Kyoto in 2 Days: An Itinerary That Avoids Backtracking

Kyoto's famous sights are spread around the edges of the city: Fushimi Inari to the south-east, the temples of Higashiyama to the east, Arashiyama far to the west and Kinkaku-ji to the north. The most common mistake is crossing the city several times a day.

This plan gives each day one side of Kyoto and starts each day where the crowds are worst.

Day 1: South and east Kyoto

Start as early as you can at Fushimi Inari Taisha, the shrine famous for its tunnels of red torii gates winding up the mountain. The lower paths get very busy later in the day. You do not need to climb to the top to see the best of it.

Take the train north to Higashiyama. Walk up to Kiyomizu-dera, the temple with a wooden stage overlooking the city, then down the preserved lanes of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka.

Continue to Yasaka Shrine and end the day in Gion, the historic geisha district, as the lanterns come on. Please do not photograph people without permission, and stay on public streets.

Day 2: West and north Kyoto

Head west to Arashiyama early, before the bamboo grove fills up. Visit Tenryū-ji, a Zen temple with a celebrated garden, and walk to Togetsukyō Bridge over the river.

In the afternoon, go north to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, reflected in its pond. It is a long ride across the city, so make it the last major stop of the day.

Getting around

Kyoto's buses reach most temples, but they get crowded. Trains are faster for longer hops, such as to Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama. For the east side, walking between temples is often quicker than waiting for a bus.

Where to stay

Staying near Kyoto Station is convenient for trains, including day trips. Downtown around Kawaramachi and Gion puts you close to restaurants and the eastern temples.

Make it three days

Add Nara as a day trip for its temples and deer park, or spend a slower day around the Philosopher's Path and Ginkaku-ji in north-east Kyoto.