Are you planning to visit Japan’s top tourist destination and wondering what to do in Kyoto in 2 days? We’ve got the perfect 2 day Kyoto itinerary featuring the best things to do!
Kyoto is one of our favourite cities in Japan. We have visited a few times and we think 2 days in Kyoto is the perfect amount of time!
Kyoto is much larger than most people think. If you don’t plan your trip strategically, you will find it’s easy to waste precious time getting from A to B. So, this Kyoto 2 day itinerary has been designed to have you visiting all the best Kyoto highlights in just 48 hours!
Considered the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is a popular tourist destination and one of the best places to visit in Japan. Spending two days in Kyoto will truly make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. If it’s your first time visiting Japan, then a trip to Kyoto is the perfect way to immerse yourself in authentic Japanese hospitality and tick off a number of Japan bucket list experiences.
Most people head to Kyoto after spending a few days exploring the bustling capital city of Tokyo. Alternatively, you could opt to do the same route as we did and stop off in Hakone for a few days in between travelling from Tokyo to Kyoto. Check out our Japan 7 day itinerary for more options.
Whichever way you decide to go, our Kyoto travel guide is packed with all the information you need to hit the ground running. With loads of tips to help you plan your own 2 day itinerary for Kyoto – including where to stay, eat, and what to do in Kyoto in 2 days!
WE’ve got the perfect 2 days in Kyoto itinerary that will show you the best highlights of Japan’s most popular tourist hotspot!
This article may include affiliate links. If you click through the links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Bucket List Seekers! Read our Disclosure Policy for more details.
In This Post:
How Much Time in Kyoto?
Kyoto is one of the most liveable cities in Japan and there is no shortage of things to do in Kyoto. The first question most people planning a 2 day Kyoto itinerary ask: “Is 2 days in Kyoto enough?”
The answer is yes – so long as you’re well prepared.
Most people who visit Kyoto spend at least 2 or 3 days exploring the city before continuing on their itinerary to other parts of Japan. However, I would recommend two days in Kyoto as the absolutely minimum time.
If you are planning a trip to Kyoto for 2 days, then you will probably spend the majority of those two days on the go constantly. Whereas, three days will allow you to take your time a bit more.
If you do happen to have more than 2 days in Kyoto, then we’ve added a few additional day tour options at the end of this article to consider for your third or fourth day.
What to Do in Kyoto in 2 Days
After we wasted too much time getting around the city on our first visit to Kyoto, we realized we could have planned things a little better. So, we came up with what we think is the ideal way to get the most out of your time in Kyoto.
This Kyoto 2 day itinerary takes you to several locations around the city. It has been thoughtfully planned out to cover all the top things to do in Kyoto in a relatively short amount of time.
Here’s a quick rundown of the Kyoto highlights we’ve included in this itinerary:
Day 1 – The first day of this Kyoto 2 day itinerary involves visits to some of Kyoto’s top cultural neighbourhoods, and foodie hotspots in central Kyoto, including:
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Nishiki Markets
- Higashiyama Area
- Kiyomizu-Dera
- Gion Corner
Day 2 – On the second day of your Kyoto itinerary, we recommend getting out of the city centre and exploring the surrounding city sights, before finishing up in downtown Kyoto for dinner:
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
- Iwatayama Monkey Park
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Temple)
- Ginkaku-ji (Silver Temple)
- Philosophers Path
- Potoncho Area
Kyoto 2 Day Itinerary Map
Planning Your 2 Days in Kyoto – Before Your Arrive
Best Time to Visit Kyoto
Kyoto is an all-around great city to visit any time of the year. However, the best time to visit Kyoto would have to be spring or autumn – when the city is bursting with vibrant colours and entertainment. Below is a breakdown of the different times of year to spend 2 days in Kyoto.
Spring (March to May)
During spring in Kyoto, the average daily temperature is between 14-20°C (58-68°F). The weather is generally starting to warm up and cherry blossoms begin to bloom towards the end of March and into April.
