instead of visiting museums,  you can go for a  Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience Kyoto , a cultural experience where you can learn everything about the Japanese tea ritual while wearing traditional kimono robes.

Check Out the RAN Theatre

The RAN Theatre Kyoto , very close to the Samurai & Ninja Interactive Museum and Show, is certainly one of the top Kyoto attractions. With a great selection of drinks and some quality local food , you can watch five really talented performers play authentic Japanese music with a modern twist . The place is rarely crowded, so it feels almost like a private show, and they will frequently ask the audience to participate.

Consider Your Options for a Night on the Town

If you feel like you have enough energy for partying after the RAN Theatre, here are a couple of suggestions to give you a taste of Kyoto’s nightlife. SURFDISCO , only 4 minutes from the RAN Theatre towards the Kamo River, is a trendy place with a great selection of cocktails. Its big draw is the fact its open until 5 AM. To the north, Bar Cordon Noir is the place to go if you want to sample fine (and expensive) Japanese whiskey, with a selection that’s out of this world and friendly, knowledgeable staff. To the south, L’EscaMoteur Bar , while small, is a world-class bar that serves amazing drinks, similar to classical western cocktails, but always with a peculiar Japanese twist.

Where to stay in Kyoto?

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

604-8001 Kyoto, Kyoto, Nakagyo-ku Kamiosaka-cho 509

A completely new property, Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier opened in 2017. It is located along the Kamo river, in the immediate vicinity of the Sanjo Station on the Keihan Line. The comfortable rooms are air-conditioned and come with a flat-screen TV, sofa, deposit box, electric kettle, and bottled water. Several of the hotel’s rooms have unrestricted views of the Kamo River. There is a public bath on site, as well as an excellent restaurant, with additional dining options and charming cafés nearby.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Kanra Kyoto

Shimogyo-ku Rokujo-sagaru Karasuma-dori Kitamachi 190

Located near the Kyoto Station, this nonsmoking hotel is distinguished by its particular blend of modern, Western, and traditional Japanese décor . All of the guest rooms in Hotel Kanra Kyoto come with Japanese tatami flooring, traditional Kiyomizu-yaki ceramics , and a typical Japanese seating area. The private bathroom is a particular highlight with its wooden bathtub and quality complimentary toiletries. In addition to Teppanyaki cuisine , guests can opt for Italian food, with both Japanese-style and Western menus available for breakfast. If you are primarily interested in Kyoto temples and other historic places to visit in Kyoto, then Hotel Kanra Kyoto is the right choice for you.

R Star Hostel Kyoto

Chimogyo-ku Motoryogaecho 256-2

Another property that opened in 2017, R Star Hostel Kyoto is located in the Shimogyo Ward district in central Kyoto. In addition to comfy air-conditioned rooms, guests are free to use the hostel’s shared kitchen area and laundromat. A number of popular restaurants and convenience stores are within easy reach, while both the Heian Shrine and the Tofuku-ji Temple are less than two miles away. It takes only 15 minutes to reach the Kyoto market (Nishiki Markets Kyoto) on foot.

WeBase Kyoto

Shimogyo-ku Iwatoyamacho 436-1

WeBase Kyoto is an affordable, modern hostel located in the Shimogyo Ward district, only 1.4 km from the Kyoto International Manga Museum . Other Kyoto attractions, such as the Nijo Castle and the Samurai Kembu Kyoto are also relatively close. The hostel’s facilities are modern and clean, with comfortable beds and a designated seating area in each room . As an extra perk, WeBase Kyoto has a lounge stacked with interesting reads and several informative guides to Kyoto.

Kyoto Day Trips

Northern kyoto prefecture: amanohashidate, ine & miyama from kyoto.

One of the more picturesque and colorful tours in Japan, this fun day trip to Amanohashidate, Ine and Miyama from Kyoto is all about sightseeing some of the best preserved cultural and architectural artifacts in Japan. While Amanohashidate and Miyazu Bay boast unparalleled natural beauty , Ine no Funaya is quaint little coastal town famous worldwide for its traditional wooden boathouses. Another area, Miyama, charms visitors with its thatched roof farmhouses strewn all over the mountainous terrain, showing a completely different side of Japan. Definitely one of the best day trips from Kyoto.

Nara Afternoon Tour of Todaiji Temple, Deer Park and Kasuga Shrine from Kyoto

Although Kyoto was the capital of Japan for centuries, it wasn’t the only one during the country’s long and rich history. Nara , first established in the 8 th century, is another ancient capital of Japan and, very much like Kyoto, it is also filled with gorgeous temples and shrines, including the Todaji Temple, listed among the oldest temples in the country , and the Kasuga Shrine, with more than 3,000 bronze and stone lanterns. This day trip from Kyoto also includes a stop at Nara Park, a massive reserve with more than 1,000 deer roaming freely in an area covering 1,250 acres.

Day Trip by Bus to Kyoto, Nara and Kobe from Osaka

If you don’t have the time to spend on exploring Kyoto or if you find the idea of navigating the city’s streets on your own too daunting, the best way to experience all of the key places to visit in Kyoto is to embark on a Kyoto day trip from another city. If you are in Osaka , then this is the trip for you, since it covers not only Kyoto , but also Nara , the Tenryuji Temple and the Todaiji Temple (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites), and the Kobe MOSAIC, a modern shopping mall with a number of entertainment and dining options in the city’s port.

Extra tips for visiting Kyoto

In case you are coming to Kyoto from abroad, you will first land at the Kansai International Airport, 100 km away. The best way to get from Tokyo to Kyoto is by bullet train , which takes a bit more than 2 hours.

If you want to make it easier to get around Kyoto, you can purchase the Kyoto Sightseeing Card for 1200 yen (adult price). The card guarantees unlimited rides on the city’s subway and the buses.

If you don’t have a place to stay in Kyoto, for example, if you are just passing through and don’t want to drag all of your luggage with you while sightseeing, you can use the lockers at the Kyoto train station or the ones at Porta to keep your luggage safe.

Japan is known worldwide as a very safe country.

If you need to call emergency services in Japan, here are the numbers: 110 for the police and 119 for an ambulance , with support in multiple languages.

Cell phones with foreign numbers usually do not work in Japan.

Smoking in public in non-designated areas is a serious offense , and it could cost you a hefty fine.

In case you decide to eat in a restaurant with traditional Japanese low tables and cushions on a tatami floor, remember that you have to remove your shoes or slippers before you step on the tatami .

In Japan, tattoos are still kind of taboo and frowned upon.

Avoid behaviors such as pointing at things/people with your finger, raising your voice in public, taking pictures of other people without their permission, drinking or eating in public, etc., since those behaviors are seen as impolite or worse.

The majority of the country still relies on cash as a preferred method of payment. In general, you may be surprised by some “low-tech” aspects of Japanese culture that seem almost out of place.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Kyoto Itinerary, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

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How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Kyoto Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 4th April 2024

Categories Itineraries , Japan

Last Updated on 4th April 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Kyoto is a historic city which is rich in history and culture, meaning that there’s no shortage of wonderful attractions to discover. But if you only have 24 hours to explore, then here’s how to spend the perfect one day in Kyoto itinerary .

Kyoto is one of those destinations that has something for everyone. From mouthwatering food (even for the vegans and vegetarians) to over 1600 Buddhist Temples and 400 Shinto Shrines, not to mention several Palaces and Castles, there’s no way to run out of things to do!

For many people Kyoto ends up being a highlight of their time in Japan, and it was easily my husband’s favourite destination from the two weeks we spent exploring the country.

The most popular times to go are during the cherry blossom season (enjoying the blossom is known as hanami) and during the fall (enjoying the falling leaves is known as koyo). If it’s your first time visiting Japan, be sure to check out my top Japan travel tips .

Is one day enough time in Kyoto?

Fushimi inari-taisha, take the train to kyoto station, breakfast at murmur coffee, go back to kyoto station, nijo castle, nishiki market for lunch, silver temple, coffee at starbucks, wander around higashiyama, yasaka pagoda, sunset on the kamo river, have dinner at gion soy milk ramen, getting around kyoto, where to stay in kyoto.

To be honest, one day certainly isn’t enough time in Kyoto. However, if this is all the time that you have available to you, then you shouldn’t pass up the chance to discover the ancient capital of Japan. In order to see more of Kyoto, I would recommend spending at least three days in the cit y, or ideally four or five.

Suggested one day in Kyoto itinerary

If you want to be really ambitious in your itinerary, then you can start your day by heading to Fushimi Inari-taisha . This is one of the most famous places to visit in all of Japan thanks to the presence of 10,000 Torii gates lining the slopes of Mount Inari.

The shrine is dedicated to the rice goddess Inari, who is also the goddess of trade, commerce, and harvest. It’s believed that foxes are the god’s messengers on earth and so over 100 fox statues are located on the mountain.

The shrine is completely free to visit and is open 24/7, meaning that you can start this day in Kyoto itinerary as early as 7 AM if you so wish. Though the whole loop takes two to three hours, you can hike halfway up the mountain and back in around an hour and a half.

Luckily the train from the JR Inari station to Kyoto’s Central station only takes six minutes and there are trains on a fairly regular basis. Once you’re in Kyoto station do take a moment to look around as the modern architecture is pretty expansive and impressive.

If you’re looking for a coffee and a brief cake break, then I highly recommend heading to Murmur Coffee, which is set alongside the banks of the gently flowing River Takase, which is home to plenty of cherry blossoms in the spring time.

As well as a variety of hot drinks including tea and coffee, there are a number of toasts and other sweet desserts on the menu. If the weather is nice, then you can sit outside, sip on your drink, and watch the world go by.

Once you’ve had your coffee, head back to Kyoto station and catch a bus to reach Nijo Castle. the journey will take around half an hour, which includes the time to walk back to the station from the coffee shop.

If you’re looking to enjoy a bit of culture while in Kyoto (and, trust me, there is plenty to discover!), then you should be sure to visit Nijo Castle. This is actually an expansive complex comprising of fortifications, the Ninomaru Palace, the ruins of the Honmaru Palace, and gardens, among other additional buildings.

As with most Palaces and Castles, note that you’ll have to take off your shoes in order to enter the Palace and so be sure to wear some socks! You’ll need around an hour and a half to see everything at this UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Book a guided tour here in advance.

After exploring Nijo Castle, you’ll want to hop back on a bus that takes around ten minutes to reach the next foodie stop on this one day in Kyoto itinerary. Comprising of a covered passage which stretches five blocks, Nishiki Market is located in the Nakagyo Ward and dates back 400 years.

Inside you’ll be able to spy all kinds of stalls selling local food and drink. If you’re vegetarian then there are still a few options available to you, including Yuba (soybean skin) and mochi (sweet rice balls). If you want to learn even more about the market together with a local guide, consider booking a tour like this one.

Of course, you can’t visit Kyoto and miss out on seeing a Temple, and the Silver Temple is one of the most beautiful and impressive. The temple was established in the 16th century and is famed for its sand garden. It’s close to the Philosopher’s Path , which is a 2 KM long stretch lined with cherry blossom trees.

Now I normally wouldn’t recommend visiting a Starbucks while on holiday, but we completely fell in love with the one in Higashiyama Ward (Kyoto Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya).

After all, this Starbucks is set against the backdrop of a traditional wooden building and even has tatami you can sit on to enjoy your beverages (be sure to take off your shoes before going into these areas) and a garden inspired by Japanese tea ceremony culture.

Southern Higashiyama is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Kyoto thanks to its many traditional wooden houses lining historic streets. You’ll want to allow yourself an hour or so to wander around, shop for souvenirs, and sample some street food.

One highlight of the southern Higashiyama area that you won’t want to miss is the Yasaka Pagoda. This five-storey pagoda is all that remains of a 6th-century temple by the name of Hōkan-ji Temple. Now a popular tourist attraction, the pagoda can be spied from all over the district and is best-seen at golden hour.

After exploring the Gion district, you’ll want to wander back down towards the river. A sunset stroll along the banks of the River Kamo was one of my favourite highlights of our time in Kyoto and made for a complete change of scenery from everything we had ever seen.

If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season , then this is one of the best places to head to as plenty of sakura trees line both banks of the river. There are also a number of places where you can spot the traditional wooden houses that Kyoto is so synonymous with.

Once you’re at the river, you’ll want to walk north along the river banks to go back towards the direction of Gion, where you’ll have dinner. We really enjoyed our vegan meal at Gion Soy Milk Ramen and everything from the presentation to the taste was just perfect!

Unfortunately, unlike other major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, it can be a little tricky to get around Kyoto as, while public transport is convenient, many of the major sites are a little way out of town and so can be tricky to navigate between.

Thanks to its sheer popularity, Kyoto has plenty of places to stay to suit a variety of needs and budgets. I would personally recommend staying in central Kyoto as this will give you the best base from which to explore the other districts of Kyoto, as well as take day trips.

Hotel Tavinos Kyoto: We stayed in this hotel while in Kyoto and found it to be clean and comfortable. The rooms were a little on the small side, but since we were out exploring most of the time, it didn’t really impact on our stay. Check prices and availability here.

Ryokan Mugen: I f you’re looking for an unforgettable stay in Kyoto, then you’ll want to book yourself into this traditional Ryokan. Amenities include a bar onsite, and a courtyard with a rock garden. Some rooms have tatami mats. Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about how to spend one day in Kyoto? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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One day in Kyoto: The perfect blend of must-see sights and hidden gems

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August 25, 2023

Hey there, I'm Poppy! Living and breathing the dynamic pulse of Tokyo for the past three years, I've developed a knack for uncovering those special, out-of-the-way places that make Japan so magical. Now, I'm taking my love for exploration to the charming city of Kyoto. As a local host with City Unscripted, I've ventured beyond Tokyo's bustling streets to discover Kyoto's unique blend of rich traditions and modern allure. This isn't just about the usual Kyoto tours you might stumble upon online; it's a one-day journey tailored from the heart, mingling must-see sights with my personal hidden gems.

Kyoto's winding streets are filled with unexpected delights, from tranquil Zen gardens to lively marketplaces brimming with artisan crafts. In just one day, we'll experience a taste of everything this incredible city has to offer. Picture sipping matcha tea in an ancient teahouse, witnessing the golden hues of Kinkaku-ji, and strolling down secretive alleyways only locals know about. Intrigued? Then come along as we explore Kyoto's beautiful contrasts, all through the eyes of someone who adores everything Japan has to offer!

Is one day enough for Kyoto?

I know what you're thinking: "Is one day enough for Kyoto?" I'll be honest; squeezing a city as rich and vibrant as Kyoto into just one day can feel a bit like a whirlwind. But don't worry; it's a fun whirlwind! With a well-planned Kyoto one-day itinerary, you can absolutely dive into the ancient capital's rich history, explore top Kyoto attractions, and even savor some local treats.

Central Kyoto is packed with famous landmarks, many of them within walking distance, and don't forget about the extremely efficient Kyoto City Bus!

It can whisk you from beautiful gardens to historic buildings in no time. Visiting Kyoto for a day may be fast-paced, but it's an adventure that's both thrilling and deeply rewarding.

