Planning a trip to Japan and wondering how to make the most of your time in Kyoto? This 3 day Kyoto itinerary covers everything — from world-famous temples and bamboo forests to hidden teahouses and peaceful walking paths.
Whether it’s your first time in Kyoto or you’re returning to dive deeper, this guide blends must-see highlights with off-the-beaten-path gems so you can truly experience the heart of Japan’s cultural capital.
⸻
Quick Guide: Top Things to See & Do in Kyoto
In a rush? Here’s a snapshot of what to include in your 3 day Kyoto itinerary.
| Experience | Why It’s a Must-Do |
| Fushimi Inari Shrine | Iconic torii gates, best visited at sunrise |
| Arashiyama Bamboo Grove | Peaceful and atmospheric forest path |
| Kiyomizu-dera Temple | Sweeping city views from a wooden terrace |
| Gion District | Geisha sightings and traditional Kyoto streets |
| Nishiki Market | Local bites, sweets, and all things matcha |
| Philosopher’s Path | A scenic canal-side stroll through quiet temples |
| Zen Experience | Try a tea ceremony or meditation session |
| Hidden Gems | Discover quiet temples like Kinkaku-ji and Eikan-Do Temple |
Day 1: Temples, Tradition & the Heart of Kyoto
Kick off your 3 day Kyoto itinerary with some of the city’s most iconic cultural sites.
Morning: Fushimi Inari Shrine
Start early at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of vermilion torii gates climb Mount Inari. Go before 8 am to avoid the crowds and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
Late Morning: Tofuku-ji Temple
Just one stop away, Tofuku-ji is a peaceful Zen temple known for its gardens and traditional architecture. It’s a quiet hidden gem often missed by tourists.
Lunch: Nishiki Market
Head to central Kyoto and explore Nishiki Market, a lively street filled with matcha ice cream, tofu skin (yuba), fresh seafood, and Kyoto-style street food.
Afternoon: Kiyomizu-dera & Higashiyama
Explore Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with panoramic city views. Then stroll down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, two beautifully preserved historic lanes lined with tea shops, sweets, and souvenirs.
Evening: Gion District
Wrap up your day wandering through Gion, Kyoto’s famed geisha district. If you’re lucky, you might spot a geiko or maiko heading to an appointment. Stop at Yasaka Shrine, and dine in one of Gion’s many traditional or modern restaurants.
⸻
Day 2: Arashiyama, Bamboo Forests & River Views
Day two of your 3 day Kyoto itinerary is all about nature, temples, and hidden gems in the peaceful Arashiyama district.
Morning: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Arrive early to walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before it gets crowded. It’s an ethereal experience as sunlight filters through the towering stalks.
Tenryu-ji Temple
Right beside the grove, Tenryu-ji is a UNESCO-listed Zen temple with a beautiful garden that reflects the seasons.
Ōkōchi Sansō Villa
Continue uphill to this lesser-known spot with incredible views, manicured gardens, and a matcha tea break included with entry.
Lunch: Katsura Riverside Dining
Enjoy a relaxed meal by the river — soba noodles, bento boxes, or vegetarian tofu sets are popular choices.
Afternoon Options:
• Iwatayama Monkey Park: Hike up for panoramic views and interact with wild macaques.
• Hozugawa River Boat Ride: A serene 2-hour traditional boat cruise through lush forested gorges (great in spring or autumn).
Evening: Zen Meditation or Tea Ceremony
Book a private tea ceremony or Zen meditation experience in a quiet temple — a calming way to end your second day in Kyoto.
⸻
Day 3: Gold, Gardens & a Touch of Pop Culture
Your final day in Kyoto brings together the old and the new — from the golden shimmer of Kinkaku-ji to peaceful Zen gardens and a deep dive into Japan’s modern art form: manga. It’s a perfect blend to wrap up your 3 day Kyoto itinerary.
Morning: Eikan-dō Temple & Surroundings
Begin your day in the temple-filled eastern hills with a visit to Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji, especially beautiful in autumn with its vibrant maple trees and reflective pond gardens. This often-overlooked temple has a serene, spiritual atmosphere and is a peaceful way to ease into your last day.
Optional nearby stop: If you’re up early, stroll along the Philosopher’s Path again — it’s just a short walk away and feels completely different at different times of day.
Late Morning: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Head across the city to the famous Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto’s golden icon. The shimmering temple reflected in the pond is one of the most photogenic spots in all of Japan. Despite the crowds, it’s absolutely worth the visit. Allow time to walk the surrounding gardens and sip matcha at the teahouse on-site.
