Kyoto on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure

Discover Japan's ancient capital without breaking the bank in Kyoto.

21 June 2023

A trip to Kyoto, Japan on a limited budget can be an enjoyable experience. With a little planning, you can explore many of the city's famous temples, shrines, and gardens without breaking the bank. To save money, consider using public transportation, staying in budget accommodations, and enjoying affordable street food.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get Lost in Kyoto

  • Check into the Centurion Cabin & Spa Kyoto, a cozy capsule hotel for budget travelers.
  • Explore the backstreets of Gion, with its traditional machiya houses and geisha teahouses.
  • Visit the Yasaka Shrine, a famous Shinto shrine with a lively atmosphere.
  • Get lost in the narrow alleys of Pontocho, lined with charming restaurants and izakayas.
  • End the day with a stroll along the Kamogawa river, where locals gather for picnics and drinks.
Day 2

Temples and Gardens

  • Start the day with a visit to the Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most famous temples.
  • Walk through the picturesque streets of Higashiyama and enjoy the traditional architecture.
  • Visit the Kodai-ji Temple, known for its stunning bamboo garden and traditional tea ceremony.
  • Take a break at the Nanzen-ji Temple, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Zen garden.
  • End the day at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its thousands of torii gates and stunning views of Kyoto.
Day 3

Arashiyama and Beyond

  • Head to Arashiyama, a charming neighborhood known for its bamboo groves and scenic views.
  • Visit the famous Tenryu-ji Temple, with its beautiful garden and panoramic views of Kyoto.
  • Take a stroll through the bamboo groves, and listen to the calming rustle of the bamboo leaves.
  • Explore the charming streets of Sagano, and visit the Gio-ji Temple, with its moss garden and tranquil atmosphere.
  • End the day with a relaxing soak at the Funaoka Onsen, a popular hot spring with locals.
Day 4

Foodie Adventure

  • Start the day at Nishiki Market, and try some of Kyoto's famous street food, such as mochi, sushi, and wagashi.
  • Visit the Gion Tsujiri tea shop, and enjoy a matcha parfait or matcha latte.
  • Head to the Pontocho alley, and try some of the local delicacies, such as yakitori, tofu, and kaiseki.
  • Visit the Nishijin Textile Center, and learn about Kyoto's traditional kimono weaving.
  • End the day at the Kyoto Beer Lab, and sample some of the local craft beer.

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!

 Save and get deals

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.

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.

Kyoto on a Budget: 5 Days of Cultural Bliss

Kyoto, Japan offers an immersive experience of the country's culture and heritage. Despite being known as a destination for luxury travel, it is still possible to visit Kyoto on a limited budget. From affordable accommodations to unique experiences such as visiting ancient temples and strolling through picturesque parks, there are plenty of ways to make the most out of a budget trip to Kyoto.

3 Days of Romance & Culture in Kyoto

Kyoto offers a breathtaking backdrop for a romantic getaway with your significant other. Explore Japan's rich culture with visits to historic temples, gardens and museums. Indulge in the city's culinary delights and unwind in traditional Japanese ryokans for an unforgettable trip.