A day in Kyoto itinerary is like a snapshot of the city's soul, capturing all the main attractions and even some surprises along the way. Kyoto's not only about the famous temples, but they are truly breathtaking.

This beautiful city is the cultural capital of Japan, and a Kyoto day trip will allow you to feel its pulse, from the imperial elegance of the historic buildings to the modern vibes of bustling markets.

So yes, while one day in Kyoto is an extremely busy undertaking, a well-crafted Kyoto itinerary covers a delightful blend of the city's treasures, all wrapped up in a single, unforgettable day. Whether you're on a tight Japan itinerary or just looking for a taste of Kyoto's essence, this is a day trip that promises a glimpse into the heart of a city like no other!

How to do Kyoto in one day

Doing Kyoto in one day? It's absolutely possible, and trust me, it's a thrilling adventure! Planning is key to making the most of your day in Kyoto, the ancient capital and imperial jewel of Japan. Start early, grab a day itinerary tailored to your interests, and lace up your most comfortable shoes.

Kyoto's attractions are many, but with a well-planned Kyoto 1-day itinerary, you can cover the highlights and even enjoy a few hidden spots.

If temples are calling your name, prioritize a few of the famous Kyoto temples, but leave room to explore the city's unique neighborhoods and gardens. Don't be afraid to ask locals for recommendations, and make sure to keep an eye on the time - Kyoto is waiting to dazzle you at every turn!

Visiting Kyoto for just a day might seem daunting, but transportation within the city is your best friend. Utilize Kyoto's efficient public transit to hop between the must-see attractions, and consider renting a bike if you want to see the entire city at a leisurely pace. Kyoto - Japan, is a city filled with contrasts, and a single-day trip can provide a tantalizing taste of both its traditional charm and contemporary flair. Embrace the hustle and bustle, savor a quick local meal, and let your senses guide you through the rich tapestry of this remarkable city. It might be a whirlwind, but a one-day tour in Kyoto is an unforgettable way to explore an extraordinary part of Japan's cultural heart!

Starting your day: Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station isn't just a transportation hub; it's the beating heart of the city and your gateway to an unforgettable adventure.

As the city center's bustling epicenter, Kyoto Station serves as a welcoming embrace for travelers eager to explore the imperial capital.

With a mix of futuristic architecture and the traditional charm that is quintessentially Kyoto - Japan, the station itself is a microcosm of what awaits you. Early morning here is a blend of commuters, tourists, and the delightful hum of a city waking up. Whether you're planning to use the JR Nara Line or JR Sagano Line, your Japan Rail Pass will be your best companion, zipping you off to wherever your day itinerary calls.

Ah, the JR Pass! It's your golden ticket to making the most of your Kyoto 1-day itinerary. With it, you can seamlessly navigate the city's extensive rail network, including the JR Line, hopping on and off at attractions without worry. From Kyoto Station, the city's treasures are at your fingertips. Whether it's the graceful beauty of ancient temples or the vibrant energy of modern neighborhoods, all are accessible and waiting to be explored. So grab a quick breakfast at one of the station's inviting eateries, unfold that map (or app!), and set forth on a day in Kyoto that promises to be as rich and fascinating as the city itself.

First stop: Fushimi Inari Shrine

First stop on our whirlwind day in Kyoto? Fushimi Inari Shrine! Trust me, this is an absolute must-see on any Kyoto itinerary, and it's as magical as you've heard. Imagine walking through thousands of vibrant red Torii gates, each one leading you further into the sacred Mount Inari. It's a path that seems to weave through time itself, connecting you with Japanese culture and the Shinto god of rice and agriculture. As you make your way up the mountain, don't be surprised if you feel a unique connection to something ancient and profound, all while being enveloped in the serene beauty of the forest.

While Kyoto attractions are abundant, there's something truly special about Fushimi Inari Shrine.

Whether it's your first visit to Kyoto or you're revisiting a favorite spot on your Japan itinerary, the ethereal charm of the Torii gates is a sight to behold. It's a place to pause, breathe, and absorb the atmosphere, even if you're following a packed 1-day Kyoto itinerary.

Snap a photo or simply enjoy the moment, but definitely take the time to explore beyond the city center's hustle and bustle.

Second stop: Kiyomizu-dera Temple

The second stop on our unforgettable one-day tour of Kyoto: the iconic Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. Perched on the hillside overlooking the city, Kiyomizu Dera Temple is not just a visual delight; it's a place that speaks to the soul.

A part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this Zen temple has seen over a millennium of history.

The wooden stage offers breathtaking views that change with the seasons, from cherry blossoms to autumn leaves. The tranquility of the place seeps into you as you explore the temple grounds, capturing the essence of Japanese culture and the ancient wisdom that still resonates today.

The journey to Kiyomizu-Dera is as much a part of the experience as the temple itself. As you stroll through quaint streets lined with traditional shops, it's like stepping back in time. Once you arrive at the temple, take a moment to appreciate its architectural beauty and serene atmosphere. If you're following a 1-day Kyoto itinerary, this is a stop you'll want to savor.

With its sweeping vistas of Kyoto and the peace that pervades the ancient temples, Kiyomizu-Dera isn't just a destination; it's a moment in time that lingers long after your day in Kyoto has ended.

Whether it's your first visit or a cherished return, Kiyomizudera Temple stands as a gentle reminder of what makes Kyoto so deeply captivating.

Down to downtown Kyoto: Nishiki Market

After indulging in Kyoto's spiritual side, let's dive into something equally divine: food! Nishiki Market, just a short walk from the city center, is where culinary dreams come true. This bustling street market is the ultimate destination for foodies, where you can savor the authentic flavors of Kyoto all in one place.

Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," Nishiki Market offers everything from freshly made sushi to tantalizing street food.

The aromas, colors, and bustling energy make it a sensory experience like no other. Whether you're nibbling on a stick of yakitori or discovering a new favorite at one of the traditional restaurants, every bite tells a story of the city's rich culinary heritage.

Now, if you're following a 1-day Kyoto itinerary, I'd say make this a leisurely stop. Take your time strolling through the narrow, lively lanes filled with vendors showcasing the freshest ingredients and the most delicious prepared foods. From crispy tempura to the delicate sweetness of matcha treats, there's something for every palate. Engage with the friendly locals, sample a bit of this and that, and let yourself be guided by your taste buds.

Nishiki Market is not merely a place to grab a quick bite; it's a gastronomic adventure, a delightful part of the day in Kyoto that offers a tasty glimpse into the heart and soul of this magnificent city.

Hidden gem: Aritsugu

While Nishiki Market is known for its tantalizing street food, it also houses a hidden gem that might just be the sharpest stop on your one-day adventure in Kyoto: Aritsugu.

Founded in the 16th century, Aritsugu is a knife shop renowned for its masterfully crafted blades, a favorite among chefs and culinary enthusiasts.

From the moment you step inside, you can feel the weight of tradition, a sense of pride, and craftsmanship that has been completely covered in the glow of excellence for generations.

Don't be surprised if you find yourself mesmerized by the beauty of the knives, each one a work of art forged with skill and precision.

But Aritsugu isn't just a shop; it's a piece of Kyoto's living heritage, seamlessly blending with the bustling market's vibes yet standing distinct in its elegance.

Whether you're a cooking pro or simply someone who appreciates the fine art of Japanese craftsmanship, a visit to Aritsugu adds an extra flavor to your Kyoto itinerary. It's a little slice of history that you can take home with you, a reminder of a special day in Kyoto, packed with tastes, sights, and experiences that make this city so irresistibly unique. Trust me; it's a stop you'll treasure long after your Kyoto 1-day itinerary has come to an end!

Detour: Kyoto Kaleidoscope Museum

Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Nishiki Market, you'll stumble upon something whimsical and completely enchanting: the Kyoto Kaleidoscope Museum. Trust me; this is a detour you'll want to make on your one-day adventure in Kyoto! Imagine stepping into a world filled with colors, patterns, and endless creativity, where each turn of a kaleidoscope reveals a new, mesmerizing sight. It's a place that celebrates the simple joy of seeing something ordinary transform into something extraordinary.

I just love how this charming little museum offers a fresh and delightful twist to a Kyoto itinerary.

Whether you're traveling with family or exploring the city solo, the Kyoto Kaleidoscope Museum is a wonderful pause in the rush of the day, inviting you to slow down and marvel at the beauty in the details.

Experiment with the various kaleidoscopes on display, create your very own pattern or even purchase a kaleidoscope as a unique souvenir. It's a splash of fun and color that adds a whimsical touch to your Kyoto 1-day itinerary, and it's one of those little joys that stick with you, reminding you that Kyoto isn't just about grand temples and traditional art; it's also about discovering joy in the unexpected!

Experiencing Japanese culture: The Gion District

Next, on our incredible one-day journey through Kyoto, we'll wander into the charming streets of the Gion District, the heart and soul of traditional Japanese culture. Oh, I can't tell you enough how magical this place is! With wooden machiya houses lining the streets and the soft sound of traditional music floating in the air, the Gion District transports you back in time.

It's like stepping into a painting, where the elegance of Geisha and Maiko (apprentice Geisha) brings a timeless grace to the cityscape.

Now, don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in some of Kyoto's finest traditional restaurants. Whether you're feasting on multi-course kaiseki dinners or savoring delicate tea ceremony sweets, the culinary art in Gion is as breathtaking as the culture itself. And who knows? You might just catch a glimpse of a Geisha elegantly making her way to an evening appointment. The Gion District isn't just a part of your Kyoto itinerary; it's an experience, a dance of tradition, beauty, and elegance that's quintessentially Kyoto.

Next stop: Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park

A skip away from the Gion District, and we're heading to a place that's a harmonious blend of serenity and spectacle. First, let's wander over to Yasaka Shrine.

Rich in history and always bustling with energy, Yasaka Shrine is a vibrant reminder of Kyoto's age-old traditions.

The colorful lanterns and spirited festivals held here make it a lively stop on your one-day Kyoto adventure. Trust me; you'll feel a connection with the place the moment you step in.

Now, if you're visiting Kyoto during the cherry blossom season, prepare to be swept off your feet at Maruyama Park!

Nestled right next to Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park is home to hundreds of cherry trees that burst into full bloom, creating a sea of pink that's nothing short of enchanting.

Imagine strolling beneath these glorious cherry trees as delicate petals float in the air. Whether you're on a romantic date or a solo escapade, this place will tug at your heartstrings. Don't forget to capture the breathtaking view - it's a picture-perfect moment that encapsulates the essence of your day.

Oh, and a little tip: grab some local treats and enjoy a picnic under the cherry blossoms; it's a memory you'll cherish forever!

Afternoon delight: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Ready to sparkle and shine? Next up on our adventure is the iconic Kinkaku-ji, or as it's famously known, the Golden Pavilion.

You might think you're stepping into a fairy tale as you lay eyes on this brilliant structure, entirely coated in shimmering gold leaf.

Reflections dancing off the surrounding pond add to the magic, making it a sight you'll never forget.

This Zen temple is a symbol of Kyoto's elegance, and spending an afternoon here feels like a gentle embrace of Japanese culture.

But hold on, the allure of Kinkaku-ji doesn't stop at the gleaming facade! The gardens surrounding the Golden Pavilion are an absolute delight. Tranquil paths wind through meticulously manicured landscapes, leading you through a sensory feast. From the rustling of leaves to the soft chirping of birds, it's an orchestration of nature's finest symphony. Wander and ponder, breathe in the serenity, and let the beauty of this place sink into your soul. A visit to Kinkaku-ji isn't just a sightseeing stop; it's an experience that's woven into the fabric of your one day in Kyoto. It's where you'll find the golden heart of this beautiful city!

Hidden gem: Tofukuji Temple

Oh, the joy of stumbling upon a hidden gem in a city brimming with wonders! Nestled away from the bustling crowds, Tofukuji Temple invites you to discover its soothing tranquility. You see, this isn't just a pit stop on our one day in Kyoto; it's an embrace of serenity and a step into a landscape artist's dream.

Famed for its Zen gardens and breathtaking autumn colors, Tofukuji is where nature's brush strokes paint the canvas of Kyoto in hues of bliss.

And it's not just a seasonal spectacle. While autumn is indeed spellbinding, any season brings out the charm in Tofukuji. Wander along stone pathways that lead you through gardens filled with raked gravel and mossy stones, reflecting the Zen philosophy of meditation and mindfulness. From the arched bridge, you can capture memories with your camera or simply with your heart. Tofukuji isn't about racing through sights; it's about pausing, breathing, and letting Kyoto's gentle spirit wash over you.

Arashiyama: Bamboo Grove and more

Alright, buckle up, fellow explorers, because we're headed to a place that seems straight out of a fairytale - Arashiyama Bamboo Grove! Now, if you're packing a 1 Day Kyoto Itinerary, this spot is a must-visit, and let me tell you why. Imagine walking amidst towering bamboo trees, where light dances through the leaves, casting a magical green glow all around. It's like stepping into another world where nature's skyscrapers surround you, and every breeze carries a whisper of Kyoto's enchanting allure. And the best part? Hop on a Japan Rail Pass to Arashiyama Station, and you'll find yourself at the threshold of this Bamboo Forest in no time!

But wait, there's more to Arashiyama than just the Bamboo Grove! While the Sagano Bamboo Forest is a showstopper, make sure to give yourself a moment to explore the surroundings. Whether you're tracing the riverbank, crossing the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, or maybe visiting the nearby temples, Arashiyama offers a delightful mosaic of experiences. Each path seems to tell a story, and each corner seems to invite curiosity. So don't just breeze through; let Arashiyama linger in your senses.

Can Kyoto be a day trip from Tokyo?

Zipping from Tokyo to Kyoto for a day trip? You bet it's possible! Now, I know what you're thinking, "Kyoto in just one day?" But trust me, with the right Japan Rail Pass and a sprinkle of adventure, not only Kyoto but a whole world of wonders is just a train ride away. Grab the JR Pass, jump on the Shinkansen bullet train, and in about two and a half hours, you'll be exploring the ancient capital. Whether you're eyeing the famed Fushimi Inari Shrine (get off at JR Inari Station!) or planning a full Day in Kyoto Itinerary, that train ride is your magic carpet!

But let's get real for a second. A Japan Itinerary that includes Kyoto is like a well-prepared sushi platter – filled with flavors and surprises. So, if you can, stretch that day trip into a sleepover; Kyoto loves to play host! But if time's ticking and Tokyo's calling you back, rest assured, the Japan Rail Pass has got your back. It's more than a ticket; it's a gateway to explore, discover, and fall in love with Japan all over again.

How many days do you need in Kyoto?

One day in Kyoto? Oh, it's a whirlwind of fun, but let me spill the tea: Kyoto loves playing hard to get and reveals its charms slowly. A two or three-day stay lets you dive deeper into Kyoto's heart and soul. Imagine strolling through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove without a care in the world, catching the Cherry Blossom Season at its peak, or giving the Silver Pavilion a wink hello! Not only Kyoto but nearby wonders like Osaka Castle are yours to explore, especially with the convenience of the Japan Rail Pass.

