Plan your Kyoto travel itinerary with our expert

Kyoto travel guide
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

Welcome travel fans! I’ve been traveling around the world for 20 years and most of my trips were to Asia. I think I have been crazy about Japan since I was a child and I will be happy to share this passion with you…

Kyoto is Japan in a word. It’s the cultural and historical heart of the country. It’s the best place in Japan to experience impressive temples and shrines, charming gardens, traditional Japanese ryokans and geisha shows, and explore craft shops and fantastic restaurants. In short, Kyoto is the most rewarding destination in Japan, and it should be at the top of any Japan travel itinerary. Kyoto is unbelievable and one of the world’s most visited cities.

What we propose

Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska


Expert Japan
Marco Rossi

Marco Rossi


Expert for Italy
Jena Hovor

Jena Hovor


Expert France

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we'll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

  • We'll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.

  • Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren't typically found in guidebooks.

  • Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.

  • We'll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.

  • You'll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.

  • The cost of our service is only $190

Contact us now to start planning your dream trip and get all the details and answers to your questions.

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Since 2015, our site has been offering expert travel itinerary planning services that result in a comprehensive, user-friendly PDF guidebook personalized to each client’s unique needs and preferences, featuring daily summaries, attraction recommendations, dining suggestions, maps, a curated database of tested accommodations worldwide, as well as detailed guidance on car rental options and ongoing support via phone and Whatsapp.

Our personalized routes from A to Z include many unique and little-known places, along with detailed information such as parking addresses, tips, and exact directions, making the trip more exciting and enjoyable while saving travelers time during preparation and on their journey.

Stories of Our Customers

Kyoto top sights

01

Kyoto top sights

Purpose: visiting top sights

3 days

02

More about Kyoto

Purpose: visiting top sights & hidden “gems”

5 days

03

Incredible Kyoto

Purpose: visiting top sights & hidden “gems”

7 days

Expert tips in Kyoto

Anna Kraskovska

Booking in advance

Book your trip in advance especially if you pick high seasons (autumn and spring). I would recommend booking tickets and a hotel at least a few months in advance. You can check the fall foliage forecast online. Here are the links:  [link] and the forecast for the cherry blossom: [link]

Anna Kraskovska

Wake up early

Try to go early in the morning to the most popular places (like temples and shrines) to experience tranquility and not be bothered by crowds.

Anna Kraskovska

Consider buying rail passes

Buy a Japan Railway Pass if you plan to travel a lot between regions or prefectures. With this pass, you can use JR trains, buses and ferries. It is cheaper to buy it via the official website [link]

However, it is not needed if you plan to stay only in Kyoto!

If you plan to travel around the Kansai region (Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe) we recommend purchasing Kansai Thru Pass, a 2-day pass costs 4480 yen and a 3-day pass is 5600 yen. You can buy it in any location listed in the following link

Or you can buy Kansai One Pass which is basically a prepaid card, you can charge it anytime you need. [link]

If you plan to stay in Kyoto shortly and visit many places we recommend buying a one-day subway and bus pass, which costs 1100 yen for adults and 550 yen for children. You can buy it in any location listed in the following [link]

Anna Kraskovska

Temple burnout

Don’t over Temple yourself with Kyoto’s variety of temples and shrines. Pick one area and visit a few temples situated there.

What we propose

Jena Hovor

Jena Hovor


Expert France

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we'll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

  • We'll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.

  • Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren't typically found in guidebooks.

  • Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.

  • We'll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.

  • You'll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.

  • The cost of our service is only $190

Contact us now to start planning your dream trip and get all the details and answers to your questions.

Stories of Our Customers

Great Food Experience

Kurakura ($$ - moderate)

Kurakura ($$ - moderate)

Japan, 〒600-8148 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Ameyacho, 244, 木村ビル 〒600-8148 京都府京都市下京区飴屋町244 木村ビル

A cozy izakaya with delicious food! Very kind owner and staff who tried their best to make our visit comfortable with English conversation and menu. Definitely a place to return to!

Pound Shijo Kawaramachi ($$$ - moderate to expensive)

Pound Shijo Kawaramachi ($$$ - moderate to expensive)

Japan, 〒600-8001 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Shincho, 81 〒600-8001 京都府京都市下京区真町81

It’s a high quality wagyu beef restaurant with excellent service, amazing food and English menu. Highly recommended for all meat lovers!

