My 4-Day Kyoto Itinerary

Last Updated on January 28, 2025

Planning a trip to Japan’s cultural capital? I am sharing every single detail of my 4-day Kyoto itinerary, including the best things to do, where to stay and eat!

If you only have time to visit one city in Japan, make it Kyoto. There’s something special about this cultured city. With a history dating back to 794 AD, Kyoto is steep in history and traditions, where bamboo houses with rattan floors stand alongside old teahouses and hidden temples. Red torii gates stand regally in beautiful gardens, studded with stone bridges and ancient palaces.  

I’ve traveled Japan four times and Kyoto remains my favorite city in Japan. As Japan’s history and cultural capital, Kyoto has retained centuries of history and tradition. Due to this rich historical heritage, the former Japanese capital has a huge collection of UNESCO World Heritage landmarks. For the first-time visitor, here’s my recommended 4-day Kyoto itinerary for those who want to uncover the city’s secrets.

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My 4-Day Kyoto Itinerary

How to Get to Kyoto

The closest airport to Kyoto is Osaka International Airport (ITM), but it only operates domestic flights. Most foreigners will be arriving at are Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Many major airlines fly to Osaka but the best deals are on Japan Airlines, the national carrier. For instance, the cheapest direct flight from Los Angeles to Osaka Kansai costs around $705 and takes about 12 hours.

You can also find several flights from New York to Osaka Kansai but these typically connect through another major city. The cheapest flight from New York to Osaka Kansai costs around $1,159 and takes 19 hours. As for now, there are no direct flights between New York and Osaka.

Search for flights here!

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Getting from the Airport to Kyoto

Thanks to Japan’s efficient transportation network, getting from Osaka to Kyoto is a breeze. With a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), you can hop on a Shinkansen bullet train in Osaka and arrive in Kyoto in just 15 minutes. The pass covers airport transfers, local trains, and JR buses, giving you plenty of travel options. To book your JR Pass, check out 12Go for more information.

For those who prefer going at a slower pace, buses usually depart from three key locations in Osaka: Hotel Keihan Universal Tower, Universal Studios Japan, and Namba (OCAT). There are 5 daily departures and the journey typically concludes at Kyoto Station. Tickets start from around $13, though prices vary depending on the bus company and route.

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How to Get Around Kyoto

By Train

Japan is renowned for its outstanding rail network. Trains are the most convenient way to visit nearby cities such as Osaka and Nara. Ticket prices vary by distance and railway, with fares starting at 220 yen ($1.41) to 360 yen ($2.30). 

You can easily buy tickets at the automatic machines in the train/subway stations. If you’ve already secured a JR Pass, train travel within the city is free for you. All you’ve to do is just exchange your e-ticket at any JR office in the city.

By Bus

For areas where trains don’t reach, the efficient bus service helps bridge that gap. There are two main types of buses in Kyoto: fixed-route buses and sightseeing buses. The standard fare for fixed-route buses is 230 yen ($1.47) while the sightseeing limited express bus charges around 500 yen ($3.20).

The money changers on most buses only accept 1,000-yen bills. So, please either have some change ready before boarding or use a transportation IC card. IC cards are contactless prepaid cards that are used to pay for trains and buses in Japan. Some of the most popular ones include; Suica, PASMO, and ICOCA.

The JR Pass is also valid on some buses, particularly those operated by the West JR Bus company like the Takao Keihoku Line. It’s worth noting that during peak seasons, like cherry blossom and autumn foliage times, buses often become quite crowded. So, if you hate crowds, it might be better to hire a car to get around the city.

By Car Rental

I would recommend renting a car only if you’re planning to explore areas beyond Kyoto. During our two-week trip to Japan, we rented a car and found driving around the country to be easy and enjoyable. Driving in and around Kyoto is relatively straightforward, with clear signage and well-maintained roads. Just keep in mind that parking in Kyoto’s central areas can be challenging.

You’ll also need an international driver’s license to drive in Kyoto. For car rentals, I always recommend using Discover Cars, as they consistently provide excellent service and reliable options. 

Search for car rentals in Kyoto here!

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Kyoto Itinerary Day 1: Downtown Kyoto

Centered around the bustling Shijo-Kawaramachi intersection, downtown Kyoto is the perfect place to begin your adventure. I recommend staying in a hotel here, as it’s a convenient spot to explore the city.