But wait, there's more! Researching the best areas to stay in Kyoto could lead you to a luxury hotel stay and a leisurely trip to the Nanzen Ji Temple. Yes, please! With more time, Kyoto's treasures like the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and its mesmerizing Torii Gates become friends instead of fleeting acquaintances. Savor the Bamboo Forest at sunrise and catch the sparkle of the Arashiyama Bamboo at dusk. With a longer Japan itinerary, Kyoto's not just a destination; it's an experience.

Final words: The magic of a day in Kyoto

What's that, you say? Only one day in Kyoto? Fear not, intrepid travelers, for the charm and magic of Kyoto are ready to wrap you in a warm embrace, even in the briefest of visits! Whether it's your first time here or your hundredth, the allure of Kyoto is timeless. The shrines, the streets, the smiles - everything's sprinkled with a little something special. Within a day's visit, Kyoto knows how to make an impression that lasts, and there's no denying that its vibes will keep calling you back.

Let's be honest; a single day in Kyoto is like a teaser trailer for an epic blockbuster. You'll get the highlights, the thrills, and a taste of what makes this city a must-see in any Japan itinerary. From sunup to sundown, Kyoto doesn't just show you sights; it shares with you a story, an essence, a living dream. So pack those comfy shoes, bring your wanderlust, and let's dance through Kyoto. Until next time, keep that Kyoto magic alive in your hearts!

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Kyoto in One Day: Here's How to See All The Best Attractions of Kyoto

“Finally in Kyoto!” you think as you step out of JR Kyoto Station . Now then, what is the most time-efficient and effective way to see Kyoto in one day? Though Kyoto may seem like a place that requires at least several days to explore fully, many travelers have a limited number of days in each destination, and they often have to move on to their next target in a concise amount of time. As such, it’s natural to want to see as much as you can, as efficiently as possible! And so, this writer, a great lover of Kyoto, shall help these travelers fulfill this wish!

Is one day in Kyoto really enough to see everything?

Three rules for efficiency, a “train-only” plan to see famous sights in one day in kyoto (fushimi inari → kiyomizu-dera → kinkakuji → arashiyama), a “train and bus” plan, making use of the subway, bus one-day pass for the best of one day in kyoto (kyoto gyoen → nijō-jō → nanzen-ji → ginkakuji → gion), make the most out of your one day in kyoto check the hours of places you’re visiting beforehand.

The city of Kyoto is surrounded by mountains on all four sides. Temples and shrines line the mountains , and make for beautiful mountain scenery, one of the main draws of Kyoto. Many places are relatively far from the nearest train station, and many visitors don’t know how to make bus and train transfers in Kyoto. Thus, it can be quite difficult for first-timers in Kyoto to have an efficiently planned trip.

1. Use the trains, buses, and walking for a smooth trip

There are many train services you can take within Kyoto City. Each line has multiple train types as well, and the wait is usually from 10 to 20 minutes. Besides making good use of the train services, it’s recommended that you walk where you can as well. As the buses serve most of the major streets in Kyoto, you can walk the backstreets inaccessible by bus to feel Kyoto’s rustic side. For those who aren’t keen on walking, you can use the Subway, Bus One-Day Pass for discounted travel. Each ticket can be used for a full day, and allows for unlimited access to the subways and buses, allowing you to reach areas in Kyoto with relative ease. You can plan your routes and transfers for a more efficient trip.

2. It’s more convenient to pick accommodation options near Kyoto Station for an easier starting point

There are numerous accommodation options throughout Kyoto City. Still, if you want to explore Kyoto with maximum efficiency, it’s best to pick accommodations near Kyoto Station , which is very well connected. The area around JR Kyoto Station also has many coin lockers, and for travelers carrying heavy luggage, it’s a life-saver for before check-in and after check-out. ・Case 1: Arriving in Kyoto Station by highway bus early in the morning You can leave your large suitcases at a coin locker (there are over 4,000 of them in JR Kyoto Station ) and enjoy sightseeing for the rest of the day. Return to JR Kyoto Station at night to pick up your belongings before checking in to a nearby hotel . ・Case 2: After check-out from a hotel near JR Kyoto Station Leave your large suitcases at either the hotel you stayed at or at a coin locker, and enjoy sightseeing for the rest of the day. Return to JR Kyoto Station at night to collect your luggage and move on to your next city. As there are bullet trains, local trains, and highway buses that depart from and arrive at Kyoto Station , many transport options are available for you.

3. To see most places, it’s best to go between 9 AM and 5 PM

Though most shrines do not have restrictions on when you can enter or pay respects, the reception for goshuin-cho, a notebook for collecting the red stamps unique to each temple and shrine , and the sales of charms and amulets are limited to the opening hours of the shrine office. In the case of temples , there are set opening and closing hours of the gates. Though it may differ slightly from place to place, 9 AM to 5 PM is a good estimation for visiting hours. The closing hours of the gate tend to differ with the seasons , being as early as 4 PM in winter when the sun sets early, to as late as 9 PM during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons for evening light-ups, so be sure to check beforehand. If you would like to make the most of your sightseeing trip, you can also set up your schedule such that the early hours and night are occupied by visits to structures and architectural spots. The refreshing morning atmosphere and romantic night views can make for some unforgettable memories. Now, we’ll introduce two possible one-day plans you can try out after offloading your luggage at Kyoto Station .

This is a plan where you can visit the most famous spots in Kyoto by using the various train lines at your disposal. For those worried about the difficulty of buying train tickets, it’s recommended to buy an IC card instead. By using the “Kansai One Pass,” an IC card designed for foreign travelers, you can conveniently use just this one card for various modes of public transport.

9 AM: Head to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Take the Nara line from JR Kyoto Station to Inari Station (7-minute ride, 150 yen)

Start off at Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine , home of the thousand torii gates. The shrine entrance is just one minute away from the station. From the main path, visit the gates, main hall, thousand torii gates, inner shrine , and Kumataka-sha shrine . (60 minutes to visit the shrine and its surroundings) After visiting the shrine , head to Fushimi Inari Station along the Keihan line, to the west of JR Inari Station, as you peel back at the main path to the shrine . (5 minutes away by foot.)

• Address 68, Fukakusayabunouchicho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 612-0882 View Map
• Nearest Station Inari Station （JR Nara Line）
• Phone Number 075-641-7331

10:20 AM: Head to Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Take the Keihan line from Fushimi Inari station to Kiyomizu-Gojō station (6-minute ride, 210 yen)

A 30-minute walk away from the Keihan line’s Kiyomizu-Gojō station, head towards Otowayama Kiyomizu-dera, the stage of the famed Kiyomizu area. The route to the temple is lined with many shops, and it’s highly recommended that you walk up to the temple for a relaxing stroll. The slope is also gentle and easy to climb. From the Niōmon, a gate flanked by two guardian statues, of Kiyomizu-dera Temple , do the Tainai-Meguri, a special room in the temple , followed by the Stage of Kiyomizu, Jishu-jinja shrine , the Oku-no-in, a resting place for spirits, and the Otawa Falls. (90 minutes to visit the temple and surrounding areas)

• Address 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, 605-0862 View Map
• Nearest Station Gionshijo Station （Keihan Line） 25 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 075-551-1234

12:30 PM: Lunch (around Kiyomizu-dera)

From Kiyomizu-dera Niōmon, head north towards Gion -Shijō Station, which connects to Nene-no-michi and Yasaka-jinja shrine . (30 minutes by foot) You can have lunch along the way too. One item that Kyoto is famous for is its pickles, known as Kyo-tsukemono. The varieties on sale change with the seasons , and there is a surprisingly wide variety available. There are famous shops offering a Kyo-tsukemono buffet with ochazuke, a dish of rice with tea, so why not give it a go? It’s suitable for vegetarians too.

2 PM: See Kinkakuji Temple: From the Keihan line’s Gion-Shijō Station, transfer to the Subway and head to Kitaōji station (28-minute ride, 420 yen)

Next is Kinkakuji Temple (the Golden Pavilion). From Gion -Shijō Station on the Keihan line, take the train to Sanjō Station (2-minute ride, 160 yen), and transfer to the Tozai Line on the Kyoto Municipal Subway, to Sanjō Keihan Station (2 minutes by foot). Once you’ve reached Karasuma-Koike Station, transfer to the Karasuma Line, and take the train down to Kitaōji Station. (11-minute ride, 260 yen) From the station, walk eastwards for 40 minutes, and head towards Kinkakuji Temple as you soak in the sights of Kyoto’s streets. The proper name of Kinkakuji Temple is Rokuonji. The structure is a three-story reliquary hall covered in gold leaf on both the inside and outside. Together with all its surrounding halls, this hall is collectively known as “Kinkakuji,” and it’s is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto. From Rokuonji’s Kuromon gate, you can spend around 40 minutes walking the temple grounds.

• Address 1, Kinkakujicho, Kita-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 603-8361 View Map
• Nearest Station Kitanohakubaicho Station （Keifuku Dentetsu-kitano Line） 20 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 075-461-0013

4 PM: Tour the area around Arashiyama: From Kitano-Hakubaichō station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad, go down to Arashiyama station on the same line (19-minute ride, 220 yen)

For our last destination, Arashiyama , let’s take a relaxing ride on the train towards the entrance. It’s a 20-minute walk from Rokuonji’s Kuromon gate to the nearest station, Kitano -Hakubaichō Station. Take the train down along the Kitano line to Katabira-no-Tsuji Station, and change onto the Arashiyama line towards Arashiyama Station. About five minutes away from the station, you’ll reach Togetsu-kyō Bridge, where you can see the amazing view of Arashiyama .

Togetsu-kyō Bridge can also be said to be a symbol of Arashiyama , and the beautiful sights there all year round, from the cherry blossoms in spring , to the lush greenery in summer and autumn foliage in fall, are breathtaking no matter how many times you see it. Head for a stroll in the nearby bamboo forest and visit the shrines in the area, and peek in the various souvenir shops nearby while looking for your dinner venue.

• Address Sagatenryuji Suenobaba Town, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, 616-8385 View Map
• Nearest Station Arashiyama Station （Keifuku Dentetsu-arashiyama Line） 3 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 075-411-9990

6 PM: Dinner (around the Arashiyama and Sagano area)

If you’re having dinner in the Arashiyama and Sagano area, you have to try the tofu dishes, also known as yuba. One of the signature tofu dishes is boiled tofu , also known as yudofu, which is gentle on your tired body and gently warms your heart. In the Arashiyama and Sagano area, there are many restaurants where you can gaze at Japanese-style gardens while enjoying your food. After relishing your hearty meal, return to Kyoto Station . Togetsu-kyō bridge, with a large number of eateries nearby, is about 10 to 15 minutes away from JR Saga - Arashiyama Station by foot, and you can take a ride down to Kyoto Station from there. (17-minute ride, 240 yen)

By using the 900-yen Subway, Bus One-Day Pass, you can visit many sightseeing spots in Kyoto with great savings. The ticket can be bought from the ticket counters in subway stations. There are discounts and other perks in some areas, so be sure to show the ticket when you need to pay for entry to any place.

8:45 AM: Stroll around Kyoto Gyoen - Head to Imadegawa Station from Kyoto Station via the Kyoto Municipal Subway (10-minute ride)

First, we’ll visit Kyoto Gyoen, home of the Emperor of Japan until 1869. From Imadegawa Station, take the exit Kyoto Imperial Palace exit, and it’ll be a six-minute walk to the Seisho-mon gate. Starting from the palace itself, explore the Kyoto State Guest House and other buildings in the area too (120 minutes to explore). The grounds of the Kyoto Imperial Palace run from north to south, and is the approximate distance between two subway stations. As we move on to our next destination, we’ll be using the Kyoto Municipal Subway’s Marutamachi Station at the southern end of the palace to head off.

• Address 3, Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 602-0881 View Map
• Nearest Station Imadegawa Station （Karasuma Line） 8 minutes on foot

11 AM: Have a stroll around Nijō-jō Castle - From Marutamachi Station on the Karasuma Subway line, head to Nijōjō-mae Station on the Tozai line (3-minute ride)

Moving on, let’s move on to Nijō-jō castle , famous for its cherry blossoms. From Kyoto Gyoen, head from Marutamachi Station to Karasuma Oike Station on the Karasuma line. From there, transfer onto the Tozai line to reach Nijōjō-mae Station. From Nijōjō-mae Station to the entrance of Nijō-jō castle , the Higashi Ote-mon Gate, is a three-minute walk. Nijō-jō castle is built on flat ground and is where the Bakufu government, run by the Tokugawa Shogunate of the Edo period, began and fell. Including time to see the inside of the castle and explore the grounds, you can spend around 90 minutes there.

• Address 541 Nijojocho, Horikawa Nishiiri, Nijo-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 604-8301 View Map
• Nearest Station Nijojomae Station （Tozai Line）
• Phone Number 075-841-0096

1 PM: Have lunch on the way from Nanzenji to Ginkakuji: Take a train from Nijōjō-mae Station to Keage Station via the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line (9-minute ride)

Return to the Tozai Line’s Nijōjō-mae Station, and head to Keage Station. Our destination this time is Nanzenji, one of the representative temples of Zen Buddhism. Let’s enjoy a late lunch. From here on, there are many udon shops along the way, so be sure to drop by. Most of the shops offer tempura and rice bowls too.

Once you’ve satiated your hunger, you can see the breathtaking Nanzenji Suirokaku aqueduct, with its continuous beautiful arches that start from Nanzenji’s Sanmon gate (90 minutes to explore the area). From there, head to Ginkakuji temple via the Philosopher's Path (Tetsugaku-no-Michi) , famous for its cherry blossoms in spring (26 minutes by foot).

• Address Nanzenji Fukuchi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto-fu, 606-8435

Ginkakuji Temple (the Silver Pavilion) is at the heart of Higashiyama culture, which uses the Japanese concept of “wabi-sabi,” an acceptance of transience and imperfection, as its basis. Enjoy the simple beauty of the place, starting from the Jishōji main gate, for a 60-minute soiree along the main path. After you’ve finished exploring the place, exit from the Jishōji main gate onto Ginakakuji Sando road, and head west for five minutes to reach the bus stop, Ginkakuji-mae, served by city buses.

• Address 2, Ginkakujicho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 606-8402 View Map
• Nearest Station Mototanaka Station （Eizan Dentetsu Eizan Line） 28 minutes on foot
• Phone Number 075-771-5725

5 PM: Enjoy Gion at night - Take the city bus from Ginkakuji-mae to Gion (21-minute ride, subject to traffic conditions)

The sun is beginning to set. Let’s head off to see Gion at night via bus.

From Ginkakuji-mae, you can take City Bus 100 (towards Kyoto Station ) and alight at Gion . If you’re fortunate, you may sometimes see maiko and geisha walking the stone pavements of Gion . However, chasing after them with your smartphones and cameras is strictly not allowed. Enjoy the atmosphere of this historic street.

7 PM: Enjoy a Kaiseki dinner in Gion

It’s time for dinner; let’s look for a place to eat at while heading towards Shijō Station from Kawaramachi . In this area, you can freely pick between casual izakayas to high-end restaurants, but why not give Kaiseki-ryōri, a traditional Japanese multi-course dinner, a go? After you’ve enjoyed a hearty meal, let’s head back to Kyoto Station . It’s a four-minute ride via the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line from Karasuma Station to Kyoto Station .

