Kyoto 5-day Itinerary
Japan
Where to go and what to see in Kyoto to get the most from your trip – a 5-day itinerary from destination expert and Japan travel writer Rob Goss.
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Overview >Bucket list experience:
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Last updated: 27 November, 2022
A sprawling mountainside shrine complex with trails covered by thousands of vermillion-coloured torii gateways, Fushimi Inari has become one of Japan’s most photographed sites.
Founded in the 8th century, but with most of the spread-out buildings dating to the 1500s, the shrine is one of the most sacred in Japan. It’s dedicated to Inari, the god of rice, sake and prosperity, and functions as the head of some 40,000 Inari sub-shrines nationwide.
It’s a wonderfully eerie place to explore, and a pleasing way to soak up traditional culture while getting some fresh air and exercise.
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Price from: £2
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 6+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
Like the rest of Kyoto’s attractions, it’s easy to do Fushimi Inari independently. The challenge is avoiding the crowds. To do that, keep walking. Many people don’t go very far on the torii-covered trail after snapping their photos, so the crowds will thin out.
The full two- to three-hour trail to and from the peak of 233m Mount Inariyama’s peak isn’t hard, but it’s still best to wear sturdy shoes and take a drink and a snack.
When to do it
The trails are open year-round but try and avoid the midday and afternoon heat in July and August. Even in the shade, heatstroke can creep up on you with the humidity of a Japanese summer.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Hotel Kanra
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[3.2 miles]
Japanese and Scandinavian sensibilities combine at this mellow hotel north of Kyoto Station.
Official star rating:
Celestine Kyoto Gion
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[3.5 miles]
An affordable hotel offering modern Japanese simplicity and hospitality in the historic Gion geisha district. A great base for sightseeing.
Official star rating:
BnA Alter Museum
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[3.7 miles]
One for art aficionados – a minimalist boutique that’s a living art gallery. All rooms are created by local artists.
Official star rating:
Miru Kyoto Nishiki
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[4.4 miles]
Old-Kyoto meets contemporary Japan at this centrally located boutique hotel geared to budget-conscious travelers.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Kyoto
Kansai, Japan
Ancient temples and shrines, sublime cuisine, manicured gardens, colourful geishas and living history in spades – Kyoto is traditional Japan at its best.
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Overview >Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Geishas in Gion
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[4.3 miles]
Kyoto’s historic Gion quarter is the place to see Japan’s mysterious and enigmatic geisha. Dressed in colourful kimonos, complimented by elaborate hairstyles and oshiroi make-up, they’ve been entertaining Japan’s wealthy and well-connected for centuries.
Best for ages: 10+ | Free
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Kinkakuji Temple
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[8.9 miles]
The stunning, gilded temple of Kinkakuji, casting its golden reflection onto an islet-studded pond, is the iconic Kyoto image. A UNESCO World Heritage site.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[10.7 miles]
The towering stalks and soft light of Arashiyama’s much-photographed bamboo grove make this iconic Kyoto sight an almost otherworldly experience.
Best for ages: 4+ | £3
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Overview >Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Experience
Kenninji Temple
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[3.7 miles]
Established in 1202, this temple at the southern end of Hanami-koji has traditional Zen gardens and incredible ceiling murals of dragons (added in 2002). It claims to be the oldest temple in Kyoto.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
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Experience
Yasaka Shrine
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[4.1 miles]
The shrine that protects the Gion geisha district is one of Kyoto’s most distinctive sights. Entered through a roofed gateway painted a vivid vermillion, its grounds include a striking dance stage—used for performances during festivals—that’s adorned with several hundred lanterns lit each evening.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
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Experience
Nishiki Market
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[4.3 miles]
Stretching along five shop-lined blocks, Kyoto’s oldest food market immerses visitors in Kyoto’s culinary heritage. Over 100 stalls and restaurants offer all and anything food related.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
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Gekkeikan Sake Brewery
Kyoto, Kansai, Japan[4.3 miles]
Learn about and sample some of Kyoto’s best sake at this engaging museum-slash-brewery in Fushimi.
Best for ages: 13+ | £4