Kyoto, Japan: 3 Days Itinerary
*Note: the itinerary is not a full 3-day itinerary.
Kyoto is one of the places in Japan that I have longed to visit for such a long time. And finally, it came a reality.
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Arrived in Kyoto past 2pm from Tokyo via Shinkansen, then left the luggage at the coin locker outside the station. There are a lot of coin lockers throughout the station building, some locker areas can quickly get full so just walk around to find empty ones. They come in different sizes at different rates ranging from ¥300 to ¥700; be sure to prepare ¥100 coins.
There are cabs outside the station as well as bus, however, the hostel was only around 15-20 mins walk. So, I decided to walk despite rushing to catch my 4pm appointment at Studio Esperanto for my Oiran Photography.
Day 1 - Afternoon
After checking in at the Guesthouse Wind Villa, the hostel owner helped me hail a cab as I was running late. Luckily, I made it on time.
The Oiran Photoshoot, including hair and make-up preparation, took around 2 hours, however, I needed to wait for the printed photos to be completed. As such, I left the studio nearly 7pm - already dark. Since that the night was still early, it would be a waste to go back at the hostel and do nothing. And one of the places that can be visited at night in Kyoto was the Yasaka Jinja (open 24 hours except for the inner shrine). The shrine was roughly 20-30 mins walk from the photo studio.
Yasaka Shrine + Maruyama Park
The Yasaka Shrine features a two-story romon entrance gate facing the street that is easily distinguishable with its bright colours. The gate has become a popular photo spot among tourists, especially the stairs, making it a distinct landmark. Backed with 1,350 year history, the shrine (also known as the Gion-sha) is considered the most famous shrine in the Gion area due to its unique character and natural charm.
While the shrine looks lovely at day time, it becomes lovelier at night time. The lights add life to the surrounding, especially the lanterns at the dance halls. During the visit, it was a surprise to find food stalls lining on both sides of the walkway after passing through the front entrance towards the Maruyama Park. The shrine's grounds are part of the park.
Unbeknownst to me, there is a popular cherry tree in Maruyama Park - the Gion Shidare-zakura (weeping cherry tree).π Standing 12 metres tall, the 100-year old tree looks majestic and graceful with its thin, dropping branches hanging down like threads. The weeping cherry tree is so mesmerising and such a sight to behold.
Hanamikoji Street
A particular street or alley in Gion caught my interest during the trip planning. It looks so unique and charming as seen in many photos online. Situated in the Gion district, the Hanamikoji Street is less than 10 minutes walk from the Yasaka Shrine. This street is deemed as one of Kyoto's most popular streets due to its traditional wooden merchant houses and quaint teahouses (ochaya). The picturesque alleys have become tourists' must-take-photo spot.
Despite the effort in trying to find that specific alley, the mission was a failure. π Partly it was getting late, so I told myself, the next time I come back, I will have a photo on that street. Sadly, I think that promise might no longer be feasible as Kyoto implemented new rules, restricting tourists from entering certain private streets in Gion district. I am quite certain that that particular alley is included. π
Kenninji
At the end of the Hanamikoji Street is the Kenninji Kitamon (North Gate). Unlike other temples that look equally beautiful in daytime and nighttime, Kenninji seems to exude a different vibe at night while strolling around. Less people tend to visit it when the sun goes down which makes it more serene (based on personal experience).
Kenninji has several large halls and gates with roughly 2 dozen smaller buildings around. Going inside most of the temple grounds is free, but entering the main buildings requires an entrance fee. Inside the main buildings, visitors can admire the interiors and explore the gravel and moss gardens.
Day 2 - Morning
Those who have been to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest recommended heading over as early as you can, eg. 6AM (?) to avoid the crowd....
Just a quick segue. The Tenryu-ji Temple is actually on my list to visit in the area. Tourists going to the Bamboo Forest will pass by it since it is just a few metres away from the main starting point of the bamboo groove. However during the visit, the crowd outside the gate waiting for the temple to open was getting bigger, so I decided to give it a skip.. next time for sure. π
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Situated near the base of the "Storm Mountain" in the Arashiyama district, this world renowned bamboo groove features a seemingly endless rows of swaying bamboo. Strolling the paths lined with the towering bamboos offers a relaxing retreat to nature and a serene and dreamlike experience. That is if you come at a good time. The popularity of the bamboo forest had lead to it being too congested. Tourist from across the globe flock to this spot to take instgrammable photos against the lush green surrounding.
Arriving at Saga-Arashiyama Station by 7am was a good decision, but earlier would have been a better option. Approximately 10 - 15 minutes walk is required from the station to the bamboo forest entrance, and there are enough signages, so it's quite impossible to get lost. Surprisingly, at around 7am, there are already (many) visitors in the area, especially in the spot where the bamboo looks vivid green and thick - but this area quickly transforms into an arena with sold out tickets. Yes, it became crowded in a span of just an hour - you can see tourists (solo with a tripod taking photo/selfie/video or group asking random stranger to snap photos) in the middle of the pathway (almost blocking the entire walkway). π The crowd even gets thicker between 10am to 12nn.