Spring is the most popular time of year for tourism in Kyoto. The city is usually teeming with locals and tourists who come to see the beautiful pink cherry blossoms. Hotel accommodation is usually at capacity, so you’ll have to book accommodation early.
Summer (June to August)
The average temperature in Kyoto in Summer varies between 19°C and 33°C (66-92°F). The weather in summer is generally quite humid and this is also the wet season. Typhoons are not uncommon during this time of year so it’s good to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
The good thing about visiting Kyoto for 2 days in Summer is that there are fewer tourists around. The lines at temples and other sights will be far shorter than the more popular spring and autumn seasons.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the second most popular time of year to visit, after spring and we absolutely loved visiting Japan in Autumn. The yellow, orange, and red colours of the Japanese maple trees are absolutely spectacular during the fall and Kyoto is a city that is brimming with deciduous trees that shed their leaves during this time of year.
The average temperature during the day in Autumn is around 17-23°C (63-74°F) but can get as cold as 7°C (45°F). The weather is generally starting to cool down, and mornings can be quite brisk, so be sure to bring a coat.
Winter (December to February)
If you prefer less crowds, then spending 2 days in Kyoto in winter might be the answer. Winter is another time of year when the crowds in Japan tend to thin out. There is always the possibility of snow, which can turn the city into a winter wonderland. The average temperature during the day is around 4°C (40°F) and at night time it can drop to 1°C (33°F).
Things to Do Before You Arrive
There are a number of things to do to prepare for your Kyoto itinerary for 2 days or more. Here are a few handy tips to help you have a stress-free experience in Kyoto for 2 days:
- Book Hotels – Accommodation in Kyoto can be booked up quickly, especially during peak season (spring and autumn). Search for accommodation in Kyoto through Booking.com to take advantage of their Best Price Guarantee.
- Get a Japan Rail Pass – Japan Rail is the best way to get to/from Kyoto. You need to purchase your JR Pass online before you arrive in Japan.
- Pick up a contactless public transport card – to tap on tap-off on Kyoto’s public transport system, pick up a contactless card from a convenience store, or pre-purchase an ICOCA card and ensure you top it up before using it.
- Book a private transfer – if you’re travelling with a lot of baggage and are not keen to navigate the taxis on arrival, then book a private transfer from Kyoto Station to your hotel, or a shuttle bus from Osaka Airport.
- Book tours – If you’d rather have a guide to show you all the best sights of Kyoto then this full day tour covers the most popular sites around the city.
- Purchase wifi or sim card – you will use your phone a lot when navigating your way around Kyoto. Make sure you’re organized by purchasing a Pocket Wifi with unlimited data that will help you save money on roaming costs while in Japan.
- Get travel insurance – As with anywhere you visit in the world, having travel insurance is a must to ensure that when things don’t go smoothly (and trust me it will happen eventually), you’re covered. We recommend World Nomads as one of the most comprehensive worldwide insurance products.
Where to Stay in Kyoto for 2 Days
Where should you stay to make the most of this Kyoto 2 day itinerary? The area you decide to stay in Kyoto for 2 days really matters in terms of travel time to get to the top attractions. If you’re determined to visit all the places listed in this guide then there are three main areas that I would recommend staying in – Gion, downtown Kyoto, or the Kyoto Station area.
Accommodation in the Kyoto station area is generally less pricey and offers more ‘Western-style’ accommodation. However, it is further away from bustling downtown Kyoto and traditional Gion areas. So, it might not be the most optimal area to stay in if you only have 2 days in Kyoto.
If it’s your first time visiting Kyoto, then staying around Gion is a great option as it is the most charming area in Kyoto and the best to really immerse yourself in the Japanese culture. However, it is also the most expensive area.
Wherever you choose to stay in Kyoto, I would highly recommend you book accommodation as early as possible as hotels fill up quickly, especially during spring and autumn.
Expert Tip: If you’re planning to do this full Kyoto itinerary in 2 days, we highly recommend arriving in Kyoto the night before and staying for 3 nights. This will allow you time to hit the ground running the next day and maximise your time sightseeing around Kyoto for 2 days without any transport delays getting there.
