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Planning an itinerary for 3 days in Kyoto, Japan can be a monumental task. From visiting ancient temples and lush gardens to eating local cuisine and going Geisha-spotting, there are an astounding number of things to do in Kyoto!
Additionally, while navigating to Kyoto must-see sights, visitors are faced with a sprawling city and a seemingly incomprehensible language. No need to stress! Our detailed 3 Days in Kyoto Itinerary features an outlined, day-by-day trip plan, plus we share top travel tips gleaned from our personal experience.
Planning the Best 3 Days in Kyoto Itinerary
Kyoto was the first stop on our Japan Itinerary – and we didn’t want to miss a thing! Not only did we plan to see the top Kyoto tourist spots and best temples, we also wanted to wander the neighborhoods and discover hidden Kyoto gems.
Limited to just 3 days, we had to carefully consider how to plan our best itinerary for Kyoto, Japan. Therefore, we organized our sightseeing by district. Since we didn’t just want to visit museums or only see temples, we also filled our trip with a variety of attractions and top eats, too!
Is 3 Days in Kyoto Enough?
Determining whether or not 3 days is enough for Kyoto comes down to your personal interests, budget and total time allotted for your trip. The city of Kyoto is full of history, culture, beauty and 17 World Heritage Sites!
As we debated how many days to spend in Kyoto, we also considered how much time we wanted to spend visiting other parts of Japan. We quickly realized that there was no way we could fit everything into a Kyoto 1-day Itinerary. Even 2 days in Kyoto would not have been sufficient time to see the sights on our list. In the end, we decided to create a 3 day Kyoto Itinerary that allowed us to experience the absolute best of the city.
It should be noted that our 3 day trip plan for Kyoto is entirely dedicated to city sightseeing. An additional day will need to be added for popular day trips from Kyoto. We highlight a few of the top tours later in the article.
3-Day Kyoto Itinerary Summary
Our Kyoto Three-Day Itinerary is a fast-paced, DIY adventure. Travelers who prefer to discover cities at a slower, more in-depth pace might want to eliminate a few attractions. Additionally, visitors who like touring cities with local guides may find it is better to join a tour; we highlight top picks after our day-by-day rundown.
The first day of the Kyoto 3 Day Itinerary covers the most iconic sights in the city center. Visit the top temples, gardens, shrines, museums and the castle. In the evening, feast at the city’s best market and pop into a few fun Kyoto bars.
On the second day of the 3-day Kyoto trip, head to the north side. Discover the famous Arashiyama District, visit the city’s most elaborate temple and stroll through the grounds of the Imperial Palace. At night, enjoy conveyor belt sushi and get an elevated view of Kyoto.
The final day features some of the area’s most renowned temples and shrines. Walk through the red gates to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, then visit more colorful temples in the afternoon. End the day in the Gion district (where you might spot Geisha) and eat dinner on the prominent Pontocho Street.
Top Tips for Planning a 3 Day Itinerary Kyoto
Before we get to this Kyoto 3 Days Itinerary, we want to share a few travel tips that will make planning your trip a little bit easier.
How To Use the Itinerary
We organized this Kyoto Travel Plan as a self-guided introduction to the city – which means travelers will need to sort out the details of how to get around. On our trip, we used public transportation and our own two feet.
In our outline, we indicate our preferred method to get from one place to the next: walk, bus, subway or train. Other types of transport are taxis, rickshaws and bicycles. We’ll cover more about getting around Kyoto at the end of the article.
Additionally, we include pin-drops for each Kyoto sight so that you can easily get directions from your current location. Which means having an internet connection is essential in Japan. If you cannot adjust your existing data plan, we strongly advise buying or renting a mobile hotspot or purchasing a SIM card.
Top Travel Tip: In addition to the Google Maps, we have created a helpful Kyoto Map of Sights, which is at the end of the itinerary.
Getting Kyoto Details
Japan can be an expensive place to visit, but it doesn’t have to be. To help travelers who are visiting Kyoto on a budget, we list admission prices for each sight. Unfortunately, we were unable to find an economical Kyoto Sightseeing Card that would have saved us money and/or time.
For your Kyoto trip planner, be sure to pay attention to hours of operation. Many opening hours vary by day – and most close by 5:00pm. To make our Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary work, getting an early start is a must!
Keep Your Japan Trip Organized
As you make plans and reservations for your vacation to Japan, organization is key. Stay on top of all the details with our Travel Planning Printables!
