Complete Kyoto Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Kyoto

Wondering how to spend 3 days in Kyoto? You are in the right place because I have prepared a detailed Kyoto itinerary for 3 days with a lot of useful travel tips.

Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan with old wooden houses, unique temples, hidden gardens, and some breathtaking locations that you won’t find anywhere else.

The city has a lot to offer and it can get overwhelming to plan your Kyoto itinerary, especially for first-time visitors, but this is why I am here to help.

In this article, you will find a complete Kyoto itinerary for 3 days with other things that you should know before visiting Kyoto. I will include hotel recommendations, multiple restaurant options and the best ways to move around Kyoto.

*Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

What to do in Kyoto for 3 days?

• Visit iconic locations like Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Fushimi Inari
• Try a unique dining experience at Gion Duck Noodles and Menbaka Fire Ramen
• Explore the historical sights of the city around Sanneizaka and Nineizaka
• Eat your way through Nishiki Market
• Get lost at the Nijō Castle
• Walk around Gion (Shinbashi-dori)
• Find the best restaurants in Pontocho
• See the important temples like Kōdai-ji Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Yasaka Shrine, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Toji
• take the Sagano Scenic Train
• Enjoy a tea ceremony or private dinner with Geisha
• Catch the sunset at the Kiyomizu-dera or K36 (The Bar & Rooftop).

3 days in Kyoto itinerary

Overview of day 1 of your 3 days in Kyoto

• Morning: Sanneizaka, Nineizaka, Starbucks, Yasaka Pagoda,  Yasaka Kōshin-dō, Ishibei-koji Lane, Kōdai-ji Temple
• Lunch: Gion Duck Noodles
• Afternoon: Yasaka Shrine, Gion (Shinbashi-dori)
• Dinner: Pontocho

Higashiyama-ku (Sanneizaka and Nineizaka)

Your 3 day Kyoto itinerary starts with the most renowned streets in the city in the Higashiyama-ku neighborhood. Higashiyama-ku preserved all the charm of the Japanese architecture of the feudal era. Here you will find a great number of wooden buildings and narrow lanes that will make you travel back in time.

I recommend getting to Sanneizaka early and seeing the city waking up. Exploring the neighborhood is one of the best things to do in Kyoto. You will find several cafes, souvenir shops, and historical landmarks.

Ninezaka is another famous street in Kyoto that will give you the chance to snap the iconic Kyoto postcard. Here you can also find the famous Starbucks, the only cafe of the chain built inside a traditional Japanese house with tatami seating. 

The menu at Starbucks is very touristic and finding a seat can be hard, but don’t worry! The area flourishes with other traditional cafes and tea houses like Kasagiya. 3 perfect days in Kyoto will include at least one break in a tea house in Higashiyama-ku.

Hōkan-ji Temple

From Ninezaka, head to Hōkan-ji Temple. It is one of the most iconic temples in Kyoto and probably one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Every Kyoto guide will mention this famous temple and the legend says that its construction was inspired by a dream.

Hokan-ji Temple is known also as Yasaka-no-to and it is a 5-story pagoda 46 meters tall. It dates back to 589, however, the pagoda was reconstructed after being damaged several times.

Visitors are allowed to enter and you will need approximately 30 minutes to visit the complex. The temple is open from  10 am to 3 pm, and the entrance fee is 400 yen. But keep in mind that children under 12 are not allowed in the pagoda.

Additional tip! Just outside the temple find the Yasaka Koshindo. It’s a little picturesque Buddhist temple with colorful kukurizaru, which are small colorful balls containing the wishes of worshippers.

Kōdai-ji Temple

Head to the next stop of your Kyoto 3-day itinerary. In order to get to the Kōdai-ji Temple, I recommend you walk the picturesque Ishibei-koji Lane, which is one of the cutest streets in Kyoto.

Kōdai-ji Temple dates back to 1606 and it is a sensational complex where you can take a dive into Japanese architecture and spirituality. The temple was built to honor Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s most relevant historical figures, by his wife Nene who is also resting at the temple.