Tip: Combine your visit with nearby Ryoan-ji if you’re a fan of minimalist Zen rock gardens.
Lunch: Café or Bento Break
Grab lunch at a café near Kinkaku-ji or head back into central Kyoto. Bento shops, soba noodle houses, and matcha dessert cafés are all great midday options.
Afternoon: Kyoto International Manga Museum
Wrap up your 3 day Kyoto itinerary with a creative twist at the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, this beautifully curated space gives fascinating insight into Japan’s most beloved pop culture art form. You can browse thousands of manga volumes (in multiple languages), see original sketches, and explore the museum’s exhibits on manga history and its global influence.
Bonus: They often host live drawing sessions and artist meet-ups — check the event schedule!
Evening: Must-Eat Dinner at Yakiniku Matsumoto
End your 3 day Kyoto itinerary with an unforgettable dinner at Yakiniku Matsumoto, a local favorite for high-quality Japanese BBQ. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth wagyu beef and cozy, intimate vibe, this spot is a hidden gem among food lovers in Kyoto.
You’ll grill each cut of premium meat yourself right at the table — a fun, interactive and delicious experience. Don’t miss the wagyu tongue, kalbi, and signature house dipping sauces.
Reservations recommended, especially on weekends or peak travel seasons.
Evening: Final Stroll & Kyoto Tower View
If you’re catching a late train or flight, take one last look at the city from Kyoto Tower, especially stunning at sunset. Or, if you’re staying another night, enjoy a final dinner along Pontocho Alley — maybe even try a traditional kaiseki meal to end your Kyoto journey in style.
⸻
Quick Guide: Best Areas to Stay in Kyoto + Hotel Picks
Where you stay can shape your entire Kyoto experience. Here’s a quick guide to the best areas to stay for every kind of traveler. Click the links to see the details on each choice.
| Area | Best For | Top Hotels |
| Gion / Higashiyama | Traditional Kyoto charm | Luxury: The Celestine Gion Mid-range: Kyoto Granbell Hotel Budget: Gion Ryokan Q-beh |
| Kyoto Station | Convenience & transport | Luxury: Hotel Granvia Kyoto Mid-range: Daiwa Roynet Hotel Budget: Piece Hostel Kyoto |
| Arashiyama | Scenic beauty & tranquility | Luxury: Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel Mid-range: Kyoto Arashiyama Onsen Kadensho Budget: Guesthouse Saga |
| Downtown (Kawaramachi) | Food & shopping | Luxury: Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto Mid-range: Cross Hotel Kyoto Budget: Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo |
| Nishijin | Local life, quiet stays | Mid-range: Noku Kyoto Budget: Guesthouse Bon |
Quick Summary:
• For tradition, stay in Gion.
• For convenience, pick Kyoto Station.
• For nature, go with Arashiyama.
• For vibrant city life, base yourself in Downtown Kyoto.
Where I Stayed: Connect Inn Gion-Shijo
Medium Range $$
I stayed at Connect Inn Gion-Shijo, a modern and affordable apartment-style stay right in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Gion district. The location was ideal — just a short walk from Yasaka Shrine, local restaurants, train station and the charming streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. The room was clean, quiet, and came with thoughtful touches like a small kitchenette, which made it perfect for a longer stay. It felt like having my own little base in Kyoto — private, convenient, and surrounded by culture.
⸻
Final Tips for Your 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary
• Use an IC Card/Suica for easy public transport.
• Book major attractions and tea ceremonies in advance, especially during peak season.
• Visit early or late in the day for a quieter, more authentic Kyoto experience.
• Respect local customs — Kyoto is known for its quiet elegance.
• Stay connected with an eSIM or portable Wi-Fi
• Use cash for small purchases—Japan is still very cash-friendly
MOBILE DATA IN Japan
We use Airalo eSIMs on all of our trips because they can be set up easily. With Airalo’s eSIMs, we can access the Internet from virtually any country on the planet and don’t have to pay excessive roaming charges.
If you are looking for a data plan, you can get a discount using-
Promo code: NEWTOAIRALO15
This promo code gives new users a 15% discount for one booking on the Airalo site or app.
Promo code: AIRALOESIM10
This promo code gives existing users a 10% discount for one booking on the Airalo site or app.
⸻
Save this guide for later and follow along on Instagram @miastravelmemoirs for reels, tips, and more from Japan!
***
As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me keep site going!
***
Save for Later!
[Insert Pinterest Pin Graphic — “The Ultimate 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary – Temples, Tea & Hidden Gems”]
Japan: The Ultimate Tokyo Travel Guide: Top Things to Do, Eat & See