For an enjoyable and efficient trip, pre-trip planning is a must. Mark out the places you want to go on a map of Kyoto, and check the visiting hours for each one. From there, connect the points in the shortest way possible for your own bespoke sightseeing map of Kyoto. The starting point of your journey can be either the station where you leave your baggage, or the hotel you’re staying at. It’s recommended that you leave your luggage at your starting point, and wear comfortable walking shoes or sneakers so that you can easily get around by walking and public transport. If you bring along a light jacket and simple rain gear, you can have a blast enjoying Kyoto. Please make each and every day of your holiday count, including your one day in Kyoto!

Written by:

Kiko Matsuda, Keiko Kimura, Risa Tsuji, and a team of female writers familiar with Kansai. We love eating, drinking and traveling! We share fun information based on our experiences.

• Area Kyoto Station, To-ji Temple
• Category Other Sightseeing
• How To: Sightseeing

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1 Day Kyoto Itinerary: Best Attractions For A Day Trip

Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan , is one of the most visited  tourist destinations in Japan . As its cultural capital, it shouldn’t surprise you that there are many attractions in Kyoto, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites , the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and many more. This 1 day Kyoto itinerary will cover some of the best things to do in Kyoto in 1 day. However, if I must be honest, 24 hours in Kyoto is not sufficient to see all the amazing sights it is known for. It is advised to stay at least 2 days in Kyoto to see all the main attractions. However, we understand that sometimes you are time-restricted and you might just have one day in Kyoto. In our Kyoto itinerary, we will cover the things you must do in Kyoto in one day and how to maximize your time ! We’ll also talk about visiting Kyoto on a day trip, including where to depart from, what to see, and if it is worth doing!

Planning A Trip To Kyoto Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Our recommended airport transfer to Kyoto:

• Private Airport Transfer from Kansai International Airport To City Center

Our recommended tours in Kyoto:

• Kyoto Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide (Must-have if you want to learn in-depth about Kyoto Culture)
• Tea Ceremony at Jotokuji Temple (Unique part of Japanese culture)
• Guided Night Walk in Gion: Kyoto’s Geisha District

Our recommended places to stay in Kyoto:

• Onyado Nono Kyoto Shichijo (Has its own natural hot spring!)
• Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi (Great value-for-money)
• Ryokan Hostel Gion (Where we stay every time we’re in Kyoto!)

Guide To 1 Day In Kyoto

Kyoto tourist map: 1 day kyoto itinerary attractions.

This is the personalized Kyoto tourist map you will use to visit all the things you must see in Kyoto in one day.

Clicking on the star next to the name of the map will allow you to save it onto your own personal device, making it much easier when you are looking for each thing to do in Kyoto. Since this 1 day itinerary in Kyoto, you won’t be able to cover all of the attractions in Kyoto.

The red circles on the map are what I consider the best attractions in Kyoto. Under no circumstances should you switch them out unless you have been there before.

The blue stars on the Kyoto attractions map are the alternatives you could use to replace the main attractions. They are also great places to visit in Kyoto if you plan on staying for two days . 

The green question marks are all the “average” attractions in Kyoto. Some of these places are UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Ryoanji temple. They are by no means bad places to see but are not as good as the must-visit attractions.

Kyoto One Day Pass

Many tourists that visit Kyoto in 1 day are tempted to buy the Kyoto one day pass because they think it will save them money.  Let me tell you why that might not be the case. 

There are two types of passes that are worth considering:

• One-day bus and subway pass
• One-day bus pass. 

Costing only 900 yen for 1 day, most travelers are tempted to buy the Kyoto one-day bus + subway pass to save money. It is true that with that pass, you can visit all the attractions in this Kyoto itinerary.

The problem is, it might not be the most convenient or fastest way . The Kyoto one-day pass doesn’t cover all the transportation in Kyoto, such as the JR lines or even the trams. The buses are also infrequent, inconsistent, crowded, and often stuck in traffic. If you only have 24 hours in Kyoto, this is your worst nightmare. 

For those reasons, I recommend you to NOT buy the Kyoto one-day pass. 

Step-By-Step Itinerary of The Best Things To Do In Kyoto In 1 Day

Morning: arashiyama bamboo grove, tenryu-ji, nishiki market.

Welcome to Kyoto and good luck!! You have a long day ahead of you. This 1 day in Kyoto itinerary covers a lot of the things you must see in Kyoto. 

Before you start your first attraction on the Kyoto 1 day itinerary, make sure you have a good breakfast. If your accommodation doesn’t offer breakfast, my favorite place in town for a quick breakfast is either 7-Eleven or Lawson .

Unlike the 7-Eleven in the western part of the world, 7-Eleven in Japan offers nutritious and affordable meals. Try some of the onigiris, egg sandwiches, or even pancakes! 

Your first stop will be the  Arashiyama bamboo grove , also called the Arashiyama bamboo forest. One of the best things to do in Kyoto, the Arashiyama bamboo grove gets crowded quite easily. Sprawling with countless number of soaring bamboo trees, it is quite an unworldly feeling when you are alone.

For that reason, you will arrive no later than 8:30 AM . In the early morning, there are fewer people and you can feel the real magic of the Arashiyama bamboo forest. It will also guarantee you will photograph the best picture of the bamboo grove!

Trust me, it is worth the effort! 

The best way to arrive at the Arashiyama bamboo grove is via the JR San-In Line , also known as the JR Sagano Line. Take the JR San-In line to Saga-Arashiyama station and the bamboo forest is a 15-minute walk away. If you have  Japan Rail Pass , all JR lines are free!

After you are done strolling around the Arashiyama bamboo grove, head over to  Tenryu-ji . Within a walking distance from the bamboo forest, it is the best way to hit two birds with one stone.

Not only is Tenryu-ji one of the most famous Zen temples in Kyoto, but it is also one of its proud UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Come stroll around the historic buildings and the tranquil gardens, it has a sense of serenity unlike anywhere else.

Aim to leave Arashiyama no later than 10:30 AM.

The next stop on your 1 day in Kyoto itinerary is  Nishiki Market . There are many options to get there from Arashiyama. My favorite is taking the Randen and switching to the Hankyu-Kyoto Line . The Randen is the last tram line in Kyoto and takes you on a beautiful sightseeing journey.

Once you arrive at Nishiki market, spend some time wandering around. Nishiki market is the biggest food market place in Kyoto, specializing in many of Kyoto’s specialties . Though the Nishiki market only spans 5 blocks , there are over hundreds of stalls, and some have been there for centuries.

One of the best places for Japanese street food , don’t hesitate to try anything that fancies you. My favorite snack was definitely the octopus on the skewer . Though slightly unsettling at first, once you bite into the head, you will be fully intrigued. Trust me!

Don’t walk and eat at the same time! In Japanese culture, it is one of the most disrespectful things you can do!

You are probably tempted to spend your 24 hours in Kyoto here sampling the local seafood, trying the pickled vegetables, shopping for souvenirs, but there are still plenty of amazing things to see. 

Grab your lunch in the surrounding area but remember to leave Nishiki Market no later than 1 PM. What is next on the itinerary? The famous  Fushimi Inari Taisha .

Afternoon: Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera

To get to Fushimi Inari Taisha from Nishiki Market, the quickest one is to take the Keihan Main line at Gion-Shijo station to Fushimi Inari station. The journey is about half an hour.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the most important Shinto shrines located in Kyoto. Famous for the thousands of vibrant orange torii gates that reach the top of the sacred Mount Inari , Fushimi Inari Taisha is as beautiful as it is important.

Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine is the most important shrine dedicated to the Shinto god Inari , the goddess of rice . And I don’t think I need to tell you how important rice is for the Japanese, it is almost in all of their cuisines. The fox statues you will see as you ascend up Mount Inari are the messengers of Inari.

Many travelers already know Fushimi Inari Shrine as one of the top sights in Kyoto, but many do not do that it is actually a hike! The trail to the top of Mount Inari takes about 2 hours one way.

With the frequency of the torii gates decreasing and not much to see at the summit, it is not recommended you hike all the way up.

However, do spend 45 minutes to an hour hiking up to the Yotsu-Tsuji intersection . A great viewpoint with a few houses and shops, it is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of Kyoto. Though there are a lot fewer tourists beyond this point, the torii gates offer no variation.

The Yotsu-Tsuji intersection is the highest point you will hike up to.

When you are ready, head back down. You want to head down at least 2 hours before sunset because the next attraction is the best place in Kyoto to watch the sunset! This depends on the month you are visiting Kyoto, so make sure you check the sunset time beforehand!

The next thing to see on the 1 day Kyoto itinerary is  Kiyomizu-dera , or the “Pure Water Temple”.

To arrive at Kiyomizu-dera from Fushimi Inari Taisha, you will take the Keihan Main line from Fushimi-Inari station to Kiyomizu-Gojo station. Then you will walk for about 20 minutes to arrive at Kiyomizu-dera. It might be tempting to take a bus but the buses are infrequent, unreliable, and often crowded. It is better to walk.

On your way to the temple, you will go through the Higashiyama district . Filled with cool shops and beautiful traditional streets, it might be tempting to stop and look around. We will come back to this place after Kiyomizu-dera, don’t worry!

Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Japan . Founded in 778, this religious relic is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto. Featuring many different buildings inside with different significance, it is a great way to learn about traditional Japanese culture. 

Check out the Otowa waterfall and its wish-granting water. The waterfall’s water is divided into three streams and they all have different effects. But drink from all three and you are considered greedy and none of your wishes will be granted.

Afterward, head over to the Jishu Shrine , a shrine dedicated to the god of love . In front of the shrines are 2 stones places 18 meters apart. Anyone that can navigate from one stone to the other with their eyes closed is promised to have everlasting love!

Visitors can also rent a kimono in Kiyomizu-dera if they want! 

Besides being an important historic temple, Kiyomizu-dera is one of the best places in Kyoto to watch the sunset . It is exactly why we saved it for the last thing to do in Kyoto before the night sets in.

Head over to the Butai , or otherwise known as “Kiyomizu’s wooden stage”. This wooden stage is where you will watch the beautiful sunset over the beautiful city of Kyoto. If you are lucky enough to come during autumn or cherry blossom season , the view will even be more spectacular. Either way, you will be stunned by Kyoto’s beauty .

Keep in mind the opening hours of the Kiyomizu-dera temple change with the seasons. It opens at 6 AM daily and can close anytime from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. If there are seasonal illumination events, such as the cherry blossom event, the temple might close as late as 9 PM. 

Night: Yasaka Pagoda, Higashiyama District, Gion, Shirakawa Canal

After visiting Kiyomizu-dera, head back down the same way you came. You will do a little bit of exploring in the  Higashiyama District , one of the most well-preserved traditional districts in Kyoto. Dainty wooden buildings, old narrow roads, the Higashiyama District is a glimpse of the past when Kyoto was the capital of Japan. 

Make sure you stop by  Ninenzaka  and  Yasaka-dori  (No.5 and 6 on the map) on the way. These two spots are some of the greatest places to catch a glimpse of  Yasaka Pagoda , considered one of the most beautiful places at  night in Kyoto ! It is also one of the best places for photography in Kyoto!

The rest of this Kyoto one day itinerary will have you explore the Higashiyama District and Gion District. There are no time restrictions, trains to catch, or closing hours you have to make. Take your time and explore at your pace, going down the narrow alleys and checking out the wooden merchant shops.

Kyoto is known as the cultural capital of Japan and you can really see it in the streets of Higashiyama. After visiting Yasaka-dori, make your way to  Hanamikoji street .

Located in the  Gion  district, Hanamikoji street is one of the oldest streets in Kyoto and the one that you are most likely to see a Geisha or Maiko strolling down the street. Originating from the 18th century, Geishas and Maikos are an important part of traditional Japanese culture. With years of practice in arts, dance, and singing, their main role is solely to entertain the clients in ochayas (traditional tea houses).

The difference between Maikos and Geishas are that Maikos are apprentice Geishas, and you can usually tell the difference in their clothing and accessories. 

There are only a handful of Geishas and Maiko that live in Kyoto, so it is a rare occurrence that you encounter one while walking in the Gion District. However, if you do see one, please don’t intrude on them and disturb their lives. They are usually on their way to work or home, and none of them would appreciate the aggressiveness. 

For more information on Geishas and Maikos culture, check out here .

When you are in Gion district, make sure you stop by  Shirakawa Canal . The tranquility of the water along with the timeless wooden houses along the street creates a unique ambiance, it is almost as if you just stepped into a time machine . 

This is the end of the one day in Kyoto itinerary! At this point you must be tired, go grab some dinner in the area or go to downtown Kyoto. Make sure you try some of the traditional dishes of Japan such as sushi, ramen, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and more. The  ramen in Kyoto  is some of the best in Japan! 

Alternative Attractions to the 1 Day Kyoto Itinerary

In this section, we will talk about other attractions that we didn’t make the cut in our Kyoto 1 day itinerary.

• Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji)  

One of the most impressive Zen Buddhist Kyoto temples. Its top two floors are completely covered in gold, showing the luxury Kitayama culture during the Yoshimitsu reign.

The 1 day itinerary in Kyoto doesn’t include Kinkakuji simply because it is too far and only accessible with the rather inconvenient buses. Probably the best UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, you should visit it if you have 2 days in Kyoto. If you must see this on your Kyoto trip, swap it out for one of the other attractions.

• Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion)

Ginkakuji is a Zen Buddhist temple built a few decades after Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion). Unlike the Golden Pavilion that is partially covered with gold, the Silver Pavilion is not covered in silver. However, the Silver Pavilion is not as crowded as the Golden Pavilion and is a perfect place to feel zen and tranquil. 

• Philosopher’s Path

A path right outside of Ginkakuji, you can easily pair this attraction with a visit to Ginkakuji. The Philosopher’s Path is one of the best streets for cherry blossoms in Kyoto but it is rather unimpressive during the other seasons.

However, if you are looking for some peace and quiet, this could be the perfect place for you to see.

• Kyoto FREE Walking Tour

The Kyoto free walking tour runs every day in the morning. The schedule can be found on their website  here . It is a 2.5-hour walking tour and the guide gives you a lot of information about the city of Kyoto and its history.

• Kyoto Tower

The viewing tower of Kyoto Tower is one of the best places for a panoramic view of Kyoto. However, you have already been to places like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera. Kyoto Tower will seem repetitive compared to those. 

Where To Stay In Kyoto To Maximize Your 1 Day In Kyoto

Best Hostel in Kyoto –  K’s House Kyoto: Backpackers Hostel

If you are looking for a backpacker’s hostel in Kyoto, then consider K’s House Kyoto: Backpackers Hostel. Hostels in Japan aren’t known to be particularly social but K’s House boasts many common areas for guests to meet and a nice bar to help loosen everyone up!

The facilities, like the rest of Japan, are clean and top-notch. It is also like you are staying in a hotel but for the price of a hostel.

