Kyoto on a Budget: 3 Days of Temples and Tea

Discover Kyoto's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Temples and Shrines

  • Start the day with a breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello! Savor the freshly brewed coffee and the Japanese-style breakfast.
  • Head to Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple and UNESCO World Heritage site, for gorgeous views and a traditional Japanese atmosphere.
  • Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, the head shrine of Inari, for the famous vermilion torii gates that symbolize prosperity.
  • Stroll around Gion district, the center of Kyoto's geisha culture, and experience a kyomai dance performance at Gion Corner.
  • Enjoy a delicious bowl of udon noodles at Omen, a traditional Kyoto noodle house.
Day 2

Samurai and Cherry Blossom Viewing

  • Rent kimono and walk through the Higashiyama district for a unique cultural experience.
  • Visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum and learn about Japan's comic culture.
  • Be a samurai for a day and take a sword fighting lesson at Samurai Kembu Theater.
  • Marvel at the cherry blossoms at Maruyama Park and visit the Yasaka Shrine.
  • Satisfy your hunger at Tenkaippin, a ramen restaurant that prides itself in its excellent soup.
Day 3

Green Tea and Tranquility

  • Start the day with a cup of matcha green tea and a Japanese sweet at Ippodo Tea Co. and learn about the tea culture.
  • Take a stroll in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and be one with nature.
  • Visit the impressive Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and relax in its beautiful gardens.
  • Explore the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, with its stunning shimmering gold leaf surface.
  • End your day with some delectable sushi at Genki Sushi, a conveyor belt sushi restaurant.
  • Accommodation Piece Hostel Sanjo
  • Piece Hostel Sanjo offers budget-friendly stays with clean and comfortable dormitories, private rooms, and shared spaces. The hostel is located near the bustling Sanjo-Kawaramachi area, with easy access to public transportation and numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops. Experience a friendly atmosphere and meet travelers from all over the world at Piece Hostel Sanjo.

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

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.

Romantic Kyoto: 2-Day Adventure in Japan

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.

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.

Fall in love with Kyoto: A 4-day romantic escape

A romantic trip to Kyoto, Japan promises a magical experience like no other. The city is famed for its stunning temples, ancient shrines, traditional architecture, and picturesque landscapes, providing the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. From strolling through the city's charming streets to enjoying an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, Kyoto ensures an unforgettable and enchanting experience for any couple.