Places to Stay in Gion & Southern Higashiyama
To really experience the best of Kyoto and immerse yourself in the traditional parts of the city, Gion is the perfect place to stay in Kyoto. There are plenty of Ryokans and traditional Japanese BnBs around this area.
Gion is only a short walk to shops and restaurants and there is always the chance you might spot a Geisha while wandering around this area.
Here are a few great options for where to stay in Gion:
Kyoto Granbell Hotel – A popular hotel near Gion-Shijo Subway Station with a mix of modern and traditional Japanese architecture, with public baths, western comforts, and twice weekly Maiko shows.
Luxury Hotel SOWAKA – A traditional Japanese-style inn with a spa, tea rooms, Kaiseki restaurant, and gorgeous Japanese gardens.
Kiraku Kyoto Honmachi – Small family-owned hidden gem in Kyoto with contemporary Japanese design, tea house, and central location.
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto – Modern 5-star hotel with a Western-style restaurant, a sushi bar and tea house, and Japanese gardens. Located near Kyomizu-dera temple.
Places to Stay in Downtown Kyoto
Downtown Kyoto is the bustling central business district of Kyoto. It’s packed with loads of hotels, shops, restaurants, bars and clubs. There is no shortage of entertainment in Downtown Kyoto, but there isn’t generally a great deal of sightseeing to do here.
If you like the convenience of staying close to amenities, food, and entertainment, then you might think Downtown Kyoto is a great place to stay. Downtown Kyoto also offers easy access to the metro station to reach some of the popular attractions listed in this 2 day Kyoto itinerary.
Here are a few great options for where to stay in downtown Kyoto:
Good Nature Hotel Kyoto – Modern Western-style 5-star hotel with a central location and serene garden vibe.
Matsui Honkan – Centrally located traditional Japanese-style Ryokan hotel with tatami floors, futon bedding, yakata robes, Japanese gardens, an onsen spa, and a relaxing ambiance.
Nol Kyoto Sanjo – Contemporary minimalist hotel with modern Japanese architecture. Featuring a bar, lounge, bonsai gardens, and modern comforts.
Ace Hotel Kyoto – Western design hotel set in a warehouse building with high ceilings, Western cuisine, fitness centre, lounge, and bicycle rental.
Places to Stay in Kyoto Station Area
Kyoto Station is the main station where the Shinkansen (bullet trains) from Tokyo, Osaka, and other parts of Japan arrive and depart. If you plan to travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen, then it is likely you will arrive at Kyoto Station, making it a convenient place to stay for easy access to public transport. It is for this reason that many travellers choose to stay in the Kyoto Station area.
Kyoto Station area generally offers more modern Western-style accommodation options and plenty of local cheap places to eat, but it doesn’t have quite the same charm that Gion offers.
Here are a few great options for where to stay in the Kyoto Station area:
Hotel Kanra Kyoto – Non-smoking luxury hotel with modern Western and Japanese-style décor, Teppanyaki and Italian restaurant, and a 12-minute walk to Kyoto Station.
The Thousand Kyoto – Modern Western-style hotel with Japanese gardens and décor, a wellness centre, buffet breakfast, and conference centre.
Kyoto Tower Hotel Annex – Completely renovated modern hotel only 3 minutes walk from Kyoto Station with Japanese and Western-style buffet breakfast, clean décor and compact rooms.
Ayaginu Machiya House – Traditional Japanese holiday house for up to 8 people, featuring traditional styling with mod-cons such as TV, kettle, washing machine, fridge, etc.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to travel around Japan is by train. Japan Rail services are world-renowned for being fast, efficient, comfortable and convenient. There are several daily Shinkansen (fast bullet train) services to Kyoto from Tokyo, Osaka, and various other cities in Japan. They also offer plenty of connections between services from other cities.
If you are arriving at Osaka Airport, you can book a shuttle bus transfer to Kyoto.
Expert Tip: If you plan on spending at least a week in Japan, we highly recommend investing in a Japan Rail Pass. Be sure to purchase your rail pass online prior to arriving (click here to book your pass). This will save you money and it’s also not possible to purchase a pass after you arrive in Japan.