Best Vacation Rental / Airbnb in Kyoto –  Private Kyomachiya with Garden

( Images Courtesy of Vrbo) One of the best ways to experience the culture in Kyoto is by staying at one of the traditional Japanese homes in Kyoto! These are called Machiya , but in Kyoto, they are called Kyomachiya. Luckily, there are plenty of vacation rentals and Airbnbs in Kyoto. This private Kyomachiya is a traditional Japanese wooden house that features a beautiful garden. Guests can also experience what it is like to sleep on a tatami mat! One of the most outstanding features of this vacation rental is the location. Its central location near Gojo subway station means that you can walk to some of the best sights in Kyoto in a short amount of time.

Best Luxury Hotel in Kyoto –  The Share Hotels Rakuro Kyoto

The Share Hotels Rakuro Kyoto is a meticulously clean and modern hotel in Kyoto. It is known to be some clean that you can eat your meal off the floor, not that we would recommend it. The hotel has nice and comfortable decor, creating a feeling of home. Breakfast is included, free coffee throughout the day, a bar on-site, and much more are offered here at The Share Hotels. 

How To Get Around Kyoto?

Luckily for travelers with only 1 day in Kyoto, this ancient capital of Japan is quite easy to get around. The city is well connected by public transportation such as the subways, trains, and city buses. Most of these attractions on our itinerary are no more than a 5 to 10 minute walk from the nearest subway station.

On our itinerary, it is totally feasible to get around with public transportation, especially since Japanese public transport is always on time. However, if you find yourself behind schedule, it might not be a bad idea to take a taxi.

Many of the places to visit in Kyoto are situated in the center, so going on foot is also an option. Just make sure you pack some nice comfortable walking shoes because you’ll be doing lots of walking!

Taking A Day Trip To Kyoto

If you are short on time, you might consider taking a day trip to Kyoto and following our itinerary above, especially if you are staying in Osaka.

From Osaka, it is definitely doable to take a day trip to Kyoto, since it takes less than half an hour to travel between the two cities by train. Even from Nara, another popular destination in the Kansai region, only takes less than an hour to arrive in Kyoto.

With that said, it is totally feasible to turn our itinerary above into a Kyoto day trip itinerary . Please allow extra time for commuting and you should be all set.

However, if you are planning to take a Kyoto day trip from Tokyo, it isn’t really feasible since it takes a minimum of 3 hours to get there, even with the Japanese bullet train.

How To Get To Kyoto?

Getting to Kyoto by air is the simplest way to get to this historical Japanese city. The nearest airport to Kyoto is the Kansai International Airport , which is about 100 km (62 mi) away by car.

The Kansai Airport has both domestic and international connections, so it is very likely you’ll be arriving here if you are taking a flight. From the Kansai Airport, you can take the JR Haruka express passenger train that operates between Kyoto Station to Kansai International Airport.

Alternatively, you can get a private airport transfer or rent a car!

Getting to Kyoto by train is as simple as getting there by air. Kyoto Station is one of the most prominent stops on the Shinkansen lines. This allows travelers to get to Kyoto from almost every destinations in the country in a timely manner.

If you are traveling in Japan by train frequently, we recommend getting the JR Pass. This gives you unlimited selected train rides in Japan for a certain period of time. This includes the Shinkansen, which is very expensive without the JR Pass.

It is also possible to get to Kyoto by bus, but they are not as common as other modes of public transportation. Although they are well connected, and often times slightly more affordable than trains, they are just not as fast as trains.

Buses also depart in only selected places in the city, whereas you can depart from any train station. With that said, it is possible to get from Tokyo, Osaka, Nara, or Kobe to Kyoto with the bus!

Visiting Kyoto FAQs

How many days in kyoto is enough.

Three days in Kyoto is the perfect amount of time to explore all of its attractions leisurely. However, if you are short on time, it is possible to see Kyoto in two days, but it’ll be stressful.

Do You Need A Car For Kyoto?

Just like most of Japan, the public transportation in Kyoto is very reliable and quick, so you won’t need to rent a car. Matter of fact, renting a car in Kyoto is probably going to hinder your sightseeing because you’ll need to find parking.

Is One Day In Kyoto Enough?

24 hours in Kyoto might not seem like a lot of time, but it is just enough to see the main sights of Kyoto. However, you’ll have to wake up really early and spend the entire day sightseeing, which might not be the relaxing vacation you had hoped for.

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This concludes the 1 day Kyoto itinerary! I hope this guide helped you determine the things to do in Kyoto in one day. Any question? Leave them in the comments!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

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LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

4 thoughts on “1 Day Kyoto Itinerary: Best Attractions For A Day Trip”

Thank you for this post about Kyoto. My family and I have been to Kyoto last March 2020, just about before the lockdown for the pandemic started, thus we weren’t able to explore much. We just went to Arashimaya Bamboo Forest, and to the Silver Pavilion. We are coming back this November. We will stay in Osaka, but we want to visit Kyoto just for the day and go back to Osaka after dinner. This time around, we want to see the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, the Gion District, Higashimaya District. May I ask for your suggestion as how we can make this itinerary work for us? Thank you very much!

Hey Ivy, you can easily go from Osaka to Kyoto via the train. And since you don’t have much you want to see, you’ll have plenty of time to see the sights you want even if you stay in Osaka! I would recommend starting with the Golden Pavilion first, then going to Gion and Higashimaya District, and finally going up to Fushimi Inari Shrine near sunset time!

Great list, thank you! My cousin and I just wrapped up a 24 hour stay and did nearly your entire list of suggestions. We also agree that one day simply isn’t enough!

You could stay for a week and probably not see all of its sights! It’s such an amazing place!

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1-day Kyoto Itinerary: Day Trip from Osaka

• Post author By Project Gora
• Post date January 17, 2023
• 1 Comment on 1-day Kyoto Itinerary: Day Trip from Osaka

Got only one day in Kyoto? It can be quite challenging, but it is definitely doable. My friends and I did this tour and although it required A LOT of walking, it was totally worth it. There are many attractions in Kyoto so you must pick the ones you absolutely want to see to get the most of your trip. One day is short, but you can try. Just like we did. At the end of the day, you will be exhausted but there is always a match ice cream in a vending machine to make you feel better! Read on to see my 1-day Kyoto Itinerary.

Table of Contents

1-day Kyoto Itinerary Overview

First stop: arashiyama, how to get to arashiyama from osaka or kyoto:, second stop: fushimi inari, how to get to fushi inari from osaka, kyoto, and arashiyama:, third stop: nishiki market, fourth stop: kinkakuji temple (golden pavilion), fifth stop: kiyomizudera temple, last stop: gion, 1-day kyoto itinerary: maiko transformation in kyoto, where to stay in kyoto.

7:00 AM to 9:00 AM – Arashiyama 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM – Fushimi Inari Taisha 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM – Nishiki Market 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM – Kinkakuji Temple 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM – Kiyomizu-dera Temple 6:30 PM onwards – Gion

1-day Kyoto Itinerary In Detail

My friends and I woke up early in the morning to get to Arashiyama to avoid the crowd. However, it turned out, the other tourists thought the same way lol! Even though we arrived at the Bamboo Grove at around 8:00 AM, there were already many tourists trying to get that perfect Arashiyama portrait for Instagram!

Located on the western outskirts of Kyoto, Arashiyama is home to various temples and shrines as well as the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove . We spent around 30-45 minutes trying to get a decent group shot or a selfie in the middle of Arashiyama’s soaring stalks of bamboo. However, tourists kept coming by groups so it was a real struggle. To beat the crowd, you really have to be early (6:00 AM to 7:00 AM)! If you can, take the earliest train going to Arashiyama or if you have extra money to spare, take a cab.

If you have 2-3 day in Kyoto, I suggest doing a half-day tour of Arashiyama. Some of the must-see attractions in this area are Togetsukyo Bridge , Okochi Sanso Villa , Monkey Park Iwatayama , Tenryu-ji Temple , Kameyama-koen Park , and Saga Scenic Railway .

Option # 1 (Osaka to Arashiyama – covered by JR Pass)

Depends on where you are staying in Osaka, go to JR Osaka Station or Umeda Station. Then, take JR Special Rapid Service or Limited Express Thunderbird and get off at Kyoto Station. From there, take the JR Saga Line and get off at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. Travel time is about 50 minutes and the one-way fare is 970 yen.

Option # 2 (Osaka to Arashiyama –not covered by JR Pass)

This is the cheapest option if you don’t have a JR Pass. From Osaka’s Hankyu Umeda Station, take the Hankyu Railway’s Kyoto Line to Katsura Station. Then, transfer to Hankyu Arashiyama Line bound for Arashiyama Station. Travel time is about 50 minutes and the one-way fare is 400 yen.

Option # 3 (Kyoto to Arashiyama – covered by JR Pass)

If you are staying in Kyoto and you have a JR Pass, take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station. Travel time is about 15 minutes and the one-way fare is 240 yen. From the station, it is an only 10-minute walk to get to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Option # 4 (Kyoto to Arashiyama –not covered by JR Pass)

If you are staying in Kyoto and you have a JR Pass, take the Hankyu Main Line to Katsura Station from Kawaramachi Station or Karasuma Station in Central Kyoto. Then, transfer to Hankyu Arashiyama Line bound for Arashiyama Station. Travel time is about 15 minutes and the one-way fare is 220 yen.

After breakfast at Arashiyama, my friends and I went to our second destination, Fushimi Inari. This iconic Shinto Shrine is probably Kyoto’s most popular and widely recognized attraction. Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, Inari, Fushimi Inari features thousands of vermillion torii gates , which lead up to the sacred Mount Inari. There were also many fox statues scattered around the shrine grounds to depict foxes as Inari’s messengers.

While the primary reason foreign tourists come to Fushimi Inari Shrine is to take photos of the vermillion torii gates (Senbon Torii in Japanese), the shrine buildings are equally beautiful and historic. Japan’s second great unifier, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, donated the imposing Romon Tower Gate , the shrine’s main gate. Behind that is the main shrine, where locals go to pay respect to the resident deity.

Option # 1 (Osaka to Fushimi Inari – covered by JR Pass)

Depends on where you are staying in Osaka, go to JR Osaka Station or Umeda Station. Then, take JR Special Rapid Service and get off at Kyoto Station. From there, take the JR Nara Line and get off at JR Inari Station. Travel time is about 50 minutes and the one-way fare is 840 yen.

Option # 2 (Kyoto to Fushimi Inari – covered by JR Pass)

If you are staying in Kyoto and you have a JR Pass, take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to JR Inari Station. Travel time is about 5 minutes and the one-way fare is 140 yen. From the station, it is only 2-minute walk to get to Fushimi Inari.

Option # 3 (Arashiyama to Fushimi Inari – covered by JR Pass)

If you are going to follow my itinerary, take the JR Sagano Line and get off at Kyoto Station. Then, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station. Travel time is 47 minutes and one-way fare is 240 yen.

For lunch, my friends and I stopped at Nishiki Market located in the heart of downtown Kyoto. This market has everything from fresh seafood and Japanese produce to Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and even knives and cookware. Not only is this a great place to find traditional delicacies, but there are plenty of restaurants you can try for lunch as well.

In the afternoon, my friends and I went back to Kyoto Station and boarded Kyoto City Bus going to Kinkakuji. To get to Kinkakuji Temple, take Kyoto City Bus number 101 or 205. Travel time is about 45 minutes and the one-way fare is 230 yen. Alternatively, you may take the subway to Kitaoji Station. From there, take Kyoto City Bus number 101 or 205 to Kinkakuji Temple.

Kinkakuji or the Golden Pavilion is a Zen temple covered in golden leaves. It was originally built as a retirement home of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Ashikaga Shogunate (1338-1573). Today, Kinkakuji is one of Kyoto’s most popular attractions. Although the main building is not open to the public, the view of the temple from across the pond is spectacular. At the other side of the garden, you will find a teahouse, which is a perfect spot for sakura viewing and autumn foliage.

Kiyomizudera is a Japanese temple established in the Heian period. It sits on the slopes between Otowa Waterfall and Mount Otowa, which makes it a great sunset viewing spot. My friends and I first visited during the cherry blossom season of 2015 and I was so amazed of the beautiful view up there. Its beautiful architecture framed by the blooming cherry blossoms was truly an enchanting sight.

Gion is a historic district located in the heart of downtown Kyoto. It’s an iconic place to visit if you’re looking for an authentic Japanese experience. When I first visited in 2015, I was so amazed with its traditional wooden houses, machiya and winding streets.

Gion is best known for its geisha population, so my friend and I actually experienced Maiko Transformation . It was, to this day, one of the best experiences I had in Japan. Almost half a day will be spent in this activity so I would recommend this if you have at least 2 days in Kyoto.

If you’re not keen to be a Maiko for a day, just walk around the small streets of Gion. It’s an experience like no other to spot a real Maiko, so be on the lookout for these enchanting beauties during your visit!

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Shijo Karasuma Kyoto Shimogyo-ku Karasuma-dori Bukkoji kudaru Omandokoro-cho, Kyoto, Japan

Hotel MyStays Kyoto Shijo 52 Kasaboko-cho, Shijo-dori Aburanokoji Higashi-iru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan

Naku Kyoto 205-1 Okuracho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto

Japan has so much to offer travelers and the beautiful city of Kyoto is only the beginning of an amazing Japan trip. I hope this 1-day Kyoto itinerary has provided you with useful information for your trip and that you have had a wonderful time exploring the ancient city of Kyoto. Thanks for following along and safe travels!

By Project Gora

Hey there! My name is Milet Miranda, and I'm a full-time corporate employee during weekdays and a traveler during weekends (and holidays...you get the picture). I'm a foodie at heart and I love joining food tours. When I'm not traveling, you'll find me walking my dogs or biking around my neighborhood.

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8 day trips from Kyoto for history, deer, street food and much more

Jan 26, 2024 • 9 min read

Within an hour or so from Kyoto, historic castles, beautiful canals, nature and much more awaits © PR Image Factory / Shutterstock

Kyoto offers a tantalizing glimpse of ancient Japan – which is why it's one of the most popular destinations in the country. Might we suggest escaping the temple crowds by exploring an alluring spot nearby?

Its position at the heart of the Kansai region makes Kyoto a handy base for hopping on a train to explore fairy-tale castles, go on tasting journeys in matcha towns and float along ancient canals. 

Each of these itineraries is accessible by train in under two hours. As you plan, keep in mind that if you plan to make several trips within a five-day period, you should consider a Kansai WIDE Area Pass . (All routes are covered by this or a Japan Rail Pass , except in Hiroshima, as noted below.)

These are the most rewarding day trips from Kyoto.

1. Find your favorite matcha in Uji

Travel time: 20 minutes

Mmm…matcha. Green-tea-obsessed Uji lies just next door to Kyoto, yet draws far fewer crowds. Meander along its Omotesando laneway, dipping in and out of charming stores dedicated to selling locally sourced green tea. Pause in cafes to try matcha-flavored treats – ice cream or soba noodles (or both). As you hold up a skewer of dango to the light, you'll first see the scorch marks, then taste them as you chew through the rice-cake balls. The flavors dance between chargrilled, bitter tea and sweet rice. 

