The Perfect 4 Days in Kyoto Itinerary

Looking for the best 4 days in Kyoto Itinerary? We have you covered! Nestled in the heart of Japan’s Kansai region, Kyoto is a city where ancient tradition meets modern life. With its stunning temples (over 1600 to be exact), serene gardens, and historic streets. Kyoto is a treasure trove of Japanese culture and heritage. Planning a trip to this enchanting city can be overwhelming, given the multitude of attractions it offers. However, with this itinerary, you can make the most of your time in Kyoto and immerse yourself in its rich history and natural beauty.

In this 4-day Kyoto itinerary, we will guide you through an unforgettable journey, carefully curated to capture the essence of Kyoto. From exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites to savoring traditional Japanese cuisine. Each day is designed to provide you with a well-rounded experience that showcases the best of what Kyoto has to offer. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie seeking new flavors, this itinerary has something for everyone.

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an adventure as we delve into the best 4 days in Kyoto. Every moment is a step back in time and a celebration of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support so I can continue to offer free resources.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan

• Public Transit is the best way to get around. Not only is it the most cost-effective, but most likely it will be the quickest since the trains run on a VERY timely schedule.
• With the above being said, you must practice Japanese etiquette when traveling on trains and in public. Do not talk loudly, do not take calls, and put your backpack in front of you when it’s a packed train.
• Add a SUICA or PASMO card to your Apple wallet before reaching Japan for convenience.
• Most of Japan is still cash-based. Especially when you visit temples. So make sure to have some cash on hand at all times.
• It’s hard to find public trash cans. However, we found most of them next to vending machines. Just in case make sure to carry a small bag with you to dispose of your trash or just eat at sit-down restaurants.
• It’s considered rude to eat on the go. Even drinking coffee while walking can be frowned upon so embrace the culture and enjoy your food and drinks where you purchase them.
• Tipping is not customary in Japan. Great service is provided ALWAYS and it can be considered rude to tip so don’t!
• If you are planning on visiting multiple cities, do your research to see if a Japan Rail Pass is worth it. If you plan on using the JR line multiple times it may be so make sure to check the JR Pass calculator before traveling.

Day 1: Exploring Kyoto’s Ancient Heart

Morning in Arashiyama

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is the most famous bamboo forest in Japan. It’s known for its towering bamboo stalks that create a serene and visually stunning environment. Visitors can stroll along a path through the bamboo grove, which is particularly popular for its beauty, especially when the sunlight filters through the dense bamboo, creating a unique atmosphere.

However, it’s not technically a forest and is better described as a pathway. Before visiting it’s important to note that this place gets extremely busy. We visited at 6:30 am and there were still tons of other photographers here. Finally, do not let the crowds deter you from visiting. It’s still a stunning sight and must be witnessed when visiting Kyoto!

If you’re looking for another Bamboo Forest and want to skip the crowds consider visiting the Adashino Nenbutsuji shrine. This serene hilltop Buddhist temple features thousands of carved stone memorial statues. It’s located right down the way from the temple listed below and is a bit quieter than the famous Arashiyama Forest. Although in recent years it has become a bit busier it’s still much more enjoyable than the latter. Finally, it cost 500 yen to enter.

Visit Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji temple

The Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple that has a collection of over 1,200 stone statues of Rakan. Rakan are disciples of Buddha known for their enlightenment. Each of these statues is unique, with different facial expressions and poses, creating a diverse and incredibly cute display.

The temple grounds are also adorned with beautiful gardens, offering visitors a peaceful atmosphere. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is a bit off the beaten path compared to some of Kyoto’s more famous temples, but it is well worth a visit for those interested in Japanese Buddhism and traditional art. We took an Uber from the bamboo grove and it was roughly a 10-minute drive. Finally, it’s open from 8 am to 4:30 pm and costs roughly 200 yen per person to enter.

enjoy a scenic walk along the Hozu River WITH Arabica Coffee

The Hozu River (Hozu-gawa) is a picturesque river that flows through the scenic Arashiyama district in Kyoto. The river is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including forested hillsides and rocky outcrops, which make it a popular destination for sightseeing and boat tours. Along the river, you’ll find the most famous coffee shop in Kyoto, Arabica Coffee. It opens at 9 am and hands down was the best coffee we have ever had (get the Kyoto latte and thank me later).

