Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

This is the Eastern Kyoto temple route. I recommend that all my friends take this route on their first day in Kyoto. You do not need to take any public transport because all temples are within walking distance from each other.

• 9am: Start your morning at Sanjusangen-do, renowned for its 1,001 statues of Kannon. Even after 30 years (my first visit was in 1992), the atmosphere still amazes me.
• 10am: Take your time walking through the long wooden hall; each statue has unique features. Soak in the solemn ambiance before heading out.
  

• 12pm: Arrive at Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples. The wooden stage offers panoramic city views.
• 1pm: Explore Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, the cobblestone slopes lined with traditional shops and cafés—perfect for souvenirs or a quick matcha break.
• 2pm: Be prepared for crowds; Kiyomizu-dera Temple is often packed. If you need a break, duck into a side alley for a quieter stroll.

• 3pm: Continue to Kennin-ji, Kyoto’s oldest Zen Buddhist temple.
• 4pm: Unwind in the tranquil rock gardens—great for a contemplative break after a day of walking.

• 6pm: Head to Pontocho (先斗町), a narrow alley filled with hidden restaurants and buzzing izakayas.
• 7pm: Sample yakitori (charcoal-grilled skewers) or fresh sashimi at one of the small local joints.
• 8pm: Finish with a gentle stroll through Gion’s lantern-lit backstreets. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a geiko (芸妓) or maiko (舞妓) before they slip away into a teahouse.
  
  

Western Kyoto feels like stepping into rural Japan, with its bamboo forests and peaceful temples. The Otokuni district, once Japan's ancient capital during the Nara period, offers a completely different atmosphere from the busy eastern areas.

• 7am: Catch a quick train from JR Kyoto Station to Arashiyama Station (嵐山駅).
• 8am: Slip behind Tenryuji into the Bamboo Grove, a short but iconic path of towering bamboo. Mornings are your best bet to avoid midday crowds.
• 9am: Enter Tenryuji Temple (天龍寺) right when it opens (8:30am) to wander its peaceful Zen garden crowd-free.
• 9:30am: Stroll across the historic Togetsukyo Bridge (渡月橋), a wooden landmark spanning the Katsura River.
• 10am: Tackle the Monkey Park Iwatayama climb—20 minutes uphill, but gorgeous views (and playful monkeys) at the top.

• 1pm: Taxi or bus from Arashiyama to Kinkaku-ji Temple (金閣寺).
• 1:30pm: Pay the 400-yen fee and head to the Mirror Pond for that famous reflection shot of the golden pavilion.
• 2pm: Grab a matcha green tea at the small teahouse near the exit if you need a pick-me-up.

Taihou Ramen (大豊ラーメン) (cost ¥1,000 – ¥2,000) is a well-known Kyoto ramen restaurant. This restaurant looks run down, but the food is amazing! It has a master stock that cooks 24-7 and, so the ramen here is to die for. They also serve gyoza dumplings made fresh in front of you.

A cross the small stream that flows down Kiyamachi Street is Rock Bar ING. This place is a rock ‘n’ roll dive bar that is considered a Kyoto late night institute. A trip to Kyoto is not complete without a visit to ING! Just speak to Hako-san and tell him that 'Aussie James sent you.

Your final day blends Kyoto's iconic spots with some personal favorites I've discovered over the years. Let me share some secrets about timing and hidden corners that most guidebooks miss.

1. 6am: Arrive at Fushimi Inari Shrine (伏見稲荷大社) early – this is the best time to explore the red torii gates without the crowds.
2. 7am: Hike up to Yotsutsuji Intersection (about 30–40 minutes) for a panoramic view of Kyoto.
3. 8am: Continue up the mountain for a quieter trail, or head back down to grab a quick breakfast from local food stalls.

