Kyoto, Japan 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival at KIX

Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Clear customs and immigration.

Follow signs for trains to Kyoto. The Haruka Express is a convenient option.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel in Kyoto and settle in.

Leave your luggage and take some time to refresh.

Gion District Stroll

Wander through the historic Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture.

Keep an eye out for geiko (Kyoto geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) in the early evening. Remember to be respectful and not photograph them without permission.

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore the beautiful Yasaka Shrine, particularly enchanting as evening lanterns light up.

One of Kyoto's most famous shrines.

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants along Pontocho Alley, a narrow street parallel to the Kamo River, famous for its dining and nightlife.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with river views. Consider trying traditional Japanese cuisine.

Heian-jingū Shrine

Visit the striking Heian-jingū Shrine with its distinctive vermilion architecture and expansive traditional garden.

Dedicated to the first and last emperors of Kyoto.

Explore Shōrenin Temple

Discover the tranquil Shōrenin Temple, known for its beautiful gardens and elegant shoin-style buildings.

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Immerse yourself in Kyoto's culinary scene at Nishiki Market, a narrow street lined with shops and restaurants selling local food and specialty goods.

Grab lunch from various stalls.

Try local street food like takoyaki, skewers, or fresh seafood.

Samurai Kembu Theater

Experience a captivating performance of Samurai Kembu, a traditional Japanese sword dance.

Learn about the samurai spirit and techniques.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend shows.

Dinner at Torataro

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Torataro, a highly-rated restaurant known for its Japanese cuisine.

Reservations might be advisable depending on the day.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting towering bamboo stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto's most iconic natural sights.

Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's most important Zen temples, featuring a beautiful landscape garden.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple with its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf, set against a beautiful pond and garden.

Kyoto Station Building

Explore the impressive modern architecture of Kyoto Station Building.

It houses shopping areas, restaurants, and offers panoramic views from its Skyway.

The building itself is an attraction, offering a contrast to Kyoto's traditional side. You can also find dinner options here.

Dinner at Kyoto Station

Dine at one of the many varied restaurants within the Kyoto Station Building, offering everything from ramen to more upscale dining.

Plenty of choices for various cuisines and budgets.

Travel to Nara

Take a short train ride from Kyoto to Nara, a city famous for its temples, shrines, and friendly wild deer.

Nara Park & Deer Interaction

Wander through Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer.

You can buy 'shika senbei' (deer crackers) to feed them.

The deer are considered messengers of the gods. Be mindful that they can be pushy when they smell food!

Todai-ji Temple & Great Buddha

Visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing a massive bronze Buddha statue in its Daibutsu-den (Great Buddha Hall), one of the largest wooden buildings in the world.

Nara Guide Kyoto Excursion

Opt for a guided tour with Nara Guide Kyoto to delve deeper into the history and culture of Nara's various sites, ensuring a comprehensive cultural experience.

A guided tour can offer deeper insights and local perspectives.

Return to Kyoto & Dinner

Travel back to Kyoto and enjoy a relaxed dinner after a day of exploration in Nara.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding through the forest up a sacred mountain.

Wear comfortable shoes as you can hike for several hours. The path offers excellent views and photo opportunities.

Lunch near Fushimi Inari

Enjoy lunch at one of the many local eateries around Fushimi Inari, offering traditional snacks and meals.

Look for local specialties like Inari sushi or kitsune udon.

Chōhō-ji (Rokkaku-dō) Temple

Discover Chōhō-ji (Rokkaku-dō) Temple, an interesting octagonal temple said to be the birthplace of Ikebana (flower arranging).

It offers a peaceful retreat in the city center.

Its unique hexagonal design and central location make it a fascinating visit.

Traditional Tea Ceremony

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, a beautiful cultural experience reflecting harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

Many places offer English explanations. Booking ahead is often recommended.

Farewell Dinner in Kyoto

Enjoy a final dinner in Kyoto, perhaps trying a dish you haven't yet, or revisiting a favorite spot.

Explore Morning Market

Wander through the lively Jinya-mae or Miyagawa Morning Market, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and snacks. A great way to experience local life.

The market typically runs until noon. Try some local miso or fresh fruit.

Stroll Sanmachi Suji

Walk through Takayama's beautifully preserved old town, Sanmachi Suji, lined with traditional wooden merchants' houses, sake breweries, and craft shops.

Pop into a sake brewery for a tasting (some offer free samples) or try local sweets.

Hida Beef Lunch

Savor the renowned Hida beef, a local specialty.