Get Lost in Kawaramachi

Located along the west bank of the Kamo River, this bustling district is the heart of Kyoto. Head to the intersection of Shijō and Kawaramachi Streets, where you’ll find sleek boutiques and traditional kimono stores. Shopping addicts will have a field day here, running from store to store buying the latest fashion brands and souvenirs. 

Have Lunch at Nishiki Market

For a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine, Nishiki Market is the place to be. Often referred to as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this busy market is a treasure trove of traditional Kyoto flavors and culinary ingredients. Here, you’ll find stalls selling vegetables, fresh and dried seafood, and wagashi (Japanese confectionaries).

You can also sample local delicacies like tako tamago (skewered octopus balls with a quail egg inside) and dashimaki (a sweet and flavorful Japanese rolled omelet). For those visiting Japan with kids, don’t miss Snoopy Cha-Ya, a whimsical Snoopy-themed café and gift shop found within the market. Every dish on the menu is decorated with Snoopy, a hit with the kids. You can visit the market on your own or join this 3-hour guided tour for a seamless experience.

Wander around Geisha District

At the heart of Kyoto lies Gion, the city’s most famous historical district, known for the geishas who live in the area. Packed with bars, restaurants and traditional teahouses, Gion is at its most atmospheric in the early evening, when the lanterns are lit and apprentice geisha will flit about the back streets on their way to their appointments.

It’s quite popular to rent kimonos in Kyoto and wander around Gion, even among the Japanese. We had a great time playing dress-up.  To capture the special moment, we even booked a photography session with Flytographer. The results turned out great and we now have gorgeous family shots. If you’re interested in booking a photography session, use this link and the code “NELLIEHUANG” to get US$25 credit. 

Check Out Yasaka Shrine

Located in Gion District, Yasaka Shrine is a 1350-year-old Shinto sanctuary brimming with history and tradition. Here is where many locals worship and offer gifts to the gods. The front porch dazzles with hundreds of lanterns lit each evening, each inscribed with the name of a supporting local business.

Yasaka Shrine is at its most vibrant in July during the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals. During the festival, you find grand float processions and centuries-old traditions. Easily accessible by bus or train, Yasaka Shrine serves as a gateway to Kyoto’s history, beauty, and festivities.

See the View from the Kyoto Tower

For sweeping views of the beautiful city, head to the top of the Kyoto Tower. Standing at 131 meters, this iconic landscape offers an observation deck with stunning 360-degree views of the city’s skyline. Within the tower, you’ll also find souvenir shops, restaurants, and even a hotel. 

Tickets go for 900 yen ($5.76) for adults and 200 yen (about $1.28) for children aged 3-6 while kids under 3 years old enter for free. It can get crowded during the high season; I recommend booking your tickets in advance.

Take a Stroll along the Kamogawa River

Once a danger to the town due to flooding, the river is now a peaceful haven for locals. In spring, the river comes alive with hanami enthusiasts, marveling at the delicate cherry blossoms that line the pathways. Take a stroll along the Kamogawa river in the evening and you’ll find lots of locals exercising or doing taichi.

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Kyoto Itinerary Day 2: East Kyoto

East Kyoto is a captivating area with enough attractions to fill at least two days. The area is revered for its historic temples, shopping streets, and teahouses.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera (Pure Water Temple) is one of Japan’s most iconic temples. Founded on the site of the Otowa Waterfall, the temple was originally part of the Hosso sect, one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist schools. Recognized for its cultural significance, Kiyomizu-dera was added to the World Heritage Sites list in 1994.

The temple is also home to Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking. Here, many try to find their way between two stones 18 meters apart with their eyes closed. Success is believed to bring good luck in love, though being guided by another is interpreted as needing an intermediary in one’s love life.

At the base of the temple’s main hall is the Otowa Waterfall. Its waters are divided into three streams, each said to offer benefits like longevity, success in school, and a fortunate love life. However, drinking from all three is considered greedy.

To reach the Kiyomizu-dera temple, take a bus from Kyoto Station and get off at Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop. Then take a ten-minute uphill walk. The temple charges an admission fee of 500 yen ($3.2) for adults and 200 yen ($1.28) for kids.

Walk through Ninensaka and Sannensaka

Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are two ancient alleys in Higashiyama both leading up to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera temple. These charming streets are lined with souvenir shops and street food stalls selling ice cream, mochi, pickles on a stick, Japanese candies, and strawberries. Interestingly there’s even a modern Starbucks housed in a two-story, traditional Japanese building, perhaps the only one of its kind.

