Kyoto
Japan
Japan's cultural heart — temples, geisha, and zen gardens
About Kyoto
Kyoto was Japan's capital for over a thousand years, and its legacy lives on in 2,000+ temples, traditional tea houses, bamboo groves, and geisha districts. It's the spiritual counterpart to Tokyo's electric energy.
Quick Facts
Best Time
March – May, October – November
Language
Japanese
Currency
JPY (¥)
Timezone
JST (UTC+9)
Avg Budget
$90–140/day
Top Things to Do
6 must-see experiences in Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up a sacred mountain
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Ethereal path through towering bamboo stalks on the city's western edge
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Gold-leaf temple reflected perfectly in a mirror-like pond
Gion District
Historic geisha quarter with tea houses, lantern-lit streets, and traditional arts
Nishiki Market
Kyoto's 400-year-old kitchen — pickles, matcha sweets, and fresh tofu
Philosopher's Path
Cherry-tree-lined canal walk connecting temples in the eastern hills
3-Day Sample Itinerary
A taste of what TripGenie can create — fully customized to your preferences.
Day 1: Temples & Shrines
- Early morning at Fushimi Inari (beat the crowds)
- Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
- Lunch at Nishiki Market
- Afternoon at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Day 2: Bamboo & Geisha
- Morning walk through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Visit Tenryu-ji Temple and gardens
- Afternoon stroll along the Philosopher's Path
- Evening in Gion — spot a geisha
Day 3: Tea & Tradition
- Traditional tea ceremony experience
- Visit Ryoan-ji rock garden
- Lunch at a traditional kaiseki restaurant
- Day trip to Nara to see the deer and Great Buddha
Travel Tips for Kyoto
Get a Kyoto bus day pass for unlimited rides — most temples are accessible by bus.
Visit Fushimi Inari at sunrise to avoid crowds and get magical photos.
Cherry blossom season (late March–mid April) is peak. Book accommodation 3+ months ahead.
Rent a bicycle — Kyoto is flat and cycling is the best way to explore between temples.
Ready for Kyoto?
TripGenie creates a personalized Kyoto itinerary in 60 seconds — completely free and tailored to your style.
Plan My Kyoto Trip