The Perfect 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary for First Timers

Kyoto was once the capital of Japan and one of the oldest cities in the country. Imagine yourself wandering through serene temples, savoring delectable street food, or strolling along picturesque paths lined with cherry blossoms. This 3-day Kyoto itinerary is crafted with you in mind—my fellow solo travelers and adventure seekers—ensuring you make the most of your visit while feeling safe and inspired. 

So why should you listen to me over the other bloggers out there? Simple. I lived in Japan for three years and have been to Kyoto multiple times… I speak the language, understand the culture, and know the country like a local would.

Blog Posts You Might Like:

• The Ultimate Guide To Solo Female Travel in Japan
• The Perfect 4-Day Osaka Itinerary 
• The Perfect Day Trip to Nara Itinerary 

What To Pack For Japan

I highly recommend packing as light as possible… Because believe it or not you’re going to end up buying a lot of Japanese shit. (Trust me, I tell myself I’m not gonna buy so much stuff and then I do.)

My favorite travel suitcase brand is Béis. I’m obsessed with their weekender bag, carryon, and checked luggage. Use my code for $15 off your first order and 150 points toward your new account.

Travel Essentials For Travel in Japan

• Japan travel adapter – Japan uses the same plugs as the USA which is types A and B. 
• Unlocked phone – Book a simcard before you visit Japan and pick it up at Narita Airport.
• USB power strip – This is great for charging multiple electronics at once and saving space.
• World Nomads Travel Insurance – Give yourself peace of mind. They have flexible COVID-19 cancelation plans.
• Toothpaste – Japanese toothpaste sucks. Bring your own from home.
• Important documents – Bring copies of any important medical documents and a copy of your passport. Leave one copy on your fridge just in case.
• Your passport – This should be a given, but please don’t forget it.
• Credit Cards/Debit Cards – Many restaurants, restaurants, and establishments take card.
• Medication – TSA allows you to bring essential medication in your carryon. 

Solo Travel in Japan Sim Card

Japan has insanely fast internet… Although they are very stingy for sharing wifi. I do recommend you get a sim card so you can stay connected at all times.

There are 3 major carriers in Japan—Docomo, AU, and Softbank. You can easily book a physical Japan sim card here. 

Get An E-Sim Card for Japan

One of the coolest things I discovered in my travels is the beauty of an E-Sim card. Why is it so great? It gets downloaded directly to your phone and is activated immediately. This works best if your phone is unlocked. You can purchase an E-sim card for Japan here.

Get Pocket Wifi

If your phone is locked and you’re unable to switch sim cards out, the next best option is to rent pocket wifi. This is also great if you’re traveling with a friend or have multiple devices to connect. Book your pocket wifi here. 

Worried About The Japanese Language Barrier?

A language barrier may seem scary during a solo trip to Japan. These apps and are all things I’ve used and tested myself.

1. Google Translate

This is a free app where you can put in your mother tongue and target language. You can also take photos and Google will translate.
Google Translate for iPhone | Google Translate for Android

2. Japanese Pod 101

Learning some easy travel phrases is a good way to prepare for your oncoming trip to Japan. Check out their free Japanese word of the day guide here. 

3. Pocketalk

The Pocketalk is a super cool device as it translates 82 different languages. It even has a text to translate camera. This is great for helping you navigate around Seoul. What I like most is its small enough to fit in your pocket or in your purse. You can buy your Pockettalk here.

4. Time Kettle

The Timekettle is amazing if you’re going for a longer term trip and want to make friends. Each person gets an earbud and through the app the conversation is translated in real time. It’s super nifty and also a great Korean language learning tool. You can buy your Timekettle device here.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Sadly, COVID-19 is here to stay and now a daily part of life. I recommend booking World Nomads Travel Insurance. With the World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can expect: 

1. Trip Cancelation – This benefit helps you recover non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs when you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, including for an unexpected sickness that keeps you from traveling.
2. Emergency Medical – The only thing worse than catching COVID-19 is getting infected away from home. If you get sick with COVID-19 or another illness, you can get diagnostic tests to confirm your case and other emergency medical benefits.
3. Medical Evacuation – If you’re in an inadequate medical facility, our plans have benefits that can arrange a transfer to a hospital capable of treating your medical needs.
4. Trip Interuption – During your travels, you might have to return home early. With trip interruption, you could get reimbursed for a one-way, economy-class ticket home and any pre-paid, unused portions of your trip if you need to change your plans for a covered reason.
5. Trip Delay – Even when there isn’t a pandemic, traveling can have its bumps and hiccups. If your travels are delayed at least six hours by a covered event, you can be covered.

How To Get To Kyoto

Kyoto is connected through Japan via bullet train aka the Shinkansen. The high-speed train is the perfect way to get to Kyoto. The train station you will go into is Kyoto Station. 

How To Get Around Kyoto

While in Kyoto, I highly recommend getting the Hankyu One Day or Hankyu Two Day Pass. It makes public transport super easy.

