Trying to plan the perfect Kyoto 3-Day itinerary but feeling overwhelmed by the endless lists of century-old temples and stunning sightseeing spots?
I totally get it; Kyoto is jam-packed with beauty, history, and charm, but it is also easy to feel lost deciding what is worth your limited time.
Hey there! I am Sam, your Japan trip BFF. I help first-time travellers skip the travel planning stress and explore Japan like a pro without the guesswork or hours lost in Google rabbit holes 😉
This Kyoto 3-day itinerary blends the iconic highlights with a sprinkle of hidden gems to help you see the best of the city minus the burnout!
Let’s dive right in.
TLDR: What Can You Do in Kyoto for 3 Days
Day 1: Starts with East Kyoto
- Morning: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda
- Afternoon: Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, Philosopher’s Path, Nanzen-ji Temple
- Evening: Yasaka Shrine, Gion district, Pontocho Alley, Kamo River
Day 2: Explore West Kyoto
- Morning: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple
- Afternoon: Sagano Scenic Railway, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
- Evening: Togetsukyo Bridge
Day 3: Explore Central Kyoto
- Morning: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nishiki Market, Nijo Castle
- Afternoon: Traditional tea ceremony or Japanese cooking class, Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Evening: Kyoto Tower
Day 1: Starts with East Kyoto
Morning
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Start Day 1 of your Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary by visiting the one and only Kiyomizudera Temple.
This stunning 1200-year-old temple is renowned for its wooden stage, which juts over a hillside and offers panoramic views of the city.
The expansive temple grounds also feature the main hall, multiple pagodas, and the Otawa Waterfall, where visitors can catch and drink the flowing water for good luck and blessings.
Since Kiyomizudera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most Instagrammable places, I recommend you to reach here by 7.30 am to skip the huge crowd and have more space to yourself.
Travel tip: This temple is particularly stunning during spring and autumn thanks to the cherry blossom and vibrant fiery foliage!
Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take City Bus 100 or 206 to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop (about 15 minutes).
From the bus stop, it is a 10-minute uphill walk to the temple.
Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
Just downhill from Kiyomizudera Temple, Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka are two gently sloping lanes that transport you into old Kyoto with their well-preserved, stone-paved streets and wooden buildings.
You will pass by teahouses, souvenir shops, snack stores, and cafes tucked inside traditional machiya townhouses as you stroll along.
If taking beautiful photos in kimono is on your Kyoto bucket list, you can easily rent one from any of the kimono rental stores. Some packages also include hairdo and kimono accessories.
Travel tip: Want to hire a professional photographer to capture your photos as you explore Kyoto? Check out my article on the best photography tours in Kyoto that cater to your budget and preference.
Getting There:
From Kiyomizu-dera, walk downhill along the main road and follow signs for Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These charming historical streets are just a 5-minute stroll from the temple’s exit.
Yasaka Pagoda
Known as Hokan-ji, Yasaka Pagoda is an iconic five-storey pagoda that rises above the Higashiyama district.
Visitors can also climb the pagoda when it is open, offering a rare interior glimpse of several century-old buildings.
Travel tip: Want the full Kyoto experience? Treat yourself to one of these handpicked ryokan with private onsen—perfect for soaking, relaxing, and living your best life 😌🛁✨
Getting There
Continue walking down Ninenzaka to reach Yasaka Pagoda (5 min walk). You can easily see it from the street.
Afternoon
Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
After you are done visiting Yasaka Pagoda, make your way to Yasui Konpiragu Shrine.
Tucked away down a quiet alley, this Kyoto hidden gem is best known for its enkiri/enmusubi power stone that is believed to sever bad relationships and bring good ones into your life.
How it works: Visitors write wishes on ema (wooden plaques), then crawl through and back a hole in the large stone monument to symbolise cutting negative ties and forming positive new ones.
Getting There
From Yasaka Pagoda, walk north along Higashioji-dori for about 5 minutes, then turn right into the small lane leading to the shrine.
Philosopher’s Path
The next stop in your Kyoto 3-day itinerary would be Philosopher’s Path.
Another Instagrammable spot in Kyoto, the Philosopher’s Path is a tranquil, stone-lined walkway following a cherry tree-lined canal between Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji Temple.
