Kyoto 3 Days – First‑Timers Itinerary

A calm, well‑paced 3‑day plan for Kyoto’s essentials — Higashiyama lanes, Arashiyama bamboo, Fushimi Inari, and temple gardens — with short transfers and clear timing.

Overview

Kyoto rewards early starts and short routes. This first‑timers plan groups nearby sights to reduce backtracking and mixes temples with cafés, gardens, and short breaks.

USD amounts are approximate for comparison.

Getting Around

  • IC card (ICOCA/Suica) for buses and trains. Typical fare ¥210–¥360 ($1.50–$2.50).
  • Use taxis (base ~¥600 / $4) for short evening hops when legs are tired.

Day 1: Higashiyama & Gion

Morning (Kiyomizu‑dera → Sannen‑zaka/Ninen‑zaka)

Details:

  • Opening: ~6am–6pm (varies)
  • Cost: ¥400 ($3)
  • Time needed: 2–3 hrs including streets
  • Location: Higashiyama
  • Note: Wooden stage; heritage streets below

Arrive at opening, explore the temple, then descend through preserved lanes with craft stores and sweet shops.

Lunch

Udon/soba near Higashiyama, ¥900–¥1,300 ($6–$9).

Afternoon (Yasaka Shrine → Maruyama Park → Gion)

Walk through the shrine and park; pause at a tea house. Late afternoon, wander Gion’s side streets.

Evening

Pontocho alley for dinner options (early to avoid waits).

Day 2: Arashiyama & River Walks

Morning (Bamboo Grove & Tenryu‑ji)

Details:

  • Opening: Outdoor; Tenryu‑ji garden ~8:30am–5pm
  • Cost: Garden ~¥500 ($3.50)
  • Time needed: 2–3 hrs
  • Location: Arashiyama
  • Note: Arrive early; then garden and riverside

Stroll the bamboo path at sunrise, visit Tenryu‑ji’s garden, and head to the riverside for a snack break.

Lunch

Riverside cafés or bento from station shops.

Afternoon (River or Monkey Park)

Choose a gentle riverside walk or, with older kids, the Iwatayama Monkey Park (steep path; bring water).

Evening

Train back toward central Kyoto; easy dinner near your hotel.

Day 3: Fushimi Inari + Optional Nara

Morning (Fushimi Inari Taisha)

Details:

  • Opening: 24 hours (lit paths)
  • Cost: Free
  • Time needed: 1.5–3 hrs (turn back as needed)
  • Location: Fushimi
  • Note: Thousands of torii gates; shade and steps

Start early to avoid crowds and heat. Do a short loop suited to your pace.

Lunch

Simple noodles or curry near the station.

Afternoon Option A (Kyoto City)

  • Sanjusangendo (1001 Kannon statues) or Kyoto Railway Museum (rainy‑day win).

Afternoon Option B (Half‑day Nara)

  • JR or Kintetsu to Nara (45–60 min). See friendly deer and Todai‑ji’s Great Buddha; return to Kyoto for dinner.

Practical Notes

  • Many shrines/temples have stairs; bring a light stroller and baby carrier.
  • Cash for small admissions and sweets. ATMs at convenience stores.
  • Respect quiet signs; keep snacks outside sanctuaries.

Booking Essentials

Want this plan adjusted for your hotel location and pace?

Create My Personalized Kyoto Plan