Eikichi ($$ - moderate)

Eikichi ($$ - moderate)

307 Tamatsushimacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8427, Japan 〒600-8427 京都府京都市下京区玉津島町307

One of the best places to have seafood & tempura in a very charming atmosphere. The owner is the chef, the waiter, the cleaner and the barman. He does it all and is so customer friendly. Highly recommended!

Kanidouraku Kyoto Fushimi ($$$ - expensive)

Kanidouraku Kyoto Fushimi ($$$ - expensive)

Japan, 〒612-8443 Kyoto, Fushimi Ward, Takeda Warayacho, 54 〒612-8443 京都府京都市伏見区竹田藁屋町54

Crab is the main menu, everything is fresh and super delicious, many courses to choose from. Reasonable price for the quality and amount of food. A must-visit place!

Shopping Malls

Aeon Mall Kyoto

Aeon Mall Kyoto

1 Nishikujo Toriiguchicho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8417, Japan 〒601-8417 京都府京都市南区西九条鳥居口町1

A great place for shopping with a wide range of groceries, pet stores, restaurants and clothes stores. Very convenient mall close to Kyoto station.

Aeon Mall Kyoto Katsuragawa

Aeon Mall Kyoto Katsuragawa

376-1 Kuzetakadacho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8211, Japan 〒601-8211 京都府京都市南区久世高田町376-1

A super big mall with plenty of stores, restaurants, cafes and a good choice of goods.

SUINA Muromachi

SUINA Muromachi

Japan, 〒600-8491 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Kankobokocho, 78 〒600-8491 京都府京都市下京区四条通室町東入函谷鉾町78

It is a multi-purpose and convenient space with facilities such as bookstores, cafes, restaurants and supermarkets.

Kyoto Avanti

Kyoto Avanti

31 Higashikujo Nishisannocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8003, Japan 〒601-8003 京都府京都市南区東九条西山王町31

Convenient urban mall across the street from Kyoto Station. The first two floors have some very cheap items for sale. If you are not looking for brand but value, then this is the place to go.

Shopping Streets

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street Union

Shinkyogoku Shopping Street Union

Japan, 〒604-8035 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Sakuranocho, 438-1 べんてん堂ビル 3F 〒604-8035 京都府京都市中京区桜之町438-1 べんてん堂ビル 3F

Fantastic place for souvenirs and just wandering. Clean, tidy and covered, so great for any weather. It is huge, and goes on forever in all directions. Even some shrines tucked inside. Highly recommended for shopping.

Demachi Masugata Shopping Street

Demachi Masugata Shopping Street

229 Seiryucho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0822, Japan 〒602-0822 京都府京都市上京区青龍町229

It’s a shopping arcade full of local color. It has everything you might need from a 100 yen store, groceries, fruits, bento, flowers, to cheap household goods. You can also try some delicious street food there.

Teramachi Shopping Street

Teramachi Shopping Street

Shimohonnojimaecho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8091, Japan 〒604-8091 京都府京都市中京区下本能寺前町

A nice shopping area with some nice places for dining and shopping. At night is better than day. Younger crowd and the style of clothing is a sight to see.

Ninenzaka street

Ninenzaka street

Japan, 〒605-0826 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Masuyacho, 清水2丁目 〒605-0826 京都府京都市東山区桝屋町清水2丁目

It is the most popular pedestrian thoroughfare in Kyoto known for its classic wooden teahouses, old craft shops, lovely restaurants, and amazing atmosphere. Very kyoto-ish and very instagrammable spot.

Markets

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market

609番地 Nishidaimonjicho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8055, Japan 〒604-8055 京都府京都市中京区西大文字町609番地

This is one of the coolest shopping and eating streets in Japan full of stalls and places to eat. Exquisite, bustling atmosphere, with aromas from the different stalls invigorating your senses. A great place for street photography, a highly recommended place to visit for some Japanese street food.

Kyoto Fish/Seafood Market

Kyoto Fish/Seafood Market

Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8847, Japan 〒600-8847 京都府京都市下京区

It’s a wholesale seafood market where you can even find a free auction at 5 am and be pleased by super fresh seafood.

Uoriki

Uoriki

Japan, 〒604-8055 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, 北側 〒604-8055 京都府京都市中京区錦小路通富小路西入ル 北側

It’s a short addition to Nishiki market where you can buy seafood and try local food like tempura, fried conger eel and many other food items cooked in front of you.