One of the best times to stroll along Philosopher’s Path is early spring when cherry blossoms bloom and petals drift over the water, but the walkway is inviting year-round with peaceful greenery and gentle shade.
You can also explore the lesser-known temples and shrines as you walk along the 2-kilometre-long Philosopher’s Path while discovering peaceful gardens and quiet spots.
Travel tip: You can have your lunch here since the canal is lined with lovely cafes and restaurants too. Plan to spend about two hours enjoying the walk, temple hopping, plus lunch break.
Getting There
From Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, take City Bus 100 or 206 from Higashioji-dori to Ginkaku-ji-michi bus stop (about 20 minutes).
The Philosopher’s Path starts near Ginkaku-ji and follows the canal southwards.
Nanzen-ji Temple
End your temple trail of Day 1 in Kyoto itinerary at Nanzen-ji.
One of Kyoto’s most significant Zen temples, Nanzen-ji Temple is known for its grand Sanmon gate towers at the entrance where visitors can climb for a fee (600 yen ~ US$5) to admire the city view.
You can also find a rather impressive brick aqueduct that was built in the Meiji era within the temple grounds, offering a striking contrast to the traditional wooden structures.
Travel tip: The Zen gardens here in Nanzenji Temple and subtemples are exceptionally beautiful, especially during autumn!
Getting There
Walk the Philosopher’s Path southwards for 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace and temple detours in between.
Evening
Yasaka Shrine
With its striking vermillion gate and hundreds of lanterns, Yasaka Shrine marks the entrance to the lively Gion district.
You can take time to explore the shrine grounds, soak up the peaceful atmosphere, and perhaps take a photo or two with the lit-up lanterns!
Getting There
From Nanzenji Temple, walk about 5 to 7 minutes to the Nanzenji Eikando-michi bus stop and board Bus #5 heading toward Shijo Kawaramachi for about 15 to 20 minutes. Get off at the Gion bus stop, walk for 2 minutes to Yasaka Shrine’s main entrance.
Wander Around Gion District
No trip to Kyoto is complete without exploring the iconic Gion District, the city’s most famous geisha neighbourhood.
And one of the popular streets in Gion that you need to include in your Kyoto 3-day itinerary is Hanamikoji Street.
Lined with traditional wooden houses and quaint shops, strolling along the streets will feel as though you are stepping back in time.
If you are lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a maiko (apprentice geisha) making her way to their appointments.
Travel tip: There is currently a ban preventing tourists from entering the private alleyways in Gion, so please be mindful and stick to the main streets when exploring the district!
Getting There
Yasaka Shrine is just a few minutes walk to Gion’s Hanamikoji Street.
Pontocho Alley
Another lovely attraction spot to visit at night in Kyoto is Pontocho Alley.
In the evening, the glowing lanterns softly illuminate the alley, offering a nostalgic atmosphere that captures the charm of old Kyoto.
The narrow alley is also lined with small restaurants and bars ranging from Michelin-starred kaiseki spots to tiny yakitori stands, making it a prime location for dinner or drinking for both locals and tourists.
Pontocho is especially popular for its riverside dining in summer, where some establishments offer open-air “kawadoko” decks with dazzling river views.
Getting There
Pontocho Alley is about a 5-minute walk from Gion.
Kamo River
If you still have some energy left before heading back to your hotel, consider relaxing along the banks of the Kamo River.
A popular spot among locals to relax after dark, you can take this chance to unwind or just enjoy quiet moments by the gently flowing water.
Getting There
Pontocho Alley runs parallel to the Kamo River, separated by just a row of buildings.
Day 2: Explore West Kyoto
Morning
Ryoan-ji Temple
One of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Ryoan-Ji Temple is world-famous for its iconic rock garden, which is regarded as one of the finest examples of karesansui or dry landscape gardens in Japan.
Ryoan-ji also offers a peaceful stroll around its large pond, which is surrounded by seasonal blooms including cherry blossoms in spring, lotus flowers in summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn.
Travel tips: There are 15 stones in the garden, but from any vantage point, you can only see 14 at once. So spend some time admiring the garden’s beauty while trying to spot them all!
Getting There
Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Emmachi Station (about 10 minutes).
From Emmachi Station, transfer to a Kyoto City Bus (#59) and ride to the Ryoanji-mae bus stop (about 15 minutes).
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Next, make your way to Kinkaku-ji on Day 2 of your 3-day Kyoto itinerary.