Attend a Tea Ceremony at Camellia FLOWER Teahouse

The Japanese love their tea and this beautiful teahouse has mastered the art of the not-so-simple-to-make brew. Located in the Ninenzaka neighborhood a few steps from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Camellia Flower Teahouse offers a truly immersive experience into the world of Japanese tea culture. Step inside a traditional machiya to witness a refined matcha ceremony.

While here, you can savor refreshing tea and delicate treats before learning the basics of tea-making from an expert instructor. Additionally, the teahouse features a kimono studio for those visiting in groups. The tea ceremonies aren’t cheap though, but they are absolutely worth splurging on, for the experience. The private tea ceremony starts from 8,000 yen ($51) per person, with a special rate of 15,000 yen ($96) for a one-person private session. Kimono rental is an additional 6,000 yen ($38) per person. Check out their website for detailed pricing.

Check out Sanjusangendo

Sanjusangendo is a remarkable temple in eastern Kyoto, famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Founded in 1164, Sanjusangendo’s main hall is the longest wooden structure in Japan, measuring an impressive 120 meters. Inside the main hall, you are greeted by a striking large wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon (Senju Kannon) at the center.

It’s surrounded by 500 life-sized statues of Kannon, each with 1000 arms, arranged in ten rows. The sight was awe-inspiring and one of the most beautiful landmarks I saw in Japan. Admission to the temple is 600 yen ($3.84) for adults and 300 yen ($1.92) for children, with a 50% discount for people with disabilities.

Check out Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku no michi) is a stone walkway that meanders through Higashiyama district, tracing a canal framed by hundreds of cherry trees. In early April, the path transforms into a fairytale-like setting as the blossoms burst into vibrant hues, making it a beloved destination for hanami enthusiasts. The path stretches two kilometers from Ginkakuji (the Silver Pavilion) to Nanzenji.

It owes its contemplative name to Nishida Kitaro, a revered Japanese philosopher who meditated here during his daily commute. You won’t pay any admission fee to access the Philosopher’s path but most of the temples here do charge a small entrance fee.

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Kyoto Itinerary Day 3: South Kyoto

The main attractions in South Kyoto are temples and shrines, but this is where you’ll get to slightly off the beaten path and into the local residential areas.

Visit Toji Temple

Toji Temple (Tōji) which means “East Temple” is a historic jewel of Kyoto. Originally paired with its now-lost counterpart, Saiji (West Temple), Toji flanked Kyoto’s southern entrance as a symbolic protector of the new capital. Today, it remains a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kondo Hall is one of the temple’s original structures. The hall houses 19 statues that were brought from China. Another standout feature is the five-storied pagoda, a 57-meter-tall masterpiece built in 826 making it Japan’s tallest wooden pagoda. The temple charges an admission fee of 500 yen ($3.2) for adults and 300 yen ($1.92) for kids.

Attend a Flea Market at Toji Temple

We happened to stumble onto a flea market on our trip to the Toji temple. The temple hosts the flea market every 21^st of the month. From the early morning hours until 4:30 PM, the bustling plaza and park surrounding the temple grounds transform into a vibrant maze of vendors.

You’ll find everything from vintage kimonos and intricate pottery to quirky toys and lush plants. The air is filled with the hum of bargaining, the scent of street food, and the irresistible charm of discovering one-of-a-kind antiques and handmade treasures.

Head to Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is a testament to Shinto tradition and one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. The shrine is renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, offering a captivating journey along trails that weave through the sacred forest of Mount Inari. It is one of the most Instagrammed places in Japan, so prepare to find lots of tourists here.

Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, the shrine features countless fox statues believed to represent Inari’s divine messengers. Open 24 hours a day and free to visit, Fushimi Inari is a spellbinding blend of spirituality and natural beauty.

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Kyoto Itinerary Day 4: West Kyoto

On the last day of your Kyoto itinerary, you’ll venture to the western part of the town, particularly the Arashiyama area.

Walk Through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

For most travelers, this is the highlight of Kyoto. The famous bamboo grove is a tranquil oasis that feels like stepping into a dream. As you wander along the bamboo-lined path, the lush green stalks tower overhead, creating a mesmerizing canopy that sways gently with the breeze.

Stand still for a moment, and you’ll hear the delicate rustle of the bamboo—a soothing symphony that melts away any tension. For the best experience, get there early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Tucked within this enchanting forest is the Nonomiya Jinja Shrine, a historic site once used by imperial princesses for purification rituals.

