Itinerary for 3 day trip to 京都

Kyoto is a treasure trove of stunning autumn foliage, serene spots, and delicious cuisine. Let’s craft a delightful 3-day itinerary that checks all your boxes!

Day 1: Northern Kyoto - and Beyond

Morning:

Start your day early with a visit to . While it can get busy, head to the first thing in the morning. The soft morning light filtering through the bamboo is magical, and you’ll find it less crowded.
After wandering through the grove, take a stroll along the . The views of the mountains adorned in autumn colors are breathtaking!

Lunch:

For lunch, try a local restaurant like . They serve delicious tofu dishes, a staple of Kyoto cuisine, and the serene atmosphere is perfect for a relaxing meal.

Afternoon:

After lunch, visit , a UNESCO World Heritage site. The gardens here are stunning, especially in autumn, and you can enjoy a peaceful walk while admiring the foliage.
Next, head to . This hidden gem is often overlooked by tourists. The villa has beautiful gardens and offers a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains.

Evening:

For dinner, indulge in a traditional Kaiseki meal at . This multi-course dining experience showcases seasonal ingredients and is a true taste of Kyoto.

Day 2: Southern Kyoto - Fushimi and

Morning:

Start your day with a visit to . While it’s famous, try to go early to avoid the crowds. The thousands of vermillion torii gates are stunning, especially with the backdrop of autumn leaves.
After exploring, take a short hike up the mountain for some quieter paths and beautiful views.

Lunch:

Head to Fushimi for lunch at a local sake brewery. Many offer tastings and have restaurants serving dishes that pair perfectly with sake. Try for a unique experience.

Afternoon:

After lunch, take a train to , known for its high-quality green tea. Visit , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and the reflection of the temple in the pond, especially stunning with autumn colors.
Don’t forget to stop by a tea shop for some matcha sweets!

Evening:

For dinner, try Yudofu (tofu hot pot) at a local restaurant in . It’s a comforting dish, especially in the cooler autumn weather.

Day 3: Central Kyoto - Hidden Gems

Morning:

Start your day at . This large temple complex has beautiful gardens and is often less crowded. The Nanzen-in sub-temple has a lovely moss garden that’s particularly beautiful in autumn.
After exploring, take a walk along the . This picturesque canal-side path is lined with cherry trees and is stunning in fall.

Lunch:

Stop for lunch at , where you can enjoy a savory pancake-style dish that’s a local favorite.

Afternoon:

Visit . The gardens here are serene and offer a lovely view of the surrounding foliage.
If you have time, explore the nearby Nanzen-ji area further or visit the , known for its beautiful autumn leaves.

Evening:

For your final dinner, treat yourself to a Kaiseki meal at . This restaurant offers a beautiful setting and exquisite dishes that highlight the flavors of the season.

Tips:

Make sure to check the foliage forecast as it can vary year to year!
Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Consider getting a Kyoto City Bus Pass for easy transportation around the city.

Enjoy your trip to Kyoto! The blend of nature, culture, and cuisine will surely leave you with unforgettable memories. 🍂✨