Also called the Golden Pavilion, Kinkakuji is a breathtaking Zen temple known for its striking architecture, with sections of the building beautifully covered in gold leaf.
The building is beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond, making it among the major highlights in Kyoto.
Aside from having a lovely garden, you can also find a traditional teahouse and shrine within Kinkakuji’s temple grounds.
My recommendation: Check out my fun 1-day and 2-day Kyoto itineraries if you are tight on time but still want to eat, snap, and temple-hop your way through the city!
Getting There
From Ryoan-ji, take City Bus 59 to Kinkakuji-michi bus stop (about 10 minutes). Alternatively, you can walk for about 20 minutes to reach Kinkaku-ji.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Another iconic spot in Kyoto, visitors can wander along the path of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest to soak in the scenic view with towering bamboo stalks everywhereee.
It will roughly take 15 to 20 minutes to walk the whole path, but you will likely want to pause for stunning photos along the way 😉
Travel tip: You can also join a bike tour in Kyoto to explore the city like Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and other highlights with a local experienced guide!
Getting There
From Kinkaku-ji, take a bus to Enmachi Station and transfer to the JR Sagano Line, getting off at Saga-Arashiyama Station.
From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The whole trip takes about 40–50 minutes.
Tenryu-ji Temple
One of the famous Zen temples in Kyoto, Tenryuji Temple was first built to dedicate it to Emperor Go-Daigo in the 14th century.
Over here, you get to see its main hall, drawing hall, and kitchen. You can also walk around its tranquil pond garden with Arashiyama Mountain being the backdrop.
Its garden is especially beautiful in the spring and autumn seasons, as cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn leaves transform the setting into a truly breathtaking scene.
Travel tip: Tenryu-ji Temple has its own bamboo path that’s quieter and way less crowded, like a mini version of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, minus the tourist swarm!
Getting There
You can easily walk over to Tenryu-ji Temple from Arashiyama Bamboo Forest through one of the gates.
Afternoon
Sagano Scenic Railway
Also known as Romantic Railway, this charming retro train takes you on a picturesque 25-minute journey along the Hozugawa River, winding through lush mountains and offering truly spectacular views, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Travel tip: The train tickets can sell out fast during peak periods so best to book and pay your ticket online to reserve your spot!
You will thank yourself for following this: Choose the right seats from Saga-Arashiyama to Kameoka. If possible, get Car No. 5 which is also an open-air carriage so you can feel the breeze and take unobstructed beautiful photos!
Getting There
From Tenryu-ji, walk to Saga-Arashiyama Station (about 10 minutes). The Sagano Scenic Railway (Torokko) departs from here.
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
If you want to add a lesser-known Arashiyama spot to your Kyoto 3-day itinerary, then make sure to visit Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple.
This quiet temple is known for its moss-covered 1200 Rakan statues, each depicting a different facial expression and pose.
As you wander through the temple grounds, you will find yourself smiling at their quirky charm while being totally immersed in the peaceful atmosphere.
Getting There
Board a local train from Torokko Kameoka to JR Sagano/Saga-Arashiyama Station (25 minutes).
Take Kyoto City Bus #62/72/28 from Saga-Arashiyama station and get off at Kiyotaki-gawa/Arashiyama Station and walk 5 minutes to reach Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
Evening
Togetsukyo Bridge
End your Day 2 in Kyoto by watching the sunset at Togetsukyo Bridge.
You can just hang out on the riverbank or walk across the bridge and watch the colours change.
It is a favorite local hangout too, so you will see people just chilling and enjoying the evening.
Travel tip: The scenery surrounding Togetsukyo Bridge is particularly pretty in spring and autumn, but the views are nonetheless captivating year-round.
Getting There
Walk from Otagi Nenbutsu-ji to the Otagidera-mae bus stop and take Kyoto City Bus #62, #72, or #92 heading toward central Arashiyama.
Get off at the Nakanoshima-koen bus stop and walk for few minutes to get to the bridge. Total duration is 15 minutes.
Buses can be infrequent so another alternative is to take the 10-minute taxi ride.
Day 3: Explore Central Kyoto
Morning
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Start your last day in Kyoto by visiting the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine!
Known for the thousands of vivid orange torii gates lining up a hiking trail to a smaller shrine up at the mountain, arriving at this iconic shrine at around sunrise lets you enjoy quieter paths and cooler weather.
