How to Spend 2 Days in KYOTO Japan | Travel Itinerary
If you only had 48 hours in Japan, THIS is
the city you cannot miss. Kyoto isn’t just history—it’s magic. Golden temples that shine
in the sun, bamboo forests that feel alive, and geisha streets that transport you back
in time. In this ultimate 2-day guide, I’ll reveal the must-see spots, hidden food gems,
and insider hacks to make your trip absolutely unforgettable. Let’s go!
Best Time to Visit If you want Kyoto to steal your heart,
you absolutely have to aim for the magic of spring and autumn. Visit between March and
May, or October and November, when the city transforms from beautiful to breathtaking.
In the spring, the temples are framed in soft pink as the cherry blossoms peak. It is the
wonderful walking weather, staying comfortably warm around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, or 16 degrees
Celsius. Then autumn arrives, and it turns those very same gardens into an inferno of red and
gold maple leaves under a clear, crisp sky. Of course, summer and winter are certainly
options, but they bring more challenging weather: summer is hot and humid,
while winter is quiet and cold. If you are looking for that sweet spot,
the perfect balance of incredible scenery and comfortable temperatures, make sure
to book your trip between late March and mid-April or late October and mid-November.
That is when Kyoto truly feels timeless. Airport Tips
Starting your trip in Kyoto is remarkably simple, as transportation is
efficient and straightforward. Most international flights arrive at Kansai International Airport
(KIX), situated about 48 miles, or 77 kilometers, away from the city center.
If speed is your priority, the Haruka Express train is the best choice.
This dedicated train provides a smooth, comfortable ride directly into Kyoto Station in
only about 75 minutes, costing roughly 20 dollars. For a hassle-free journey, especially if
you have bulky bags, consider the Airport Limousine Bus. This option runs directly to many
major central hotels with no transfers, taking about 2 hours for a fare of around 18 dollars.
While taxis and private cars are available, keep in mind they are quite expensive. The fare
can easily exceed 160 dollars, so reserve them only if you are traveling with a large group.
Ultimately, the train is your ideal blend of speed, comfort, and efficiency, a
great introduction to Japanese travel. Where to Stay Finding the right place to stay in Kyoto
will define the entire feeling of your trip, and fortunately, the best areas
are all incredibly well-connected. If your focus is on budget and easy access to
transit, the area right around Kyoto Station is your best bet. As the city’s main transport
hub, it offers many reliable, modern hotels with great value. Here, budget-friendly options
typically start around 30 to 60 dollars per night. For a more central and lively experience, base
yourself in Downtown Kyoto, specifically around the Kawaramachi and Shijo streets. This
district perfectly blends modern shopping and fantastic dining, and offers easy walking
access to the Gion area. The hotels here are primarily mid-range and boutique, with great
options like the Cross Hotel Kyoto generally starting around 120 to 180 dollars per night.
Finally, if you want to immerse yourself in old-world Kyoto charm fully, look no further
than Gion or the picturesque Southern Higashiyama district. This is where you find the traditional
wooden houses, serene streets, and luxurious properties. This is the most expensive area,
where rooms at high-end spots like the Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion typically begin well
over 250 dollars per night, but they offer the most memorable, traditional stays.
How to Get Around Navigating Kyoto effectively means mastering
a combination of walking and public transit. While many of the historic districts,
like Gion and Southern Higashiyama, are wonderful to explore on foot, the city itself
is too large to rely solely on walking. You will definitely need a reliable public transit
strategy to get between the major areas. The key to efficiency is combining trains and
buses. The Subway and Train lines are fast and excellent for quickly navigating between major
districts or heading to places like Arashiyama or Fushimi Inari Shrine. The city’s Bus system
is your workhorse for sightseeing, as it reaches nearly all the famous temples and shrines not
covered by the rail lines. A single ride on these buses costs approximately 1 dollar and 50 cents.
The best value is almost certainly the Subway & Bus One-Day Pass. This pass offers you
unlimited travel on all city buses and subways for the day for around 7 to 8 dollars. This
pays for itself after just five rides, making it a fantastic deal for active sightseeing days.
Insider Tip: Skip the hassle of buying individual tickets by getting a reusable IC card like ICOCA
or Suica. You simply tap and go on all trains, buses, and subways, saving you from fumbling for
cash or paper tickets at every single turnstile. Day One – Temples, Traditions,
and the Heart of Gion Morning – Fushimi Inari Taisha
You need to start your first morning early to enjoy Kyoto’s most iconic sight:
the thousands of vibrant orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Getting here right after
sunrise is essential, as the crowds quickly become overwhelming. The easiest way to get here from
Kyoto Station is the JR Nara Line Local Train; the journey is direct, fast, and takes
only about 5 minutes to Inari Station. This legendary sacred site is dedicated to
Inari, the fox god of rice and prosperity, which is why fox statues appear everywhere,
guarding the pathways with stone-still grace. The trail passes through more than 10,000 bright
red torii gates, each one donated by individuals and businesses hoping for good fortune.