How to Get Around
Kyoto offers several convenient and efficient options for public transport. All the sightseeing areas listed in this 2 day Kyoto itinerary can be reached by public transport or on foot. But as we’ve mentioned before, Kyoto is quite spread out and if you only have 2 days in Kyoto, then you might want to consider taking taxis to save you time.
There are a few ways to get around Kyoto, depending on your budget…
Train or Subway
This is the best and most convenient method as there is a lot of traffic in Kyoto.
There are several train and subway lines in Kyoto that intersect. There are subway lines that connect Kyoto Station, Gion, and Downtown area – the main areas we cover in this 2 day Kyoto itinerary.
The majority of Kyoto’s trains and subway lines are privately owned and differ from the Shinkansen, which is operated by Japan Rail (JR lines). You can only use your Japan Rail Pass on the JR lines. For all other lines, you’ll need a contactless transport card (e.g. ICOCA, SUICA, or PASMO).
Taxi
There are loads of taxis available in Kyoto and they are very convenient if you have 3 or 4 people in your group or wish to get somewhere faster than the trains.
We used a taxi to get from Kyoto Station to our hotel and then used trains and subway while sightseeing. However, taxis in Kyoto are relatively cheap so they are a great option if you’re not confident about navigating the train/subway system.
Just be aware that most taxi drivers generally don’t speak English very well, so you’re best to be prepared and ask the hotel staff to write down your destination or hotel name in Japanese.
Walking or Bicycle
Kyoto is a great place for walking or cycling as the city is relatively flat. You can choose to explore parts of the city by foot on your own – but you will probably need to access the train or subway to reach a few places on this itinerary. To make the most of your time, you can organize a private walking tour that will take you to some of Kyoto’s ancient temples and beautiful shrines.
Cycling is also a very popular method of transport in Kyoto. Many of the locals use peddle power to get around and there are bicycle rental shops all over the city. To make the most of your time in the city, consider joining a bicycle tour of Kyoto which takes you to the Golden Temple, Geisha District, and Zen Gardens.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
The Kyoto Sky Hop Bus is a great option for getting around Kyoto in 2 days. The bus departs from Kyoto Station and stops at many of the main attractions in this itinerary. There is commentary available in multiple languages.
More Japan Travel Guides
VIEW MORE RESOURCES & TIPS TO HELP PLAN YOUR JAPAN TRIP
The Best 2 Day Itinerary in Kyoto
There are actually so many things to do in Kyoto that you could easily spend an entire week there. But unfortunately, we are not all blessed with the convenience of time. We happen to think this itinerary offers the most convenient way to see the best of Kyoto in 2 days.
If you do decide to spend an extra day in Kyoto, we don’t blame you – it’s such a beautiful city, we’ve added a few options to extend your 2 day Kyoto itinerary to 3 or 4 days at the end of this article.
Kyoto Itinerary – Day 1:
Morning: Fushimi Inari Taisha
We recommend kicking off this 2 day Kyoto itinerary with a visit to one of the most Instagrammed places in Japan – Fushimi Inari shrine. It happens to be open 24 hours a day, which means you can visit at any time. Our best advice is to go first thing in the morning before it gets too crowded.
If you’re up for it, it’s even better to visit the shrine for sunrise – not only will you have the place to yourself, but you’ll also have uninterrupted access to some incredible photo opportunities.
Fushimi Inari is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan and is a must-see for anyone planning to visit Kyoto for 2 days.
Located in the southern part of the city, the shrine is home to thousands of red-orange torii gates that wind through the wooded forests of Mount Inari. Originally constructed in 711 in dedication to the Shinto god of rice, this shrine is one of the oldest and most historic landmarks in the city.
You can explore the shrine on your own for free or book a tour with a local guide who will take you to some hidden spots that other tourists don’t know about.
Catch the train (Nara Line) to Inari Station or the subway (Keihan Line) to Fushimi-Inari Station. When you arrive at Fushimi Inari, you’ll be met by the Romon Gate and the Main Hall. It’s in this Main Hall where daily offerings are made by visitors. Behind this, at the back of the grounds, is where you will find the torii gates.