Grab your coffee and stroll along the river to experience the beautiful views. Don’t miss walking across the Togetskyo Bridge. It was especially stunning in the fall. Furthermore, one of the most popular ways to experience the Hozu River is by taking a traditional boat ride known as “Hozugawa Kudari”. Visitors can enjoy the scenery as they float downstream on a traditional flat-bottomed boat.

Afternoon

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered entirely in gold leaf. The temple is set amidst a beautiful Japanese garden. Which features ponds, islands, and carefully landscaped trees and plants. The temple was originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. After his death, the villa was converted into a Zen temple according to his will.

The temple has been rebuilt several times due to fires and other disasters, with the current structure dating back to 1955. Despite its reconstruction, Kinkaku-ji remains an iconic symbol of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Finally, it costs 500 yen to enter and you are not able to enter the temple. You can only admire it from the outside. The crowds here were the busiest I’ve seen so it’s best to visit right before closing if you want a little more tranquility.

Kyoto Botanical Garden OR SANZEN-IN TEMPLE

The Kyoto Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most prestigious botanical gardens in Japan. It has an extensive collection of plants, flowers, and trees. The garden covers an area of about 240,000 square meters and is home to over 12,000 species of plants, including many rare and endangered species.

In addition to its diverse plant collection, the Kyoto Botanical Garden is also known for its beautiful seasonal displays, including cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The garden is a popular destination offering a peaceful retreat from the city and a chance to appreciate the beauty of nature. Finally, another option if you prefer more history would be to visit the Kyoto National Museum.

If you’d prefer to visit a hidden gem in Kyoto then consider a trip to Sanzen-In temple. This temple was very tranquil and had the most beautiful grounds surrounding it. You can easily spend an hour or two roaming the grounds and make sure to shop small at the stands leading up to the temple. We had the best pastries!

Evening

For your first evening, return to central Kyoto for dinner in Gion. Kyoto’s historic geisha district has traditional tea houses and restaurants. We recommend Ichiran Ramen for a dinner spot. Even though it is very much a tourist spot, the ramen was the best we’ve ever had and was worth the 30-minute wait! I still dream about this ramen to this day. You can pick up packets for the ramen here and bring some home as a delicious souvenir.

Day 2: Temples and Shrines

Morning

Higashiyama District to visit Kiyomizu-Dera

The Higashiyama District in Kyoto has well-preserved streets lined with traditional wooden buildings, making it one of the most picturesque and culturally rich areas in Kyoto. The district is famous for its historic temples, shrines, tea houses, and shops, which give visitors a glimpse into the traditional Japanese architecture and way of life.

One of the most popular things to do is visit the historic Kiyomizu Dera. The temple’s name means “Pure Water Temple,” and it is named after the Otowa Waterfall, which is located within the temple grounds and is believed to have sacred waters with therapeutic properties. Finally, what makes this temple famous is its wooden stage that offers panoramic views of Kyoto. It’s especially beautiful during fall and cherry blossom season.

Explore the traditional streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

The streets of Higashiyama are lined with shops selling traditional goods such as pottery, ceramics, textiles, and souvenirs. Visitors can also find many tea houses and restaurants serving traditional Kyoto cuisine, providing an opportunity to experience the local food and hospitality. Finally, the famous Starbucks and Ghibli Museum are located here if you’re interested in visiting either of those.

Kodai-Ji Temple

Kodai-ji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple and was established in 1606 by Kita-no-Mandokoro. He was a prominent Japanese daimyo and warrior during the Sengoku period. Kodai-ji has stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and historical significance.

The temple’s buildings showcase a mix of architectural styles, including traditional Japanese design elements and the lavish ornamentation characteristic of the Momoyama period. The temple’s main hall, or Butai, features elegant sliding doors, painted screens, and intricate woodwork. They also have a small bamboo walkway here that is a lot quieter than the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Finally, it costs 600 yen to enter.

Afternoon

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Perhaps the most popular shrine in Kyoto is the Fushimi Inari Shrine. This shrine has thousands of vermilion torii gates that lead into the forested trails of Mount Inari. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. Furthermore, foxes are thought to be Inari’s messengers, which is why you’ll often see fox statues around the shrine.