Being open 24 hours, maybe the best time to visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is 6am (or earlier) and at night. Most likely there will be less people in the area.
At the end of the winding bamboo forests, there are two ways to go - (assuming you are facing against the bamboo forest) on the left side is going to the Arashiyama Park while the right side is leading to the other scenic spots in the area.
Following the path down on the right side, you'll come across the gate to the Okochi Sanso Garden then further ahead is the Torokko Arashiyama Station and further more are the Ogura Pond and the Mikami Shrine. Upon learning that the Okochi Sanso Garden is a teahouse (thanks Google), it should be worth visiting.. or is it? π€
Okochi Sanso Garden
Known as a serene Japanese Garden & Tea House, the ΕkΕchi SansΕ used to be the home and garden of popular Japanese actor DenjirΕ ΕkΕchi from the age of 34 until his passing. Now, the villa features a traditional home, Buddhist halls, tea house, and a well-cultivated Japanese-style gardens.
The villa is open to the public for an admission fee of ¥1,000 per adult and ¥500 per child. The entrance fee comes with a free sweet and a matcha tea. The Okochi Sanso Garden is open daily from 9am to 5pm.
The main house demonstrates the style of traditional Japanese residential architecture which indeed looked interesting. Surrounding the house are some cherry blossom trees, so the garden is even prettier in spring.
Meanwhile, the teahouse offers a relaxing ambience surrounded by lush green trees. But the main attraction here is the garden which spans 20,000 square meters. Yes, the garden is so huge with different types of plants and trees and unique structures in various spots; in fact, there is an observation deck at the highest point offering breathtaking views of Kyoto below.
Need to go to the loo? There's also toilet inside, but of course, you need to pay the fee to get in. π
Arashiyama Park
On the other side of the bamboo forest is the Arashiyama Park where you can find observation decks and the Kameyama area which is a popular scenic spot for cherry blossoms. The park is quite big, so there are many things to see and do, including taking the Hozugawa River boat ride (rowboat excursion in scenic surrounding) and strolling across the Togetsukyo Bridge where you can soak up the views of the surrounding mountains and river while filling your lungs with fresh air.
The unobstructed view of the natural landscape makes Arashiyama Park a perfect destination during spring season when the cherry blossoms add a touch of pink hue into the surrounding, and autumn season when the foliage transforms the surrounding into a breathtaking display of colour.
Afternoon....
Sagano Scenic (Romantic) Train
One of the things I truly enjoyed in Kyoto was the Sagano Romantic Train ride. I have this fascination with steam train or those old trains/trams - they look so cool. As such, when I found out about the Sagano train experience, I had to try it.... π
Looking nostalgic in its 19th-century retro appearance, the Sagano Romantic train meanders through scenic countryside and along the Hozugawa River. The journey takes around 25 minutes from Saga Torroko station to Kameoka Torokko station (the most popular route), however, you can opt for a round trip journey. Some visitors choose the one-way trip then take the Hozugawa River boat back to Arashiyama.
During the trip, it was (mid) spring time; the cherry blossoms were already in past full bloom stage, but we still managed to see some sakura trees along the way. We were spoilt with spectacular views, especially when some tree branches brushed on the train's transparent roof (certain car). Apart from the cherry blossom season, the route also offers an enchanting experience during the autumn foliage season as the train passes through the maple tunnel and gorge above the river.
Taking the Sagano Romantic Train makes a perfect activity after visiting some interesting sights in Arashiyama.
Tips: Book in advance (online) your slot during peak seasons as it gets easily fully booked. Cars 1- 4 are considered standard cars with windows that can be opened. Meanwhile, Car 5 is somewhat popular among many tourists since it is an open air car with transparent (glass) roof, meaning you can enjoy the breeze and wind while soaking in awe-inspiring views. I booked Car 5, but sadly, the window side seats were sold out, so I opted for seat C.. still okay. π
Ticket price: ¥880 per adult
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Kyoto's famed "Golden Pavilion", Kinkaku-ji Temple is recognised as one of the most renowned historical and cultural buildings in Japan. This iconic temple draws many visitors all year round - yes, even during winter when the snow's white colour contrasts exquisitely with the temple's colour, creating a spectacular sight. π
What makes it famous? Built in 1397, the temple's first floor is made with natural wood and plaster while the top two floors are covered in brilliant gold leaf. Its golden hue makes the temple's reflection in the pond truly incredible. Adding a sense of tranquility within the vicinity is the beautiful landscape. However, the path around the pond is somewhat narrow, often causing heavy traffic during peak periods.
Opening Hours: 9am - 5pm
Admission Fee: ¥500 per adult
Philosopher's Path
Is Philosopher's Path worth the visit? On a personal and honest take, I would say, it depends... on what time of the year and if you have time. Some might disagree since it is indeed a great place to check out year round, but those who have limited time in Kyoto might want to skip it unless you visit during spring or fall.