The full loop through the Torii gates is approximately four kilometres in length and takes about two to three hours to complete. Visitors are welcome to hike as much of the trail as they like and can turn around at any time.
However, it is worth it to at least travel to the halfway point, where the Yotsutsuji intersection lies – especially if you come for sunrise. Here you can see stunning views of the city from above.
Lunch: Nishiki Market
The perfect Kyoto 2 day itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Nishiki Market for lunch. Hail a taxi or hop on the subway (Keihan Line) to Gion-Shijo Station, then wander downtown to Nishiki Market.
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this market is tucked in behind the main street, spans five blocks, and is home to over a hundred restaurants and shops. Initially founded in 1310 as a fish wholesale district, the market has since grown to include a wide variety of local vendors who sell everything food-related. This includes local delicacies and dishes, as well as cookware and knives.
You’ll want to spend a few hours browsing through the market. You’ll notice that many of the restaurants specialize in one particular food or dish. A Nishiki Market food tour is also the perfect way to sample a little bit of everything!
There is of course deliciously fresh sushi, matcha in every form imaginable, rice cakes, and several types of dumplings. However, the one dish that the Nishiki Market is most known for is tako tamago – candied baby octopus stuffed with quail’s egg on a skewer. Unique to the Nishiki Market, it’s common to find locals and visitors walking the streets with this delicacy in hand.
Afternoon: Explore Higashiyama Area
Given this Kyoto 2 day itinerary is packed with so many things to see, the fastest and easiest way to get to Higashiyama from the Nishiki Market is by taxi. Although, if you have some time to spare and would like to see more of the city, the two-kilometre journey on foot is great way to see the beautiful Japanese shophouses and cobbled streets.
Alternatively, you could explore Gion and Higashiyama neighbourhood on a traditional Rickshaw ride or join a private walking tour and have a local show you around the best spots and hidden back streets.
The historical district, which is known for its wooden buildings, narrow passageways, and traditional storefronts, provides a perfect glimpse into the past.
The best way to view all of this is to explore the Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka paths. These pedestrian-only lanes begin near the Yasaka Shrine and wind through the district, leading you past several restored structures from the 15th century.
You’ll also come across smaller shrines, beautiful temples, and pagodas, as well as numerous cafes and shops – a great place to pick up local souvenirs to remember your perfect 48 hours in Kyoto.
As you wander along, take time to stop at a local tea house and witness a traditional tea ceremony. Or rent a traditional Kimono for the day and take photos to bring home.
Evening: Sunset at Kiyomizu-Dera
At the end of the Sannenzaka path, you’ll come to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. There are many Buddhist temples in Kyoto, but Kiyomizu-Dera is one of the most spectacular.
The views are most spectacular in the late afternoon. But be sure to arrive at least an hour before last light so you have enough time to explore the temple grounds before watching to beautiful sunset from the temple. The temple closes shortly after the sun goes down and if you only have 2 days in Kyoto, you won’t want to miss it!
Explore the temple on your own, or book a tour and get access to hidden pockets of the UNESCO site that other tourists don’t see.
Built in 778 the Buddist temple includes over thirty buildings and monuments. One of the most famous aspects of this temple is the wooden stage that extends off of the main hall. Located high up on the hillside, the stage provides the perfect vantage point from which to watch the sunset over the city.
The Jishu Shrine is another popular spot to explore at the temple. Dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, this shrine is said to bring luck in finding love to those who can walk blindfolded between the shrine’s stone pillars.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a visit to the temple without stopping by the Otowa waterfall. Here you’ll find three different streams that you can drink from, each providing a different benefit – longevity, success, and love. Be sure to only choose one stream to drink from though, as it’s considered greedy to sip from all three.
Dinner: Gion Corner
After the sun sets, you’ll want to head down to the district of Gion for some dinner and entertainment. You can either hail a taxi or walk to Gion – the walk is relatively short and should only take you about 15 to 20 minutes.