This is the perfect spot to see the famous Japanese Zen Gardens, tea houses, and even a bamboo grove that will remind you of the one of Arashiyama. Take your time to admire the beautiful decorations in the interiors of the building.

The admission fee is 600 yen for Kodaiji and Sho Museum, and for 300 yen more you can get access to Entokuin. The temple is open from 9 am to 5.30 pm with the entry at 5 pm.

Gion Duck Noodles

Instagram made me do it because I have seen this restaurant all over my feed, but it totally lived up to the hype. What makes it so unique? It’s called 🦆🍜 and the entire menu is made of emojis.

This is a relatively new place in Kyoto but it’s already going strong, so I wanted to give it a go. As you can imagine the specialty is duck noodles in broth, but they have also a lot of other dishes you could try. We went for the duck noodles in two different versions, with the full duck and the lighter version with just the breast.

The main difference was the consistency of the broth, which was very rich and tasteful in the full duck and very light and refreshing in the one with just the breast.

The noodles, which are handmade, taste incredible, and the presentation of the dish is also very accurate and eye-pleasing. The staff is very proud of their achievements and will happily describe the dish for you before you try it.

When you visit Kyoto, you have to keep in mind that there are queues everywhere. I was there at the opening time and still had to wait 30 minutes because the place is very small and there were people waiting already. But it was totally worth it!

The dishes start from a basic price of 1000 yen up to 2500 yen.

Yasaka Shrine

After you recharge your batteries with a nice lunch, your 3 days Kyoto itinerary will take you to another ancient and iconic temple. Yasaka Shrine is known also as Gion Shrine and it is a Shinto shrine built in 656 A.D.

However, during the cherry blossom season, the temple becomes particularly busy. You will find many food stalls around and you will have the chance to make a picnic. Or sit at a table under a cherry tree with locals and try local street food. it’s a fantastic experience when you travel to Kyoto you can’t miss.

The complex is open 24/7 and there is no admission fee, so it is one of the best free things to do in Kyoto.

Gion

Now it’s time to explore Kyoto’s most folkloristic area in the city – Gion. This is the famous district of Geisha, where you can find countless “machiya” merchant houses. They usually host traditional restaurants and shops, making Gion one of Japan’s most picturesque districts. 

Gion is the perfect spot where to rent a Kimono and be part of the Japanese culture. Find Hanami-koji Street to find some unique boutiques, or see the river flowing in Shinbashi-dori.

If you feel in the mood for a sweet, check out the legendary Gion Komori and try some traditional matcha sweets, but get ready for queuing! Walking around will be one of the highlights of your 72 hours in Kyoto.

If your feet are too tired and want to enjoy a peaceful ride around Gion streets, you can book a rickshaw tour here.

Pontocho

Pontocho is a legendary alley of Kyoto that flourishes with restaurants and bars. This is one of the most visited places in Kyoto and you will find at least one restaurant that will match your taste.

Kichi Kichi Omurice is probably one of the most famous restaurants in Kyoto but you need to make reservations at least 1 month in advance. So if you want to try his legendary Omurice book a spot as soon as you book your tickets to Japan. Or try your luck with queuing, however, there is no guarantee that you will get the table.

Pontocho is also ideal to find some of the best fine dining restaurants in Kyoto like Enen, where you can try one of the best Wagyu beef in all of Japan.

Looking for a unique experience to make your Kyoto itinerary for 3 days unforgettable? Book a private dinner with Geisha and enjoy some Japanese food with a local touch.

Or you can always join a food tour and book this top-rated All-Inclusive 3-Hour Food and Culture Tour in Gion.

Overview of day 2 of your 3 days in Kyoto

• Morning: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Sagano Scenic Train, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)
• Lunch: Menbaka Fire Ramen
• Afternoon: Nijō Castle, Toji 
• Dinner: 鉄板酒場ひろし

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

A perfect 3 days in Kyoto itinerary for first-timers must include the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. It is located on the Northwest side of the city at the foot of the “Storm Mountains” and I recommend you get there using the JR line (Saga Arashiyama station) or the bus.

