The 3-day itinerary Kyoto will take you down the wondrous tracks of cultural Japan, and you are bound to love every moment! Kyoto is luxury, including the antique tea houses that are symbolic of Japanese essence to the serene gardens you come in contact with. To help you soak in the rich Japanese heritage from the heart of the country, we are offering a list of what to do in Kyoto for 3 days. This complete Kyoto city guide will be perfect for covering all the spots you have dreamt of visiting at least once. So, sit back as your dreams of experiencing the gifts of serendipity will now come true!
Day 1: Exploring the Splendid Eastern Side of Kyoto
1. Kickstart Your Mornings at the Fushimi Inari Taisha
Kyoto never fails to surprise its tourists. The first in our Kyoto city guide will be Fushimi Inari Taisha. This masterpiece comprises thousands of vermilion torii gates that make their way up the holy Mount Inari. It is always best to beat the crowd when you are trying to soak in such wondrous scenarios. So, we recommend walking partway up the mountain trail.
2. Afternoons Call for a Visit to the Great Gion District
Take a stroll down Hanamikoji Street, and if you are lucky enough, you might catch glimpses of geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha). The plus point is that they will be dressed in authentic kimonos, adding a cultural touch to your visit. Also, the Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Yasaka Shrine are lovely spots to add to your 3-day itinerary Kyoto.
3. Lantern-Lit Evenings at the Pontocho Alley
This lively alley in Kyoto is a quaint masterpiece, with traditional restaurants and shops lined up for you. Indulge yourself in the goodness of Kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese meal that will leave your heart full. We have lined up delicious yakitori or grilled chicken skewers for you, so that you can witness the beauty and uniqueness of Japanese cuisine.
Day 2: Time to Unveil the Beauty of Northern & Western Kyoto
1. A Start to Your Morning as Glowy as the Golden Pavilion
When someone asks about the best start to a day in Kyoto, we immediately turn towards Kinkaku-ji, as the temple is divine. As the name suggests, this sacred temple appears to be dipped in gold, which does justice to the serene pond in front of it. Once you have paid your visit here, visit the Ryoan-ji rock garden, which is charmed with perfectly placed stones and gravel. Also, this creates the perfect setting for meditation and harmony, allowing you to be at peace and forget all pain here!
2. An Afternoon Well-Spent at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple
After a quick lunch at the Nishiki Market (Kyoto’s Kitchen), the Arashiyama district will be waiting for you on your 3-day itinerary Kyoto. The Tenryu-ji Temple is lined with splendid gardens that perfectly match the aesthetics of the landscape. Towards the end, the tall bamboo shoots at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove will be the best display of Japanese culture. So, get your cameras ready!
3. Visit the Arashiyama Riverside for a Perfect End to your Eventful Day
If you are passionate about exploring wildlife, the Monkey Park Iwatayama will line up Japanese Macaques for you. Also, we bet you will love your Kyoto must-go dish, Kaiseki, so much that you will be asking for it again. Also, you hold the option to do this or try something equally fun- a riverside restaurant in Arashiyama.
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Day 3: Your Turn to Discover the Magic of South & Central Kyoto
1. Have A Monumental Morning at the Nijo Castle
You do not have to wonder what to do in Kyoto for 3 days as we have listed the best castles you must check out. Start by hitting the famous Nijo Castle, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, move on to the wondrous Ninomaru Palace, whose marvelous fusumas or sliding doors will blow your mind.
2. An Afternoon at the Kyoto Imperial Palace Awaits You
If you are thinking – is Kyoto worth visiting, visit the former home of the Emperor of Japan, and your questions will be answered. After that, lunch in the neighborhoods of Karasuma or Kawaramachi will be your best choice for the day. Also, their local delicacies, like the soba noodles and the crispy tempura, are like literal heaven!
3. Quiet & Quaint Evenings at the Philosopher’s Path
After soaking in so much of the 3-day itinerary Kyoto, you must be looking for something peaceful and comforting to end your day in. Experience the goodness of a radiant path lined with cherry blossoms, little shops, and a whole lot of serenity at the Philosopher’s Path. Following the route will lead you to Ginkaku-ji or the Silver Pavilion. This monument is minimal yet exquisite in its own cultural way!
Practical Tips to Make Your 3-Day Itinerary Kyoto Successful
1. Best Way to Get Around In Kyoto
Kyoto has an efficient bus system that is perfect for getting around in the city. For solo traveling, renting a bicycle is a wise choice. It really depends on how many days to see Kyoto. If you plan to stay long, get a Kyoto City Bus Pass for maximum benefits.
2. Best Time to Visit Kyoto
Kyoto blossoms just like its cherry trees during spring. You can also find yourselves loving the vibes of the 3-day itinerary Kyoto if you plan on spending autumn there.
3. Cultural Etiquettes
Take off your shoes before stepping foot in temples and tea houses. Sacred areas call for a quiet atmosphere, so abide by that. Asking for consent before taking pictures of geishas is important.
Your 3-Day Itinerary Kyoto Turns Out to be More Joyous
Stick with us as we promise to answer all of your doubts and never let you refrain from choosing what is best for your journey. One more thing to keep in mind is where to stay in Kyoto first time, and we have that sorted out for you. So, let’s get cultural!
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