Gion offers several delicious dining options for dinner. If you’re looking to try some of Japan’s famous Kobe beef, be sure to check out Premium Pound Gion. This Teppanyaki-style restaurant features open counter seating, so you can watch along as the chef cooks up your meal.
If you’re more in the mood for Japanese soul food, head over to Mimikou for some curry udon noodles. To try Kyoto-inspired meals, stop by Kyoto Styled Okonomiyaki & Sake Oagari. This restaurant serves several dishes with a local spin on them, including okonomiyaki, Japan’s savoury take on pancakes.
After dinner, make sure to set aside some time to visit Gion Corner. This classical Japanese theatre offers seven different traditional performances, including tea ceremonies, bunraku puppet theatre, and the famous kyo-mai dance. This dance, which is a favourite among tourists, is performed by Geisha, female performers who are some of the most revered entertainers in Japan. With their ornate kimonos and elaborate make-up, the Geisha are popular icons in Japanese culture.
If you’re lucky, you may even spot Geisha out on the streets of Gion. But for the best chance of spotting a Geisha, jump on an evening Geisha walking tour with a local who knows where they hang out.
Kyoto Itinerary – Day 2
Morning: Explore Arashiyama Area
Kick off the second day of this 2 day Kyoto itinerary with an early start for a trip to Arashiyama. Make your way to Kyoto Station and jump on the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama station.
Also known as “Storm Mountain” for an excursion into nature, Arashiyama was originally developed during the Heian period as a retreat for the royal family, this district is still highly regarded today for its natural scenery. It’s especially popular during the cherry blossom and fall seasons when the mountainside bursts with colour.
Home to many shops, restaurants, and temples, there’s plenty to see and do in Arashiyama. However, one of the district’s most popular destinations is its bamboo grove. With windy paths that cut through the bamboo, walking along these trails feels like travelling to another time and place. It’s also a great spot to snap some photos!
Explore the area on foot, or take a traditional rickshaw ride through the bamboo forest. Another great option is the Sagano Romantic Train – a 25-minute train ride that rolls along the rivers and valleys of the Arashiyama district offering amazing scenery. A must-do during spring or autumn.
The next stop is the Monkey Park Iwatayama. Home to over 120 Japanese macaque or “snow” monkeys, this park is a great place to hike and interact with wildlife. They even have a shop at the top of the mountain, where you can buy treats to feed the monkeys. Just be careful and don’t get too close, while the monkeys may seem friendly, they are still wild and can be unpredictable.
On your way out from Arashiyama make sure to take a few minutes to check out the Kimono Forest. Located at the Randen Arashiyama train station, this art exhibit features 600 pillars each adorned with a unique kimono. There are also plenty of great noodle shops located around Arashiyama Station to stop for lunch.
Afternoon: Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji & Philosophers Path
Leaving the best till last, we recommend spending the second afternoon of this Kyoto 2 day itinerary seeing the famed Golden and Silver temples of Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji or the “Temple of the Golden Pavilion” lies just north of Arashiyama. You can hail a taxi and arrive at this popular Zen temple in about twenty minutes. If you prefer to catch the subway – from Arashiyama station change at Katabiranotsuji Station onto the Kitano Line. Kitano Hakubaicho station is closest to Kinkaku-ji.
World-renowned for the gold leaf that coats its upper floors, this temple was originally built as a retirement villa for a military dictator. Today the structure stands as part of a larger complex that offers much to explore, including the living quarters of former priests, teahouses, a small Buddhist temple, and a tea garden.
While you’re in the area, why not book this traditional tea ceremony with a certified Japanese Tea Master that takes place near the Golden Pavilion.
After exploring the Golden Pavilion it only makes sense to visit its brother temple, the “Temple of the Silver Pavilion,” also known as Ginkaku-ji. Located near the Higashiyama district, the Silver Pavilion is about a 16-minute drive by taxi.
Built by the grandson of the dictator who created the Kinkau-ji Temple, this temple actually isn’t made out of silver. In fact, it lacks the impressive adornment that can be found on the Golden Pavilion. Despite this, the temple and its surrounding areas are still worth the visit, as they provide a uniquely calming environment to explore.
