Kyoto: A Budget-Friendly Adventure in 48 Hours

Discover the magic of Kyoto without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Kyoto

  • Start the day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Hirano Saryo, known for their delicious set meals
  • Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, where you can walk through thousands of torii gates and enjoy stunning views of Kyoto
  • Stop by the Nishiki Market, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for souvenirs
  • Take a relaxing stroll through the historic Higashiyama district, admiring the beautifully preserved traditional architecture and quaint alleyways
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Tsujiri, famous for their matcha sundaes and other green tea treats
  • End the day with a soak at Funaoka Onsen, a charming old-style public bathhouse that's been popular with locals since the 1920s
  • Hotel recommendation: First Cabin Kyoto Karasuma, a stylish capsule hotel that offers excellent value for money
Day 2

Serene Temples & Majestic Gardens

  • Enjoy a serene morning at Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Go off the beaten path to visit Ryoan-ji, a peaceful Zen temple that houses Japan's most famous rock garden
  • Wander through the stunning gardens of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, a former residence of the Japanese emperor
  • Have a traditional Japanese lunch at Ganko Takasegawa Nijoen, a charming restaurant that serves Kyoto cuisine in a historic teahouse
  • Visit the picturesque Gion district, known for its geisha houses and traditional machiya townhouses
  • End the day with a visit to Kyomizu-dera, a magnificent temple that offers breathtaking views of Kyoto from its famous wooden veranda
  • For dinner, head to Warai, a cozy izakaya (Japanese pub) that's known for its delicious grilled skewers and lively atmosphere.
  • Kyoto is a city of endless discovery, so take your time to explore and soak up its unique charm!

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

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

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Kyoto Delights: A Budget-Friendly 3-Day Family Adventure

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