Kyoto Itinerary 3 Days
Our Kyoto trip itinerary includes 3 days of sightseeing in the city center and just beyond. More essential information – like where to stay, great day trips and our honest Kyoto travel tips – are provided towards the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Kyoto Travel Guide to plan your trip to Japan!
DAY 1 IN KYOTO
On the first day of your Kyoto Travel Itinerary, see the sights in the downtown Kyoto city center, including temples, shrines, gardens, a museum and a fabulous market.
Rengeoin Sanjusangendo Temple
Rengeoin Sanjusangendo is one of the best temples in Kyoto. Founded in the year 1164, the site features 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Fee: 600 yen | Bus | Map
Kyoto National Museum
The Kyoto National Museum features art and ancient artifacts. Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit due to typhoon damage, but is one of the top Kyoto points of interest. Fee: 700 yen | Walk | Map
Alternatively: Visit the International Manga Museum (map) featuring Japanese comic books; ticket required.
Toyokuni Jinja Shrine
Just north of the Kyoto National Museum is the Toyokuni Jinja Shrine. Built in 1599, it is the final resting place of warrior Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Shosei-en Garden (Kikoku tei Mansion)
The somewhat-hidden Shoseien Kyoto Japanese garden features a pond, bridges and historic structures. The garden belongs to the Higashi Honganji Temple, which is where you will be heading after a quick lunch. Fee: 500 yen | Walk | Map
Convenience Store Lunch
The first day of your Three Day Kyoto Itinerary is a busy one – so it’s best to eat on the go. Make like the locals and grab a quick meal. Japanese convenience stores – like 7-11, Lawson, FamilyMart and MiniStop – are called konbini and they stock popular takeaway foods, like rice balls, pork buns and sandwiches. Fee: Inexpensive | Walk | Map
Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple
Higashi Honganji (East Honganji) was built in 1602 and the main hall is the largest wooden structure in Kyoto. Within the temple complex is a mausoleum dedicated to the founder of Shin Buddhism Sect and an ornate hall decorated in gold leaf. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Nishi Honganji Buddhist Temple
Just to the west of Higashi Honganji is Nishi Honganji – or West Honganji. Nishi Honganji was built 11 years before Higashi Honganji in the year 1591. The temple, which is the headquarters of Jodo Shinshu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Nijo Castle
Located less than 2 miles north of Nishi Honganji Temple is Nijo Castle. Built in 1603 as the residence of the first shogun of the Edo period, the Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fee: 800 yen | Bus | Map
Dinner at Nishiki Market Kyoto
End your first day of sightseeing at the famous Nishiki Market. It’s one of the prime places to go in Kyoto to sample an array of local cuisine. The long, covered walkway features more than 100 food stalls selling everything from seafood on a stick to sweet pastries shaped like animals. Consider joining one of the popular Nishiki Market Walking Food Tours. Fee: Free | Bus | Map
Top Travel Tip: For a contrasting food court option (and cheap Kyoto eats), check out the basement at nearby Daimaru. Throughout Japan, mall food courts are a great place to find inexpensive local food on the go, like bento boxes.
Kyoto Bars
One of the fun things to do in Kyoto is going to the bars – and there are a few that we highly recommend visiting! For craft beer, check out Bungalow or for a local standing bar experience, go to Hyaku.
DAY 2 IN KYOTO
Today discover three of the best places in Kyoto: the Arashiyama district, Kinkakuji Temple and the Imperial Palace. Note that the sights are Day 2 require both public transit and a fair amount of walking.
Arashiyama Kyoto District
One of the top things to do in Kyoto, Japan is to explore the northwest district of Arashiyama. Home to many Kyoto top sights, like the Bamboo Forest, Okochi-Sanso Villa Gardens and quaint temples, Arashiyama is a must-see.
There’s enough to see for a full day tour to Arashiyama, but since we are trying to fit as much as possible into three days in Kyoto, we suggest visiting the highlights, as outlined below.
Alternatively: Join a guided Arashiyama Tour of sights and food. Find cost and availability!
