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![7 Days Exploring Rural Kyoto and Traditional Japan](https://storage.googleapis.com/bd-app-dev-375714.appspot.com/itineraries/018fe38d-12b8-704e-90f6-2e9a33c4db94/location997.jpg)
7 Days Exploring Rural Kyoto and Traditional Japan Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Arrival and Riverside Serenity
Morning
Start your day with a peaceful stroll along the Kamogawa River (Kamo River). This river is a beautiful spot to relax and take in the natural scenery of Kyoto. The gentle flow of the river and the surrounding greenery make it a perfect introduction to rural Japan.
Afternoon
After your morning by the river, head to Nishiki Market for lunch. This market is known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen' and offers a wide variety of traditional Japanese foods. You can sample local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market.
Evening
In the evening, visit Pontocho Alley. This narrow alleyway is famous for its traditional wooden buildings and lanterns. It's a great place to explore Kyoto's nightlife and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants offering authentic Japanese cuisine.
Bedtime
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![Visit Kamogawa River (Kamo River) in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/0e/6e.jpg)
4.83Kamogawa River (Kamo River)
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![Visit Kamogawa River (Kamo River) in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/0e/6e.jpg)
Kamogawa River (Kamo River)
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![Visit Nishiki Market in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/63/04.jpg)
4.40Nishiki Market
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![Visit Nishiki Market in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/63/04.jpg)
Nishiki Market
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![Visit Pontocho Alley in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/b3/3c.jpg)
4.77Pontocho Alley
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![Visit Pontocho Alley in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/b3/3c.jpg)
Pontocho Alley
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Temples and Traditions
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This iconic temple is one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks. The golden reflection on the pond is truly mesmerizing, making it a must-see attraction.
Afternoon
For lunch, head over to Ninna-ji Temple. Not only can you explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, but you can also enjoy a meal at one of the nearby traditional restaurants that offer delicious Japanese cuisine.
Evening
End your day at Gion Corner, where you can experience traditional Japanese performing arts such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and puppet theater. It's an excellent way to immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.
Bedtime
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![Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/e6.jpg)
4.42Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
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Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
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![Visit Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a5/91.jpg)
4.86Ninna-ji Temple
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![Visit Ninna-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a5/91.jpg)
Ninna-ji Temple
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![Visit Gion Corner in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/df/01/b9.jpg)
4.48Gion Corner
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![Visit Gion Corner in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/df/01/b9.jpg)
Gion Corner
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Historic Castles and Scenic Gardens
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Nijo-jo Castle. This historic castle offers insight into Japan's feudal era with its beautiful gardens and impressive architecture.
Afternoon
After exploring Nijo-jo Castle, head over to Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden for lunch. The serene rock garden here is world-famous for its simplicity and beauty. Enjoy some quiet time reflecting in this peaceful setting.
Evening
In the evening, take a leisurely walk through Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka. These historic streets are lined with traditional shops and teahouses. It's an ideal place to have dinner while soaking up the old-world charm of Kyoto.
Bedtime
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![Visit Nijo-jo Castle in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5f/3d.jpg)
4.29Nijo-jo Castle
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![Visit Nijo-jo Castle in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/5f/3d.jpg)
Nijo-jo Castle
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![Visit Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a9/c8.jpg)
4.37Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden
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Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden
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![Visit Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/b4/73.jpg)
4.69Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
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![Visit Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/b4/73.jpg)
Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
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Bamboo Groves and Sake Tasting
Morning
Begin your day with an immersive experience at Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 3-Hour Guided Tour. Walking through these towering bamboo groves feels like stepping into another world. It's one of Kyoto's most photographed spots for good reason.
Afternoon
For lunch, visit Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. Here you can learn about sake production while enjoying tastings of different varieties. It's both educational and delicious!
Evening
Conclude your day with dinner near Togetsu-kyo Bridge, which offers stunning views especially at sunset. The area around this iconic bridge has several excellent dining options where you can savor traditional Japanese dishes.