Start the climb up the mountain, and soon enough, the crowds thin out. Even if you don’t go all the
way, walking part of the path is unforgettable; it’s like moving through a living painting. You
will find quiet, local shrines and beautiful views along the way. Entry here is always free, and
you should plan for about 2 to 3 hours if you want to complete a good portion of the trail.
This is a place meant to be felt, not rushed. Insider Tip: If your trip happens to fall in
early July, check the schedule for the Motomiya Festival. During this mid-summer event, thousands
of lanterns are lit across the shrine grounds and mountain, creating a mesmerizing, illuminated
view unlike any other time of the year. Late Morning – Lunch at Nishiki Market
Right after that fantastic morning at the shrine, it is time to recharge at Nishiki
Market, the city’s most beloved food street. To get here efficiently from Fushimi, simply
return to Kyoto Station, then take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station, which puts you right
into the market area in under 10 minutes total. Locals call this covered, five-block arcade
“Kyoto’s Kitchen.” The moment you step inside, the sensory experience begins:
the air fills with the delicious, complex aromas of sizzling seafood and sweet
mochi, and the cheerful chatter of specialized vendors creates its own kind of music. You will
find yourself in a maze of fascinating goods, from fresh food and unique pickled vegetables
to expert knife shops and colorful sweets. This is the ideal spot for tasting your way
through Kyoto. You can easily sample amazing street snacks, with costs typically ranging
between 3 dollars and 12 dollars per treat. If you’d rather sit down for a meal, casual eateries
tucked within the market offer quick, traditional dishes like rice bowls. To unlock the full story
behind the stalls, consider booking a guided food tour. These tours, often priced between 60 dollars
and 80 dollars, ensure a local expert guides your palate through all the market’s hidden gems.
Insider Tip: While street food is tempting, remember that in Japan, eating while walking is
generally considered impolite. Be sure to step aside or find a stall counter where you can
pause and fully enjoy your plates mindfully! Afternoon – Gion District Stroll
After lunch, take a relaxed walk into the legendary Gion District, Kyoto’s traditional
geisha quarter. This area is a true step back in time, defined by its exquisite preserved wooden
architecture and serene canals. Gion offers two distinctly beautiful views: exploring by day
allows you to soak in all the rich details of the buildings and narrow lanes, while the evening
is magical as the paper lanterns start to glow. Keep your eyes open, especially
along the famed Hanami-koji street, for the elegant maiko and geiko. This district
is the historic center for their profession, as geiko are Kyoto’s traditional professional
entertainers, specializing in dance, music, and tea ceremony, and maiko are their dedicated
apprentices. You might catch sight of them, dressed in traditional, colorful kimonos, as
they make their way to private engagements. Observing this living history is one
of Kyoto’s most cherished experiences, but remember to always respect their privacy.
Tea Ceremony and Geisha Show While you are in the Gion area, arranging a
traditional Tea Ceremony or a performance is an absolute must-do experience; it is your chance
to directly witness the artistic culture the geiko represent. If the timing of your trip doesn’t
align with a large event, remember that the Gion area and Kyoto in general have many tea houses
that offer authentic, easily bookable, daily tea ceremony experiences throughout the year.
For a comprehensive show, look into the public dances like the Gion Odori. This large-scale
performance is staged by the geiko and maiko of the Gion Higashi district, featuring
stunning music and traditional dance. It usually runs for a short period in the
autumn, typically from November 1st to the 10th. Insider Tip: If you want to guarantee a spot for
a grand, traditional show, the Gion Odori at the Gion Kaikan theater is the perfect ticket. The
performance is staged by the Gion Higashi Kabukai, and they typically offer two showings a day.
Tickets for the show alone cost about 50, and you have the option to add a tea service
served by a maiko before the performance begins. Because this is a limited, annual event, you must
secure your spot and reserve well in advance! Late Afternoon – Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine
As your Gion stroll ends, you will naturally emerge at the majestic Yasaka Shrine,
which acts as the eastern gateway to the geisha district. Be sure to walk through
this beautiful, historic shrine first before stepping right into the adjacent Maruyama Park.
