Ultimate 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Begin your Kyoto adventure at Kiyomizu-dera, an iconic temple perched on a hillside with sweeping city views and beautiful wooden architecture.

Kiyomizu-dera

Stroll down the preserved streets of Sannenzaka, a charming stone-paved slope lined with teahouses, craft shops, and traditional sweets.

Sannenzaka

Enjoy a serene walk through Maruyama Park, Kyoto’s oldest public park, famous for cherry blossoms and tranquil atmosphere.

Maruyama Park

Stop for lunch at Omen Gion, renowned for its handmade udon noodles and fresh, seasonal ingredients in an authentic Kyoto setting.

Omen Gion

Experience the magic of Gion District as lantern-lit streets come alive; if lucky, catch a glimpse of geiko or maiko heading to appointments.

Gion District

Dine at Gion Kappa Restaurant, a beloved izakaya where locals gather for small plates, sake, and Kyoto-style hospitality.

Gion Kappa Restaurant

Start with a peaceful walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where soaring bamboo stalks create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its exquisite Zen gardens and reflective pond.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Have lunch at Shoraian, a hidden riverside restaurant specializing in refined tofu cuisine with scenic views over the Oi River.

Shoraian

Head to Okochi Sanso Villa, a stunning estate offering impeccably manicured gardens and panoramic views of Kyoto’s western mountains.

Okochi Sanso Villa

Cross the Togetsukyo Bridge at sunset, admiring the tranquil river and the changing colors of the Arashiyama hills.

Togetsukyo Bridge

Enjoy a Kyoto-style dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura, celebrated for its hand-cut soba noodles and beautiful riverside setting.

Arashiyama Yoshimura

Marvel at the golden brilliance of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), whose top floors are covered in gold leaf and reflected beautifully in its surrounding pond.

Kinkaku-ji

Explore the tranquil moss gardens and Zen atmosphere of Ryoan-ji, home to Japan’s most famous rock garden.

Ryoan-ji

Enjoy a traditional lunch at Izusen Daitoku-ji, nestled in the Daitoku-ji temple complex and celebrated for its exquisite shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine).

Izusen Daitoku-ji

Wander the peaceful Philosopher’s Path, a scenic canal-side walk lined with cherry trees and boutique shops.

Philosopher’s Path

Conclude your Kyoto trip at Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking through the endless vermilion torii gates as dusk falls for a mystical experience.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Dine nearby at Vermillion - cafe, a stylish spot serving specialty coffee, light Kyoto bites, and desserts amidst a relaxed ambience.

Vermillion - cafe