This natural bamboo forest covers an area of roughly 16 square kilometers and contains thousands of bamboo plants that tower over visitors, creating a sense of tranquility.

When you explore the forest don’t forget to pay a visit to the Okochi Sanso Garden and the other parks around. There is no admission fee to visit the Bamboo Forest and it is open 24/7.

Finding the beginning of the path could be confusing, so here is the exact location that you should put on Google Maps.

Sagano Scenic Train 

From the forest, walk to Saga Arashiyama station to embark on one of the most beautiful train rides in Japan. The Sagano Scenic Train is a great way to make an epic 3-day Kyoto itinerary. No matter when you are visiting Kyoto, this ride will astonish you with breathtaking landscapes and nature is simply spectacular.

During the spring you will go through the 1000 blossom tunnel and you will be surrounded by flowers. During the fall the golden and red colors will astonish you with beauty. In winter the snow will add a magic touch to the ride. And in summer the lush landscape will make you think you are in a fairytale.

The ride is not particularly long but it’s totally worth it. You can buy single tickets or round trips at the Saga station, but keep in mind that tickets are subject to availability. If you wish to make sure you get a spot on the train you can book the tickets online here.

Once you get to the final station you can find JR trains that will take you back to Kyoto if you choose to purchase a single ticket. Make sure you get your ticket a few weeks in advance if you are traveling during the peak season.

Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion)

On your way back to the city center, stop to visit one of the most impressive landmarks in Kyoto. The spectacular Kinkakuji Temple, also known as Golden Pavilion, stands proudly on a large pond creating a wonderful reflection in the water. And it is completely covered in gold leaf!

Despite being built in 1397, the temple was burnt down several times during wars and once it was set on fire by a monk. The present structure dates back to 1955.

You will need at least 30 minutes to visit the whole complex and at the end of the path you can find a lovely tea house where you can refresh yourself. For 500 yen you can have a cup of matcha and a sweet in a traditional Japanese house.

Any complete Kyoto itinerary for 3 days must include a visit to Golden Pavilion. The temple is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm and the admission fee is 500 yen. And the admission ticket is probably one of the coolest tickets I have seen in Japan! 

Menbaka Fire Ramen

I bet after all this sightseeing you must be hungry, right? So why not try something unique that you can only get in Kyoto? If you think that Menbaka Fire Ramen is just another bowl of ramen keep reading to see why you are wrong! 

The story of this restaurant dates back to 1984 and it has served thousands of hungry Japanese and tourists looking for a unique and tasteful experience.

The green onion dominates the scene here, the broth is absolutely delicious and with great character. But what made famous Menbaka is not only the deliciousness of its ramen but also the cascade of fire that gives the final touch while serving your bowl.

The owner of the restaurant will serve your meal in this unique way and welcome you with the best hospitality. He also shared with guests a little guidebook where to find some hidden gems in Kyoto.

Once again keep in mind that there could be a line to enter, but the food, the experience, and the hospitality will pay back the time that you spend in the queue.

Nijō Castle

A short distance away from your lunch place you will find one of the main attractions of the city and a must-do during your 3 days Kyoto sightseeing itinerary. Nijō Castle is one of the most visited castles in Japan and dates back to 1603 as the residence of the first Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Once the Tokugawa Shogunate ended, the castle became the head of the imperial palace, and after a while, was donated to the city of Kyoto and opened to the public.

The whole complex is composed of three areas, which are 2 circles of defense and the gardens, while the castle is surrounded by stone walls and moats. This is a perfect place to see how Japanese architecture blends perfectly with nature and how the elements are combined for a defensive purpose.

If you happen to be here during the cherry blossom time, you can’t miss the exhibition NAKED. The blossoms lighten up and there is a game of lights that will take you inside a fairytale.

The castle opens from 8.45 am to 5 pm with the last entry at 4 pm. The admission fee is 800 yen. If you want to o enter the Ninomaru Palace, you will have to pay 500 yen extra. The castle is usually closed on Tuesdays, or the following day if Tuesday is a national holiday.

