Kyoto First-Timer's Classics

Cover Gion, Higashiyama, Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji in three days, seeing Kyoto's core sights in one trip.

The itinerary is organized by area. On day one, arrive in the afternoon and explore Gion and Pontocho. On day two, visit Fushimi Inari early in the morning, then head to Kiyomizu-dera and Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. On day three, visit the bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama, followed by Kinkaku-ji before leaving. Stay in Shijo-Kawaramachi, where dining areas are within walking distance in the evening. The trip avoids long back-and-forth journeys between areas and suits first-time visitors with limited time. Northeastern Higashiyama and Nara are best saved for another visit.

Cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons draw huge crowds, so arrive at popular temples and shrines as soon as they open.

Day by day

Day 1 · Arrival and Gion at night

Kyoto（Yasaka Shrine、Gion & Hanamikoji Street、Pontocho）

From Kansai International Airport, take the JR Haruka to Kyoto Station, about 75 minutes. Transfer to the subway or a bus to Shijo-Kawaramachi, then walk through Gion in the evening.

Hanamikoji is a private alley, and photography is prohibited. Follow posted signs.

Stay: Shijo-Kawaramachi

Day 2 · Fushimi Inari and the Higashiyama trails

Kyoto（Fushimi Inari Taisha、Kiyomizu-dera、Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka、Kodai-ji）

Take the Keihan line to Fushimi Inari, about 15 minutes, early in the morning. Then take a bus to Kiyomizu-michi and walk downhill back to Gion.

The Senbon Torii gates are least crowded before 8 a.m. Visit Kiyomizu-dera in the morning.

Stay: Shijo-Kawaramachi

Day 3 · Arashiyama bamboo grove and Kinkaku-ji

Kyoto（Arashiyama Bamboo Grove、Tenryu-ji、Togetsukyo Bridge、Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)）

Take the Hankyu or JR line to Arashiyama in the morning and walk around. In the afternoon, take a bus to Kinkaku-ji, about 40 minutes, then take a bus back to Kyoto Station to leave.

You can leave your luggage at Kyoto Station or send it ahead to lighten your load on the last day.

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