To Get To Arashiyama: The district is easily reached by train. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to the Saga-Arashiyama Station. Once in Arashiyama, all of the sights are within walking distance. Train Fare: 240 yen | Info
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Walking through the Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama is one of the most popular Kyoto activities. The paved path through the towering bamboo is just a short walk from the train station. The trail gets crowded later in the day, so make a point to visit the Arashiyama bamboo grove early in the morning. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Okochi-Sanso Villa Gardens
Near the west end of the Bamboo Forest is the opulent Okochi-Sanso Villa Gardens. The luxurious residential estate was once owned by a famous film actor, Okochi Denjiro, but is now open to the public. Key features of the grounds include the lush gardens, a viewpoint overlooking the city and a teahouse where guests are treated to complimentary matcha tea and a sweet. Fee: 1,000 yen | Walk | Map
Kameyama-Koen Park
To the south of the villa gardens is the hilltop Kameyama-Koen Park, that overlooks the Katsura River. Paths weave through the space to an incredible viewpoint – and while many tourists don’t visit this green space, monkeys often do! Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Gioji Temple
Walk north – passing by Jokakkoji, Rakushisha and Nisonin Temples – to Gioji Temple. The small religious site sits in a moss-covered forest and looks absolutely magical. Fee: 300 yen | Walk | Map
Saga Toriimoto Preserved Street
The historic Saga Toriimoto lane dates to the Meiji Period and is lined with traditional Machiya houses. Now mostly occupied by shops and restaurants, it’s still a lovely area to stroll through. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple
From Saga Toriimoto, veer to the left at the Y-intersection to Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple. The site commemorates the souls of those who have died without family or kin. At the center of the temple grounds is a field of 8,000 stone statues for the nearly-forgotten deceased. Fee: 500 yen | Walk | Map
Arashiyama Station
By mid-day, make your way to the Arashiyama Station, which is different from the Saga Arashiyama Station that you arrived at in the morning. Hop aboard the classic Keifuku tram for a ride through the suburbs to our recommended lunch spot, Okonomiyaki Katsu.
Top Tip: Before leaving the area, consider walking through the Kimono Forest of Fabric. Each pillar displays a patterned textile used to make traditional clothing. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Keifuku Tram Info: From Arashiyama ride 5 stops to Katabiranotsuji, then transfer to the Kitano Hakubaicho Line and ride to Ryoanji Station. The fare is 250 yen (pay on your final exit at Ryoanji Station) and can be paid with cash or transportation card (but not JR Passes). Info
Okonomiyaki Katsu for Lunch
For lunch, wander through the neighborhood from the tram station to find Okonomiyaki Katsu. Still somewhat of a hidden gem, the small, friendly family-run restaurant is a must for visitors who crave unique experiences.
Order their specialty: Okonomiyaki – a Japanese savory pancake filled with meat or vegetables. If you are lucky enough to get a seat at the grill, your meal will be prepared right in front of you! Fee: Inexpensive | Walk | Map
Ryoanji Temple
This neighborhood Zen temple is well-known for its rock garden, which is said to lead visitors into deep meditation. A lush garden and pond are also on-site at the UNESCO World Heritage temple. Fee: 600 yen | Walk | Map
Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
One of the top Kyoto things to see, Kinkakuji Temple is incredibly picturesque. The Golden Pavilion, which is actually covered in gold leaf, sits on a lake creating beautiful reflections on the water. (Read more about Kinkakuji in our Kyoto Temples guide.) Fee: 500 yen | Walk or Bus | Map
Top Travel Tip: After visiting Kinkakuji Golden Temple, we recommend going to the Imperial Palace. However, visitors interested in nature and plants might want to go to the nearby Kyoto Botanical Gardens first.
Kyoto Imperial Palace and National Garden
Travel back to the city center to one of the iconic Japan tourist spots: The Imperial Palace of Kyoto. The palace, which dates to the 8th century, served as the residence of the Imperial Family until 1869 when the emperor moved the capital to Tokyo. Fee: Free | Bus | Map
Top Tip: Pick up a useful brochure from the information center before exploring the grounds; the palace itself is off limits.
