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Where to Stay in Kyoto

Kyoto is a huge city and picking the right area to stay in can make a big difference. Many of the top sights, like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are spread out and staying in a well connected area will save you time. For first time visitors Downtown Kyoto is the best choice as you’ll have easy access to trains, buses, shops and restaurants. If you want a more traditional experience I would recommend staying in Gion or Higashiyama. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay in Kyoto with hotel recommendations:

Gion – Traditional Kyoto & Geisha District

If you picture Kyoto as a maze of lantern lit alleys and wooden teahouses, this is where you’ll find it. Gion is the city’s most famous geisha district and one of the best areas to soak up traditional Kyoto charm. Stay here if you want to walk through the cobbled lanes in the evening, dine at intimate kaiseki restaurants and be within walking distance of Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Best hotels in Gion

Higashiyama – Temples, Tea Houses & Tranquil Streets

Higashiyama is one of the prettiest parts of Kyoto and is known for its preserved wooden streets and ancient temples. You’ll find boutique ryokans, cosy guesthouses and small luxury hotels tucked between temples here.

Best hotels in Higashiyama

Downtown Kyoto – Nakagyo Ward

If you want to be in the centre of the actionwhich home to Kawaramachi and Pontocho, is where you’ll want to stay. This is downtown Kyoto which is the perfect mix of old meets new, where you can shop, eat and explore all within a few blocks.

Best hotels in Downtown Kyoto

4 Days in Kyoto itinerary

Day 1 in Kyoto

Morning

Travel to Kyoto

There’s no better way to get to Kyoto than by hopping on the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo, which gets you there in just over 2 hours. The fastest Shinkansen, the Nozomi, reaches speeds of 320 km/h (199 mph), making it one of the fastest trains in the world. What’s even more mind blowing is how incredibly smooth the ride feels, thanks to the train’s aerodynamic design and advanced suspension system, you barely notice the speed! Before you book you will need to know the following:

• Reserve luggage space – If your suitcase is over 160 cm (sum of length, width, and height), you must book a spot or risk a fine.
• Pick the right side of the train – For the best views of Mount Fuji grab a window seat on the right when traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto. If it’s a clear day you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable view!

If you are booking your Shinkansen tickets with Klook you can get extra discount with my code THEGIRLSTRIPTOKLOOK.

Afternoon

Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka

If Kyoto had a movie set for a historic drama, it would probably be Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka. These two sloping streets are straight out of the past, lined with traditional wooden houses, cute souvenir shops and cafes serving up some of the best matcha ice cream you’ll ever taste. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to take your time as your browse through the shops selling handcrafted fans, ceramics and sweets.The best time to come is early in the morning before the crowds roll in otherwise be prepared to dodge a sea of selfie sticks.

Yasaka Pagoda (Hōkan-ji Temple)

Just a five minute walk from Sannenzaka, you’ll find Yasaka Pagoda which is picture perfect Kyoto landmark you’ve probably seen on every postcard. Standing tall among the traditional townhouses it’s one of the few pagodas in Japan that you can actually go inside for only ¥500 (£2.13). This is prime photography territory especially around sunset when the sky turns golden and the pagoda is glowing in the best possible light. If you want the street to yourself I would recommend coming at sunrise.

Kōdai-ji Temple

Kyoto has no shortage of temples but Kōdai-ji stands out thanks to its Zen gardens, bamboo groves and a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere (as long as you’re not here during peak hours). It was built in 1606 and while the temple itself is impressive the real reason to visit is the landscape design. There’s a perfectly raked rock garden and maple trees that put on a show in the autumn. There’s also a small bamboo grove that feels like a hidden gem compared to the crowded one in Arashiyama. Entry is ¥600 (£3.20) and if you happen to be in Kyoto during one of its seasonal light up events, make sure you don’t miss visiting.

Starbucks Ninenzaka

If you’re going to grab a coffee in Kyoto it might as well be at the most Instagrammable Starbucks in the world. This isn’t your typical chain coffee shop with bright lights and generic seating. Instead Starbucks Ninenzaka is designed like a traditional Japanese teahouse complete with sliding doors and tatami flooring. Just be warned it’s small and can get packed, so if you’re hoping for a quiet matcha latte moment you might have to wait.

Evening

K36 The Bar & Rooftop

If you’re still standing after your first day in Kyoto, reward yourself with a cocktail at K36 The Bar & Rooftop. This place is one of Kyoto’s best rooftop bars which offers killer views over the city.. and the cocktails are worth the splurge at around ¥1,800 (£9.66). It’s a popular spot so I highly recommend you book ahead as you don’t want to miss out on the best rooftop bar in Kyoto.