Toji

A short bus ride away from Nijo Castle, find one of the most famous landmarks in the city and another must for your 3-day Kyoto tour itinerary.

To-Ji literally means East Temple and it was built when the capital of Japan changed from Nara to Kyoto. Unfortunately, the West temple doesn’t exist anymore, while the Toji structure still stands and it is part of UNESCO Heritage.

Toji is a complex with an iconic 5-stories pagoda that used to contain house relics of the historical Buddha. With 55 meters, this is also the tallest pagoda in all of Japan and one of the highlights of any Kyoto vacation.

The Kondo Main Hall is the largest and finest building of the complex. The original structure dates back to the 8th century and you will find Japanese and Indian elements combined and some wonderful Buddhist statues. The positioning of the statues inside the main hall is a physical representation of the cosmology of Buddhism.

The inside of the pagoda is normally closed to the public, except for some special openings. If you happen to be here during one of these events you should definitely take a tour inside. 

Toji temple opens every day from 8 am to 5 pm with the last entry at 4.30 pm. The admission fee is 500 yen. Early April is also a great moment to visit Toji as a huge Sakura tree will welcome you right after the ticket office.

 鉄板酒場ひろし

Since it’s dinner time I want to share with you a real local gem that I found casually during my trip to Japan. This modern Izakaya (tavern) offers delicious local specialties in an informal environment.

The cook will prepare your meal in front of you and plate them nicely. He takes pride in his locally grown beef and it’s a must if you like meat. There is also a good selection of sake and spirits.

This is one of the few places in Kyoto where the chef can speak English and the prices are very affordable as well!

Overview of day 3 of your 3 days in Kyoto

• Morning: Fushimi Inari
• Lunch: Nishiki Market
• Afternoon: Tea Ceremony, Kiyomizu-dera
• Dinner: K36 (The Bar & Rooftop)

Fushimi Inari

Any Kyoto itinerary for first-timers will recommend you to visit Fushimi Inari. Have you ever been to Kyoto if you didn’t visit Fushimi Inari?

I am sure that we all can agree that Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the epic Kyoto spots. It is one of the most famous and iconic shrines in Japan, known for its thousands of torii gates that line the paths leading up the mountain.

And obviously, this comes with a price, since it is one of the most crowded spots in Kyoto at any time of the day. So my recommendation is to get there early to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and snap some iconic photos with the gates.

The Shrine is actually massive and most of the tourists leave after visiting the main spot, so if you decide to hike up, you can find a place all to yourself. Visiting the temple and climbing can easily take all morning and you will need a train ride to get back to central Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari is another free spot to visit in Kyoto and it’s open 24/7.

Nishiki Market

I guess after a morning climb you must be hungry, so it’s now time to explore the most famous market in Kyoto. It doesn’t matter if you have a long weekend in Kyoto or even one day only, if you travel to Kyoto and you love food, you must visit Nishiki Market.

It is a five-block-long shopping street with more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Here you can find literally everything Japanese. You can walk around to find some souvenirs or try some Japanese specialties, like soybean tea.

The area of the market is also perfect for clothing shopping. There are a lot of branded stores, small boutiques, and vintage shops all around, so the choice is yours.

Where to eat at Nishiki Market?

You still haven’t tried sushi or sashimi, so now it is time to head to Kimura Fresh Fish. This is a simple fish stall where you can get a plate and a small table to enjoy your meal directly from the seller. If you are someone who loves luxurious places, don’t get discouraged!

My partner got some sashimi with different types of tuna and salmon cuts and a set of sushi. He said that it was one of the best sushi of his life! If you don’t like raw fish like me, then you can also get your fish grilled in front of you.

Hot tea is complimentary and the price is really competitive for the quality of the food. Unfortunately, the seats are very limited so you have to arrive early.

If you want to try some sushi in a fancy Japanese environment, check 錦 鮨しん. It was recommended by our guide.