The Philosopher's Path, or Tetsugaku no michi, is a stone path along the Lake Biwa Canal (Biwakososui), spanning around 2 kilometres long starting in Ginkakuji and ending in Nanzenji. In 1972, the route was officially named the Philosopher's Walk after prominent philosopher, Kitaro Nishida, who often take walk along the path. It will approximately take 30 minutes to complete the walk on a steady pace, but most visitors make leisure stroll.
Along the path lined around 500 Sakura trees, offering spectacular cherry blooms views in the spring. During the fall season, the path transforms into a different scene as leaves change color - bright red leaves reflect in the water. The charming scenery during these two seasons is the primary reason why it draws large crowds.
There are a few attractions near the Philosopher's Path, so with mini-detours, you can find lesser-visited temples and shines.
Fare: ~ ¥230
Admission Fee: Free
During my visit, I came from Keage Station passing by the Keage Incline which I love! π It took around 25 - 30 minutes walk from the station to the Philosopher's Path.. and it was a bit drizzling. π Nonetheless, all was worth it after seeing the Sakura trees and no crowd since it was late and drizzling.
Day 3 - Morning
When it's your last day in Kyoto (half day actually), you need to make sure it's worth it.... so yes, waking up early was needed to tick off a couple of items in the bucket list.
Yasaka Pagoda (Hokan-ji Temple)
The Hokan-ji Temple, popularly known as the Yasaka Pagoda, is considered as a symbol of Gion and one of the famous landmarks and favourite photo spots among tourists in Higashiyama, Kyoto. Built in 589, the pagoda stands 46-metre tall (5 story) with sloping, tiered roofs on each tier and features impressive interior architecture, statues, and faded paintings.
Sitting in the middle of an old Kyoto neighbourhood, visitors strolling around the district can take a photo in the alleys with the pagoda as the backdrop.
Access: 5-minute walk from City Bus Stops Higashiyama-Yasui or Kiyomizu-michi
Hours: 10:00 - 15:00
Admission Fee: ¥400 (Children under 12 not allowed in the pagoda)
Time to Spend: ~30 minutes
Fushimi Inari Taisha
For most tourists (if not all), visiting Kyoto is not complete without going to the head shrine of the kami Inari, the Fushimi Inari-taisha. Situated on and around Mt. Inari, it serves as home to around 30,000 Inari shrines around the country and features a long tunnel of some 10,000 vermilion torii gates that seem endless.
Wondering how the shrine accumulated thousands of torii gates?
A bit of history:
Did you know that each torii gate represents someone's gratitude to the deity of the shrine? Visitors whose wish came true or pray for prosperity donate a torii gate. This tradition is centuries-old and still being practiced now, hence, the shrine collected countless gates that originated the name "a thousand gates" (senbondorii). Each torii gate contains the donor's name and the date of the contribution written at the back.
Is it worth hiking?
The torii gates are erected on paths winding up the mountain, passing through heavily wooded heights to more remote inner shrines and finally, to the summit at 233 metres high. The vivid colour of the gates lining up the walkways exudes such charming ambieance, making the hike less tiring. The deeper you go in to the forest, the more you will discover hidden gems of the shrine.
Climbing for approximately 45 minutes will lead visitors to the Yotsutsuji intersection which offers a panoramic view of Kyoto. Many visitors just hike up to this intersection and take photos.
What else can you see in Fushimi Inari?
The large torii gate right outside the local station is the first thing that visitors will come upon, then continue to the towering two-storied rΕmon gate before reaching the main hall (a red building up the stairs). Taking a stroll throughout the shrine's grounds lets you see several statues of kitsune, foxes who are considered the messengers of god, Inari.
Want some souvenirs? There are numerous shops selling different items and memorabillia.
Overall, the climb to the top and back will take 2-3 hours. However, I only did it for 1 hour 19 minutes with a total distance of 4.98 km. π€£
Reminders: Wear comfy footwear if you plan to climb to the top. You will need more time and more energy to reach the summit if you are not into hiking. It can get exhausting towards the summit, take some stops if you must. π
Kamo River
If there's one spot in Kyoto that I regretted not discovering soon was the Kamo River. The guesthouse was just a stone throw away from the river, so it can't be missed.. this spot was my gem. Why? Well, I managed to have some photos under the sakura trees without a single soul around. π
Kamo River stretches 31 metres in length with concrete riverbank, making it a good place to chill at night time or jog in the morning. The path of Nakaragi-no-Michi is said to have a cherry blossom tunnel that looks magnificent during spring time, but if you don't want to walk far, crossing the Shichijo Bridge from the ShichijΕ Station and walking towards the Kyoto Station by the river, you will be greeted by rows of cherry blossom trees. π What a lovely scenery!
After spending 2 nights and 3 days in Kyoto, it was time to head to Osaka! It was quite effortless - took the local train to Osaka; it is way cheaper than taking the JR. π
Discovering Kyoto was so much fun! See you again then! π
Transpiration Summary
Tokyo π Kyoto
Fare: ¥13,970
Depart: 12:12 via Nozomi 31
Arrive: 14:23
Seat: E (view of Mt. Fuji)
Kyoto π Osaka
Fare: ¥410
Duration: less 1 hour