Of special note is the Philosopher’s Path, a two-kilometre path that travels from Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji, another nearby Zen temple. The path follows a canal lined with cherry trees. If you plan on spending 2 days in Kyoto during spring, then this is the perfect place to take a stroll during cherry blossom season.
Evening: Pontocho Area
After spending an action-packed 2 days in Kyoto, you’ll want to let your hair down in Pontocho Alley. Here you’ll find a narrow pedestrian-only alley lined with wooden homes that now serve as traditional bars, restaurants, and tea houses. Reminiscent of “old” Kyoto, it’s considered by some to be the most beautiful street in the city. It also happens to be a great place to grab some food!
Pontocho Alley is a fifteen-minute drive by taxi or half-hour train ride from Nanzen-ji and the Philosopher’s Path.
You can explore this area on your own with some of our suggestions below, or enjoy tasting a few different Japanese delicacies by booking a Pontocho evening food tour.
For a traditional Japanese experience be sure to stop by Pontocho Robin. This popular restaurant, which sits inside a 150-year-old home, serves a variety of authentic Japanese food including sashimi, Japanese beef, and seasonal specialties.
If you’d like to try another taste of Japan’s pancakes, check out Botejyu Kyoto. Offering open-style counter seating, this restaurant serves up some top-rated okonomiyaki.
For the best beef that Japan has to offer, grab a bite to eat at Kyo no Yakinikudokoro “Hiro” Pontocho. Run by a famous beef shop in Kyoto, this restaurant is known for offering prime selections of Wagyu beef.
Staying Longer Than 2 Days in Kyoto?
Here are some great day trips to extend this Kyoto itinerary to 3 or 4 days:
- See Todaiji and Kofukuji temples, and feed the wild deer on this half-day Nara Heritage tour.
- Learn how to make traditional Japanese dishes in a half-day Japanese Bento Cooking Class.
- Learn the traditional Japanese art of becoming a Samurai Warrior with this one hour Samurai class.
- For something a little more active – hike to the top of Kurama Mountain and enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath on this full day tour.
- Learn the authentic Japanese art of making Sushi Rolls.
- Take a tour through a 400 year old Sake Brewery and Museum and enjoy sake tastings.
- Take home some unique memories of your trip by dressing up in a Kimono and enjoying a private photo shoot with a local photographer.
- Discover Kyoto’s most popular and hidden Zen Gardens on a half-day private walking tour.
2 Day Kyoto Itinerary Wrap-Up
Kyoto is one of my favourite cities in Japan. It is so rich in culture, and history, and the traditional architecture and temples are absolutely stunning. If you’re looking for more travel guides and information for planning a trip to Japan, be sure to check out our other Japan travel blog articles.
Did we leave anything out of our 2 Days in Kyoto Itinerary? Let us know in the comments below.
Looking for Somewhere to Stay in Kyoto?
Take advantage of the Booking.com Best Price Guarantee and use the search box below to get the best rate on places to stay in Kyoto!
Booking.comFeeling Inspired? Here are 10 places to add to your Bucket List to visit when the world opens for travel again!
Have a great trip to Kyoto!
Planning a trip soon? Here’s a list of the websites we use for booking our trips:
- Skyscanner for the best flight deals
- Booking.com for the best rates on hotels
- HomeAway for the best price on apartment and home rentals
- Rentalcars.com for quick and easy car rentals
- Luxury Escapes | Expedia for luxury package holiday deals and tours
- Get Your Guide | Klook | Viator for booking day tours and attraction tickets
- Tourradar for a wide selection of multi-day tours
- Safety Wing for the most comprehensive worldwide travel insurance
Did You Know? We use ads and affiliate links on this website. When you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you), that helps us pay the bills to keep running this blog as a free resource. We only recommend products we use ourselves. If you’re planning to book a trip soon, please consider clicking through the links in this article, so that we can continue to provide free travel guides, just like this one! Please see our Disclosure Policy for more details.
About the Author:
Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.
Connect with us on Facebook | Instagram | X | Pinterest. If you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.