Go’o Shinto Shrine
Just west of the Kyoto Imperial Palace is the Go’o Shinto Shrine. Probably not making most lists of ‘what to visit in Kyoto,’ the Go’o Shrine is simply fun to see because of its quirkiness. Featuring numerous pig statues (and even stuffed pigs), the shrine is dedicated to Wake no Kiyomaro, who is said to have had his leg wounds healed by the help of swine. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Kyoto Station
Most visitors pass through Kyoto Train Station multiple times when traveling around the area, but we recommend actually stopping to tour the station. Be sure to check out the top floor, which offers stunning views and read this Kyoto blog on what else to see at the station. Fee: Free | Subway | Map
Dinner: Musashi Sushi at Kyoto Station
Although it may seem unlikely, some of the best restaurants in Kyoto are in the train station. The 10th floor features top ramen restaurants, but we recommend eating at Musashi Sushi Train – it’s one of the top Kyoto places to go for conveyor belt sushi. There will most likely be a line, but it moves fast and worth the wait! Fee: Inexpensive for Kyoto Sushi | Walk | Map
Alternatively: Join this 5-Star Kyoto Foodie Tour for a guided introduction to local cuisine!
Kyoto Tower
End Day 2 on top of the town! Standing 430-feet-tall, the Kyoto Tower platform offers incredible views of the city. Going to the top after dark is one of the cool things to do in Kyoto at night (the viewing platform is open until 9:00pm). Fee: 900 yen | Walk | Map
DAY 3 IN KYOTO
Finish your 3 perfect days in Kyoto walking two famous routes – the gate-lined Fushimi Inari Shrine trail and the Philosopher’s Path. Spend the evening at a few more of the best places to go in Kyoto: Southern Higashiyama Ward and the Gion District.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the top Kyoto places to see. However, it’s not the shrine itself that garners so much attention. What visitors go to see is the thousands of red torii gates that straddle the path through the Mount Inari forest.
The trail is about 2.5 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete. Note that the walk from the Fushimi Inari Station to the shrine is lined with vendors and shops, which are a great to pick up a morning snack. Fee: Free | Train | Map
Ginkakuji Temple (Silver Pavilion)
Built in 1482 as a retirement residence for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the villa was converted into the Zen Ginkakuji Temple in 1490. Yoshimasa, the grandson of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, modeled the Silver Pavilion off his grandfather’s retirement villa, The Golden Kinkakuji Temple. Fee: 500 yen | Train and Bus | Map
Udon Noodles for Lunch
Omen Ginkaku-ji is a classic noodle shop in Kyoto. The noodles come with dipping sauces and spices and there are a few other menu items, as well. Try the standard Omen Udon Set for lunch; the friendly and welcoming staff will explain how to eat it! Fee: 1300 yen | Walk | Map
Tetsugaku no Michi Philosopher’s Path
Following the canal south from Ginkakuji Temple is a stone walkway, better known as Philosopher’s Path. Lined with cherry trees (which are fantastic for Kyoto cherry blossom viewing in the springtime), the path presents the opportunity to take a contemplative or leisurely stroll through the neighborhood. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Heian Shrine
Considered to be one of Kyoto’s new shrines, Heian Shrine was built in 1895. There is a large torii gate at the entrance and the grounds are comprised of museums, gardens and traditional buildings. Fee: Free | Map
Optional Kyoto Attractions: MOMAK and Zoo
There are two nearby sights that some travelers may want to include in their Kyoto Sightseeing Itinerary: the MOMAK Museum and the Zoo. While we didn’t have enough time to see these attractions, visitors could rearrange their 3 days itinerary of Kyoto to include one or both.
The National Museum of Modern Art of Kyoto (MOMAK) features numerous exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, bamboo works and photography. Modern Japanese art, as well as European and American contemporary art, are also displayed at MOMAK. Fee: Varies by Exhibit | Map
The Kyoto City Zoo opened in 1903 and is the second-oldest zoo in Japan. The zoo was recently renovated and its collection of animals include elephants, gorillas, lions, tigers and bears. Fee: 750 yen | Map
Maruyama Park
City center Maruyama Park is popular for the numerous cherry trees that are found throughout it. At the center is the Weeping Cherry Tree (shidarezakura). Note: The Cherry Blossom Season is usually from late March through the first two weeks of April. Outside of the Sakura season, the park provides a nice route to get to the next attraction on our Kyoto To Do list. Fee: Free | Map
Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)
Founded more than 1,350 years ago, Yasaka Shrine is one of the best sights in Kyoto. The highlight for many tourists is the stage with giant hanging lanterns. The annual Gion Matsuri Festival takes place at the shrine complex in July. Fee: Free | Walk or Bus | Map
Historic Kyoto Streets
As you make your way from the Yasaka Shrine to the famous Kyomizu dera Temple, walk along two of the most picturesque streets in Kyoto: Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Paths. Lined with ancient dwellings and classic teashops, walking along the lanes is like stepping back in time. Fee: Free | Walk or Rickshaw | Ninenzaka Map | Sannenzakea Map
Kiyomizu dera Temple
The bright and colorful Kiyomizu dera Temple is one of the top places in Kyoto to visit – so be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the entire complex.