Sato-no-Eki Ohara

Sato-no-Eki Ohara

1012 Oharanomuracho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1247, Japan 〒601-1247 京都府京都市左京区大原野村町1012

It is a very popular farmers market in Kyoto. Many of the locals including small restaurant and cafe owners also come here. Nice and friendly atmosphere. Open-air Sunday morning farmers’ market starts at 6 am. Better go early if you want to buy fresh vegetables directly from the farmers, because usually nothing much is left after 8 am.

Dangerous & recommended city areas

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Fortunately there are no dangerous areas in Kyoto. Where to stay is up to you. I adore Southern Higashiyama due to its prime location and historic heritage. Two of Kyoto’s most attractive streets Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka are my favorite, a pair of gently sloping lanes with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops that lead down from Kiyomizu-dera Temple toward Nene-no-Michi Lane.

map

Best Accommodation

Price:

The Junei Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West

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〒602-8056 Kyoto, Kamigyo Ward, Sanchome, 14
    〒602-8056 京都府京都市上京区東堀川通下長者下る三町目14
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

Meaningful stay. Beautiful ryokan with spacious rooms and great hospitality. I was impressed by the customer service that felt warm in the elegance.

Price:

GOOD NATURE HOTEL KYOTO

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〒600-8022 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Inaricho,
    2丁目318番6 〒600-8022 京都府京都市下京区河原町通四条下ル稲荷町2丁目318番6
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

The whole hotel was absolutely stunning. Quiet, calm and well decorated. Stunning.”

Price:

Gion Yoshiima

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229 Nishinocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0088
    〒605-0088 京都府京都市東山区西之町229
Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska

Fantastic traditional ryokan. The location, staff, room and the Japanese style breakfast, just everything is amazing!

Recommended Trip Budget and how to save money

For a couple (5-star, high season)

Budget per day Cost, $
Accommodation “Ryokan” $274 (incl. superb breakfast)*
Accommodation “Hotel” $344 (incl. superb breakfast)**
Meals from $35* per pax = $70x2 times=$140***
Entertainment from $35*x2 = $70
Car rental Toyota Rent a Car from $54 (incl. taxes)****

Family of 4 (5-star, high season)

Budget per day Cost, $
Accommodation “Ryokan” $384 (incl. superb breakfast)*****
Accommodation “Hotel” $636 (incl. superb breakfast)******
Meals from $35* per pax = $140x2 times=$280***
Entertainment from $35*x4 = $140
Car rental Toyota Rent a Car from $90 (incl. taxes)*******

* Traditional Japanese room with 2 futons

** Double room with 1 large bed

*** Good meal course in a restaurant

**** Mini/Compact class, 5 seats

***** Traditional Japanese room with tatami area, 2 futons + 1 large bed

****** Deluxe Grand Twin with 1 sofa bed + 3 single beds

******* Toyota, Standart class, 5 seats</span>

6 days Itinerary in Kyoto

Kyoto top sights

09:00

Breakfast at the hotel

10:00

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

11:00

Sannenzaka area

13:00

Lunch at Akoya-chaya

14:30

Yasaka shrine

15:30

Maruyama Park

17:00

Walking around Gion

19:00

Dinner at Yasakadori Enraku

Day 2
Kyoto top sights & hidden “gems”

09:00

Breakfast at the hotel

10:00

Fushimi Inari Shrine

11:30

Rengeoin Sanjusangendo

12:30

Nishiki Market

13:00

Lunch at the market

14:00

Nijō Castle

15:00

Kyoto Imperial Palace

16:00

Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa

19:00

Dinner at Kanidouraku Kyoto Fushimi

Day 3
Kyoto top sights

09:00

Breakfast at the hotel

10:00

Kinkaku-ji temple (the Golden Pavilion) and around

13:00

Lunch at Omurahouse Kinkakuji

14:30

Higashiyama Jisho-ji

16:30

Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum with Experience

19:00

Dinner at Pound Shijo Kawaramachi

Day 4
More about Kyoto

08:30

Breakfast at the hotel

10:00

Tenryu-ji Temple

11:00

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

13:00

Lunch at Unagi Hirokawa

15:00

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

16:30

Kyoto International Manga Museum

19:00

Dinner at Kurakura

Day 5
Kyoto hidden “gems”

08:00

Breakfast at the hotel

09:00

Departure to Ine Cho village Funaya

11:00

Ine Cho village Funaya (guesthouse check-in)

12:00

Boat cruise

13:30

Lunch at the village

14:30

Walking around the village

19:00

Dinner & overnight in the village

Day 6
Kyoto hidden “gems”

