3-Day Itinerary in Kyoto (with a visit to Nara)

Day 1 – Iconic Temples and Traditional Culture

Morning:
🌸 Visit Kiyomizu-dera, one of Japan’s most stunning temples with spectacular views. It’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
☕ Breakfast on the go at one of the cafés in Sannenzaka, try a matcha latte with a Japanese pastry.

Afternoon:
⛩️ Walk through the legendary Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its thousands of red torii gates. You can do the full hike or just part of it (about 1 hour).
🍜 Lunch at the food stalls in the area: takoyaki, karaage, or a good udon.

Evening:
🎎 Stroll through Gion, the geisha district. If you’re lucky, you might see one walking to her appointment.
🍱 Dinner at a traditional izakaya. Recommended: Gion Tanto (homemade, tasty, and reasonably priced).

Day 2 – Balanced Heritage and Modernity

Morning:
🏯 Start your day at Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). It’s like a living postcard.
🥐 Breakfast beforehand at Arabica Kyoto café (excellent coffee).

Afternoon:
🌿 Walk to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and then down the Philosopher’s Path, ideal if it’s spring or autumn.
🍚 Lunch at a hidden zen café along the way. I recommend Yojiya Café.

Evening:
🌆 Night exploration in Pontocho, the narrow street with lanterns along the river.
🍶 Dinner with a river view on a terrace if the weather is nice. Order local sake and tempura.

Day 3 – Nara in the Morning, Shopping and Food in Kyoto

Morning (excursion to Nara):
🦌 From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line (1 hour). Walk to Todai-ji, where the Great Buddha is.
🥟 Try the local kakinoha sushi or gyōza before heading back.

Afternoon:
🌲 If you have the energy, visit Arashiyama: walk through the bamboo forest, and if time allows, take the scenic train or a river cruise.
🍵 Take a break with a matcha parfait.

Evening:
🛍️ Finish with a visit to Nishiki Market, perfect for trying street snacks: fried tofu, skewers, mochi, and more.
🎁 Buy souvenirs and rare seasonings to take home.

🛏️ Suggested Accommodation:

Mid-range: Sakura Terrace The Gallery (near Kyoto Station, modern with onsen).

Cheaper and trendy: Len Kyoto Kawaramachi Hostel (great atmosphere, clean, and very well located).

General Tips:

Wear comfortable shoes (there’s a lot of walking).

Avoid taxis; the subway and buses will get you everywhere.

Google Maps + Suica/Pasmo loaded on your phone = everything you need. trip