The hike to the top of Mount Inari takes about 2-3 hours round trip, and along the way, there are smaller shrines and viewpoints to enjoy. The main shrine complex at the base of the mountain is also worth exploring, with its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. We visited first thing in the morning and there were already loads of tourists there. However, the higher up you walk the less crowded it gets. Finally, this shrine is free to visit.

Explore the nearby Fushimi Sake District

Sake, referred to as Japanese rice wine, is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. Fushimi has been a significant center for sake production for centuries, favored for its high-quality water from the Uji River and the Fushimi Ward’s suitable climate for rice cultivation.

The district is home to numerous sake breweries, some of which have been in operation for hundreds of years. Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about the sake-making process and sample a variety of different types of sake. Finally, consider booking this tour that delves into the sake-making process. It’s a fun experience to immerse yourself in the culture!

4 Days in Kyoto Itinerary: Evening

Relax at the Four Seasons

Easily our favorite hotel stay to date was the Four Seasons Kyoto. This contemporary oasis is nestled around Shakusui-en, an 800-year-old heritage pond garden. Being that it’s located in the serene and well-preserved Higashiyama district, their hotel puts many of Kyoto’s key attractions within easy reach. Furthermore, their spa is world-renowned. After many days of travel, it was a treat to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere in the evening. Book your stay here!

Day 3: Day Trip to Nara and Nishiki Market

Morning Day Trip to Nara

Nara is a city located in the Kansai region of Japan, and it is known for its rich history, ancient temples, and friendly bowing deer that roam freely in Nara Park. This expansive park is home to many of Nara’s most famous attractions, including Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji Temple. The park is also known for its population of deer, which are considered sacred and are protected as national treasures.

To reach Nara you’ll want to take the Kintetsu line from Kyoto station. This is the fastest way as it only takes 35 minutes. Furthermore, once you reach Nara station it takes 20 minutes to walk to the heart of Nara Park. You’ll see the sacred deer on your way and if you want to interact with them, purchase crackers (200 yen for a stack). The key is to break the crackers into pieces so they last longer. This was hands down our favorite experience when visiting Japan, so wholesome!

Late Afternoon + Evening

Visit Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” due to its wide array of culinary delights. Including fresh seafood, produce, local snacks, and traditional Japanese ingredients. The market has been a central part of Kyoto’s food culture for centuries and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. As non-seafood lovers we didn’t care for this part of Kyoto however, I would still recommend walking through.

In addition to food products, Nishiki Market has traditional Kyoto crafts and goods, including ceramics, textiles, and traditional Japanese sweets. We very much enjoyed Snoopy Pancakes filled with custard. They were simply delicious! Finally, the market’s bustling atmosphere and vibrant displays make it a fascinating place to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Kyoto’s culinary heritage.

Dinner at Chao Chao gyoza

This place was recommended by a friend, and I am so happy we obliged! These dumplings, also known as Gyoza in Japan, were the best we have ever tried! They have unique offerings such as mozzarella cheese dumplings that taste like a pizza. We were blown away by the deliciousness and the prices are reasonable as well ($16 total for the two of us). Finally, there will most likely be a queue outside but it’s well worth the wait!

4 Days in Kyoto Itinerary (Day 4): Castles + Traditional Tea Ceremony

Morning

Visit Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle was built in 1603, as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Which ruled Japan for over 250 years during the Edo period. The castle was later used as an imperial palace before being opened to the public as a historic site.

Nijo Castle is renowned for its architectural and historical significance. The castle complex is surrounded by stone walls and moats. It consists of two concentric rings of fortifications, the Ninomaru Palace and the Honmaru Palace.

The Ninomaru Palace, in particular, is famous for its “nightingale floors,” which are designed to squeak when walked upon, serving as a security measure against intruders. The floors were intended to alert the residents to the presence of anyone trying to move around the palace stealthily. Finally, another option for the morning would be to visit the nearby Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former ruling palace of the Emperor of Japan.

Afternoon

Attend a traditional tea ceremony

The traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as “chanoyu” or “sado,” is a cultural ritual that has been practiced for centuries in Japan. In Kyoto, the birthplace of the Japanese tea ceremony, there are many opportunities for visitors to experience this ancient tradition firsthand.

Being that this is a highly choreographed ritual that involves the preparation and serving of matcha, a powdered green tea. The ceremony is often conducted in a specially designed tea room, typically with a tatami floor and traditional Japanese decor. Furthermore, we experienced the ritual while wearing kimonos and felt honored to experience this beautiful tradition. The one we chose even offered to do my hair for the kimono wearing. It was an experience I’ll never forget!