• 10am: Travel north to Heian Jingu Shrine (平安神宮). You’ll recognize it instantly by its massive red torii gate towering over the approach.
• 11:00am: Explore the wide courtyard and the stunning main buildings—built in 1895 to commemorate Kyoto’s 1100th anniversary.
• 12am: If time allows, stroll the Heian Jingu Garden behind the shrine (small entrance fee). Seasonal flowers, ponds, and picturesque bridges make it a peaceful retreat.

After you have finished with Heian Shrine, my advice is to wander down to Kamogawa (鴨川) River. It is about a 15-minute walk from the shrine.

Kamogawa River is honestly one of my favorite places in Kyoto city. It is the main artery pumping life through Kyoto. In spring, it is lined with cherry blossoms. In the fall, it is covered in red and yellow leaves. Even in winter, its baron chill has a beautiful charm. Take a stroll down Kamogawa and find out why locals love Kyoto.

Hotel The M’s Kyoto

8.7

excellent

Booking.com

3-stars

Starting from

¥

9,000

This stylish budget hotel option is located south of Kyoto Station. Conveniently located & designed for group travlers.

Hokkaikan Ohanabo

9.6

exceptional

Booking.com

3.5-stars

Starting from

¥

35,000

This traditional hotel/ryokan offers premium Japanese experiences at an affordable price. Close to Kyoto Station & across the road from Higashi Honganji Temple.

Dusit Thani Kyoto

9.2

exceptional

Agoda

5-stars

Starting from

¥

55,000

This luxury Kyoto accommodation is lavish, spacious , and will leave lasting experience. Conveniently located near Kyoto Station and popular Kyoto temples.

M’s Inn Higashiyama

8.6

excellent

Booking.com

3-star

Starting from

¥

9,000

This budget inn offers great value! It is located in the heart of downtown Higashiyama. It is close to Gion & the major Kyoto attractions.

Gion Shinmonso

8.8

excellent

Agoda

3.5-stars

Starting from

¥

22,000

A fantastic mid-range hotel that offers traditional Japanese accommodation. Located close to Yasaka Shrine, between Sanjo & Shijo Streets.

Kyoto Ryokan The Kinoe

8.8

excellent

Agoda

4-stars

Starting from

¥

28,000

This traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) is located in the heart of Gion. Experience Kyoto as the Japanese do, with onsen bath and kaiseki meals.

Hotel MyStays Kyoto - Shijo

8.4

very good

Booking.com

3-star

Starting from

¥

10,000

Simple, modern rooms in the heart of the action. This is a great budget option in downtown Kyoto.

The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo

8.8

exellent

Agoda

4-star

Starting from

¥

10,500

Stylish but affordable mid-range hotel located in the heart of downtown Kyoto. Very close to Pontocho Alley & Kamogawa River.

Hotel Okura Kyoto

9

excellent

Booking.com

4.5-stars

Starting from

¥

25,000

An excellent hotel with panoramic city views and top-notch service in a prime downtown location. A little north of the Kyoto business district.

• The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Kyoto is by taking the Shinkansen (bullet train).
• Travel time: 2 hours 15 minutes (via Nozomi), 2 hours 40 minutes (via Hikari)
  Cost: ~¥13,320 one-way
  

• Kyoto has a simple yet efficient public transport network. You can buy an Icoca IC prepaid card or use a Suica card.
• Grab a Kyoto One-Day Bus & Subway Pass (¥1,100) for unlimited city bus and subway rides in one day.
• Here’s a quick cheat sheet on the best ways to reach Kyoto’s must-see spots:
  

• Temples often close by 17:00 (some as early as 16:30).
• Arrive at popular spots (Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama) by 6:00–7:00 AM.
• Avoid weekends/national holidays at major temples and shrines if possible.
• Use a one-day bus/subway pass for convenience.
• Use Google Maps to help you get around.
• Watch out for Monday closures!
• Remember many places close for New Year (お正月 - oshōgatsu) from December 29 to January 3
• Get your SIM card sorted in advance!

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