Where to Visit in Kyoto in 3 Days
In 2023, we spent three unforgettable days exploring the rich cultural city of Kyoto. All of the serene temples to local gems, each moment was a step into the heart of Japan's historical capital. And I am excited to share the details here today!
What to Do
Day 1: Arriving Kyoto, and strolling Higashiyama
Day 2: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Tofukuji, Nishiki Market
Day 3: Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, Kamigamo Shrine
Day 1: Arriving Kyoto, and Higashiyama Stroll
How to travel to Kyoto from Tokyo:
We left Tokyo station in the morning, took the Shinkansen Nozomi. After 2 hours and 15 minutes, we arrived at Kyoto station. The Shinkansen costs 13,320 yen without seating reservation. Make sure you sit on the ride side of the train, you will catch a beautiful glimpse of Mt. Fuji on the way.
We checked into the Agora Hotel after a quick Soba noodles lunch at the Kyoto station. We took a subway from the Kyoto station (Karasuma line) for a quick 6 minutes train ride, then 5 minutes of walk to the accommodation by the Karasuma station. (Karasuma line train costs 220 yen)
Higashiyama Area in Kyoto:
Our first day's highlight was exploring the Higashiyama area, commencing with the iconic Kiyomizu Temple.
Navigating through Shijo Street with a 30 minutes walk from the hotel, then arriving Yasaka Shrine. And by the time we got to Yasaka shrine it was almost 5pm, while the Kiyomizu temple was closing at 6pm. We rushed and walked along Shimogawara Dori, took a quick picture of Yasaka no Tou/Hokanji-temple, then went through Sannenzaka path. Passing by all of the souvenir shops and cafes, we wished we had more time to look around.
A morning visit in this area would be recommended for a more leisurely experience. Kiyomizu temple may take a good hour or two to look at everything and walk around the area. Yet, we enjoyed this historical area that evening.
Day 2: Fushimi Inari's Mystical Charm
Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto:
Day two started with an early train ride to Fushimi Inari, where the allure of Senbon Torii (1,000 red gates) awaited.
JR Nara line will take you to the Inari station in 5 minutes from Kyoto station. And the temple entrance gate is just in front of the station.
The Senbon Torii is standing behind the main hall, where everyone takes photos. If you hike up to the mountain, you would see a more quiet area with the gates where you can enjoy the calm environment.
Inari mythology - Irogu no Hatanokimi, an ancestor of Hatanonakatsue no Imiki, is said to have shot a rice cake, which turned into a swan and flew away. Eventually the swan landed on a peak of a mountain, where an auspicious omen occurred and rice grew. Inari is named for this miracle (“ina” is Japanese for “rice”). - https://inari.jp/en/history/ Also, as you see foxes by the gate, they are known to be servants of the Inari.
Interesting thing on that day at the Fushimi Inari, there were street vendors by the entrance selling Japanese street snacks. We enjoyed potato sticks, baked pancakes with a cheese filling.
Tofukuji Temple’s Tranquility:
A leisurely 20 minutes walk from Fushimi Inari led us to Tofukuji temple, a serene Buddhist temple with fewer tourists at that time.
It’s built in the Kamakura era, and is the second largest temple in Kyoto. The Gaunkyo bridge offered a mesmerizing view of autumn leaves during November - early December. To me, the dragon painting on the ceiling in the main hall left a powerful impression.
Nishiki Market Food Street:
Our day concluded at Nishiki Market, a haven for foodies, also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”. Located in the Karasuma area, about 5 minutes north of the Karasuma station. Amidst 130 vendors under the arcade, we navigated through seafood, local vegetables, Japanese pickles, snacks and sweets.
Since I was pushing my 3-year-old’s stroller, the crowd was very challenging to go through. Ichigo Daifuku Mochi caught my daughter's eye, so we made a stop to take a delicious bite of the mochi.
Day 3: Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, and Kamigamo Shrine
Beauty of Arashiyama and bamboo hike:
We came back here, again, Arashiyama. This is always my go-to spot when we visit Kyoto.
We took the Randen tram from Shijo Omiya station. Our route starts from exiting to the right side of the station, making a left turn towards the bamboo way. Going through the bamboo path, stopping by the Nonomiya shrine, keep going to the deeper bamboo grove. Passing the Arashiyama Park, Kameyama area, then reaching the Katsura river. We walked along the river to the Togetsukyo Bridge, then took a little break while watching the beautiful scenery and tourists.
Arashiyama to Kinkakuji’s Golden Majesty:
We took the Randen tram from Arashiyama station, transferred at Katabirano-tsuji to Kitano-hakubaicho. Walked a few minutes on Nishioji-dori street, and there was a bus stop. You can catch either #204 or #205 for Kinkakuji temple. The bus ride is only for 5 minutes.
Kinkakuji is such a magnificent golden pavilion. It was very crowded with tourists, we followed the route, and enjoyed the quick walk.
After savoring Osaka-style Okonomiyaki at Dainoji restaurant, we marveled at the temple's golden splendor.
Kamigamo Shrine’s Spritual Serenity:
We took a cab from the Kinkakuji (there is a taxi stop by the entrance), 10 minutes later, we arrived at Kamigamo shrine.
This shrine is one of UNESCO world heritage sites. We witnessed "Kasagake Shinji", horse archery performed as a part of a religious offering. It was filled with a local audience we savored the tranquility away from the bustling tourist spots.
Lastly:
Kyoto, with its blend of ancient charm and modern efficiency, left an indelible mark on our hearts. From Shinkansen adventures to tranquil temple explorations, each day brought new wonders, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