Finally, being that this is one of the most popular things to do, you’ll want to book this experience in advance.

5 Days in Kyoto? Add these day trips to your list

Ine Funaya

The prettiest little village in Japan. This hidden gem is the perfect day trip from Kyoto. It’s tucked away in the Northern Kyoto Prefecture roughly 2 hours outside of Kyoto proper. The drive alone to this small village is so beautiful and once you arrive you’ll be greeted with bright blue waters and over 230 “funaya” houses (boathouses). It’s no wonder why others dubbed this place the “Venice of Japan”. 

Another highlight of our day trip was there were far fewer crowds here compared to the busy streets of Gion, Kyoto. You can book a day tour to visit along with two other stunning villages in one day. Don’t forget to use my code LETRAVELSTYLE for 10% off!

Amanohashidate

Amanohashidate, often referred to as Japan’s “Bridge to Heaven,” is an absolute must-see for any Japan itinerary, especially if you’re seeking hidden gems beyond the bustling cities. Located along the coast of northern Kyoto Prefecture, this scenic sandbar stretches across Miyazu Bay, forming a natural bridge of lush pine trees that appears to float above the turquoise waters below.

The best way to experience Amanohashidate is by taking the famous view from the Amanohashidate View Land or Kasamatsu Park. To fully appreciate its charm, follow the local custom: look at the sandbar upside down through your legs to make it appear as if it’s ascending into the sky. Whether you’re strolling along the sandbar, renting a bike, or admiring it from afar, this spot captures a sense of serenity and wonder that feels like stepping into a Japanese painting.

While in the area, don’t miss the chance to explore Chion-ji Temple, a peaceful temple known for its collection of thousands of “ema” wooden prayer plaques. Amanohashidate blends nature, history, and tradition into an unforgettable escape, ideal for those looking to experience Japan’s quieter side.

Uji Kyoto

Uji, located between Kyoto and Nara, is famous for its high-quality matcha and the serene Byodo-in Temple. Known as one of Japan’s most iconic tea-growing areas, Uji offers a rich tradition of tea cultivation, with many tea shops and tasting experiences available. Visitors can learn about the detailed process of matcha production, from the careful cultivation of green tea leaves to the grinding and preparation. Sampling Uji matcha provides a distinctive taste that’s uniquely rich and slightly bitter, showcasing the area’s unmatched quality.

The Byodo-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit for its historical and architectural significance. Built in the 10th century, the temple is known for its beautiful Phoenix Hall, which appears on Japan’s 10-yen coin. The temple grounds are equally breathtaking, with a reflecting pond that mirrors the hall, creating a peaceful ambiance. Fun fact: Oahu Hawaii has a replica of this temple!

Where is the Best Area to Stay in Kyoto?

Each area has its unique charm and attractions, so consider what you want to prioritize during your stay in Kyoto.

Gion

Known for its traditional wooden m\Machiya houses and teahouses. Gion is one of Kyoto’s most famous districts. It’s a great place to experience the historic charm of Kyoto, especially in the evenings when you might spot geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) walking along the streets.

• Book a highly-reviewed hotel in Gion.

Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

This area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great choice if you want to be in the heart of the city and have easy access to shopping and dining.

• Book a highly-reviewed hotel in downtown.

Arashiyama

If you’re looking for a more scenic and peaceful setting, consider staying in Arashiyama. This district has bamboo groves and scenic river views.

• Book a highly-reviewed hotel in Arashiyama.

Higashiyama + Southern Higashiyama

Higashiyama is a historic district known for its well-preserved streets lined with traditional wooden buildings. It’s close to many of Kyoto’s famous temples and shrines, making it a good choice if you want to explore the city’s cultural heritage.

Southern Higashiyama is famous for its stunning views of Kyoto and its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. It’s home to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple and other historic sites.

• Book our top pick for a hotel stay in Kyoto

Well, there you have it fam! With its blend of ancient traditions and natural beauty, this “4 Days in Kyoto Itinerary” offers a perfect balance of cultural exploration and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s historic temples and shrines or its scenic landscapes and vibrant markets, Kyoto is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s one of our favorite places we’ve ever visited to date.

Don’t miss more of my travel guides and enjoy your trip of a lifetime!

XX,

Courtney