Founded in the year 778 on the site of a waterfall, the Kiyomizu-dera Temple complex sprawls over a hillside and into a valley. The area has several other on-site attractions. In addition to the viewpoint balconies, visitors can drink water from the falls in hopes their wishes will be granted. Fee: 400 yen | Walk | Map
Hanami-Koji Street in Gion Kyoto District
Visiting the historic Gion District is one of the top Kyoto, Japan things to do. Famous for the geishas that entertain in the area, Gion is host to numerous restaurants and tea houses. The district is located between Yasaka Shrine and the river. Not-to-miss streets, where Kyoto geishas are often spotted, are Hanami-Koji Street, Shinjo Avenue and Shirakawa Canal. Fee: Free | Walk | Map
Geisha in Kyoto
In Kyoto, geishas are called geiko (a woman of art) and assistants, or geisha-in-training, are called maiko. In Kyoto culture, geiko entertain – by singing, dancing, playing games and making conversation – in traditional tea houses (called ochaya) and old-style houses (called machiya). The number of geishas in Kyoto are declining, but in Gion there are two geiko communities. Geiko in Gion are most likely to be seen in the streets in the evening as they walk to events.
Spotting Geisha in the streets is obviously free (but it is severely frowned up to approach, chase or aggressively photograph them), attending an event is very expensive and exclusive. Attending a performance is more affordable; book this Geisha Tour Kyoto – or join this guided walking tour of the Gion District After Dark.
Dinner on Pontocho Street
One of the best Kyoto things to do at night is to stroll along Pontocho Street. The picturesque lane, which runs parallel the river, is packed with upscale restaurants and bars – some of which offer riverside seating. Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu is a top-rated Kyoto restaurant that has a location on Pontocho Alley. Serving classic Beef meal sets – including Wagyu – the helpful staff engage with patrons to explain the meal and how to eat it. Fee: 3000 yen | Walk | Map
After Dinner Drinks on Pontocho Alley
After eating on Pontocho Alley, sample the local Japanese whiskey. Bar Liquor Museum on Pontocho offers a wide selection of whiskey from Japan – in a range of prices. Visitors interested in sampling multiple whiskies can order a Tasting Set. Plus, they make excellent cocktails! Fee: Varies | Walk | Map
Alternatively: Sip local craft beer at Beer Bar Miyama 162.
Kyoto Sightseeing Map
This Kyoto Map includes our recommended sights for our 3 Days Kyoto Itinerary. Use this Google Map for an interactive version of the map displayed below.
More Activities for your 3 Days Itinerary in Kyoto
We have outlined our tips of what to see in Kyoto in 3 days. However, we understand that fellow travelers may have differing interests, so we are sharing a few suggestions that you might want to include in your Best Kyoto Itinerary!
Kimono Rental
For visitors who want to dress in the traditional Japanese kimono, there are several shops that rent outfits for the day. Wearing the traditional garb while sightseeing historic Kyoto castles and temples creates great photo opportunities! Book this experience in advance.
Onsen Kyoto
There is an abundance of natural hot springs in Japan. Thermal baths where guests can soak in the naturally warm waters are called onsen. There are not many onsen in Kyoto (as compared to other parts of the country), but two nearby Kyoto onsen are Kurama and Tenzan-no-yu.
For something a little closer to the city, try one of the Kyoto spa wellness centers that specialize in massage. The Machiya Sauna also gets rave reviews.
Best Kyoto Tours
There are many benefits to joining a Kyoto tour guide for city exploration. Booking an organized guided tour can be a fantastic way to learn more about the people and culture in Kyoto.
With guided tours in Kyoto, you will get first-hand knowledge from someone actually living in the city. They’ll know all the great places to see in Kyoto and will get you there the best way.
We are sharing a few highly rated tours you might like to add to your list of what to do in Kyoto in 3 days. You can search for other excellent tours on Viator.
Kyoto Bus Tour
See the highlights in a single day on a top-rated Kyoto sightseeing bus tour. Rated as one of the best tours in Kyoto, the bus covers a lot of ground – including 7 top attractions and 3 World Heritage Sites. Find prices and reserve your seat for this Kyoto City Tour!