At the laneway's end, the vermilion Byōdō-in  seems to spread its wings and levitate above a green pond (a sight immortalized on the 10-yen coin). The temple's Phoenix Hall is an excellent example of architecture from the Heian Period; after taking in the ambiance, linger in the gardens and delightful tea salon for an hour. If you want more Heian history, explore the on-site Hoshokan Museum to ponder a temple bell and other Buddhist treasures.

Japanese literature enthusiasts should make a visit to the Tale of Genji Museum, dedicated to Murasaki Shikibu's famous 11th-century work (perhaps the world's first-ever novel). The exhibits provide insights into the portion of the narrative that unfolds in Uji.

Cross the Uji River to visit teahouses where artisans demonstrate how to brew the perfect green tea. In summer, finishing the half-day with a cruise in a wooden boat on the river is a pleasant finale indeed – cormorant-fishing demonstrations optional.

How to get to Uji from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara line to JR Uji Station.

2. Encounter history – and deer – in Nara

Travel time: 1 hour

When you come eye to eye with the deer in Nara , you might decide for yourself if, as legend has it, they are divine messengers from the heavens. The 1000-plus placid deer that roam leafy Nara-kōen are an iconic symbol of Japan's first imperial capital. (Feel free to feed the free-roaming deer with crackers sold on-site.) You can take in plenty of Nara's history-rich sights while you're in the park, including the Great Buddha at Tōdai-ji , who is seated with an open hand as tall as a person. Early risers: if you get to Nara by 9am, it's worth observing morning prayers within the splendor of vermilion and cedar shrine pavilions at Kasuga Taisha . 

How to get to Nara from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a 55-minute Rapid train on the JR Nara line to Nara Station.

3. Climb Japan's best-preserved castle at Himeji-jō

Tilting your head skywards to be dazzled by the five splendid white stories of Himeji-jō is the stuff of Japanese fairy tales. In fact, the "White Heron" castle has been showcased in movies and TV series aplenty – which is no wonder, given how rare it is to find a truly intact (and not reconstructed) medieval castle in Japan. 

Himeji-jō is a stunner, and it's worth visiting early to beat the crowds. Set aside an hour or two to climb to the top for great city views, then to take in the surrounding nine gardens within Kōko-en, designed in Edo Period style. A great time to visit is during cherry blossom season, when everything is framed in pink blooms and petals float atop the moats.  

How to get to Himeji-jō from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a JR Hikari train for 55 minutes to Himeji Station.

4. Eat real wagyū  in Kōbe

Travel time: 2 hours

Kōbe is Japan's easy and breezy nature city, with countless things to do . Here, the mountains hug the seaport, with great views at every turn that make you stop and smile. Stop to dig into authentic wagyū (Japanese beef) – registered restaurants (identifiable by indoor plaque written in Japanese) are the most reliable. A superb place to start is with the good-value set beef menu at Tor Road Steak Aoyama – or by going all out with an exquisite teppanyaki experience (watching your chef work a hot plate) at Genkichi Kobe Beef . Head uphill from Sannomiya Station to a district of tree-lined streets with merchant houses, quaint cafes and unique shops. 

Even with a population of 1.5 million, Kōbe offers easy access to nature. Mt Rokko, a popular hiking spot (accessible by cable car, too), towers over the city's narrow streets and features the landscaped Nunobiki Herb Gardens . Meanwhile, further up, Nunobiki Falls has been a muse for artists, poets and worshippers for centuries.

How to get to Kōbe from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a JR Limited Express Super Hakuto train for 50 minutes to Sannomiya Station. There are two loop buses plying all the sights of the port and city.

5. Daydream along the canals of Kurashiki

Willow trees dip into the canals, while handsome black-and-white Edo period (1603–1868) warehouses are tucked away off side lanes. A day trip to Kurashiki is like encountering an outdoor museum. Those buildings – many now converted into denim boutiques, cafes and art workshops – make up the atmospheric Bikan quarter.

Wander the laneways lined with old wooden houses and shops first before popping into the popular Ōhara Museum of Art , which displays works by Picasso, Cézanne and Matisse. Kids will love seeing the exhibits at the Japan Rural Toy Museum , or snacking on a denim-blue ice cream or burger in the Kojima district. (Kurashiki has been jeans-obsessed since its trading-hub days). 

A traditional boat tour of Kurashiki Canal is a lovely way to pass the afternoon. On land, Ivy Square is a pretty courtyard that once housed textile factories but now often plays host to live entertainment.

How to get to Kurashiki from Kyoto: Ride the 90-minute Hikari bullet train to Okayama Station, then change to the 15-minute JR Sanyo line train to Kurashiki Station.

6. Reflect on peace in Hiroshima 

Hiroshima may be synonymous with the devastating atomic bomb attack in 1945. But this leafy, laid-back city has much more to offer visitors these days than just its past. If you want to reflect on the preciousness of peace in the face of war, definitely start at the Peace Memorial Park , then take in the haunting Atomic Bomb Dome , one of very few buildings left standing near the epicenter, whose shell has been preserved as a memorial alongside the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum . Seeing the colorful garlands of origami paper cranes sent from schools across the world at the Children's Peace Monument is joyfully moving.

It's ambitious but possible to tackle Hiroshima as a day trip from Kyoto; we'd recommend lingering in the city and staying the night. That way, you can dig into a Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake), which adds a layer of yakisoba noodles for delicious heftiness. A fun way to taste it is by choosing one of the dozens of okonomiyaki restaurants at the multi-level Okonomimura food hall.

Another reason to stay into the late afternoon is the short trip over to the gorgeous island of Miyajima , home to Itsukushima-jinja , a bright red shrine rising out of the ocean – and one of Japan's most iconic views. From here, you can wander through streets lined with machiya (old wooden townhouses) and, if you have another spare hour, take a cable car up to the summit of Mt Misen for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.

How to get to Hiroshima from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take the Shinkansen Nozomi bullet train to Hiroshima (1 hour 40 minutes; this is not covered by JR Pass alone – an additional fee is required). Tourist loop buses and trams depart regularly from Hiroshima Station to the Peace Park. To reach the ferry port from Hiroshima Station, take the JR Sanyo line for 25 minutes to Miyajimaguchi Station.

7. Taste the sizzle of street food in Osaka

Travel time: under 30 minutes

Osaka's street-food stalls are a festival of lanterns and delicious, sizzling smells, enjoyable day or night – easily done in a quick jaunt from Kyoto. Since the city is known as "Japan's kitchen," arrive hungry.

Its motto of  kuidaore  literally means "to eat oneself bankrupt." Which means you can expect to carve up okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and devour takoyaki (fried octopus balls) along the canal in  Dōtombori , peering up to see the iconic Running Man sign. Then try kushikatsu (crumbed meat and vegetables on sticks) near the Tsutenkaku Tower in the kitschy, retro neighborhood of Shin-Sekai .

As you wind through the alleyways of Ura-Namba to Torame Yokacho (Tiger Alley), you can try a range of favorite dishes under one roof. When full, walk off your excesses in the expansive grounds of Osaka Castle or browse boutique and vintage clothing shops in the hip neighborhoods of Amerika-Mura , Horie and Nakazakicho.

How to get to Osaka from Kyoto:  From Kyoto Station, take a 28-minute JR Special Rapid train bound for Himeji to Osaka Station. Bullet trains also run between Kyoto and Shin-Osaka Station.

8. Cycle, swim, hike and ride canal boats around Lake Biwa

Travel time: 35 minutes

Japan's largest lake is rich with outdoor life. Along its shores, visitors find an almost overwhelming number of temples, castles, cities and activities spread hours apart. Start in the lake's most wonderfully preserved town, Ōmihachiman, far away from foreign crowds. From here, you can rent bicycles and follow the color-coded path markings for straightforward, self-guided cycling on a section around the lake. Or take it slow with a canal boat ride on the narrow waterways, gazing at the feudal-era merchant houses of Ōmihachiman, which once held goods brought across the Sea of Japan. 

If you head up the Hachimanyama Ropeway, you'll be rewarded with great views across Lake Biwa, as well as short hiking trails. In summer, listen for the waves pattering the lake shore, inviting you for gentle beach swimming. 

With more time, you can chase down the torii  (gates) of Shirahige Shrine, which seem to float on the lake, or 17th-century Hikone-jō , shrouded in beautiful autumnal colors in mid- to late-November.

How to get to Lake Biwa from Kyoto: From Kyoto Station, take a Special Rapid train to Omi Hachiman Station.

This article was first published Jul 8, 2019 and updated Jan 26, 2024.

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Kyoto Day Trips

Visiting Kyoto but want a trip outside the city? Here is our list of the best towns, temples, hikes, and other attractions that can be visited in a day.

The List: Day Trips From Kyoto

Seven days in Kyoto gives plenty of time to fit in at least one day trip outside the city centre. This is our list of the best places within reasonable distance to make a day of it. See our Kyoto Itineraries for more suggestions on how to make the most of your time. We’ve also listed temples and shrines which require a half or full day to visit, and then finish off with some spectacular day hikes, as well as some shorter and longer alternatives. Click through for full details on what to expect.

Kyoto Day Trip Destinations

About 15 kms southwest of Kyoto, and easily accessed by both the Keihan Line and the JR Line, Uji is famous for the lovely Byodo-in Temple (the temple on the back of the Y10 coin). It’s also famous as a tea growing area.

A Day Trip To Ohara

Ohara is an ancient farming village north of Kyoto, famous for its rural beauty and the historical and spiritual significance of its many temples. Michael Lambe takes us on a comprehensive tour of this area’s key sites.

Himeji Day Trip Itinerary

If you’re a fan of Japanese castles, you must visit Himeji, which is only 45 minutes from Kyoto Station by bullet train. Make the most of your time with our Himeji Day Trip Itinerary.

Nara Travel Guide

Nara is a spectacularly picturesque city which is second only to Kyoto for the richness and beauty of its temples, shrines and gardens. It’s possible to visit Nara as a daytrip from Kyoto and Osaka, but its gorgeous districts and parks are certainly worth a few days of your time.

Kurama And Kibune

Kurama and Kibune are a pair of tranquil rural villages and easy and scenic 30-minute train north of Kyoto on Eizan Line. They form the best half-day trip out of Kyoto.

The Kitayama Area: Bujo-ji, Miyama, Kayabuki-no-Sato

If you want to experience traditional rural Japan and you’re willing to drive a rental car, the Kitayama Mountains north of Kyoto make the perfect day trip.

Hiroshima And Miyajima Travel Guide

Less than two hours by bullet train from Kyoto, Hiroshima is the most interesting city in Western Japan. And nearby Miyajima Island is a natural and spiritual sanctuary.

Kyoto Temples and Shrines Outside The City

Kurama-dera mountain temple.

Kurama-dera Mountain Temple is easily the best day- or half-day trip out of Kyoto. High on the shoulder of Mt. Kurama, you can feel the power of nature up here.

Sanzen-in Temple

Sanzen-in Temple, located in the village of Ohara (see earlier entry), is one of the most beautiful temples in the mountains outside the city.

Byodo-in Temple

A superb Hiean-era temple in the southeast suburb of Uji, Byodo-in a brilliant place to visit for those who want to step off the beaten track.

Kamigamo-jinja (Kamowakeikazuchi-jinja) Shrine

One of Kyoto’s least visited but most historically important shrines, Kamigamo-jinja Shrine is a great place to catch your thoughts up north.

Kyoto Day Hikes

Kurama to kibune hike.

The easy hike from Kurama to Kibune, in the hills north of Kyoto, is our favorite half-day trip out of Kyoto City. It’s the perfect combination of nature and culture.

Fushimi-Inari Hike

The hike to the summit of 233m Mt. Inari-san and the pilgrimage circle around the shrines near the top is one of the most interesting short walks around Kyoto. It’s also the best way to see all of Fushima-Inari Taisha Shrine.

Walking the Nakasendo from Kyoto Guide and Map

Walking the Nakasendo, an old mountain route between Kyoto and Tokyo, is a great way to sample Japan’s rural scenery. You can walk the most popular section, Magome to Tsumago, as a daytrip from Kyoto.

Takao to Hozukyo Hike via Kiyotaki and Kuya-no-taki Waterfall

The hike from the hamlet of Takao down through the mountains west of Kyoto to the train station at Hozukyo is one of the best day hikes near Kyoto. It includes two superb temples, a crystal-clear river and a magical waterfall.

Shorter Kyoto Hikes

Mt daimonji-yama hike from ginkaku-ji temple.

The one-hour roundtrip hike from Ginkaku-ji Temple up to the viewpoint on Mt. Daimonji-yama is the best short hike in Kyoto. The view of the city from here is incredible! Found out everything you need to do this hike.

Shogunzuka and Seiryuden Hike From Chion-in Temple

One of the best short hikes in Kyoto is the easy 2-hour hike from Chion-in Temple in Southern Higashiyama up to the Shogunzuka viewpoint. It provides some incredible views over Kyoto. Here is everything you need to do this hike.

Overnight Kyoto Trips

While not really daytrip distance from the city, these two areas are well worth an overnight trip from Kyoto.

The Kumano Kodo Walking Trail: A Guide with Maps

The Kumano Kodo is an ancient pilgrimage trail in the mountains of Wakayama (south of Kyoto) where you can walk with a light pack from guesthouse to guesthouse for a few days. It’s a brilliant way to experience Japan’s rural side and ancient religious traditions.

Exploring the Tango-hanto Peninsula

The Tango-hanto Peninsula, about two hours north of Kyoto City, is a beautiful unspoiled destination with onsen (hot springs), beaches and stunning coastal scenery. It’s the perfect place to enjoy rural Japan without the crowds. Here is our full Tango guide and map.

Kyoto Hiking Guides

Best kyoto hikes.

Surrounded by mountains on three sides, Kyoto has some brilliant hiking. There are good hikes right in the city and others just a short train or bus trip away. Here are my five favorite hikes in and near Kyoto.

Kyoto Hiking Itineraries

Kyoto is surrounded by mountains on three sides and these mountains are latticed with hiking trails. Here, we introduce the five best hikes in or near Kyoto.

Hiking in Japan – A Full Guide

Japan is a fantastic hiking destination, with great mountains, well-maintained trails and an extensive mountain hut network. You can do everything from easy day hikes to multi-day treks.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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DIY day trips from Kyoto - Kyoto Forum

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DIY day trips from Kyoto

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Or do you recommend a guided tour to both these places?

93 replies to this topic

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For tourists, when you visit Japanese temples, the afterdeath Buddhist pureland is supposed to be in the West. Sometimes you will see Amida Nyorai, the Buddhist savior, put on the west like Sensjoji Temple even the main hidden statue is Kannon statue.

Zen is a sect of Buddhism. In Buddhism the ashes of the founder of Shaka is important and the top floor of Golden Pavillion has them.

I have to admit I was quite shocked that the golden leaf Pavillion was a Zen temple and first couldn't believe it was because it was totally different with my image of Zen being monotonous and humble.

I visited Soukouji Temple, the head temple of Kinkakuji, three times. It is really an off beaten path even the Autumn foliage there is so beautiful.