09:00

Breakfast at the village

10:00

Back to Kyoto

13:00

Lunch on the way

14:00

Ruriko-in Temple

15:30

Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

17:00

Jikkokubune Canal Cruise

19:00

Dinner at 料理屋しん谷

Customer Journey Stories

Public bathrooms (WC)

A few of them are as follows:

WC near Yasaka Shrine

WC near Kiyomizu-dera Temple

WC near Maruyama Park

WC near Fushimi Inari Temple

Parking lots in Kyoto city

1 Chome-287-7 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan 〒605-0862 京都府京都市東山区清水1丁目287-7

493ー1 Kiyoicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0821, Japan 〒605-0821 京都府京都市東山区清井町493ー1

Kinkakujicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8361, Japan 〒603-8361 京都府京都市北区金閣寺町

City areas closed for vehicles

There is a traditional shopping zone Sannenzaka with a charming pedestrian street Ninenzaka known for its classic architecture, teahouses, restaurants and shops where you can walk only. But don’t bother about this point. There are plenty of parking lots where you can leave your car even very close to the most popular tourist areas like Yasaka Shrine, Kinkaku-ji Temple, Fushimi Inari Temple or even Sannenzaka area.

Cooking Classes

Cooking Sun

Cooking Sun

679 Funayacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8466, Japan 〒600-8466 京都府京都市下京区舟屋町679

Very friendly, patient and good English speaking Teacher that will teach you how to cook home made dishes and some new ideas and techniques to build a typical bento box meal. Great experience!

Ramen Factory Kyoto

Ramen Factory Kyoto

Japan, 〒602-0841 Kyoto, Kamigyo Ward, Kajiicho, 447-14 プランタンビル B1 〒602-0841 京都府京都市上京区梶井町447-14 プランタンビル B1

Fantastic experience for the family. Make your own ramen, cook your own chicken and wash it all down with salt/soy/miso soup. The full session takes 90 mins, where the latter involves blowtorching your own chicken and making your own soup. You will also get a souvenir bandana “NO RAMEN NO LIFE!”

Organic house Salute

Organic house Salute

600-31 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan 〒600-8216 京都府京都市下京区東塩小路町600-31

Nice little place with vegan food and cooking classes that will capture your attention. Have fun!

Ai's cuisine - Japanese Cooking Class in Kyoto

Ai's cuisine - Japanese Cooking Class in Kyoto

508-4 Tsutsumicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0025, Japan 〒605-0025 京都府京都市東山区堤町508-4

Fantastic cooking class with a fantastic teacher at her fantastic home kitchen.

Frequently asked questions

01

When is the best time to come to Kyoto?

02

How many days to spend in Kyoto?

03

What to try in Kyoto?

04

Should I Have A Tour Guide For Kyoto?

05

Do I need a car to travel to Kyoto?

Reviews

user

Audrey Foster

Thank you for providing such professional advice and guidance, and doing so patiently and kindly, even at a late hour and without compensation. You are truly a champion, and I wish you all the best! I would highly recommend your services to anyone.

user

Ava Garcia

Anna is a true professional and an absolute pleasure to work with. She went above and beyond to ensure that our trip was a success, from providing restaurant recommendations to helping us navigate the complex transportation systems in Japan.

user

Ava Patel

I highly recommend Anna to anyone looking for a customized and stress-free travel experience.

Stories of Our Customers

What we propose

Anna Kraskovska

Anna Kraskovska


Expert Japan
Marco Rossi

Marco Rossi


Expert for Italy
Jena Hovor

Jena Hovor


Expert France

Let us create your perfect itinerary!

Contact us now and we'll begin creating your one-of-a-kind itinerary, tailored specifically to your preferences and needs.

Our expert travel planners will craft a unique, custom route that includes all the must-see sights and hidden gems, divided by day and with a clear route from A to Z.

  • We'll save you time by doing all the research and planning for you.

  • Our experts have insider knowledge of unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that aren't typically found in guidebooks.

  • Your itinerary will be fully customized to your interests, preferences, and travel style.

  • We'll provide you with all the essential details, such as transportation options, recommended accommodations, and restaurant reservations.

  • You'll have access to ongoing support from our team throughout your entire trip, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.

  • The cost of our service is only $190

Contact us now to start planning your dream trip and get all the details and answers to your questions.

نقدّم الخدمات لزبائننا باللغة العربية والإنجليزية

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