This park is Kyoto’s oldest and most popular spot for hanami, or cherry blossom viewing. The
park is at its absolute best in early April, when its huge weeping cherry tree is in glorious
full bloom, especially when illuminated at night. It is a wonderful, expansive place to sit and rest
after your afternoon of exploring. You can enjoy the stroll gardens, streams, and find a casual
place to grab a drink or a snack. If you are not visiting in the spring, the park is still a quiet,
scenic refuge throughout the year and provides a lovely base before your evening activities.
Insider Tip: If you happened to miss it during your walk, the unique Yasui Kompiragū Shrine is
located right nearby. This popular spot is known for its large stone monument, known to attract
good luck, especially in relationships. It makes for a quick and interesting detour!
Evening – Dinner in Gion After a day full of historic beauty and
traditional experiences, you deserve a wonderful meal! You won’t need to travel
far, because you are in the best dining neighborhoods. Gion offers some of Kyoto’s most
diverse dining experiences, spanning from cozy, high-quality casual spots to elegant fine dining.
If you are looking for something flavorful, fast, and relatively inexpensive, head to GYUKATSU
Kyoto Katsugyu. This specialty restaurant focuses on Gyukatsu, tender beef cutlet that
is crispy on the outside and medium-rare on the inside. It’s served set-meal style with
various dipping sauces. A complete set meal here typically costs 20 to 30 dollars, making
it a very popular, unique Kyoto specialty. For a completely different and more intimate
experience, try Teppan Tavern Tenamonya. This small, homely tavern is run by a husband-and-wife
team and specializes in high-quality Teppanyaki, or grill-cooked food, and Okonomiyaki, which
are savory pancakes. Dinner here generally runs between 30 dollars and 40 dollars
per person. This spot is very small and requires a reservation well in advance, but
the high-quality A5 Wagyu steak and the warm, friendly service make it worth the effort.
Enjoy your dinner and remember that for the most exclusive spots in Gion, always
secure your reservations ahead of time. Late Evening – Kyoto Tower
If you have any energy left after your dinner, make one final stop at the Kyoto
Tower next to Kyoto Station. This is Kyoto’s tallest structure and offers spectacular
360-degree night views from its observation deck. It is a great, modern contrast to
the temples and traditions of your day. You can buy tickets both online and right on
the spot on the first floor. The observation deck is typically open from 10:00 AM to
9:00 PM, with the last admission around 8:30 PM. The admission fee is approximately
900 yen, or about 6 dollars per person. It is a fantastic way to take in all the
city lights before calling it a night! Day Two – Nature and Refined Cuisine
Morning – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Start your second day bright and early at
the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. This spectacular natural wonder sits slightly
outside the city center, which means, just like your visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha,
starting your day here early is essential. To get there quickly, hop on the JR Sagano Line
from Kyoto Station directly to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The scenic ride takes only about
fifteen minutes, and from the station, the entrance is just a quick ten-minute walk.
Your goal should be to arrive right after sunrise; Walk beneath towering stalks of bamboo that feel
like they reach the clouds, bathing the path in an ethereal green light. This pure magic
makes setting the early alarm worthwhile! Insider Tip: Don’t miss the views! After
soaking up the atmosphere of the grove, take the few-minute walk to the Arashiyama
Park viewpoint. From here, you get dreamy, panoramic views of the Katsura River and
the quaint Daihikaku Senkō-ji Temple. It is a short detour that offers
one of the best vistas in the area! Late-Morning – Brunch in Arashiyama
After that refreshing walk through the bamboo, it is time for a well-earned brunch.
Arashiyama has some unique cafes that blend Japanese tradition with mouthwatering
food, offering you a choice of ambiance. If you are looking for a distinctly Japanese
experience, stop at eXcafe. This cafe is housed in a machiya, a traditional wooden townhouse,
with a tranquil garden view. They are known for their Hokuhoku Odango Set, where you get
to grill your own skewers of sweet rice dumplings over a small charcoal grill right
at your table. It’s interactive and fun! A satisfying sweet and tea set here costs
approximately 10 to 15 dollars per person. Alternatively, for a traditional savory meal, look
for Ogura Cha-Ya. Located right near the temples, this charming spot specializes in delicious
udon noodles and classic Japanese sweets like zenzai. With full meals and desserts,
expect to pay 15 to 20-dollar per person. Afternoon – Onsen Experience
After your early morning exploration and brunch, you have a chance to recharge with a
traditional Japanese hot spring, or onsen. This essential ritual involves soaking in
mineral-rich, naturally heated water, and Arashiyama is well known for its springs.
For a deeply relaxing full experience, indulge in a long soak right in the area.
Look for Kyoto Arashiyama Hot Spring Resort, Fufu. This popular spot offers both serene
indoor baths and a rustic open-air bath, known as a rotenburo. Admission here typically
costs between 7 dollars and 9 dollars per person, depending on the day you visit.
