I love Kyoto, Japan. It is such a beautiful area in a wonderful country with so much to offer, and with a little planning, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
Safety Assessment
Kyoto is generally a very safe city, even for solo female travelers. For accommodation, consider neighborhoods like Gion, Higashiyama, or Shimogyo. These areas are well-lit, centrally located, and have a good mix of residential and tourist activity. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit, deserted areas, and be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers. While Kyoto is safe, petty theft can occur, so keep your valuables secure. While most areas are safe, it’s always wise to exercise extra caution in entertainment districts late at night.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Gion Charm
Morning: Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX), take the Haruka Express to Kyoto Station, and check into your accommodation in Gion. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Gion’s charming streets.
Lunch: Try a traditional Kaiseki lunch at Gion Karyo (Japanese, $$$$, reservations highly recommended, offers vegetarian options).
Afternoon: Visit Kennin-ji Temple (Japan’s oldest Zen temple), and explore the picturesque streets of Gion, hoping to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Izakaya Ippudo (Ramen, $$, offers vegetarian options).
Walking/Transportation: Easy walking, utilize local buses for longer distances.
Estimated Budget: ¥15,000
Day 2: Bamboo Forest and Tenryu-ji Temple
Morning: Take a scenic train ride to Arashiyama and immerse yourself in the enchanting Bamboo Grove.
Lunch: Enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at Shigetsu (Shojin Ryori, $$$, reservations recommended) within Tenryu-ji Temple.
Afternoon: Explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a beautiful Zen temple with stunning gardens.
Evening: Return to Kyoto and enjoy dinner at Pontocho Alley, known for its traditional restaurants along the Kamogawa River. Consider Honke Owariya (Soba, $$$, offers vegetarian options).
Walking/Transportation: Moderate walking, utilize trains and buses.
Estimated Budget: ¥12,000
Day 3: Golden Pavilion and Nishiki Market
Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a dazzling Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf.
Lunch: Explore Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s bustling kitchen, and sample local delicacies.
Afternoon: Visit Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its enigmatic rock garden.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Gyoza no Ohsho (Gyoza, $, offers vegetarian options).
Walking/Transportation: Moderate walking, utilize buses.
Estimated Budget: ¥10,000
Day 4: Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Morning: Hike through the thousands of vibrant red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Lunch: Enjoy a casual meal near Fushimi Inari.
Afternoon: Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its wooden stage and panoramic views.
Evening: Explore the charming streets around Kiyomizu-dera and enjoy dinner.
Walking/Transportation: Moderate to challenging walking, utilize buses.
Estimated Budget: ¥8,000
Day 5: Departure
Morning: Enjoy a final Kyoto breakfast and do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Lunch: Have a quick meal at Kyoto Station before heading to the airport.
Afternoon: Depart from Kansai International Airport (KIX).
Walking/Transportation: Easy walking, utilize the Haruka Express to the airport.
Estimated Budget: ¥5,000
Must-See Attractions
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf. Best time to visit: Early morning. Ticket information: ¥400.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Thousands of vibrant red torii gates winding up a mountainside. Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon. Free entry.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Known for its wooden stage and panoramic views. Best time to visit: Morning. Ticket information: ¥400.
- Tenryu-ji Temple: A beautiful Zen temple with stunning gardens. Best time to visit: Morning. Ticket information: ¥500.
- Kennin-ji Temple: Japan’s oldest Zen temple. Best time to visit: Morning. Ticket information: ¥600.
Local Hidden Gems
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: While popular, it’s still a must-see. Go early for fewer crowds.
- Nishiki Market: A vibrant food market offering a glimpse into local life.
- Pontocho Alley: A charming alleyway along the Kamogawa River with traditional restaurants.
- Philosopher’s Path: A peaceful walking path along a canal. Great for a quiet stroll.
- Sagano Scenic Railway: A romantic train ride through the Hozugawa River gorge.
Dining Recommendations
- Gion Karyo: Kaiseki cuisine, $$$$, reservations highly recommended.
- Honke Owariya: Soba noodles, $$$, reservations recommended.
- Gyoza no Ohsho: Gyoza, $, no reservations needed.
Additional Practical Information
Local Transportation: Kyoto has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and subways. Consider purchasing an ICOCA card for easy travel.
Language Tips: Learn a few basic Japanese phrases, such as “Konnichiwa” (hello) and “Arigato” (thank you). Many people in tourist areas speak some English.
Cultural Etiquette: It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering temples and some traditional restaurants. Avoid talking loudly on public transportation.
Approximate Total Trip Budget: ¥50,000 – ¥70,000 (excluding flights and accommodation).
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your dream trip to Kyoto! Enjoy your journey!