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3 Days In Osaka Itinerary: How To Enjoy Japan's Retro-Modern City

Osaka is one of the most unique cities in Japan. The city feels modern yet feels stuck in the past at the same time. It’s also a haven for food and nightlife. It’s a very different feel compared to the nearby city of Kyoto !

Compared to Kyoto’s tranquil temples, wooden teahouses, and historical charm, Osaka is a city full of contrasts.

In Osaka, you’ll find the best of both worlds: traditional temples sitting side-by-side with towering skyscrapers and retro-neon lights leading to manicured Japanese gardens.

Being the third-largest city in Japan, you already know there’s going to be a ton of stuff to do here. Needless to say, if you’re looking to fill your Osaka day trip itinerary up, you won’t have any issues with that. You MAY actually struggle to narrow things down!

If you’ve got 3 days to spare in Osaka, this travel guide is going to be your BFF. Our 3-day Osaka itinerary covers all the highlights of Osaka, with a few off-the-beaten-path attractions sprinkled in too.

While our guide is perfect for first-timers, this itinerary also works well for return visitors who want to revisit their favorite spots and discover some new activities along the way.

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

IN THIS GUIDE

Kuromon Market, Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street, Den Den Town, Shinsekai, Janjan-Yokocho

Osaka Castle, Hozenji Yokocho, Ebisu Bashi-Suji Shopping Street, Dotonbori

Minoo Falls, Cup Noodles Museum, Shitennoji, Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, HEP FIVE, Umeda

MORE PLANNING HELP

Where to stay, local events, getting there, getting around, how many days, day 1: cultural and culinary immersion, kuromon ichiba market.

At Kuromon Market, you’ll find over 150 shops and stalls offering fresh seafood, meats, produce, and all kinds of street food. Come hungry because you’re guaranteed to find something that piques your interest!

Known as “Osaka’s Kitchen”, Kuromon Market is the perfect place to sample local delicacies like pufferfish, kushikatsu, takoyaki, sashimi, and massive oysters and crab legs, all while soaking up the lively market atmosphere.

Sadly we came here after lunch (which meant we weren’t hungry at all), which was a total mistake! Aside from buying soy milk and donuts, we were only able to eat with our eyes.

Learn from our mistake — come hungry! I suggest you come here in the morning or early afternoon to break your fast!

Opening hours vary from shop to shop, but trading hours in the market can run anywhere from 8 AM – 6 PM.

Looking for more guidance? A great way to experience Kuromon Market is with a guided food tour ! Led by a knowledgeable guide, you will explore one of the city’s oldest markets and taste a variety of traditional Japanese dishes.

Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street

Just a 5-minute walk from Kuromon Market is Sennichimae Doguyasuji Shopping Street, a shopping street dedicated to selling household goods, kitchenware, pottery, and other functional tools.

If you’re in the market for some kitchen upgrades (or looking to bring home unique Japanese knives as gifts), this street is a must-visit.

Nipponbashi Denden Town

If you’ve ever been to the Akihabara area in Tokyo, then you’ll be no stranger to what Osaka’s Nipponbashi Denden Town holds in store for you.

Nipponbashi Denden Town is Osaka’s version of Tokyo’s Akihabara, where you’ll find a bustling hub for electronics, anime, and manga. You’ll easily be able to tell that you’re there as soon as you begin spotting the billboards of gundam statues, anime characters, and electronic brands.

If you love anime (or are traveling with someone who loves this kinda stuff), spend some time browsing the countless stores filled with the latest gadgets, collectible figures, and otaku culture items.

There’s an Animate location and a Mandarake location (the Grand Chaos Shop) here! Both of these chains are well-known in the anime/manga world and have many locations throughout Japan.

Joshin Super Kids Land HQ is another fun toy store to check out too. And if the kitschy cosplay maid cafes are your thing, you’ll find a few maid cafes here, including the well-known chain at-home cafe .

A visit to Shinsekai takes you back in time to early 20th-century Osaka, with its retro charm and iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. This area is a total FEAST for the senses, especially when the sun sets and all the lights come on!

This unique neighborhood was modeled after Paris and New York City, and its Art Deco architecture is truly unique.

Once a thriving entertainment hub, Shinsekai fell into disrepair following World War II. These days, it’s been undergoing a revival, with new bars and restaurants popping up alongside its old-school attractions.

When you first arrive in Shinsekai, you’ll be greeted by the iconic  Tsutenkaku Tower , also known as the Eiffel Tower of Osaka. Originally built in 1958, the tower has become one of Osaka’s most recognizable landmarks.

You can explore the eclectic mix of eateries, including famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) restaurants, and enjoy the nostalgic, carnival-like atmosphere of this historic district.

Shinsekai is another foodie hotspot! One of the best ways to try as much food as you can is with a guided walking food tour. With this best-selling Shinsekai food tour , you’ll get to sample a total of 15 dishes and discover a handful of locals-only establishments!

Try kushikatsu

If you haven’t had the chance to try kushikatsu yet, Shinsekai is a great place to do that!

We ate at Kawachiya , and despite the food looking quite lame (fried skewers are not the most visually appealing food), we were actually quite impressed with how the food tasted!

Once we received the skewers, we dipped them in this sauce which added a whole new dimension to the fried skewers. The vegetable skewers ended up being our favorites (don’t miss out on the shishito peppers!).

MEGA Don Quijote Shinsekai

I hope you packed an extra tote bag for your day out because Shinsekai is home to a *Mega* Don Quijote! And mega it is!

While most Don Quijotes in major Japanese cities are small, cramped, and made up of 5-6 floors, this Don Quijote is comprised of one massive floor that seemingly never ends in square footage.

This is a great time to stock up on everything souvenir-related — food and drink items, beauty/health products, Japanese character merch, clothing items, etc. You can even buy luggage and duffel bags here if you don’t have enough room to carry your new items home.

Janjan-Yokocho

The last stop for your Day 1 in Osaka is Janjan-Yokocho, located in Shinsekai. This is a narrow alley packed with tiny bars, eateries, and retro arcade parlors.

You can enjoy affordable and casual food (cheap sushi, kushikatsu, okonomiyaki, desserts) while rubbing elbows with locals and experiencing the old-school charm of Osaka’s nightlife.

For cheap sushi in a retro counter-seating restaurant, head to Taikosushi Minami — despite being a hidden gem, this place always has a long line!

Mostly everything closes at around 8pm, which makes it a great spot to grab a casual dinner and play some old arcade games before heading back to your hotel. You can even try your hand at some archery here!

Seeing people play vintage carnival games was so cool!

DAY 2: OSAKA CASTLE, SHINSAIBASHI, DOTONBURI, AND NIGHTLIFE

Nakanoshima park + coffee.

Start your day with a peaceful stroll through Nakanoshima Park, an oasis of greenery in the heart of the city, nestled between two rivers.

After enjoying the scenic views and well-kept gardens, relax with a cup of coffee at one of the many good coffee shops flanking the river (MOTO COFFEE, Embankment Coffee, and School Bus Coffee Stop Kitahama).

Osaka Castle Park

View of Osaka Castle Park from the top of the castle.

Osaka Castle, located just a bit east of Osaka Station, is one of the most popular attractions in all of the city…and one of Japan’s most popular castles! Built in 1583, Osaka Castle was the largest castle at the time.

From Nakanoshima Park, Osaka Castle + Osaka Castle Park isn’t too far away by foot. You can either walk or train 1-2 stops to the closest subway station by Osaka Castle Park (you’ll still have to walk a bit to get onto the castle grounds).

Once you’re at Osaka Castle Park, enjoy the grounds before checking out the castle itself!

The park has some really cool Japanese architecture as well as beautifully landscaped grounds. It’s dotted with lush gardens, historical castle gates and turrets, and various complexes housing random shops and restaurants. 

Notable stops with good views of the castle include the Gokurakubashi Bridge and the Japanese Garden . You can also opt for a 20-minute cruise in the inner moat of the castle on the Osaka Castle Gozabune Boat !

Lots of food/shops inside the Miraiza Osaka-Jo building.

To explore shops and restaurants within Osaka Castle Park, there’s JO-TERRACE OSAKA and MIRAIZA OSAKA-JO (home to the new Kaiyodo Figure Museum !). For a dose of nature, Osaka Castle’s Plum Grove  and  Nishinomaru Garden  are two garden areas you can check out.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss Nishinomaru Garden during cherry blossom season! In spring, there are about 300 cherry trees in full bloom, making this a famous cherry-blossom viewing spot. You can enjoy a super scenic view of the Main Tower from the wide-open lawn.

Osaka Castle Main Tower

Time to explore Osaka Castle itself! The outside is absolutely gorgeous!

If you’re interested in learning about its storied past through informative exhibits, you’ll want to grab admission tickets and head inside the tower to explore the castle’s museum. The exhibits (spread across multiple floors) showcase artifacts from Japan’s feudal era.

Your ticket will also come with access to climb the  Castle Tower , where you get to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline from the observation deck. To get there, you have two options: walk all the way up the 8 floors OR take the lift to floor 5 then walk up to floor 8 to get to the views.

Due to its popularity, Osaka Castle can be quite crowded, so I recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the bulk of the crowds. If you don’t want to waste your time standing in line while you’re there, you’ll want to  buy your tickets in advance for skip-the-line privileges .

For those interested in history, a visit to the nearby  Osaka Museum of History  provides further insights into the city’s cultural heritage.

Lunch at Izakaya Toyo

For lunch, head to Izakaya Toyo, a local favorite known for its delicious grilled seafood. Enjoy a variety of freshly prepared dishes, including their famous tuna cheek and other izakaya-style offerings, while experiencing the warmth of Osaka’s culinary culture.

Papu had this one on his list for quite some time, so we were so excited to finally get to try his sashimi and the torched tuna belly! Get here early because he does sell out of the good stuff!

Shinsaibashi-Suji + Ebisu Bashi-Suji Shopping Street

After lunch, it’s time to head back to the heart of Osaka. Go to Shinsaibashi-Suji and Ebisu Bashi-Suji Shopping Street for all your retail therapy needs! This is Osaka’s premier shopping area.

This bustling arcade is filled with shops ranging from international brands to local fashion boutiques to traditional souvenir stores.

You’ll find stores like Uniqlo, Onitsuka Tiger, H&M, 2nd STREET, a Daimaru (department store with a food basement), tax-free drugstores selling all kinds of souvenirs and daily products, and lots of other shopping and food options.

The area is packed with liveliness from morning to night, making even just a walk down the avenues fun!

While the main arcade can be quite overwhelming (you better have some shopping stamina), it is worth taking a peek to see what’s on sale. Even if you don’t plan on buying things, it’s worth browsing through the wacky clothing shops and gadget stores.

If you have more energy in you, wander off to the side streets to explore the smaller, quieter mom-and-pop shops!

America-mura

Amemura, or America-mura, is a youthful neighborhood that emulates Japan’s take on American culture. Because of how interesting the atmosphere is, it makes for great people-watching and window shopping. They even have their own Statue of Liberty on top of a building!

You’ll find dozens of shops catering to fans of urban apparel, vintage clothing, streetwear, as well as lolita, goth, rock, and punk clothing. There are lots of cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area too.

If you’re missing “international” food, you’ll have no shortage of options — America-mura is home to a high density of pancakes, burgers, pizza, and artisan coffee!

Afternoon tea and kakigori at Wad Cafe

Wad is a small but mighty tea room located slightly north of Shinsaibashi Station. It’s a local favorite in Osaka and most definitely worth lining up for!

Finding the tiny sign and climbing the steep stairs are all part of the fun experience of this contemporary tea ceremony room.

Inside you’ll find moss-filled terrariums hanging before airy, floating curtains. Low-hanging lights, warm woods, and repurposed furniture give the room that special, simple, and rustic feel that the Japanese have perfected.

The store’s name (Omotenashi) literally means hospitality, and your experience at Wad will exude just that! The menu is short, sweet, and to the point: a curated selection of teas from Kyoto. You’ll find cold and hot matcha, sencha, and hojicha as well as sets of wagashi (Japanese sweets), mochi, and kakigori.

The kakigori (shaved ice dessert) is a must! We like to order it with red beans and matcha syrup.

Dinner at Yakiniku Kitan

For dinner, treat yourself to a memorable meal at Yakiniku Kitan, where you can savor high-quality Japanese BBQ in the form of a multi-course meal.

With your own private dining room, you get to grill your own selection of premium meats at your table, enjoying the rich flavors and interactive dining experience that Yakiniku is famous for.

Everything was absolutely delicious, all the way down to the kimchi appetizer plates and the eggy creme brulee dessert!

Alternative dinner option: If you can’t get reservations at Yakiniku Kitan (or Wagyu just isn’t your thing), you can also head back to the Dotonbori area and check out Hozenji Yokocho .

This narrow alleyway in Osaka, paved with cobblestones and lined with traditional Japanese lanterns, is home to lots of cozy izakayas, bars, and eateries offering a taste of old-world Japan.

It’s an ideal spot to eat if you’re looking to get away from the busier city streets of Dotonbori.

Nakaza Cuidaore Building

After dinner, you’ll want to start your Dotonbori explorations! Start by visiting the Nakaza Cuidaore Building, an entertainment complex with a quirky and fun atmosphere.

Back in the day, Dotonbori was known as a lively theatrical entertainment area full of people who came to enjoy shopping and entertainment. You can still get a taste of that today!

The mechanical drummer Kuidaore Taro welcomes you into the building, renovated with innovative styling to create a new Dotonbori destination that’s rapidly taken the spotlight.

The shop right next to the mechanical drummer is a highlight — you can pick up all your Osaka-themed souvenirs and food items here. You can also explore the building’s various floors featuring themed restaurants, shops, and even live performances.

Who is this drummer boy mascot anyway?

Kuidaore Taro has been the poster boy of Dotonbori for many years. Dressed in his signature red and white striped outfit and wearing a pair of round black eyeglasses, he’s one of a kind and pretty darn cute if you ask me!

Like many other restaurant-themed animatronics, Kuidaore Taro came to Osaka in 1950 as the mascot of a restaurant called Cuidaore, banging on his drums to attract and welcome guests to the business.

Kuidaore Taro retired when the restaurant closed its doors, but he was ultimately revived after numerous passionate calls for him to return were received from the locals!

As night falls, make your way to Dotonbori, the lively entertainment district famous for its bright neon lights and iconic Glico Running Man sign. When I say this area is lively, I mean LIVELY. It seems to be always jam-packed with people, but especially so at night!

You can wander along the banks of the river and the main dining street, take in the bright flashing lights and cute animatronics in the shape of foods, and sample street foods Osaka is famous for like kushikatsu, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki.

And of course, while you’re here, you can snap a photo with the famous Glico Running Man. Be prepared to have tons of other people in your photos though! This spot is way popular at night.

Bar Hopping at Misono Universe

At first look, Misono Universe looks like a random retro-modern venue from the Showa era where concerts are held from time to time. But that’s not what we’re here for. We’re here for the collection of bars!

End your evening with some bar hopping at Misono Universe, housing a variety of small, themed bars on the second floor of the building.