With its tiny moss garden, modest altar, and serene atmosphere, the shrine lets you relive the ritual. You’ll sprinkle water over your hands in a symbolic act of purification. Both the forest and shrine charge no admission fee. Come early though, as it gets very crowded after 9 am. I recommend exploring Arashiyama on foot with a local guide on this walking tour – it’s a great way to see the area!

Head to the Tenryuji Temple

Ranked first among Kyoto’s five great Zen temples, Tenryuji Temple is a spectacular landmark and a symbol of Japan’s cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also has its own school within the Rinzai Zen sect. Besides its historical significance, you’ll be drawn to its breathtaking 14th-century Zen Garden.

It’s one of the finest gardens I saw while in Japan. This serene landscape garden features a central pond framed by carefully placed rocks, stately pine trees, and the forested Arashiyama mountains, a beautiful masterpiece. The Tenryuji Temple charges 500 yen ($3.20) for adults while children enter for free.

Cross the Togetsukyo Bridge

Arashiyama’s most iconic landmark is the Togetsukyo Bridge, translated to mean ”Moon Crossing Bridge”. It was originally built during the Heian Period (794-1185) and most recently reconstructed in the 1930s. The bridge looks particularly attractive with the forested mountainside in the background. Take some time to unwind by the river or at the riverside park chocked full of cherry trees.

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Unique Experiences in Kyoto

Go on a Kyoto Rickshaw Tour

Rickshaws or jinrikisha were the earliest modes of transport in the late 1800s. They basically look like horse carriages but instead of a horse, a man stands in front and moves the rickshaw to the required destination. Most carriages are two-seaters, so it can be a romantic experience if you’re visiting with your partner. It’s a bit bizarre watching someone drag you through the town but the experience is one you’ll never forget. Book your tour here.

Join the Kyoto Samurai Tour

The samurai were part of the warrior class in ancient Japan. They adhered to a strict moral code and were identified by their swords (Katana). Today, several tours give insight into the lives of these brave men and how they lived among the people of ancient Japan. Many of these even let you play dress up and even wield the Katana. Book your tour here.

Go Sake Tasting near Fushimi Inari

Also known as Japanese rice wine, sake is an alcoholic brew made by fermenting rice. It’s not distilled and typically has a 15% alcohol volume. Sake has been part of Japanese culture for centuries and it was produced by imperial courts and temples mainly for religious rituals. Book your tour here.

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Day Trips from Kyoto

Kyoto offers a glimpse into ancient Japan, which is why it’s among the most visited towns in the country. Its location in the Kansai region makes it a perfect base for discovering the nearby towns. Japan’s efficient transport network means you can allocate a whole day for day trips.

The train system can get you to nearby towns in under an hour, allowing you plenty of time at the attractions. Here are some of the best day trips from Kyoto;

Head to Uji for Matcha

Just a short hop from Kyoto, Uji is a green tea lover’s paradise where serenity meets sensory delight. Stroll along Omotesando laneway, where charming shops tempt with locally sourced matcha in every imaginable form, from ice cream to soba noodles. Snack on chargrilled dango skewers, their sweet and smoky flavors perfectly complementing the bitter undertones of matcha.

Cross the Uji River to discover artisanal teahouses or, in summer, cap your visit with a tranquil wooden boat cruise. To get there, take a 28-minute Japan Rail ride.

See Deer in Nara

Nara is like a living storybook where history and mythology intertwine. As you stroll through the leafy expanse of Nara-kōen, you’ll come face-to-face with over 1,000 gentle deer. These majestic creatures roam freely and aren’t above nudging you for the crackers.

The park is also a treasure trove of history, featuring the awe-inspiring Great Buddha at Tōdai-ji, whose open hand is as tall as a person. For an enchanting start to your day, arrive by 9 a.m. to witness morning prayers at Kasuga Taisha. To get there: hop on a Rapid train from Kyoto Station, and in just 55 minutes, you’ll find yourself in Japan’s first imperial capital.

Eat Wagyu in Kobe

Kōbe, Japan’s easy-going nature city, is a wonderful day trip you can’t afford to miss. It is where the mountains embrace the seaport, creating picture-perfect views at every turn. From Kyoto, it’s a breezy 50-minute ride on the JR Limited Express Super Hakuto train.

Start your adventure by indulging in the city’s crown jewel: authentic wagyū beef. For a reliable and memorable feast, look for registered restaurants (these are identified by plaques in Japanese). We recommend Genkichi Kobe Beef for an elevated experience. We witnessed the exquisite teppanyaki on our visit. Teppanyaki is where chefs transform the art of cooking into a performance.

