Kyoto Bliss: A Thrilling 2-Day Family Adventure!

Discover the wonders of Kyoto: an enchanting family adventure awaits.

19 July 2023

Embark on a delightful family-friendly trip to Kyoto, Japan, and immerse yourselves in its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Marvel at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, stroll through traditional neighborhoods like Gion, where you might spot a geisha, and cherish serene moments in the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Kyoto offers a mix of fascinating temples, delicious cuisine, and picturesque landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable and educational experience for the entire family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Kyoto's Ancient Charm

  • Check into the cozy and family-friendly Hotel Gracery Kyoto, with its spacious rooms and delightful Japanese decor.
  • Begin your day with a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple, the iconic Golden Pavilion shimmering against the backdrop of lush gardens.
  • Take a stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene and mystical ambiance.
  • Discover the colorful Nijo Castle, with its "nightingale floors" that chirp like birds when walked upon, a clever security feature from centuries past.
  • Feast on a traditional Kyoto-style kaiseki meal at Gion Izawa, where each artfully presented dish is like a delicious work of edible art.
  • End the day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, bathed in hues of orange as you ascend through the iconic torii gates illuminated by lanterns.
Day 2

Immerse in Kyoto's Traditional Culture

  • Start the day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café Bibliotic Hello!, a charming book cafe serving mouthwatering pancakes and artisanal coffee.
  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside offering mesmerizing panoramic views of the city.
  • Indulge in retail therapy at Nishiki Market, Kyoto's oldest food market, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs.
  • Join a traditional tea ceremony at Camellia, where skilled tea masters guide you through the intricate ritual and serenade your senses with fragrant matcha.
  • For a one-of-a-kind lunch experience, head to Kyoto Kitano Club, a restaurant specializing in Kyoto-style shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine).
  • Bid farewell to Kyoto with a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque Hozu River, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kyoto by plane is to fly into Kansai International Airport, which is located approximately 100 kilometers from Kyoto. From there, you can take the JR Haruka Express train, which takes approximately 75 minutes and goes directly to Kyoto Station.

Car

If you are driving to Kyoto, the best option is to take the Meishin Expressway, which connects Osaka and Nagoya. The journey takes approximately 1 hour from Osaka and 2 hours from Nagoya.

Train

If you are already in Japan, the best way to get to Kyoto by train is to take the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo Station or Shin-Osaka Station to Kyoto Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes from Tokyo and 15 minutes from Shin-Osaka.

Boat

Although there is no direct boat to Kyoto, you can take a ferry from Osaka to the nearby town of Miyazu and then take a train or bus to Kyoto. Alternatively, you can take a cruise ship to Kobe or Osaka and then take a train or bus to Kyoto.

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate between major cities and Kyoto, including JR Bus and Keihan Bus. The journey time varies depending on the departure point, but it typically takes around 5-6 hours from Tokyo and 3 hours from Osaka.

More travel plans

Two-day Temple Trot in Kyoto, Japan

Tourists will find plenty to explore in Kyoto, a city filled with exquisite temples, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural history. Popular attractions include the ornate Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) temple, the sprawling Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, and the peaceful Arashiyama bamboo grove. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, and kimono dressing.

Kyoto on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure

A trip to Kyoto, Japan on a limited budget can be an enjoyable experience. With a little planning, you can explore many of the city's famous temples, shrines, and gardens without breaking the bank. To save money, consider using public transportation, staying in budget accommodations, and enjoying affordable street food.

Kyoto's 1-Day Temple and Tea Tour

Kyoto, Japan is a city that combines traditional culture and modern technology. As a tourist, one can explore iconic sights such as the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the Kiyomizu-dera temple. In addition, visitors can indulge in delightful Japanese cuisine and traditional tea ceremonies.

Weekend Getaway: Kyoto Culture & Cuisine

A trip to Kyoto, Japan offers a unique cultural experience that combines ancient history with modern city life. Visitors can explore stunning temples and gardens, such as the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, before indulging in local cuisine like matcha green tea and sushi. Additionally, Kyoto is known for its traditional handicrafts, including ceramics and textiles, making it the perfect destination for those interested in Japanese art and craftsmanship.