The Perfect 2 Day Kyoto Itinerary
Looking for the perfect day Kyoto itinerary? Keep reading!
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is a city where ancient traditions and landscapes come together. With its iconic temples, bamboo forests, and historic districts, it offers endless opportunities to explore.
This is one of my top 3 favorite places in Japan that I have visited multiple times during my visits to Japan. It is peaceful, and beautiful and has some of the best food experiences (in my opinion) in the country.
From wandering through red torii gates to trying local delicacies, this 2-day itinerary covers the best of Kyoto’s highlights. Keep reading for the perfect 2 days in Kyoto!
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In This Post
The Perfect 2 Day Kyoto Itinerary
📍 Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto:
📍 Park Hyatt Kyoto
📍Yuzuya Ryokan
Day 1: Traditional Kyoto Highlights
Morning
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Kick off your Kyoto adventure with a visit to the stunning Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. The rows of red torii gates are endless, creating a peaceful and almost magical atmosphere as you make your way up the mountain.
The hike to the top can take a couple of hours, but even a short visit to the lower sections is worth it.
💡 INSIDER TIP: I suggest arriving as early as possible, ideally before 9 AM, to avoid the crowds. Trust me, it’s so much better when it’s quiet. Plus, early mornings are great for photos without people in the frame!
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Next up is Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most iconic spots. The massive wooden temple offers amazing views of the city, and the temple itself is just as impressive. If you visit in spring or fall, the scenery is even more stunning with cherry blossoms or fall leaves all around.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Don’t leave without checking out Otowa Waterfall below the temple. You can drink from its three streams for luck in health, success, or longevity—but don’t get greedy and drink from all three!
Lunch
After exploring Kiyomizu-dera, take a break and enjoy a meal at a traditional Kyoto restaurant nearby. The area is full of spots where you can try local specialties. I recommend trying Kyo-yasai dishes (Kyoto-style seasonal vegetables) or a delicious tempura set meal.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Many restaurants around here offer lunch sets that are more affordable than dinner, so it’s a great way to try high-quality food without breaking the bank.
Afternoon
Afternoon
Higashiyama District
Spend your afternoon wandering the historic streets of the Higashiyama District. This area feels like stepping back in time, with its traditional wooden buildings, charming shops, and cozy tea houses.
It’s the perfect place to pick up some souvenirs, like handmade ceramics, local sweets, or even a kimono. I always find this area has a special kind of energy—it’s busy but still peaceful in its own way.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Be sure to grab a matcha soft serve from one of the stalls. It’s a Kyoto specialty and tastes amazing while you explore.
Gion District
Next, head to the nearby Gion District, famous for its geisha culture. The streets here are lined with traditional buildings and lanterns, giving it an old-world charm.
Some of my must-visits in Gion are: % ARABICA Kyoto Higashiyama for the best coffee; Hōkan-ji (Yasaka Pagoda) to see one of the most popular sights in Gion; Ninenzaka for the ultimate Kyoto experience.
Evening
For dinner, find a restaurant on Hanamikoji-dori or head to my favorite Ramen place in Japan KYOTO ENGINE RAMEN!
Day 2
Morning
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Begin your second day in Kyoto with the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walking through the towering bamboo stalks is like stepping into another world—it’s quiet, calming, and absolutely stunning. The path isn’t too long, so it’s easy to explore even if you’re short on time.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Head there early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Tenryu-ji Temple
Right next to the bamboo grove is Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. The highlight here is the beautifully landscaped garden, designed to flow with the natural scenery of Arashiyama.
I really love how peaceful it feels here, especially if you take a moment to sit by the pond and enjoy the view.
Iwatayama Monkey Park (optional)
If you’re up for a short hike, head to Iwatayama Monkey Park for some fun and a great view of the city. The monkeys roam freely here, and while they’re playful, it’s important to respect their space (and don’t feed them unless you’re in the designated area). The views of Kyoto at the top make the climb totally worth it.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike—it’s not too challenging but can be steep in places.
Lunch
Take a break and enjoy lunch by the river in Arashiyama. The area has plenty of options, whether you want to sit down at a cozy café or pick up a bento box to enjoy by the water. Eating with a view of the river and surrounding mountains is such a relaxing experience—it’s the perfect way to recharge for the afternoon.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Look for bento boxes with seasonal ingredients or Kyoto specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot) or saba sushi (mackerel sushi).
Afternoon
Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
Start the afternoon at Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto’s iconic golden Zen temple. The shimmering gold exterior reflected in the surrounding pond is even more stunning in person.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Walk slowly along the path around the temple grounds to take in every angle.
Ryoan-ji Temple
Next, head to Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan’s most famous rock garden. The simplicity of the design is what makes it so captivating. Sit on the veranda and take a few minutes to reflect—it’s a peaceful moment amidst all the sightseeing.
Evening
Wrap up your Kyoto adventure with a visit to a local onsen or public bath. This is the perfect way to unwind after two full days of exploring. Many baths offer both indoor and outdoor options, letting you soak while enjoying serene surroundings.
💡 INSIDER TIP: If you’re new to onsens, check the rules beforehand—like washing up before entering the bath—and look for one with rotenburo (outdoor baths) for a truly relaxing experience.
Optional: Nishiki Market
If you have the energy, head to Nishiki Market for some evening fun. The market is full of street food stalls and shops selling everything from matcha treats to quirky souvenirs. It’s a great place to grab a light dinner or pick up last-minute gifts.
Where to Stay in Kyoto
📍 Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto:
The Four Seasons is my personal favorite – pictured below
📍 Park Hyatt Kyoto
📍Yuzuya Ryokan
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Time to Visit Kyoto
The best times to visit Kyoto are during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and the autumn leaves season (mid-November to early December).
Keep in mind these are also the busiest times, so booking accommodations and planning ahead is essential.
💡 INSIDER TIP: If you visit during peak seasons, head to popular spots like Kiyomizu-dera or Arashiyama early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
Transportation Tips
Getting around Kyoto is super easy with its metro and bus systems. The city is well-connected, but many attractions are best reached by bus. Grab a one-day bus pass for unlimited rides—it’s affordable and saves you the hassle of buying individual tickets.
💡 INSIDER TIP: Download Google Maps to navigate public transit smoothly. Buses announce stops in English, but it helps to know your stop in advance.
Cultural Etiquette
Kyoto is steeped in tradition, so being respectful goes a long way. Here are some quick tips:
- At Temples: Dress modestly, speak quietly, and don’t take photos in restricted areas. Always remove your shoes when entering temple buildings.
- In Traditional Areas: Avoid walking and eating at the same time. Stick to designated spots to enjoy your snacks.
- For Geisha Sightings: If you’re lucky enough to spot a geisha or maiko, admire from a distance and don’t block their path or take intrusive photos.
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Love,
SSW