Next, head uphill from Sannomiya Station to stroll through tree-lined streets dotted with charming merchant houses, cozy cafés, and one-of-a-kind shops. Don’t miss Nunobiki Falls, a timeless muse for artists and poets.

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Where to Stay in Kyoto

In Kyoto, accommodation options range from world-class luxury hotels to budget-friendly business hotels, catering to every type of traveler. Downtown Kyoto which is located on the west bank of the Kamo River offers a mix of the Ponto-Cho Geisha district and the bustling Shijo Kawaramachi. You’ll find an abundance of shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Just to the north of downtown, the Kyoto Imperial Palace Area offers a quieter, more refined experience with its collection of elegant hotels. Kyoto Station is also a popular area to stay.

Luxury: Four Seasons Kyoto

Staying here is an experience that truly exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury in Japan. The rooms are spacious, exquisitely furnished, and equipped with every comfort, creating a haven of relaxation after a day of exploration. For moments of tranquility, guests can retreat to the hotel’s stunning Japanese pond garden or indulge in the rejuvenating Onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. Check out the rates.

Mid-range: Hotel Kanra Kyoto

This luxury hotel effortlessly merges the best of both worlds, offering a beautifully designed space where modern Japanese aesthetics meet thoughtful Western-style amenities. The staff go above and beyond to provide personalized service, making every guest feel like a VIP. Check out the rates here.

Budget: Good Nature Hotel

Located in the downtown area, Good Nature Hotel is one of the best budget hotels in Kyoto. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a massive bed, a cozy sofa, and a charming wooden floor that adds warmth to the space. The hotel also doubles as a nature-inspired shopping mall, featuring eco-friendly products and ten restaurants. Check out the rates here.

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Traditional Ryokans in Kyoto

One of the experiences I think every visitor must try in Japan is staying in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn that usually has tatami flooring, futons as beds, and onsen (hotspring). Staying in ryokans gives you the chance to experience how the Japanese traditionally used to live. Plus, they tend to be spacious, which makes it great for those traveling Japan with kids. 

But ryokans tend to be the same price or even pricier than modern three-star hotels in Japan. Secondly, you sleep on thin mattresses or futons that are laid out on the tatami floor. We had backaches after our second night, but we still recommend spending at least a night in a ryokan!

Luxury: Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado

This high-end ryokan injects luxury into the traditional Japanese inn and offers comfortable plush beds in tatami rooms, with contemporary Japanese flair. It has an intimate and elegant feel and definitely worth splurging for an exclusive experience. Its in-house restaurant is famous in Kyoto’s culinary scene, so be sure to try the outstanding dinner here. Check out the rates here.

Mid-range: Mitsuki Kyoto

Staying here offers an authentic and peaceful Japanese experience. This charming 130-year-old ryokan lets you sleep on tatami mats, immersing you in a truly traditional atmosphere. However, modern comforts aren’t overlooked: each room is equipped with a private bathroom featuring both a bathtub and shower, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Check out the rates here.

Budget: Toshiharu Ryokan

This beautiful, historic ryokan, constructed during the Meiji era (1868-1912), is registered as a cultural asset by the Japanese government. Guests can unwind in the ryokan’s intimate onsen, a private hot spring bath available for booking, or indulge in a soothing massage. Some rooms even offer views of a serene Japanese garden, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere of this charming retreat. Check out the rates here.

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Where to Eat in Kyoto

Kyoto is a culinary haven, renowned as the birthplace of one of my favorite dishes, kaiseki. If you’re a foodie unsure where to grab the best meals, I am here to help. Check out my Japanese food guide on the best Japanese dishes to try.

Karasemitei

One of our favorite meals in Kyoto was at Karasemitei. While here, we indulged in the best tonkatsu we’ve ever had. The breaded, deep-fried pork cutlets were exceptional, particularly the Hayashi fatty aged pork loin and the aged pork rib, which came with double the fat. Both cuts were incredibly juicy and packed with flavor. Check out the reviews here.

Tonkatsu Shimizu

Tucked away behind a sliding door, this restaurant is a cozy dive with walls covered in the scribbled messages of past patrons. The drink menu is refreshingly simple, with beers, sake, and highballs on tap. However, it’s the tonkatsu sando that steals the show. Unlike your typical thin cutlet, the pork in this sandwich is a giant, baseball-sized meatball, thick and juicy, making each bite a satisfying indulgence. Check out the reviews here.