Kyoto Cycling Tour
Traveling around by bicycle is a fun way to discover the city on a Kyoto Three Day Itinerary. Rather than going at it alone, join this popular small-group bike tour, which is limited to just 9 people. Visit some of the top temples on two wheels. Find out more!
Unique Japan Tours in Koyto
There are many unique Kyoto tours for guests to experience Japanese culture. Below are a few of the unique day tours in Kyoto:
- Tea Ceremony with a Tea Master
- Calligraphy Class – Book it!
- Kyoto Sushi Making Class
- Learn to be a Samurai – Book it!
Kyoto Private Tour
Take a custom tour with a professional, private tour guide of Kyoto. Tell your Kyoto private tour guide what you are interested in seeing and they will create a 1-day tour of Kyoto just for you. Find out more!
Best Day Trips from Kyoto, Japan
Because of the proximity to nearby destinations, day tours from Kyoto are fantastic opportunities to see more of the area. Unless you have more than 3 days in the city, re-arrange our above Kyoto sample itinerary to fit in a desired trip. For travelers staying longer than 3 days, there are plenty of options for side trips from Kyoto!
Kyoto Day Trip To Osaka
The cities of Osaka and Kyoto are just located just 34 miles apart, but are vastly different. Osaka is a much more modern city with heaps of malls and a thriving theater district. Some of the top things to do in Osaka include shopping and visiting popular sights like Universal Studios and the Osaka Aquarium.
Travel from Kyoto to Osaka
If you are planning an Osaka day trip from Kyoto on your own, you will have to sort your own transportation. Kyoto to Osaka train information can be found online.
Day Trip From Kyoto To Nara
A Nara day trip from Kyoto is one of the most desired tours from the city. Visitors can easily plan their own Kyoto to Nara day trip or join one of the highly-rated 5-hour bus tours from the city (like this Kyoto-Nara Tour).
The top sights to include on your Nara Itinerary are the Deer Park (where hundreds of deer roam free), the Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Shrine. Use the Nara Travel Guide from the official city website.
Travel from Kyoto to Nara
If you are creating your own Nara one-day itinerary tour, you will need to plan your own transport between the two cities. Kyoto and Nara are only 28 miles apart and easy to connect by train. The Kyoto to Nara train lines are JR Nara Line and Kintetsu Kyoto Line. More Kyoto-Nara train information can be found online.
Kobe Day Trip
Kobe is a port town famous for the wagyu beef brand, Kobe Beef. Spending time at the harbor, shopping, tasting sake and taking the ropeway to the mountaintop are all popular Kobe activities.
Kyoto To Hiroshima Day Trip
Spend a day visiting the Hiroshima and Miyajima Island from Kyoto. Guests will visit the Peace Museum and Itsukushima Shrine, among other sights. Find out more!
Kyoto Travel Tips
Now that you know what to see in Kyoto in 3 days, it’s time to cover the logistics: How to get there, how to get around, where to stay and what to pack!
How To Get to Kyoto, Japan
Getting to Kyoto is fairly easy, regardless if you are coming from another city in Japan or overseas. The region is well-connected by buses, trains and nearby airports.
Kyoto Airport
If you are flying to Kyoto from another country, the closest airport is the Kansai International Airport in Osaka (KIX). If you are arriving in Kyoto from another city in Japan, the Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is actually closer to Kyoto. Search for the best airfares on Skyscanner – but first, read our Tips for Finding Cheap Flights.
Train to Kyoto Station
Whether you are flying or taking a train, your first stop in Kyoto will most likely be at Kyoto Station. To get from Osaka to Kyoto, The Limited Express Haruka (operated by JR West) travels between Osaka and Kyoto Station in an hour and 15 minutes.
Tips for Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto
If you are traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, the best option is probably to fly to Osaka and then take the train to Kyoto. However, you can also take the Tokyo to Kyoto Bullet Train. The Shinkansen will likely cost the same, if not more, than flying. You can find fares, schedules and more information about the Tokyo-Kyoto train here.
Travel From Kyoto to Tokyo Airports
When traveling from Kyoto to Narita or Haneda Airport by train, the Kyoto to Tokyo line does not serve either airport. You will need to switch in Tokyo. Find the Kyoto to Tokyo bullet train schedule and current Kyoto transport information here.
