Two-day Temple Trot in Kyoto, Japan

Discover the heart of Japan in Kyoto's ancient temples and picturesque landscapes.

03 May 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Temple Run

  • Checked in at the funky Len Kyoto Kawaramachi Hotel located in the heart of the city. After breakfast, started the day exploring the most stunning temples the city has to offer, including:
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates.
  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where we drank water from the Otowa Waterfall for good fortune.
  • Ginkaku-ji or Silver Pavilion, a stunning zen temple surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  • Nanzen-ji Temple, the most prestigious of the Zen temples in Kyoto.
  • Enjoyed a traditional Japanese dinner at the atmospheric Okutan restaurant, famous for its tofu dishes.
Day 2

Culture and Nature

  • Woke up early to visit the Kamo River and walked along the Kamogawa Delta, where local fisherman were casting their nets. Then we continued our cultural and natural journey with:
  • Visiting the impressive Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former residence of the Tokugawa Shogun.
  • Walking around the vibrant and colorful Gion district, where we witnessed a tea ceremony and saw some geishas.
  • Admiring the famous Golden Pavilion or Kinkaku-ji, a stunning temple covered in gold leaf.
  • Enjoying a stroll through the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
  • Ended the night with a Japanese-style BBQ dinner at Nikuya Ginjiro, a cozy restaurant famous for its wagyu beef.
  • Kyoto, Japan is a city that combines culture and nature, a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic and unique experience.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Kyoto

Welcome to a city where ancient temples meet trendy cafes, where traditional geishas roam the streets alongside modern commuters, and where you can satisfy both your spiritual and shopping needs all in one place. Get ready to say konnichiwa to Kyoto!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Kyoto Bliss: A Thrilling 2-Day Family Adventure!

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.

Kyoto on a Budget: 3 Days of Temples and Tea

A trip to Kyoto, Japan on a limited budget can still offer incredible experiences. Visitors can explore the city's historic temples, gardens, and markets, many of which are free or low-cost. Budget-friendly accommodations and eating options are also available, including capsule hotels and delicious street food.

Kyoto Quest: 4 Days of Family Fun!

A family-friendly trip to Kyoto, Japan offers an enriching experience for all ages. You can immerse yourself in the city's rich history by visiting iconic landmarks like the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine and the majestic Kinkaku-ji Temple. Explore the picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine, and participate in traditional tea ceremonies for an unforgettable family adventure.

5 Days of Fun and Culture in Kyoto

Kyoto is a city steeped in history and culture, with over 1,000 years as Japan's capital city. As a tourist, one can expect a range of experiences, from visiting ancient temples and shrines, to witnessing traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremonies and kimono dressing. Kyoto is also known for its incredible cuisine, including famous dishes such as kaiseki ryori and Kyoto-style sushi.