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3 Days in Kyoto Exploring History and Gardens Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Historical Temples and Gardens

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This Zen Buddhist temple is one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, known for its stunning golden exterior that reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond. Spend some time exploring the tranquil gardens and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Afternoon

Head to Honke Owariya for lunch, a historic soba noodle restaurant that has been serving delicious meals for over 500 years. After lunch, visit the Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden, renowned for its rock garden which is considered one of the finest examples of Zen landscaping. Take your time to meditate and appreciate the simplicity and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Evening

In the evening, explore Pontocho Alley, a narrow alley lined with traditional wooden buildings housing restaurants and teahouses. Enjoy dinner at Gion Kappa, where you can savor authentic Kyoto cuisine while soaking in the historic ambiance.

Bedtime

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4.42
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
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4.37
Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden
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Cultural Immersion and Scenic Beauty

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha), famous for its thousands of red torii gates that create a mesmerizing pathway up Mount Inari. This shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and offers stunning views over Kyoto from its higher points.

Afternoon

For lunch, head to Katsukura Shijo Higashinotoin, known for its delicious tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet). Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka, two charming streets lined with traditional shops and teahouses leading up to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. These streets offer a glimpse into old Kyoto with their preserved architecture.

Evening

In the evening, visit Gion Corner where you can experience traditional Japanese performing arts such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and Bunraku puppet theater. For dinner, dine at Yoshikawa Tempura, renowned for its exquisite tempura dishes prepared right before your eyes.

Bedtime

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4.42
Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha)
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4.69
Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
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Bamboo Groves and Imperial Splendor

Morning

Start your day with an immersive experience in nature by visiting Arashiyama Park. Explore the famous bamboo groves which create an otherworldly atmosphere as sunlight filters through towering bamboo stalks. You can also visit Tenryu-ji Temple nearby.

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch at Omen Kodai-ji, known for its delicious udon noodles. Afterward, head to the majestic Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho). The palace grounds are vast and beautifully landscaped, offering insights into Japan's imperial history.

Evening

Conclude your day by exploring Pontocho Alley once more but this time enjoy dinner at another highly-rated spot: Musashi Sushi, where you can indulge in fresh sushi while enjoying views of Kamogawa River.

Bedtime

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