If you want something sweet don’t miss the famous Sawawa Japanese Maccha Sweets. Here you will find matcha ice cream with a different kind of intensity. That’s for sure one of the best things to do in Kyoto in 3 days. The shop also has a cafe and several matcha souvenirs.

Tea Ceremony

Visiting Kyoto and unlocking its secrets means understanding its traditions. Your 72-hour Kyoto itinerary has to include a must-try experience like a tea ceremony. We booked our experience in advance and that is what you should do as well. Click here to do it now!

Your hosts will take good care of you in a typical Japanese environment, where you will have a chance to take a breath and relax. This is a great way to escape the crowd of tourists, enjoy some silence, and make your 3 days in Kyoto even more unique and personal.

If you visit Kyoto during the peak season, I strongly recommend you book your experience in advance as it might get hard to find a spot once you are in the city.

Kiyomizu-Dera

The last sunset of your 3 days in Kyoto requires a very special view. So head to Kiyomizu-Dera through the picturesque Ninezaka and Sannezaka. Kiyomizu-Dera is known for its wooden stage, built 13 meters above the hillside and surrounded by maple and cherry trees.

Once you arrive at the gate you will have to take a little climb to get to the top and find your perfect sunset spot. Before getting on the top take a moment to appreciate the details of the temple and the scenic view of the Koyasu Pagoda. After you will be ready to see your last sunset in the Country of the Rising Sun and enjoy some illuminated beauty.

As you probably understood fall and spring is the time when the temple is the most spectacular with an explosion of colors and flowers. During these two seasons, the temple is illuminated at night.

It is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm; closing time is extended to 6.30 pm on certain days during the summer, and until 9 pm during the night illumination. The admission fee is 400 yen.

K36 (The Bar & Rooftop)

K36 is an ideal location to have your last dinner in Japan in style. The place offers eye-pleasing and delicious dishes from all over the world skilfully prepared with high-quality ingredients and products. 

The environment is elegant and chic. There is also a terrace with a stunning view of Hokan-Ji and old Kyoto. K36 also offers his guests a huge selection of local and foreign spirits, wine, and champagnes, making this the perfect place to celebrate 3 perfect days in Kyoto.

Things to know before visiting Kyoto

Japanese use Type-A plugs, so don’t forget your adapters. In case you don’t have one you can find it in the airports or at other famous stores like Don Quixote.

The currency is the Japanese Yen, and 1 euro is approximately 140 JPY. Cards and Apple Pay payments are mostly accepted in stores, but everything else will require cash. The good thing is that you can find ATMs in every convenience store.

You will need to use Google Maps and Google Translate a lot and it requires a good internet connection. Getting a local SIM or wifi router is the best solution, so you can purchase a sim here or book your wifi router here.

Is Kyoto worth visiting?

Kyoto was the ancient capital of Japan and it is a city with a timeless charm. If you are into old Japanese art and culture, there is no better place than Kyoto. When you visit Kyoto you will breathe centuries of traditions, which include unique architecture, delicious food, and art in all shapes.

I am sure you are familiar with the concept of Geisha or Maiko and Kyoto is the birthplace of it.

If you are lucky, you might encounter a real Maiko on the streets of Kyoto, but if not, you can always book a tea ceremony or private dinner with a Maiko, which is an old Kyoto tradition.

Kyoto’s nickname is the Eternal City and it counts more than 1600 temples. If you think they are too many, don’t worry, I am here to help you to cover the most epic ones in order to make your trip to Kyoto unforgettable.

How many days in Kyoto?

3 days in Kyoto is the perfect amount of time to enjoy all the essentials of Kyoto. You will taste delicious sushi and wagyu, and try some unforgettable experiences like a tea ceremony. If you’re wondering: is 3 days in Kyoto enough? My answer is yes, but I warn you, this requires some early wake-up calls.

In this itinerary, we will cover how to spend 3 days in Kyoto and how to maximize your time in this charming city. I will add some optional stops, so this itinerary suits different travelers and interests.

If you wish to discover all the secrets of Kyoto and all the surroundings I recommend you spend at least one week in the city.

