1-Day Kyoto Itinerary
Experience the best of Kyoto in a single day. Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the enchanting Gion district. Perfect for first-time visitors with limited time.
Your Day-by-Day Schedule
Start Early at Fushimi Inari Taisha
Begin your day at the iconic thousand torii gates. Arrive early to beat the crowds and experience the mystical atmosphere. Hike as far as the first viewing platform (Yotsutsuji) for excellent city views.
- • Free admission, open 24 hours
- • Hike takes 2-3 hours to summit, or 45 min to halfway point
- • Wear comfortable shoes
- • Bring water for the hike
Lunch Break
Head to Kyoto Station area or near Kiyomizu-dera for lunch. Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hotpot) or kaiseki.
- • Budget: ¥1,000-2,000
- • Book ahead for popular restaurants
- • Many places near Kiyomizu-dera on the walk up
Kiyomizu-dera Temple Complex
Explore one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples. Walk through the historic Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka preserved streets, visit the main hall with its famous wooden stage, and enjoy panoramic city views.
- • Admission: ¥400
- • Don't miss the wooden stage (13m high, no nails)
- • Visit Jishu Shrine (love shrine) at the top
- • Shop for souvenirs on Ninenzaka street
Maruyama Park & Yasaka Shrine
Stroll through Maruyama Park, Kyoto's oldest public park. Visit the adjacent Yasaka Shrine, an important Shinto shrine beautifully illuminated in the evening.
- • Free admission
- • Great photo opportunities
- • Cherry blossoms in spring (late March-early April)
- • Connected directly to Gion
Explore Gion District
Wander through Kyoto's famous geisha district. Walk along Hanami-koji street, cross Tatsumi Bridge, and explore the traditional machiya houses. If lucky, spot a geiko or maiko (geisha).
- • Best time for geiko spotting: 5:30-6:30 PM
- • Respect geiko - don't chase or grab them
- • Visit Kennin-ji temple if time permits (¥600)
- • Many traditional tea houses and restaurants
Dinner in Gion or Pontocho
End your day with dinner in one of Kyoto's atmospheric dining areas. Gion offers upscale options, while nearby Pontocho (a narrow alley) has great riverside restaurants.
- • Budget: ¥2,000-5,000
- • Reservations recommended
- • Try kaiseki (traditional multi-course)
- • Pontocho has river views in summer