Kyoto travel guide
The Perfect 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary
You need a minimum of three days in Kyoto: one for Higashiyama’s temples and Gion, one for Arashiyama’s bamboo grove and western hills, and one for Fushimi Inari and the southern districts. Five days allows day trips to Nara, Uji or Osaka without rushing.
Your 3 days in Kyoto, day by day
Day 1 — Higashiyama Old Town
Morning: Kiyomizu-dera at opening, then the preserved lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
Afternoon: Kodai-ji temple and Yasaka Shrine
Evening: Gion at dusk for geisha-spotting, kaiseki or izakaya dinner in Pontocho alley
Day 2 — Arashiyama & the West
Morning: Bamboo Grove at sunrise, Tenryu-ji temple gardens
Afternoon: Okochi Sanso villa garden and monkey park viewpoint
Evening: Return downtown for Nishiki Market grazing and Kamogawa riverside drinks
Day 3 — Fushimi Inari & the South
Morning: Fushimi Inari gates at dawn, full mountain loop if fit
Afternoon: Tofuku-ji temple or sake tasting in Fushimi district
Evening: Farewell dinner in Gion; night walk past Yasaka Pagoda
Travelling longer? Pair this itinerary with our Kyoto neighbourhood guide. And check the best month to visit Kyoto.
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Kyoto 3 day itinerary — FAQs
How many days do you need in Kyoto?
You need a minimum of three days in Kyoto: one for Higashiyama’s temples and Gion, one for Arashiyama’s bamboo grove and western hills, and one for Fushimi Inari and the southern districts. Five days allows day trips to Nara, Uji or Osaka without rushing.
Last reviewed and updated: by the AmazingAsia editorial team. See our editorial policy.