How To Get Around Kyoto, Japan
Once in the city, there are multiple options for Kyoto transportation. In addition to taxis, rickshaws and bicycles, there are buses, trains, trams and subways. Even though Kyoto is sprawling, it is possible to cover quite a bit of ground by simply walking between destinations.
Kyoto Bus
Using buses in Kyoto is a great way to get around. Within the city, buses charge a flat fee of 230 yen per ride. Beyond the flat-fare zone, you need to pay by distance. Fares are paid at the front of the bus with cash (exact change required, change machine on board) or pre-loaded transport cards (like SUICA or ICOCA), which require a tap-off when you exit. There is an All-Day Bus Pass that costs 1100 yen and is good for unlimited rides. More info here.
Kyoto Subway
There are two subway lines in Kyoto: Karasuma Subway Line, which runs north-south and Tozai Subway Line, which travels east-west. Rides are priced by distance, starting at 220 yen. The fare is paid using a transport card and 1-Day Passes are available.
Kyoto Train and Trams
Trains are a good option for going outside of the city center – for instance, when traveling to Arashiyama and south to Fushimi Inari Shrine. Prices vary by destination and fees are paid with a transport card.
Kyoto Rail Pass and Japan Transport Cards
There are two popular options for transport cards. The JR Pass – or Japan Rail Pass, which is sold by region and can be used on some local transport, and a ICOCA card, which is used solely on local transport. Travelers will need to first determine what sights to see and which route to get there before deciding if a transport card makes sense for them.
Where To Stay in Kyoto, Japan
There are plenty of Kyoto places to stay. While hotels in Kyoto tend to be on the pricey side, there is a wide range of lodging that fits nearly every budget. Use our Tips for Booking Hotels for Cheap for money-saving advice.
Kyoto Century Hotel
Offering exceptional value for money, the Kyoto Century Hotel is ideally located at Kyoto Station. Rooms tend to be on the small side (even for Japan), but the breakfast has a range of options and the staff is friendly. Check rates and availability!
Ryokan Kyoto Kinoe
Tourists who want to stay in traditional Japanese accommodations should search for Ryokan lodging. Although often lacking modern conveniences, staying at a Ryokan offers an authentic experience and Japanese hospitality. The atmospheric Kyoto Ryokan Kinoe is a top-rated Ryokan in central Kyoto. See rates for your dates!
Capsule Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto backpackers and other budget travelers might want to stay in a capsule hotel in Kyoto. The rooms – or capsules – are basic and cheap, but offer few conveniences. The Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado Premium offers capsule rooms with televisions, shared bathrooms and included breakfast. Check the rates!
What To Pack for a Kyoto Trip
Alright, it’s finally time to discuss what goes in your suitcase or backpack. Grab your FREE Packing Checklist, and let’s get started!
Durable Travel Shoes
Make sure you pack the right travel shoes for trekking around Kyoto. We recommend lightweight and comfortable walking shoes. I go with these NB Trainers and Kris prefers trail shoes by Merrell. Use our reviews for some of the other Best Shoes for Travel to find your perfect pair!
Travel Camera
The sights in Kyoto are quite striking. Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel and an 18-135mm lens, which takes amazing photos, comes with fun accessories and is an excellent budget camera.
Kyoto Map and Guidebook
A Kyoto tourist map can be very useful in the planning stages of your trip. Purchase one in advance or pick one up from the Kyoto Information Center on arrival. A current guidebook – we recommend Lonely Planet Kyoto – will also be helpful.
Day Bag
Our Kyoto 3 Day Travel Plan features long days of touring the city – so it’s best to carry a versatile day pack to stow all of your necessary items. Looking for a different style? Use our tips for choosing the Best Day Bag for Traveling.
Japan Trip Insurance
No matter how well you prepare, travel goes sideways at times. When luggage gets lost, flights cancel or travelers become ill, insurance could help cover costs. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Japan, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Japan Travel Guides
Visiting more of Japan? Wonderful! Use our honest and free travel guides to plan your best vacation to Japan.
- Must-See Kyoto Temples and Shrines
- Ultimate 2 Weeks in Japan
- How To Plan a Tokyo Trip – and Top Tokyo Temples
- Best Tokyo Food – and Fun Bars in Tokyo
- Visit Mount Fuji and the Five Lakes District
Start planning your trip to Japan! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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