I’m a world traveler, content creator, and luxury travel planner passionate about crafting authentic adventures for fellow wanderers. Having explored over 60 countries across all 7 continents, I've gained a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and wildlife. Not everyone knows where in the world they want to go next. I hope the blogs within the following pages give you the clarity and travel inspiration you need to say yes to adventure.
If you’re looking for a zen vacation, Kyoto is the place for you. It is the cultural capital of Japan, and thanks to its many beautiful gardens and temples, the city is considered one of the most tranquil places in Japan.
In this blog, I’ll share my Kyoto travel guide and a Kyoto travel itinerary.
Fushimi Inari Shrine & Torii Gates: This iconic pathway is lined with thousands of vibrant red torii gates, leading to a breathtaking view at the summit of Mount Inari.
Yasaka Pagoda (or Hokan-ji Temple): This majestic five-story pagoda graces the skyline of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district and symbolizes the city’s rich history.
Yasaka Shrine (or Gion Shrine): A prominent Shinto shrine in the Gion district of Kyoto with a beautiful lantern-lit pathway.
Kinkakuji Temple (or Golden Pavilion): A stunning Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, famous for its shimmering gold leaf exterior, located in the Kita Ward.
Kiyomizu-dera: Recognized for its architectural significance and natural beauty, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
Places – Where to Go:
Pontocho Street: A magical street with a traditional Japanese aesthetic. Pontocho Alley is Kyoto’s most atmospheric area and go-to food, drink, and nightlife spot.
Gion Corner: Kyoto’s famed Geisha District has many tea houses, entertainment, and restaurants. You can also spot real Maiko (geisha apprentices) walking here.
Ninenzaka Street & Sannenzaka Street: Stone-paved pedestrian roads with Japanese architecture and Kyoto-esque shops & restaurants
Arashiyama: Kyoto’s second-most important sightseeing district, known for its beautiful scenery. It’s filled with temples, shrines, and the famed Bamboo Grove.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: A mesmerizing natural wonder with towering bamboo stalks that create a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama: A popular attraction known for its troop of Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) that roam freely to be fed by visitors.
Arashiyama Kimono Forest: A hidden gem spot that few tourists know about
Kibune: A small village outside of Kyoto known for its laid-back riverside atmosphere and lush greenery.
Kawadoko Dining: Experience Kawadoko dining, where restaurants build covered platforms over the river, allowing visitors to dine while the water flows beneath them.
Kifune Shrine: An enchanting shrine nestled amidst maple trees, dedicated to the god of water and rain, holding spiritual importance believed to protect those at sea.
Eats – Best Restaurants in Kyoto:
Hirobun Flowing Noodle Restaurant – Kibune
Menbaka Fire Ramen Restaurant – a unique experience
Old Starbucks – previously a Japanese Bathhouse
Nishiki Market – 400 year old market
Ramen Sen-no-Kaze – for ramen
Gyoza ChaoChao – for dumplings
Honke Owariya – for Soba
Izuju Sushi – for sushi
Hisaya Cafe – for various desserts
Kumonocha Kiyomizu – for dessert sets
Maccha House – for macca dessert
Stays – Best Hotels in Kyoto:
→ Contact me to help you pick the best area to stay in Kyoto and book your stay with PERKS!
Navigate to the “Hotels” section at the top to search your hotel
See what extra Virtuoso Perks are offered at your selected hotel!
Enter your preferred dates – “Check Rates and Availability”
Then select “Book” once you make your selection! (NOTE: You will need to create a Virtuoso account using your laptop if this is your first time using the Virtuoso Hotel Booking portal.)
If you already have made an account, proceed with payment information and you will receive a Virtuoso email with all the details!
I will reach out to you directly to confirm your stay and perks, plus confirm with the hotel that you are marked as a VIP before your stay 🙂
Exclusive Perks May Include:
Complimentary Daily Breakfast
Up to $300 Hotel Credit
Priority for Room Upgrade
Early check-in + Late check-out (if available)
VIP Greeting & Welcome Amenities on Arrival
+ more!
Ready to explore the zen city? Here’s my four-day Kyoto travel itinerary!
Stunning vistas from the pagoda view suite in The Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu
Day 1: Fushimi Inari
Catch the bullet train to Kyoto & enjoy a bento breakfast on board
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