Early mornings also make for better photographs without getting photobombed, as the crowds can get dense from mid-morning onwards.
If you want to hike up to the summit for the stunning sunrise view (different season has different sunrise timing), make sure to allow 2 hours for a round trip.
Travel tip: I know you probably want to look cute in all your Instagrammable shots but truth be told, you might want to stick to casual hiking attire with non-slip comfy shoes to ensure a safe hike.
More freebies for you: Download this FREE audio guide so you can learn the history and fun facts about Fushimi Inari Taisha on the go!
Since Fushimi Inari Shrine is open 24/7, I suggest getting there by 7 am at the latest or even earlier if you are all about hiking or snapping a million pics for the ’Gram 😜
Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station (2 stops, 5 minutes). Fushimi Inari Taisha is directly outside the station—just a 1-minute walk from the exit.
Nishiki Market
Looking for a place to fill your tummy with local food after a long walk in Fushimi Inari Shrine?
Then make your way to Nishiki Market!
Dubbed Kyoto’s Kitchen, this narrow yet lively market offers a wide range of food-related produce and products such as fresh seafood, speciality food, and cookware.
You can sample a variety of free food and snacks from the vendors, ranging from tofu skin, tsukemono pickles, mochi, and more!
Aside from being a food haven, Nishiki Market is also a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or enjoy a light breakfast while soaking in the market’s bustling atmosphere.
Travel tip: If you are a foodie (or just love eating), I highly recommend joining any of these food tours in Kyoto!
You will not only get to taste delicious local dishes you might never discover on your own, but you will also learn about Kyoto’s rich food culture from a friendly guide who knows all the good stuff. 😉
Getting There
From Fushimi Inari Taisha, walk to Fushimi-Inari Station and take the Keihan Main Line to Gion-Shijo Station (about 10 minutes). Then walk west to Nishiki Market (about 10 minutes).
Nijo Castle
Another UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto that you can add to your Kyoto 3-day itinerary is none other than the historic Nijo Castle.
Apart from housing grand palaces and several historical buildings, there are also a few gardens in the Nijo Castle complex.
One of the main highlights of the castle is the famous “nightingale floors” in Ninomaru Palace, which chirp underfoot as an ancient security measure signalling intruders’ presence.
impressive architecture of Chinese style Karamon Gate that leads to Ninomaru Palace.
You can stop by the gardens and soak in the serene view consisting of beautiful ponds, pine trees, and orchards of cherry and plum trees!
Getting There
From Nishiki Market, take the Karasuma Subway Line from Shijo to Karasuma Oike, then transfer to the Tozai Line to Nijojo-mae Station (about 10 minutes in total). Nijo Castle is right outside the station.
Afternoon
Join a Traditional Tea Ceremony
No trip to Kyoto is complete without joining the traditional tea ceremony!
Known as the birthplace of the tea ceremony, joining one is a wonderful way to experience Japanese culture firsthand.
During the ceremony, you will watch the host carefully prepare matcha (powdered green tea) using precise, graceful movements, all while learning about the rituals and etiquette that make this experience so special.
More than 95% travellers (me included!) recommend joining this Kyoto Maikoya’s tea ceremony ’cause:
✅ Great location (near Nijo Castle)
✅ Traditional teahouse (Authentic experience!)
✅ English-speaking staff
✅Beautiful kimonos selection (with simple hairstyling for ladies)
✅Phototaking allowed
Japanese Cooking Class
Here are some of the best Japanese cooking classes in Kyoto 👇:
Sushi Making Experience in Kyoto Kawaramachi
✅Recommended by >95% of travellers!
✅Great location
✅English-speaking staff
✅Special gift for every attendees
Ramen Cooking Class at Ramen Factory
✅Recommended by >95% of travellers!
✅Great location
✅English-speaking staff
✅Accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and halal preferences (request needed)
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Next, visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former home of Japan’s emperors before Tokyo took the crown.
Though most buildings are not allowed to enter, visitors can freely explore the castle grounds and admire the beautifully preserved gates and building architecture.
Since the palace is set within the public Kyoto Gyoen Park, you can also enjoy a lovely stroll while immersing yourself in nature which is especially stunning during cherry blossom season or autumn.