You can enjoy a drink or two while exploring the different atmospheres, each offering its own unique charm and a glimpse into Osaka’s eclectic nightlife. You’ll find some weird establishments but very interesting indeed!

Many are open until the early hours of the morning, making it a great place to bar-hop without having to walk very far from bar to bar.

More nightlife options

You’ll find bars all over Osaka, but if you need pointers, here are some unique ones we like!

Space Station – small video game bar with tons of retro and party games like Mario Kart and Mario Party to play

Bar Nayuta – Intimate, relaxed bar with a hidden entrance pouring creative cocktails.

7-UP – a lively karaoke bar in Amemura

Afrobar – a must for people who love cozy bars and Afrobeats music! The owner of the bar is originally from Ghana but has been living in Osaka for decades and is super friendly.

DAY 3: OUTSKIRTS OF OSAKA

Your third day in Osaka is going to be a heavy subway day as we aim to see some of Osaka’s lesser-visited highlights located on the outskirts of town. There will be a healthy mix of nature, culture, temples, shopping and more on this last-day outing!

Yamamoto Coffee-kan

Before getting our outdoor excursion going, start your day with a visit to Yamamoto Coffee-kan (near the base of Minoh Park), where you can enjoy a meticulously brewed cup of coffee in a fancy-meets-retro atmosphere surrounded by nothing but serenity and nature.

There are trees all around the coffee shop, making it feel like you’re dining at a secluded treehouse. Really, you might even see monkeys outside the windows while dining!

They have specialty coffee (many different options!) that’s served in an antique pot and totally fits the whole vibe of this place. If you have yet to eat breakfast, you can pair your coffee with light sandwiches, honey toasts, cakes, curry plates, and more.

Minoo Falls

Now for the main attraction of your morning — a quick little “hike” to Minoo Falls! Minoo Falls is located at the end of Minoo Park, a gorgeous green area that offers a welcome respite for hikers and nature lovers.

It takes around an hour to complete the 3 km paved walk alongside a stream, which is a gift for strollers who don’t fare well on uneven ground.

If you’ve heard anything about the mindful Japanese practice of forest bathing, this is the perfect place to do it. There are nearly 1000 different types of plants in the park, including centuries-old trees, and Japanese maples.

You’ll be surrounded by gorgeous greenery throughout the hike, but the hike culminates in a picture-perfect area of an arch bridge languishing in front of the gently cascading waterfall.

The 300 m (984 ft) waterfall is what gives its name to the park! Aesthetic monks have used the waterfall for meditation as far back as the seventh century.

If you visit at the end of November (fall foliage season), you’ll get an even more special treat — a canopy of red autumn leaves that create an even more exquisite vista!

If you happen to get hungry, the narrow roads in the park are flanked by tiny food stalls, as well as souvenir stalls and craft shops. In autumn specifically, try the local seasonal snack, Momiji (maple leaf) tempura.

Cup Noodles Museum

Once you get back to Minoh Station, take a quick 16-minute subway ride over to the Cup Noodles Museum, an interactive and quintessential Japanese experience where you can learn about the history of instant noodles… even create your own custom cup!

Upon entering, you’ll be greeted with a super interesting journey through the history of ramen, featuring engaging theaters and quizzes that provide in-depth insights into the evolution of this beloved food item.

One of the highlights is the ramen tunnel, where ~800 different types of ramen packages are on display!

While the museum itself offers a wealth of knowledge and entertainment for free, the paid experience corner is a must-visit for those looking for a hands-on activity. You can actually create your very own original cup noodles here! 100% worth the money and the experience!

Shitenno-ji Temple

Afterward, visit Shitenno-ji Temple, Japan’s oldest official temple, to explore its beautiful gardens and pagodas. This historic site provides yet another peaceful retreat on the outskirts of Osaka.

BONUS : On the 21st + 22nd of every month in Shitennoji, there’s a monthly flea market that takes place here. If you’re in town during these dates and enjoy treasure hunting, definitely check it out!

I saw so many gorgeous kimonos for sale, as well as wooden sculpture antiques, porcelain, and many other goods splayed out on tables (many that wouldn’t have fit in my luggage, sadly). It was a lot of fun to peruse the isles of treasures and you can find things there for bargain prices!

Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street

Ready to get some shopping and snacking in? Stroll through Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street, Japan’s longest shopping street, stretching over 2.6 kilometers, filled with an array of shops and restaurants.

You can find everything from kitchenware stores and traditional goods to delicious sushi bars not yet on tourist radars, making it a great way to experience local life.

We ended up having a delicious omakase set at a sushi restaurant within one of Tenjinbashi-suji Shopping Street’s arcades — the staff didn’t speak a lick of English but they had translation cards to ask us questions and serve us despite the language barrier.

End your day with a visit to HEP FIVE, a fun shopping and entertainment complex in Umeda.

HEP FIVE is a quirky, whimsical shopping mall aimed at teenagers and younger adults. The mall is home to over 200 independent boutique shops, as well as restaurants, cafes, and attractions like an indoor climbing wall and bungee jumping.

Even if you don’t end up shopping (the fashion is definitely geared towards younger trends), it’s great for a quick visit to see the enormous red whales hanging in the atrium area! There is also a Ferris wheel on the roof that you can ride.

Explore the Umeda / Osaka Station Area

Afterward, explore the rest of Umeda / Osaka Station area, a bustling hub with an incredible variety of eateries, shopping venues, and entertainment options.

You can take advantage of the time-sale discounts from the hours of 6-6:30 pm til closing at the basement food hall at the Hankyu Department Store , wander through Grand Front Osaka for high-end shopping and trendy cafes, visit the Pokemon Center and the Nintendo Shop , or visit the rooftop garden at Lucua for a peaceful escape with panoramic city views.

Many of these spots are located within Station City , a massive shopping mall complex located on the upper floors of Osaka-Umeda Station. It really is like a whole city here — Osaka-Umeda Station is unbelievably big!

For a unique area to eat dinner, check out Ohatsutenjin Urasando , a small alley home to izakayas, restaurants with outside seating, and even some shops.

OTHER THINGS TO DO IN OSAKA

If you have more time or don’t like some of the activities featured in our itinerary, feel free to swap them out for some of these other activities in Osaka:

Universal Studios Japan  – you can’t miss the OG Super Nintendo World!

The Pokemon Center – a paradise for fans, offering a wide range of merchandise, interactive displays, and exclusive items of all your fave Pokémon characters.

Team Lab Botanical Garden – an immersive art experience that blends nature with digital art, creating mesmerizing light installations and interactive exhibits within a lush garden setting.

Tennoji Zoo – a family-friendly experience with a wide variety of animals from around the world, all set within a pretty and landscaped environment.

Tennoji Park – lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions make this park perfect for a relaxing stroll / nice little escape from the crowded city streets.

Namba Yasaka Shrine – famous for its striking lion-head-shaped stage, which is believed to bring good luck and protection against evil spirits!

Orange Street – also known as Tachibana Street, a trendy area lined with stylish boutiques, cafes, and interior design shops.

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan – one of the largest aquariums in the world!

Osaka Bay Area  – you’ll find cool family-friendly experiences like the Tempozan Harbor Village and Legoland Discovery Center

Embrace the animal cafe culture – Japan is the land of kawaii, and what’s more kawaii than little animals? There’s Mipig Cafe Osaka (mini pigs), Hogoken & Hogonekokafe Tenjinbashiten (dog cafe), Cat cafe MoCHA (cat cafe) and so many more within the city!

WHERE TO STAY IN OSAKA

If you have an Osaka-only itinerary : If you plan on just staying within Osaka,  Minami (Namba Station or Shinsaibashi Station)  is a super central area to stay with so many things to do. It’s in the middle of all the action in Osaka’s premier entertainment district!

If you have an Osaka + day trips itinerary : If you plan on taking day trips outside of Osaka, the  Kita (Umeda Station)  area is more convenient. This is where all the shinkansens and JR trains leave from.

If you’re on a budget:  The most budget-friendly area close to major attractions is  Tennoji .

For a happy medium:   Honmachi  is within walking distance from both Minami and Kita areas. It’s also a good area for peace and quiet because it’s not as bustling as the Umeda, Namba, or Shinsabashi areas.

Check out our full guide on some of the best areas to stay in Osaka + recommended hotels in each area.

Staying Near Umeda or Namba/Shinsaibashi: Which Is Better?

My personal vote goes to the Umeda Station area or the Namba/Shinsaibashi area.

Choosing between the two depends on your itinerary though!

If you plan on making Osaka your home base to enjoy day trips to areas like Kyoto, Kobe, Cup Noodle Musem, etc. , then the Kita area (Umeda Station) is just a little more convenient.

You have all the main train stations here (you can almost go anywhere without having to transfer trains if you’re thinking about day trips), plus large malls all interconnected through underground passages or aboveground walkways.

The Minami area (Namba/Shinsaibashi stations) is great in its own way because it’s packed with things to do and places to eat. It’s a better area to stay in if you plan on JUST staying within Osaka to do Osaka things.

With the Umeda area, you would have easier access to Osaka attractions  as well as  nearby cities/day trips.

LOCAL EVENTS IN OSAKA

World Expo (April to October 2025) : The World Expo is an event that brings together people and innovations from around the world in an effort to address issues facing humankind on a global scale. It’s a big deal!

Tōka Ebisu Festival (January 9-11) : Held at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine, this festival is dedicated to Ebisu, the god of business prosperity. It attracts millions of visitors seeking good fortune for the new year.

Setsubun (February 3) : This traditional festival marks the beginning of spring according to the lunar calendar. Various temples and shrines, like the Sumiyoshi Taisha, hold events to drive away evil spirits.

Osaka Marathon (Early March) : A popular event that brings together runners from all over the world to compete in a scenic marathon through the city.

Cherry Blossom Season (Late March to Early April) : Parks like Osaka Castle Park and Kema Sakuranomiya Park become prime locations for hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (Early May) : This festival features large, ornate floats pulled through the streets at high speeds. It’s a thrilling and energetic celebration held in Kishiwada, a city in Osaka Prefecture.

Tenjin Matsuri (July 24-25) : One of Japan’s top three festivals, held at the Tenmangu Shrine. The festival includes a grand boat procession, fireworks, and traditional performances.

Naniwa Yodogawa Fireworks Festival (First Saturday of August) : A spectacular fireworks display along the Yodogawa River that attracts thousands of spectators.

Awa Odori (Mid-August) : This dance festival, originally from Tokushima, is celebrated in Osaka with lively traditional dance and music.

Osaka Castle Festival (Late September) : A celebration of traditional Japanese culture with performances, food stalls, and historical reenactments held at Osaka Castle.

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival (Early October) : A repeat of the May festival with equally thrilling events, held in Kishiwada.

Midosuji Illumination (Mid-November to Early January) : The main street of Osaka, Midosuji, is adorned with beautiful lights, making for a picturesque winter evening stroll.

Osaka Hikari Renaissance (Mid-December to Early January) : An art and light festival held around Nakanoshima, featuring intricate light displays and installations.

Universal Studios Japan Countdown Party (December 31) : A New Year’s Eve event with special performances, fireworks, and extended park hours to ring in the new year.

HOW TO GET TO OSAKA

Flying into osaka.

Fly into either  Osaka’s Itami Airport (ITM)  or  Kansai International Airport (KIX) .

Flying into ITM means shorter commute times to Osaka (40 minutes to Osaka Station by airport limousine bus, 27 minutes by train). But because it is a smaller airport than KIX, you might not be able to find direct flights to ITM unless you’re flying from other parts of Asia/Japan.

Flying into KIX means a slightly longer train ride to Osaka, but you can usually find international flights headed to KIX directly.

From Kansai International Airport (KIX) to Osaka, you can take the JR Haruka Limited Express train, which runs approximately every 30 minutes and takes around 55 minutes to reach Osaka Station.

There are also limousine bus services available from KIX to various locations in Osaka.

I’ve taken both limousine buses and trains to get to/from the airports in Japan and both work great. I’ll typically opt for the train if I’m traveling lightly with limited luggage, but if I end up with too many bags on a trip, I’ll opt for the limo bus!

Bullet Train From Tokyo

Coming from Tokyo, Osaka is located approximately 515 kilometers (320 miles) away, making for a substantial distance between the two cities. The most efficient and popular mode of transportation for this route is the shinkansen bullet train, which can whisk you from Tokyo to Osaka in about 2 hours and 30 minutes .

Unless you have a Japan Rail Pass , the one-way ride will cost you ~¥14,720.

HOW TO GET AROUND OSAKA

Getting around Osaka on foot and by subway/train is super easy and efficient thanks to its extensive public transportation system.

To truly streamline your transportation experience, load up an IC card such as ICOCA, SUICA, or PASMO and use this to pay for subway rides. IC cards allow for seamless access to trains, buses, and even some shops. You just tap the subway gate and go — it takes less than a second each and every time!

In terms of train lines, the Midosuji Line (the red line) is a crucial one to be familiar with, as it is one of the major subway lines running through central Osaka.

While you’re in Osaka, you’re likely to encounter stations such as Namba, Umeda, Shinsaibashi , and Tennoji frequently, as these are major transportation hubs that connect various train and subway lines, making them key points for navigating the city.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT OSAKA?

Personally, I love visiting Osaka in May and October/November.

Osaka in May is great because you’ll have dodged the cherry blossom and Golden Week crowds while still getting to witness fabulous spring weather and colorfully blooming gardens.

October/November are also amazing months to visit. The summer humidity will have passed and the fall foliage that Japan is famous for will be in full effect!

Here’s a quick breakdown of what Osaka looks like during all the seasons:

Spring (March to May) : Spring is a popular time to visit Osaka due to the blooming cherry blossoms, particularly in early April! The city’s parks and gardens, such as Osaka Castle Park and Kema Sakuranomiya Park, become adorned with beautiful pink and white blossoms, creating a picturesque setting for cherry blossom viewing picnics. Aside from a few chances of rain showers, the weather is warm and nearly perfect!

Summer (June to August) : Summer in Osaka can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C (86°F). While the summer months bring vibrant festivals and events, you should be prepared for the heat and occasional rain showers.

Autumn (September to November) : Autumn is a popular time to visit Osaka due to the pleasant weather and the colorful foliage that adorns the city’s parks and gardens. The vibrant autumn colors, known as koyo, attract visitors to iconic spots like Minoo Park and Mount Koya.

Winter (December to February) : Winter in Osaka is relatively mild compared to other parts of Japan, with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). While snow is rare, you’ll still feel the holiday spirit! The city is adorned with festive illuminations during the holidays.

HOW MANY DAYS ARE NEEDED FOR OSAKA?

As someone who enjoys slower travel, I think a total of 3 to 5 days is perfect.

If you want just to check off the major sights, I’d say you can see most of the “iconic” spots in 2 days.

But if you want to take your time to soak in the local culture, visit gardens/parks, and enjoy less touristy areas, 3 to 4 days is perfect.

5 days will allow you to take a day trip or two to nearby places like Kobe, Nara, Himeji, or Kyoto.

Planning Your Trip To Japan?

Here are some of our other Japan travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip!

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