How to move around Kyoto?

When visiting Kyoto for 3 days, choosing the right method to move around is essential to save time and money. I will add more tips within the itinerary so you know what is walkable and where you will need transport, but here are the best ways to move around Kyoto together with pros and cons.

Bus

Kyoto has a very efficient bus service that covers all of the city. This is a fantastic way to explore the city since the lines make long roads and, most of the time, end up in central Kyoto.

Keep in mind that Kyoto is one of the most visited cities in the world and a lot of locals use public transport every day. This means that during rush hours, buses can be really packed and sometimes even late due to this situation.

A single ticket costs 230 yen and it’s ideal to cover long-distance since it’s a fixed fare. Keep in mind that you pay only when you get off and you will have to pay with the right amount of cash. In case you don’t have it, you can change your money at the machine near the driver. Alternatively, you can buy a daily pass for 700 yen.

Train and subway

Trains are a wonderful way to move around Kyoto. They are quick, punctual, and comfortable. I recommend using the train any time is possible for you. During 3 days in Kyoto itinerary, you will have to use the train to reach popular attractions like Fushimi Inari temple.

There are 2 lines of subways in Kyoto and countless train stations all around the city. The prices can vary according to the distance, alternatively, you can buy a metro daily pass for 800 yen.

Bike

There are several bike rentals in the city of Kyoto and since the majority of the terrain is flat this could be a fun and convenient way to explore the city. Kyoto is a bike-friendly city and you can find a space for your bike outside every major attraction and train station.

Prices vary between 1000-1500 yen per day for basic bicycles, but if you want to go electric it can be around 1700-2000 yen.

Taxi

Finding a taxi in Kyoto is extremely easy due to the big amount of tourists. Taxi can be a good way to move around Kyoto, especially to cover short and medium distances outside of rush hours. 

Kyoto is a very big city and its attractions are very spread and often, you have to climb to reach them. If you want to give a rest to your legs it can be a good idea. For groups of 2 or more, it can cost the same or even less than the bus.

You can use Uber in order to get an approximate price for your destination, however, it is a bit more expensive. But it can be a great solution for early mornings when there are not many taxis around.

Walking

Walking in some areas of Kyoto is undoubtedly the best thing to do when you visit Kyoto in 3 days. But keep in mind that this won’t always be possible as the city is pretty big and the attractions are very spread

Further reading for 3 days in Kyoto

Travel tips for Kyoto:

• How to Rent a Kimono in Kyoto: Detailed Process with Prices
• Best Kyoto Tours: Unique Experiences in Kyoto That You Don’t Want to Miss
• 18 Best Free Things to Do in Kyoto + Kyoto Budget Tips
• 13 Best Ryokan in Kyoto with Private Onsen That Will Blow Your Mind
• Where to stay in Kyoto? Hotel Review of Mimaru Kyoto Nijo Castle
• 15 Best Places to Photograph Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto

Travel tips for Osaka:

• 15 Best Photo Spots in Osaka That You Can’t Miss
• 12 Best Ryokans in Osaka with a Private Onsen
• Osaka Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Osaka
• 10 Best Food Tours in Osaka for Foodies
• How to Plan a Day Trip to Himeji: Travel Tips and Things to Know Before Visiting

Travel tips for Tokyo:

• 13 Best Tokyo Tours: Fun and Unique Experiences in Tokyo
• 13 Incredible Hotels With Tokyo Tower View In Tokyo
• 15 Epic Hotels with a Mount Fuji View in Japan

Or read more about Kyoto | Osaka | Tokyo | Himeji | Nara | Uji | Japan

In conclusion…

If you were wondering what to do in Kyoto for 3 days, I am sure that now you are fully prepared for your trip and can’t wait to discover this unique Japanese city. And I believe this Kyoto travel guide will help you make the most of your time.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so if you have any feedback or additional tips, leave a comment below. Also, check out my Instagram for regular travel videos and travel inspiration. Or explore other destinations on this travel blog.

Pin it for later and save the best things to do in Kyoto for 3 days!