Romantic Kyoto: 2-Day Adventure in Japan

Discover the serenity of love amidst the enchanting beauty of Kyoto.

03 May 2023

A romantic trip to Kyoto, Japan offers endless opportunities for couples looking to explore a unique cultural and historical city. From taking a stroll through the traditional Gion district to admiring the breathtaking views at the Kiyomizu-dera temple, Kyoto provides a romantic atmosphere with its stunning scenery and charming streets. With Michelin-starred dining options and a plethora of charming accommodations, couples can indulge in the beauty and romance of Kyoto, making it the perfect destination for a romantic getaway.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Geisha Spotting and Riverside Romance

  • Hotel: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei
  • Start your day at Gion Corner to witness a traditional geisha dance performance.
  • Then stroll along the picturesque Shirakawa river and enjoy the cherry blossom trees in bloom.
  • For lunch, head to the quaint Nishiki Market and indulge in Kyoto's famous street food.
  • In the afternoon, explore the Kiyomizu-dera temple and enjoy spectacular views of the city.
  • Stop by the gorgeous Yasaka Shrine and witness a Shinto ceremony.
  • End your day with a romantic dinner at Pontocho Alley, a charming narrow street lined with traditional restaurants.
Day 2

Zen Gardens and Arashiyama Adventure

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and take a walk in the serene Nanzen-ji temple, famous for its Zen gardens.
  • Take a train to Arashiyama and stroll through the iconic bamboo grove.
  • Have an adventurous morning and experience a thrilling monkey park.
  • For lunch, taste yuba, a local delicacy made from soy milk at Sagano Kanko Restaurant.
  • Discover the unique beauty of Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • End your day with a relaxing boat ride on the Hozugawa River while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Kyoto has an authentic charm that elevates the senses and ignites a passion for adventure. From traditional geisha performances and Shinto ceremonies to zen gardens and bamboo groves, Kyoto is the perfect destination for a romantic trip full of wonder and enchantment.

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

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Kyoto: A Budget-Friendly Adventure in 48 Hours

Kyoto offers a wealth of cultural experiences, stunning temple visits, and unique cuisine on a budget-friendly trip. Opt for budget hostels, street eats, and explore free attractions such as the serene bamboo forest of Arashiyama or stroll through the Nishiki Market. Public transportation is also cost-effective and efficient, allowing travelers to make the most of their trip to Japan's former imperial capital.