You get unlimited train travel to Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, stop-offs at popular tourist attractions, exclusive discounts for foreigners, and convenient pickup locations from the JR Namba Line or Kansai International Airport. 

If you plan on doing a a big Kansai trip and visiting Osaka, Nara, Kyoto,Okayama, Wakayama, Tottori, Or Lake Biwa, I suggest getting the 5 Day Kansai Wide JR Rail Pass. 

Always Have Cash

While having an abundance of cash on you in the West may make you squeamish, that’s not the case in Japan. It’s not uncommon for people to have $500 worth of cash in their wallets. Since Japan is a cash is king society, this is seen as a social norm.

Where To Stay in Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary

Below is my guide on the best places to stay in Kyoto. Additionally, I have another blog post on where to stay in Kyoto you can check out here.

Luxury Hotels in Kyoto

• Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto – The property features a tea house by a pond in a Shakusuien Japanese garden. They also offer spa facilities including an indoor swimming pool, 2 whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and 7 spa treatment rooms.
• Ritz-Carlton Kyoto – This luxury 5-star hotel features high-standard services and guestrooms that are among the most spacious in Kyoto. Guests may enjoy complimentary use of the indoor swimming pool and the fitness center during their stay.

Ryokan in Kyoto

• Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado – Located 1.1 mi from Kyoto International Manga Museum, Kyokoyado Muromachi Yutone provides accommodations with free WiFi in Kyoto. This is a beautiful traditional Japanese style accomodation.
• Yamada Ryokan – This is a 3-star accommodation for those looking to budget yet have a traditional Japanese experience.

Mid-Range Hotels in Kyoto

• The Celestine Hotel Gion – This is a modern Japanese hotel close to Kiyomizudera Temple and about a 10-minute walk away from Gion-Shijo Station. They have a free public bath where guests can relax after their excursions.
• The Machiya Ebisuya – Located in the center of Kyoto, this hotel provides air-conditioned rooms, a garden, free WiFi, and a shared lounge. Each room has an electric teapot, a private bathroom with a bidet, and free toiletries.
• Yoin Hotel Kyoto Gion – Set in the Higashiyama Ward district of Kyoto, this hotel is a 5-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station and an 11-minute walk from Shoren-in Temple.

Budget Hotels in Kyoto

• Apartment Hotel 7Key S Kyoto – The property is conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Shijo Station and a 6-minute walk from Karasuma Station. Guests can access a washing machine on the property plus private bathrooms with a high-tech toilet, hairdryer, and free toiletries.
• Hotel GOCO Stay Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi – This 3-star hotel offers luggage storage space and free WiFi. The rooms are equipped with a fridge, microwave, an electric tea pot, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk.

What to Eat in Kyoto

Kyoto was the capital of Japan for a very long time; therefore, it has the best cuisine available. When you’re in Kyoto, you should try these yummy treats. 

• Tofu
• Yuba (Tofu skim)
• Kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine)
• Shojin Ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine)
• Kyo-wagashi (traditional Kyoto sweets)
• Yodofu (tofu cooked in hot broth) 

Of course, if you’re in Kyoto you shouldn’t miss out on favorite dishes like sushi, udon, ramen, yakiniku (Japanese bbq), tempura, and unagi. While in Kyoto, I recommend some of these food tours to get a good taste of what Kyoto has to offer. 

​Recommended Food Tours in Kyoto

• ​Kyoto Sake and Brewery Tasting Tour
• Kyoto Kaiseki Food Experience
• Kyoto Michelin 3-star Hyotei Food Tasting

3-Day Kyoto Itinerary Map

Day 1: Central Kyoto

On your first day, bring your best pair of sneakers because there’s a lot of walking in this three-day Kyoto itinerary. We’ve got a full day of the best things to do in this beautiful city! 

Nishiki Market

The first stop on your Kyoto adventure should be Nishiki Market, often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” This bustling market is a must-visit for food lovers. Stroll through narrow aisles lined with food stalls selling everything from fresh seafood to traditional sweets.

Try a Japanese breakfast of miso soup. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in local flavors and pick up some unique snacks for the day ahead.

• Nishiki Market Half Day Morning Walking Food Tour
• Traditional Japanese Sweet Tasting Private Half Day Tour
• Kyoto 2 Hour Nishiki Market & Depachika Tour With a Local

Nijo Castle

After a refreshing morning, make your way to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle is famous for its nightingale floors, which squeak to alert residents of intruders. Wander through the beautifully decorated rooms of Ninomaru Palace and be sure to take lots of photos. 

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Next, head to the Kyoto Imperial Palace just a short distance away. This historical site was once the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.

Philosopher’s Path

In the afternoon, take a peaceful walk along the path of philosophy. This stone path follows a canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees, making it especially picturesque during cherry blossom season.

The path gets its name from the famous Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who is said to have used it for daily meditation. This scenic route is dotted with quaint cafes and small shops. At the end of the path you will make it to your next destination.

Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) 

The next stop on our Kyoto tour is the temple complex known as Ginkakuji. About a 5-minute walk away is Ginkakuji which is another Buddhist Temple. Like it’s golden counterpart, it boasts a silver rooster on the top.

Gion District and Pontocho Alley

As the day winds down, head to the Gion District, Kyoto’s famous geisha area. The best time to spot geisha or maiko is around 11pm to 5am. I would suggest that you be respectful and mind your manners. If you would like to see a Maiko performance try this one here.

Don’t miss Pontocho Alley, a narrow street parallel to the Kamogawa River, known for its charming lantern-lit dining spots. This is an ideal place for dinner, offering a variety of Japanese cuisine options in a picturesque setting.

• Kyoto Night Foodie Tour in Gion
• Pontocho Evening Foodie Tour

Hanamikoji Street

Before calling it a night, walk down Hanamikoji Street in the Gion District. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) on their way to an appointment. The historic architecture and ambiance make it a memorable way to end your first day in Kyoto.

Day 2: Western Kyoto

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Rise and shine, buttercup! We’re gonna have a magical morning at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Be sure to get there early before the crowds to truly take it in… Because it truly is a pain in the ass to get around once they’ve arrived.

Enjoy the tranquility of the early hours by walking through towering bamboo stalks. It’s a perfect spot for those Insta-worthy photos that will capture the natural beauty of Kyoto.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Next, wander over to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just a short walk from the bamboo grove. This beautiful temple has beautiful Japanese gardens designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscapes. The temple’s stunning Sogenchi Teien garden is a wonderful place to pause and take a rest.

Arashiyama Monkey Park

I personally hate monkeys and find them to be evil spawns of Satan… However, if you’re looking for a unique experience, make your way to the Arashiyama Monkey Park. A short hike up the hill will reward you with close encounters with wild monkeys and breathtaking views of Kyoto.

Lunch Break

After your monkey adventure, it’s time for a lunch break. The Arashiyama area is filled with charming cafes and restaurants. Try a traditional Kyoto-style meal, such as yudofu (tofu hot pot) or kaiseki (a multi-course meal), to give yourself a cultural experience.

Ninnaji

Popular sites in Kyoto often bring large crowds. Overlooked because of Kinkakuji, this is a great spot to take a break. It’s a beautiful place to get the feel of a real shrine without all the people. It’s well-preserved and a must-see.

Ryoan-ji Temple

At whatever point you look at the rectangular plot, one of the fifteen rocks is hidden from view. The rock garden can be admired from Hojo, the former residence of the head priest.

Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

This Golden Temple is covered in gold leaf and reflected beautifully in the surrounding pond. It’s one of Kyoto’s most famous attractions and a must-see for any first-time visitor. This zen temple is a great place to learn the rich history of early Japanese culture.

Kyoto’s Night Scene

Downtown Kyoto is beautifully illuminated after dark, offering a different perspective on its historic sites. Consider visiting a tea house for a traditional tea ceremony or exploring the many bars and restaurants in the downtown area. 

Day 3: Eastern Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Shrine

I hope you got your beauty rest kids, because we’re about to have another early morning. Our second day will start with the Shinto Shrine Fushimi Inari Taisha.

This is one of the most photographed sites in Japan because of the thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind up the mountainside. Fun fact… The closer to the top of the hill, the less tourists there are.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

The name of this place translates directly to Pure Water Temple. The main hall was constructed entirely of food and no nails were used.

Kiyomizu-dera is arguably one of Kyoto’s main attractions and Kyoto’s most famous temples. The temple grounds are expansive, with numerous halls and pagodas to explore.

Visit the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from the three streams of water for health, longevity, and academic success.

Hokan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)

This is another Instagram Worthy spot in Kyoto and one of the most recognizable buildings. It lies in the middle of an old Kyoto neighborhood, between Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka-jinja Shrine. 

Yasaka Shrine

This vibrant shrine is known for its bright orange gates and lively atmosphere especially during the Gion Festival in summer. The Gion Matsuri dates back over a thousand years and involves massive floats and hundreds of participants. 

Optional: Maruyama Park

Adjacent to the shrine is Maruyama Park, a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring and beautiful foliage strolls in autumn. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants around Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park where you can relax and refuel.

Byodoin Temple

In my opinion, this is the most beautiful temple in Kyoto. It’s built near a bond and the grounds are peaceful. In addition, there won’t be as many tourists like with Fushimi Inari and and Kinkakuji.

Recommended Kyoto Experiences

• One Day Kimono Rental in Kyoto
• Kyoto Onsen Experience | Uji Hot Springs
• Ninja Cafe Experience in Kyoto

I hope this itinerary has not only guided you through Kyoto’s highlights but also inspired your adventurous spirit. Kyoto is a city you will definitely keep coming back to. No matter what season you travel, I guarantee it will be a beautiful experience.

This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!

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