If you are short on time, you can still get a wonderful boost by trying
the fast, welcoming relief of the Footbath-Onsen right at Arashiyama Station before you travel.
This is a quick and comfortable experience, simply remove your shoes and socks and dip
your feet! For only about 2 dollars per person. Insider Tip: If you choose the full onsen
experience, be aware that these baths are enjoyed fully undressed in the gender-separated
areas, and you must thoroughly wash yourself at the provided washing stations before
entering the main spring pool. Also, remember the local custom of never letting your
small washcloth touch the water while you soak! Afternoon – The Golden Pavilion
Now it is time to head across the city for a breathtaking change of scenery at
Kinkaku-ji, the Temple of the Golden Pavilion. To make the trip fast from Arashiyama, simply
take the JR Sagano Line to Enmachi Station, and then transfer to a quick local bus. The entire
journey will take you around 30 to 40 minutes, bringing you right to the gates
of this spectacular destination. Kinkaku-ji is truly unforgettable, and you will
quickly see why it is one of Kyoto’s most iconic views. The temple is famous for its three-story
reliquary hall, which is entirely covered in dazzling gold leaf, set against a mirror-like
pond called Kyokochi. The highlight of your visit will be seeing the structure’s perfect,
shimmering reflection on the water. Be sure to take your time walking the short path around
the temple and its gardens to fully absorb the golden atmosphere and snap those iconic photos!
Admission is only about 3 dollars, and the temple closes at 5:00 PM, so aim to arrive as early as
possible to give yourself enough time to explore. Evening – Kaiseki Dinner
After a long day of sightseeing, prepare for your dinner to be an event in itself: the
exquisite Japanese haute cuisine known as Kaiseki. More than just a meal, kaiseki is considered an
art form: a traditional multi-course experience where every small dish is highly seasonal and
beautifully presented to reflect the time of year. Since this is the pinnacle of Japanese dining, you
will need to reserve your spot well in advance. For a traditional experience near the Gion area,
you might try Aji Fukushima. This restaurant focuses on authentic Kyoto cuisine, using
premium seasonal ingredients and delicate broths. Dinner here will generally cost between 140 and
170 dollars per person for their tasting course, promising an elegant experience highly praised
for its mastery of classic Kyoto flavors. If you are looking for a slightly more
introductory option, consider Ishibekoji Kamikura. Nestled in a charming stone-walled
alley, this spot offers a more casual but still refined seven-dish seasonal kaiseki. Dinner
courses here start at around 45 to 60 dollars per person. This unforgettable, artistic dinner
is the perfect finale to your day in Kyoto! Two days in Kyoto is all you need to fall in
love with the soul of Japan. It’s a city that leaves you feeling inspired and amazed. If this
itinerary helped you plan your own trip, remember to like and subscribe to the channel, and keep
exploring the world with us. Next stop is Tokyo!
Planning a short trip to Kyoto and want to see the BEST temples, shrines, food spots, and hidden gems — all in just **2 days**? This **step-by-step Kyoto itinerary** shows you exactly where to go, what to eat, how to get around, and how much everything costs.
🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Video:
• Best places to visit in Kyoto in 2 days (2025 updated)
• Exact route to avoid crowds & long lines
• Cost breakdown (transportation, food, entry tickets)
• Where to stay in Kyoto (best neighborhoods: Gion, Kawaramachi, Arashiyama)
• Local tips Japan guidebooks never tell you
• MUST try foods: matcha ice cream, wagyu skewers, mochi, yudofu, and Kyoto ramen
💲*To streamline your travel planning, we’ve converted all local currency prices into USD. This simple step means easy budgeting for our international travelers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip without the fuss of currency calculations!*
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▬▬▬▬▬▬ T I M E S T A M P S ⏰ ▬▬▬▬▬▬
00:19 Intro
00:55 Best time to visit Kyoto
01:50 Kyoto Airport Tips
02:54 Where to Stay in Kyoto
04:17 How To Get Around Kyoto
05:37 Day 1 –Temples, Traditions, and the Heart of Gion
05:41 Morning – Fushimi Inari Taisha
07:08 Late Morning – Lunch at Nishiki Market
08:40 Afternoon – Gion District Stroll
10:55 Late Afternoon – Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine
12:10 Evening – Dinner in Gion
13:32 Late Evening – Kyoto Tower
14:12 Day 2 –Nature and Refined Cuisine
14:18 Morning – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
15:18 Late-Morning – Brunch in Arashiyama
16:17 Afternoon – Onsen Experience
17:34 The Golden Pavilion
18:36 Evening – Kaiseki Dinner
19:50 Final Thoughts
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