Evening
Kyoto Tower
Visiting Kyoto Tower in the evening is a great way to see the city from a new perspective.
As the sun sets and the city lights come on, you can head up to the observation deck for panoramic views of Kyoto’s temples, mountains, and bustling streets.
Since the tower is right next to Kyoto Station, you can easily walk over and get to the next city or Kansai International Airport in Osaka to leave Japan.
Getting There
From Kyoto Imperial Palace, walk to Imadegawa Station on the Karasuma Subway Line (about 5 minutes).
Take the subway south to Kyoto Station (about 10 minutes). Kyoto Tower is directly across from the station’s central exit.
FAQs: Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary
How many days are best in Kyoto?
Three days is an ideal length of time to truly experience Kyoto. This gives you the opportunity to see the main sights, temple hop, soak up the city’s rich culture, and still enjoy some leisurely moments in its peaceful atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Is 3 days enough for Kyoto?
Yes. Three days is usually enough to visit Kyoto’s top attraction sites and get a real sense of the city’s unique charm. While more days in Kyoto allow you to venture to the outskirts or check out more hidden gems, a three-day visit is sufficient to experience and immerse in Kyoto’s history and culture.
What are the must-visit attractions for a 3-day trip in Kyoto?
Some of the popular unmissable highlights in Kyoto include:
.Fushimi Inari Shrine
.Kiyomizudera Temple
.Nishiki Market
.Gion
.Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
.Kinkakuji
Is Kyoto a walkable city?
Yes, Kyoto is quite walkable, especially in areas where many attractions are clustered together, such as Gion, Higashiyama, and Arashiyama. You can easily take public transportation such as buses and trains especially when you are travelling from one area to another, like getting from Central Kyoto to Southern Kyoto.
What is the best area for tourists to stay in Kyoto?
The best area for tourists to stay in Kyoto depends on your interests, but Gion, Downtown Kyoto’s Kawaramachi area, and Kyoto Station are the most popular and convenient choices as they each offer easy access to major attractions, a variety of food options, and getting around.
4 Useful Tips for First-Time Travellers to Kyoto
1. Start Your Day Early
Kyoto’s top spots like Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Bamboo Grove, and Kinkaku-ji can get crowded fast.
Arriving right before when these attraction sites open means:
- less photobombed photos
- a more peaceful experience
- fewer tourists
2. Use an IC Card
Public transport is your best friend here!
Grab an IC card like ICOCA to make getting around convenient by trains and buses, especially helpful when heading to places like Otagi Nenbutsu-ji or Kinkaku-ji.
3. Pack Comfortable Shoes
Between high temple stairs, gravel paths, and charming cobblestone streets, you will be walking A LOT during your 3-day stay in Kyoto.
And at the end of the trip, you will thank yourself for choosing basic comfy sneakers like this 👇 over anything stylish-but-painful pair.
Travel tip: I shared some of my travel Kyoto stories in this Japan summer packing list article about the importance of wearing the correct gear for specific activities in Kyoto or travel in general. Make sure to read it 😉
4. Plan for Breaks in Beautiful Places
Not gonna lie; you are not going to see all of Kyoto in just 3 days.
There are around 2000 temples and shrines in this city alone!
And as tempting as it is to pack in every must-see spot, Kyoto is not just about ticking off sites.
It is about slowing down, soaking in the culture, and letting the magic unfold one moment at a time.
So build in time to sit by the Arashiyama riverside, sip some matcha tea in Gion, or rest under the trees at the Imperial Palace Park and just enjoy being present in Kyoto😉
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Best 3 Days in Kyoto
Three days in Kyoto might not be enough to see it all, but it is more than enough to fall in love with the city!
With a mix of must-sees and off-the-beaten-path gems, this fun Kyoto 3-day itinerary gives you a taste of Kyoto’s magic in a way that feels personal, memorable, and totally doable.
Have fun 😉
Sam Lee, founder of Sam Lee Travel, is a seasoned traveler with over 10 years of experience exploring various Asian countries. Having lived in Singapore for almost a decade, Sam has developed a deep understanding of the culture, customs, and attractions in the region.
With a passion for outdoor travel adventures and water sports, Sam has helped over 25K readers per month plan their trips around Asia, including off-the-beaten-path destinations, offering helpful travel tips and unfiltered personal travel experience.