7 day itinerary for Kyoto

Itinerary

Kyoto is a beautiful city with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 7 days in Kyoto:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive in Kyoto and check into your hotel
• Take a stroll around the Gion district, known for its traditional architecture and geisha culture
• Visit the Yasaka Shrine, one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2: Temples and Gardens

• Visit the Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Explore the Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its rock garden
• Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and take a walk through the beautiful bamboo forest
• Relax at the Okochi Sanso Villa, a stunning garden with beautiful views of the city

Day 3: Nishiki Market and Fushimi Inari Shrine

• Visit the Nishiki Market, a bustling market filled with local food and souvenirs
• Take a train to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii gates
• Hike to the top of Mount Inari for stunning views of the city
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 4: Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle

• Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the Emperor of Japan
• Explore the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful gardens and architecture
• Visit the Nishijin Textile Center to learn about traditional Japanese textiles
• Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local onsen (hot spring)

Day 5: Philosopher's Path and Ginkaku-ji Temple

• Take a walk along the Philosopher's Path, a beautiful trail lined with cherry blossoms
• Visit the Ginkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Explore the Nanzen-ji Temple, a beautiful temple with stunning gardens
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 6: Kyoto Tower and Kiyomizu-dera Temple

• Visit the Kyoto Tower for stunning views of the city
• Explore the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful views and architecture
• Visit the Gion district for a chance to see geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) walking around
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant

Day 7: Departure

• Check out of your hotel and depart from Kyoto

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Kyoto!