Café Momoharu

Café Momoharu is an excellent breakfast spot in Kyoto. The café roasts its own coffee each morning, filling the air with rich, inviting aromas. We tried the bright and acidic Ethiopian coffee, which was wonderfully refreshing. However, the real highlight is their fluffy egg sando—a warm, indulgent treat. Soft, perfectly scrambled eggs are nestled between slices of pillowy bread. Check out the reviews here.

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When to Travel Kyoto

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) are the best months to travel Japan due to the mild weather and moderate humidity. Some spots can get overcrowded, especially during the cherry blossom season. Each year, the sakura season varies (usually around April), so make sure you check the predicted dates before you book your flights.

We’ve traveled to Japan in both summer and autumn. I’ve found autumn to be much more pleasant, with mostly warm days of 21-25°C (70-77°F). The temperature only dipped to 15°C (59°F) on some rainy days. Spring offers picturesque scenes with cherry blossoms in full bloom across parks and gardens.

It can get really hot and extremely humid in summer (June-August), which is best avoided. Winter (December-February) is pretty cold with temperatures dipping to freezing point. But Japan has lots of great ski stations and it’s a good time to see snow monkeys in Nagano.

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How to Stay Connected in Kyoto

Staying connected in Kyoto is super easy with an eSIM from Airalo. We bought one before our trip, and it worked like a charm throughout the city, giving us reliable data for a great price. It’s simple to set up and saves you from the hassle of figuring out local SIM cards or dealing with any rentals.

Having mobile data is a lifesaver for translating menus, navigating with Google Maps, and chatting with locals. It’s also great for streaming your favorite shows while taking a break.

Remember that it can be very expensive to use data roaming when traveling. I once accidentally turned on my phone service for LESS THAN 2 MINUTES and got charged $150 by my phone carrier!

Get eSIM from Airalo here.

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Travel Insurance for Japan

When traveling to Japan, having travel insurance is essential, whether you’re planning a quick 5-day Tokyo trip or spending a few months in Japan. You never know what surprises might come your way—flight delays, cancellations, or lost luggage can disrupt your plans. Travel insurance ensures you’re protected from these unexpected costs, letting you fully enjoy your trip without the stress.

I always suggest getting travel insurance for peace of mind while exploring Japan. It’s important to choose a policy that covers emergency medical assistance and trip interruptions, which can get expensive without insurance. One of the most popular options is SafetyWing, a trusted travel insurance provider. I personally use their Nomad Insurance plan, which has served me well on my trips. It’s reliable and covers a wide range of travel scenarios.

For more details on finding the right travel insurance for your journey, check out my travel insurance guide. It’s packed with tips and recommendations to help you pick the ideal coverage for your next adventure. Don’t overlook the importance of travel insurance—it’s a small investment that can save you big headaches while you explore this amazing country.

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Cost of Travel in Kyoto

Kyoto is an expensive city, especially when compared to other Asian cities like Singapore and Bangkok. With 4 days in Kyoto, expect to spend around US$450-700 per person, including 3-star accommodation and admission tickets. 

The cheapest way to travel Kyoto is to use public transport and book budget hotels. As for accommodation, expect to pay around US$50-80 per night for a tiny 3-star hotel room and around $100-150 for a traditional ryokan room. 

Japanese food is actually quite cheap. You can get an authentic ramen for just 600-800 yen ($5-7) from vending machine diners, and cheap bento sets from seven-eleven or Lawsons stores (which you’ll find everywhere in the country) for just 300-500 yen ($2.50-5). A proper restaurant meal usually set us back around $15-30 per person.

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Planning Your Trip to Kyoto

With 4 days in Kyoto, you should be able to get great insight into ancient Japan. I hope my Kyoto itinerary will help you find your way around the city while tasting the best Japanese dishes and experiencing the quirkiest sights in town.

If you are traveling around Japan, these articles might be useful to help you plan your trip:

• The Ultimate 2-Week Japan Itinerary
• 5 Days in Tokyo
• Japan Off the Beaten Path: The Northward Golden Route
• Japanese Food Guide: What to Eat in Japan
• Japan with Kids: How to Plan the Perfect Japan Family Trip
• Driving in Japan
• Staying in the Best Ryokan in Hakone
• 5-Day Shanghai Itinerary
• 3-Day Beijing Itinerary

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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