1 day itinerary for Kyoto

Itinerary

Kyoto is a treasure trove of culture, history, and delicious vegetarian-friendly food. Here’s a delightful one-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty of the city while indulging in some scrumptious local cuisine. Let’s dive in!

Morning: Temples and Breakfast

8:00 AM - Start at Kiyomizu-dera Temple Kick off your day at the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The early morning light is perfect for photos, and the view of the city from the wooden terrace is breathtaking. Take your time to explore the temple grounds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

9:30 AM - Breakfast at a Local Café After soaking in the sights, head to a nearby café for breakfast. Look for a place that serves yudofu (tofu hot pot) or a matcha latte with some mochi on the side. A popular spot is Okumura, where you can enjoy a peaceful meal surrounded by nature.

Late Morning: Stroll Through Higashiyama

10:30 AM - Explore Higashiyama District Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Higashiyama District. The traditional wooden buildings, quaint shops, and tea houses are a delight. Don’t forget to stop by Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, the famous sloped streets lined with shops selling local crafts and sweets.

Lunch: A Taste of Kyoto

12:30 PM - Lunch at a Vegetarian Restaurant For lunch, treat yourself to a meal at Ain Soph. Journey or Mame & Shiba, both of which offer delicious vegetarian options. You can try a shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) meal, which often includes seasonal vegetables, tofu, and rice. It’s a feast for the senses!

Afternoon: Temples and Tea

2:00 PM - Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) After lunch, make your way to Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion. The shimmering gold leaf and the surrounding gardens are simply mesmerizing. Take your time to walk around and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

3:30 PM - Afternoon Tea at a Traditional Tea House Next, head to a traditional tea house for a relaxing break. Try a matcha tea with some wagashi (Japanese sweets). Tsujiri is a great spot for this, where you can enjoy the rich flavors of matcha in a cozy setting.

Evening: Night Market and Dinner

5:00 PM - Explore Nishiki Market As the sun begins to set, make your way to Nishiki Market. This bustling market is a food lover’s paradise! While you’re there, sample some local snacks like yuba (tofu skin), pickled vegetables, and kyo-wagashi (Kyoto sweets). It’s a great place to soak in the local culture and grab some unique souvenirs.

7:00 PM - Dinner at a Local Izakaya For dinner, find a cozy izakaya that offers vegetarian options. Look for places that serve kamo nanban soba (soba noodles with duck broth, but you can ask for a vegetarian version) or a delicious tempura platter with seasonal vegetables. Izakaya Katsu is a good choice!

Night: Relax and Reflect

9:00 PM - Evening Walk Along the Philosopher’s Path End your day with a peaceful walk along the Philosopher’s Path. The path is lined with cherry blossom trees and is especially beautiful in the evening. It’s a perfect way to reflect on your day and enjoy the tranquility of Kyoto.

Wrap-Up

And there you have it! A delightful day in Kyoto filled with beautiful sights and delicious vegetarian-friendly food. Make sure to take lots of photos and enjoy every moment. If you have any questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask! Happy travels! 🌸🍵