5 Days Exploring Kyoto's Ancient Wonders Itinerary

Begin your day at Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho). Take a guided tour of the palace grounds and learn about the history of Japan's imperial family. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café.

Visit Nijo-jo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the castle's beautiful gardens and historic buildings. Have lunch at Restaurant Name, known for its delicious local cuisine.

Stroll through Pontocho Alley, one of Kyoto's most atmospheric dining areas. The narrow alley is lined with traditional wooden buildings housing restaurants and bars. Choose one for dinner and enjoy the lively ambiance.

Take a morning walk through Arashiyama Park, known for its scenic beauty and bamboo groves. Don't miss the iconic Togetsu-kyo Bridge while you're there. Have breakfast at a riverside café.

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site located in Arashiyama. Explore its stunning gardens before heading to lunch at Restaurant Name nearby.

Spend your evening exploring Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka, two historic streets filled with traditional shops and teahouses. Enjoy dinner at one of the charming restaurants along these picturesque lanes.

Start your spiritual journey with a visit to Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). Famous for its thousands of red torii gates that wind up Mount Inari, this shrine offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Have breakfast at a local café before you start your hike.

Head to Tofuku-ji Temple next, known for its beautiful autumn foliage and impressive Zen gardens. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in traditional Japanese cuisine.

Conclude your day with a visit to Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine). Located in the Gion district, this shrine is beautifully illuminated in the evening. For dinner, dine at one of Gion's renowned restaurants offering kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal).

Begin your final day with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. This historic temple offers stunning views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a nearby teahouse.

Spend your afternoon exploring Nishiki Market. Known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' this market is filled with stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Have lunch at one of the market's popular food stalls.

End your trip with a serene visit to Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion). This Zen temple is known for its beautiful gardens and reflective pond. For dinner, head to a nearby restaurant for a memorable farewell meal.