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

Discover the magic of Kyoto: an unforgettable family adventure in Japan!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Kyoto, Japan offers a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern attractions. Explore the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the iconic Kiyomizudera Temple and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. With its rich history, beautiful gardens, and fun-filled cultural activities like kimono dressing and tea ceremonies, Kyoto promises an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Zen Zone:

  • Check into the charming Kyoto Hotel, with traditional Japanese-style rooms, tatami mats, and paper lanterns.
  • Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, a golden wonder floating on a serene pond.
  • Meander through the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks create a mystical pathway.
  • Lose yourself in the peaceful gardens of the Ryoan-ji Temple, known for its enigmatic rock garden.
  • Savor a delicious bowl of matcha ice cream as you explore the vibrant Nishiki Market, a food lover's paradise.
  • Indulge in a kaiseki dinner at Gion Nanba, a traditional restaurant where every dish is a meticulously crafted artwork.
Day 2

Cultural Quest:

  • Marvel at the intricate architecture of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, with thousands of vermilion torii gates leading to the sacred Mount Inari.
  • Immerse yourself in history at the Kyoto Imperial Palace, strolling along the grand corridors and elegant gardens.
  • Take a leisurely boat ride on the Hozu River, surrounded by lush scenery and cherry blossoms in spring.
  • Explore the artsy district of Gion, where geishas still glide gracefully in traditional attire.
  • Dine at Katsukura, renowned for their mouthwatering tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet), a crispy delight.
Day 3

Nature Escape:

  • Embark on a picturesque train ride to the enchanting town of Arashiyama.
  • Wander through the otherworldly Sagano Bamboo Forest, where ethereal light filters through the towering green giants.
  • Discover the ethereal beauty of the Tenryu-ji Temple and its pristine gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Take a scenic hike up Mount Arashiyama, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto's skyline.
  • Enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch at Arashiyama Benkei, savoring delicately prepared seasonal dishes.
  • Wind down your trip with a peaceful boat ride on the tranquil Lake Biwa, surrounded by majestic mountains, and reflect on the wonders of Kyoto.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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

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