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5 Days of Fun and Culture in Kyoto

Discover the charm of traditional Japan in Kyoto.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Check into the Sakura Terrace The Gallery Hotel, with its quirky art installations and central location in the city.
• Take a stroll through the historic Gion district, where geishas still wander the streets.
• Visit Kiyomizu-dera, a breathtaking temple perched on a hillside with stunning views of the city.
• Try some authentic Kyoto cuisine at Kikunoi restaurant, where they use seasonal ingredients to create delicate and flavorful dishes.
• End the night with drinks at the stylish Bar K6, known for its creative cocktails and cool ambiance.

• Start the day with a peaceful visit to Ryoan-ji temple, famous for its rock garden and serene atmosphere.
• Walk through the beautiful Arashiyama bamboo forest, a natural wonder that has enchanted visitors for centuries.
• Explore the exquisite gardens at the Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) temple, which offer stunning vistas of Kyoto's Eastern Mountain range.
• Treat yourself to a relaxing foot bath at Gion Sano, a traditional Japanese spa with hot mineral water and blissful settings.
• Dine at Shoraian restaurant, known for its delicate tofu dishes and charming mountain setting.

• Spend the morning at the Kyoto National Museum, which houses many of the city's artistic treasures and showcases Japan's rich cultural heritage.
• Visit the Nishiki Market, a bustling hub of local food and artisanal crafts that has been in operation for over 400 years.
• Attend a traditional tea ceremony at the Camellia Tea Ceremony, where you'll learn the aesthetics and rituals of the Japanese tea culture.
• Take a kimono workshop at Kimono Okamoto, where you can create your own unique garment inspired by Kyoto's traditional textiles.
• Sample some of the city's best soba noodles at Okina, a small eatery with a cozy atmosphere and excellent service.

• Get an early start and join a morning meditation session at the notorious Daitoku-ji Zen temple, an ancient temple complex that is highly regarded for its austere beauty and calm atmosphere.
• Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that mark a 4 km path up into the hills.
• Explore the impressive Tofukuji temple, founded in the 13th century, known for its stunning autumn foliage and stone gardens.
• Head to Kanga-an studio to learn about Kyoto's traditional dyeing techniques and make your own souvenir with natural dyes.
• Share some delicious yakitori at Torito, a casual yet trendy restaurant with great food and a lively atmosphere.

• Take a bike tour with Kyoto Cycling Tour Project, one of the best ways to discover the city's hidden gems and natural beauty, an experience that you will never forget.
• Pick up some souvenirs at the Miyako Messe, a vibrant market hall selling a variety of handicrafts, fashion items and food products.
• Visit the Kyoto Garden Sake Brewery, nestled in the forested hills of Kyoto and learn about the art of sake making.
• End your trip on a high note at the Miyagawa-cho Kaburenjo Theater, where you can enjoy a traditional Japanese dance performance and participate in the local culture.
• Finish with a trip to the casual eatery Menya Iroha for some delicious, hearty ramen before heading home.