A First Timers Guide to Two Days in Kyoto

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Advisor - Anokhi Patel
Curated By

Anokhi Patel

  • Kyoto

  • City Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • History

  • Architecture

  • Sightseeing

An image of a gorgeous yellow temple nestled into an assortment of trees against a reflective body of water.
Curator’s statement

Kyoto, Japan is known for its traditional Buddhist temples, shinto shrines and geisha entertainers in the Gion district. First time visitors will get the opportunity to experience the traditional and beautiful sights.

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Where to stay

Park Hyatt Kyoto

Hotel, restaurant and farm with a hip L.A.-meets-Bali vibe.

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Day 1: Temple Exploring

An image of the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, renowned for its stunning wooden architecture and panoramic views of the city. People are walking up stone steps into the front door of the temple.

Today we are going to be exploring some of the many temples located in Kyoto. We will start the day by heading to Higashiyama Ward and going to the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple.

After strolling the property, head over Hokan-Ji Temple and take the classic picture of Yasaka Pagoda. Stop by the Starbucks near there and experience a traditional Japanese tea house.

After grabbing breakfast, go to Kodai-ji Temple, take your time and take in the gorgeous architecture and beautiful Zen gardens.

Head to lunch at Nishiki Market, known for the different food stalls where you can try all kinds of traditional Japanese delicacies.

After lunch, head to the famous Shinto Shrine, Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine. Here you will see the famous arcades of vermillion torii (the red shrine gates)

Finally head back to your hotel and get ready for dinner- you can try some famous ramen at Men-ya Ionchi, or indulge in some wagyu beef at Yamafuku.

Day 2: Visit the Bamboo Forest and Monkey Park

A picture of a bamboo forest with various plants and greenery.

Today we are going to head out west to Arashiyama and walk through the famous Bamboo Forest.

After exploring the forest head to the Iwatayma Monkey Park where you get to walk alongside and feed different monkeys. It opens at 9:00 am and admission is cash only.

Take a cab to one of Kyoto’s most popular buildings, Kinkaku-ji, aka the Golden Pavilion.

Make your way down to Nijo Castle, one of the best known castles in Japan.

End your day by strolling through Kyoto National Garden and checking out Kyoto’s Imperial Palace, home of the former Imperial family residence that was reconstructed in 1855.

Need to know

There is still so much to see and do in Kyoto that we possibly couldn’t get to in only two days, but this is a jam packed itinerary for first timers. If you do have more time, consider participating in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or an onsen!

Advisor - Anokhi Patel

Travel Advisor

Anokhi Patel

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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Kyoto. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Haley Nelson’s itinerary, Top Things to Do in Kyoto.