Bedtime
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![Visit Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 3-Hour Guided Tour in Kyoto, Japan](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/645b087a6cb48.jpeg/21.jpg)
5.00Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 3-Hour Guided Tour
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![Visit Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 3-Hour Guided Tour in Kyoto, Japan](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/645b087a6cb48.jpeg/21.jpg)
Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 3-Hour Guided Tour
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![Visit Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/0f/f4.jpg)
4.90Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
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![Visit Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/0f/f4.jpg)
Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
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![Visit Togetsu-kyo Bridge in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/b0/55.jpg)
4.68Togetsu-kyo Bridge
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![Visit Togetsu-kyo Bridge in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/b0/55.jpg)
Togetsu-kyo Bridge
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Zen Temples and Imperial Villas
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Kennin-ji Temple. This is one of the oldest Zen temples in Kyoto and offers a tranquil environment perfect for morning meditation and reflection. The temple's gardens are beautifully maintained and provide a serene setting.
Afternoon
After your peaceful morning, head to the Katsura Imperial Villa (Katsura Rikyu) for an afternoon tour. This villa is renowned for its exquisite architecture and stunning gardens. A guided tour will give you insights into its historical significance and design.
Evening
For dinner, explore the traditional dining options around the Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine). The area is known for its atmospheric streets lined with historic buildings and offers numerous restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Kyoto cuisine.
Bedtime
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![Visit Kennin-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2c/f1/da.jpg)
4.68Kennin-ji Temple
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Kennin-ji Temple
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![Visit Katsura Imperial Villa (Katsura Rikyu) in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a7/6b.jpg)
4.74Katsura Imperial Villa (Katsura Rikyu)
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Katsura Imperial Villa (Katsura Rikyu)
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![Visit Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour in Kyoto, Japan](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5b11b19e75351.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.93Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)
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![Visit Chicago Lakefront and Museum Campus Segway Tour in Kyoto, Japan](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5b11b19e75351.jpeg/21.jpg)
Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)
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Cultural Immersion in Uji
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Byodo-in Temple in Uji. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its Phoenix Hall, which appears on the 10 yen coin. The temple's beautiful garden is also worth exploring.
Afternoon
For lunch, head over to the Uji Bridge (Uji-bashi). The area around this historic bridge has several tea houses where you can enjoy traditional Japanese tea ceremonies along with light meals.
Evening
In the evening, return to Kyoto city center and visit Gion Corner again if you missed it earlier or explore another part of Gion district for dinner. Gion is famous for its geisha culture and offers many high-quality dining options.
Bedtime
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![Visit Byodo-in Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/53.jpg)
4.82Byodo-in Temple
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![Visit Byodo-in Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/54/53.jpg)
Byodo-in Temple
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![Visit Uji Bridge (Uji-bashi) in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/80/77.jpg)
4.67Uji Bridge (Uji-bashi)
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![Visit Uji Bridge (Uji-bashi) in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/80/77.jpg)
Uji Bridge (Uji-bashi)
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![Visit Gion Corner in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/df/01/b9.jpg)
4.48Gion Corner
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Gion Corner
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Farewell to Kyoto
Morning
On your final day, start with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). Famous for its thousands of red torii gates that form scenic trails up Mount Inari, this shrine is one of Kyoto's most visited sites.
Afternoon
After exploring Fushimi Inari Shrine, have lunch at one of the nearby eateries before heading to Tofuku-ji Temple. This temple complex is known for its beautiful autumn foliage and impressive rock gardens.
Evening
Conclude your trip with a relaxing evening walk along the Kiyotaki River. Enjoy dinner at one of the riverside restaurants while reflecting on your memorable journey through rural Kyoto.
Bedtime
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![Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha) in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/60/0c.jpg)
4.42Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha)
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Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha)
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![Visit Tofuku-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/10/00.jpg)
4.60Tofuku-ji Temple
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![Visit Tofuku-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/2d/10/00.jpg)
Tofuku-ji Temple
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![Visit Kiyotaki River in Kyoto, Japan](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/39/88/5e.jpg)
Kiyotaki River
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Kiyotaki River
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