Day 2 in Kyoto

Morning

Fushimi Inari Taisha

This has to be known as one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photographed spots. Fushimi Inari Taisha is famous for its thousands of bright vermillion torii gates that wind their way up Mount Inari. This shrine was dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and prosperity. I would recommend to arrive early in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds roll in. If you’re up for an adventure follow the hiking trail through the gates, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit but you can turn back at any time. Entry is free and even if you don’t walk the whole trail, the lower sections offer plenty of amazing photo opportunities (that’s if you don’t mind people in them). 

Afternoon

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera is perched on a hillside with a massive wooden stage that offers breathtaking views over the city. It’s also an UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most famous temples. The name Kiyomizu means “pure water,” a nod to the Otowa Waterfall at the temple’s base, where visitors can drink from three separate streams, each said to bring health, success or love.  It was one of my favourite spots during my trip to Kyoto for it’s stunning views which we luckily managed to captured whilst the sun was in full beam. The temple is especially beautiful in autumn and spring, when the surrounding trees burst into vibrant red and pink hues. Entry is ¥400 (£2.60) and the best way to get there is by taxi or bus from Fushimi Inari.

Evening

Gion

As the sun sets you’ll notice that the vibe in Kyoto changes completely. Gion in particular is at its most magical in the evening, when the lanterns light up and the streets take on an old world glow. This is the city’s famous geisha district and while it’s become more touristy over the years, it still has that enchanting, mysterious vibe. The streets are lined with traditional wooden teahouses, lantern lit alleyways and restaurants serving up all the Japanese delicacies. If you’re lucky you might even spot a maiko in full kimono and traditional makeup. Just remember geisha are not tourist attractions so be respectful and resist the urge to shove a camera in their face.

Day 3 in Kyoto

Morning

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walking through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is like entering a completely different place. Tall bamboo stalks rise high above you, gently swaying with the wind, creating a peaceful and almost magical feeling. To really enjoy the quiet atmosphere it’s best to come early in the morning before the crowds arrive. The grove is free to visit and is one of Kyoto’s most famous sights, so it’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary! If you’d rather skip the walk, consider hiring a traditional rickshaw. Your driver will guide you through bamboo lined paths, quiet backstreets, sharing local stories and history along the way.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Right next to the Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples. The real highlight here is the stunning landscape garden which was designed in the 14th century and still looking as breathtaking as ever. You can explore just the garden for ¥500 (£2.60) or pay a little extra to step inside the temple halls.

Togetsukyo Bridge

A short walk from the temple, Togetsukyo Bridge (literally “Moon Crossing Bridge”) is one of Arashiyama’s most scenic spots. The bridge stretches gracefully across the Katsura River, framed by Kyoto’s rolling mountains. The view here is spectacular year round. Stop by to take in the landscape or even try a traditional rickshaw ride with a local guide.

Afternoon

Shisen-do Temple

For a quiet escape from the crowds, Shisen-do Temple is a true hidden gem. Tucked away in Kyoto’s northern hills, this peaceful temple is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning maple trees in autumn. And the best part, it’s much less crowded than the city’s more famous temples making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Evening

Nogha Hotel Rooftop Bar

End the day in style at the Nogha Hotel Rooftop Bar a rooftop spot with stunning Kyoto skyline views. Unlike some of the more tourist heavy bars, this hidden gem has a laid back atmosphere, making it a perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. The warm lighting, cozy seating and panoramic views of the city make this an incredible spot to wrap up the night.

Day 4 in Kyoto

Morning

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Once home to Japan’s Imperial family, Kyoto Imperial Palace is a must visit for history lovers. Set in the middle of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, the palace is surrounded by beautiful green spaces making it a great place for a peaceful morning stroll. While the interiors aren’t open to the public, you can explore the grand gates, traditional architecture and beautifully kept gardens for free. If you visit in spring the cherry blossoms here are stunning!

Nijo Castle

Afternoon

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most breathtaking sights. This Zen temple is covered in shimmering gold leaf and reflects beautifully onto the surrounding pond. It was originally built as a shogun’s retirement villa, but was later converted into a temple. Today it stands as one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks.

Nishiki Market

If you’re a foodie, then you will need to visit Nishiki Market. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this lively market is packed with street food stalls, fresh seafood and local specialties you won’t find anywhere else. Try grilled seafood skewers and matcha flavoured treats as you wander through the bustling alleys. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch and experience Kyoto’s food scene at its best.

Evening

Dinner at Four Seasons Kyoto

End your Kyoto trip with a memorable meal at the Four Seasons Kyoto. Whether you choose their elegant Japanese kaiseki dinner, fresh sushi or a perfectly cooked wagyu steak, every dish is crafted to perfection. The restaurant overlooks a stunning 800 year old garden, making it the ideal spot for a special farewell dinner. Be sure to book in advance as this is one of Kyoto’s top dining experiences!

Here’s a map with all of the sights I mentioned in this itinerary as well as hotel recommendations.

I hope you found this 4 days in Kyoto itinerary useful and that it helps you plan the perfect trip. If you’re planning your own trip, save this guide for later and use it to make the most of your time in Japan’s cultural capital.