09/07/2026
Kyoto🎎
I know how exciting it is to plan a trip to Kyoto, but I’ve learned the hard way that it’s so easy to turn this beautiful, serene city into just another stressful checklist.
Trust me—the order you choose to see things really matters here. Kyoto is more spread out than you’d think! If you plan your days randomly, you might end up spending your precious vacation time stuck on buses or backtracking across town just as the crowds are peaking.
The solution? I’ve found that grouping your days by area makes the whole experience feel so much calmer, smoother, and honestly, just a lot more enjoyable.
📌 Make sure to save this if you’re heading to Kyoto soon!
📍 East Kyoto (The Classics)
This is the heart of traditional Kyoto. Perfect for wandering through old streets and iconic temple grounds.
Kiyomizu-dera, Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
Yasaka Pagoda & Yasaka Shrine
Gion & Pontocho Alley
📍 West Kyoto (The Scenic Route)
Think lush bamboo groves, serene gardens, and beautiful river views.
Arashiyama & Bamboo Grove
Tenryu-ji & Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)
📍 South + Central Kyoto (The Best of Both)
A great mix of early-morning serenity, local food, and history.
Fushimi Inari (get there early!)
Nishiki Market, Nijō Castle & The Imperial Palace
Kawaramachi for shopping and a bite to eat
📍 Northern Kyoto (The Peaceful Escape)
If you want to get away from it all and head into the mountains.
Mount Hiei & the scenic Hiei train
Enryaku-ji, Kibune & Kifune Shrine
Kawadoko Riverside Dining
🗺️ My simple 3-day plan to help you save time:
☀️ Day 1 (East): Start at Kiyomizu-dera, walk through Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka toward the Yasaka Pagoda, and end your evening in Gion and Pontocho.
☀️ Day 2 (West): Spend the morning in Arashiyama, explore the Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji, then head over to Kinkaku-ji.
☀️ Day 3 (South/Central): Hit Fushimi Inari bright and early to beat the crowds, then head to Nishiki Market for lunch and enjoy some shopping around Kyoto Station.
Have a little extra time? You absolutely have to add Northern Kyoto to your list—the Hiei train and the temples there are just magical.
Stuck on planning Tokyo? Don’t worry, that’s next! Follow along for Part 2: Tokyo in the right order.