Many restaurants in Takayama offer it grilled, as sushi, or in various dishes.

Takayama Showakan Museum

Step back in time at this retro Showa-era museum, recreating streets and allowing visitors to interact with exhibits from the 1950s and 60s.

A nostalgic and interactive experience. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298113-d3385796-Reviews-Takayama_Showakan-Takayama_Gifu_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html?m=66827

Traditional Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local izakaya or restaurant, perhaps trying some local mountain vegetables or a set meal.

Visit Takayama Jinya

Explore Takayama Jinya, a historical government building that served as the regional administrative office during the Edo period.

It's now open to the public.

Gain insight into traditional Japanese governance and daily life.

Hida Ramen Lunch

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Hida Ramen, a local specialty known for its thin noodles and soy-sauce-based broth.

Explore Hida Folk Village

Visit Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato), an open-air museum showcasing over 30 traditional houses from the Hida region, including gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

Offers demonstrations of traditional crafts and beautiful scenery. Easily accessible by bus from Takayama Station.

Relax & Souvenir Shopping

Spend some time relaxing or browsing for souvenirs.

Takayama is known for its exquisite woodworking and local crafts.

Dinner at Local Eatery

Enjoy a final dinner in Takayama, perhaps trying another local specialty or a casual meal at a restaurant that catches your eye.

Leisurely Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a final breakfast in Takayama and check out from your hotel, preparing for your journey to Tokyo.

Train to Tokyo

Embark on a scenic train journey from Takayama to Tokyo.

This typically involves taking the Limited Express Wide View Hida to Nagoya, then transferring to a Shinkansen (bullet train) for the remainder of the journey to Tokyo.

Check-in to Tokyo Hotel

Arrive in Tokyo, make your way to your hotel, check in, and settle into your new accommodation.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Take a leisurely walk through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a beautiful and serene oasis featuring traditional Japanese, French, and English landscape gardens.

A perfect way to unwind after your journey. Note that gates close by 5:30-6:30 PM depending on the season, so check current hours upon arrival.

Dinner in Shinjuku

Explore the vibrant Shinjuku area and enjoy dinner at one of its many diverse restaurants, from casual eateries to themed izakayas.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Visit the beautiful East Garden of the Imperial Palace, which is part of the former Edo Castle grounds.

It's a peaceful retreat with historic remnants.

Free admission. Enjoy the spacious grounds and impressive stone walls.

Lunch in Marunouchi

Have lunch in the sophisticated Marunouchi district, near Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace, offering a wide range of dining options.

teamLab Planets TOKYO

Immerse yourself in the extraordinary digital art world of teamLab Planets, where you walk through water and become one with flowers in interactive art spaces.

Book tickets well in advance as it's very popular. Wear clothes that can get wet up to your knees, and be prepared to take off your shoes. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g14134359-d14951238-Reviews-TeamLab_Planets_TOKYO-Toyosu_Koto_Tokyo_Tokyo_Prefecture_Kanto.html?m=66827

Ginza Stroll & Shopping

Explore the upscale Ginza district, famous for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and art galleries.

Enjoy window shopping or find a unique souvenir.

Dinner in Ginza

Dine in Ginza, offering a wide array of dining experiences from high-end cuisine to casual and delicious options.

Meiji Jingu Shrine & Yoyogi Park

Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, a serene oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, set within a vast forest that feels far removed from the city bustle.

Afterwards, explore parts of the adjacent Yoyogi Park.

Witness traditional Shinto architecture and perhaps a wedding procession.

Lunch in Harajuku

Explore the trendy Harajuku area and grab a casual lunch.

You'll find a variety of unique cafes and eateries, perfect for people-watching.

Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise-dori

Journey to Asakusa to visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and stroll along Nakamise-dori, the vibrant shopping street leading up to the temple, offering traditional snacks and souvenirs.

A must-see for its historical significance and bustling atmosphere.

Sumida River Cruise (Optional)

Consider an optional scenic cruise on the Sumida River, offering unique views of Tokyo's skyline, including the Tokyo Skytree.

Dinner in Asakusa

Enjoy dinner in Asakusa, choosing from various traditional Japanese restaurants, often specializing in tempura, unagi, or yakitori.

Arrive in Tokyo

Arrive in Tokyo via train from Takayama.

Head to your accommodation to check in and drop off your luggage.

Lunch in Shinjuku

Enjoy a casual lunch in the bustling Shinjuku area.

There are many noodle shops, ramen, or quick bento options.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Visit the observation decks of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for panoramic views of the city.

On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Fuji.

Admission is free.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Explore the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a large park with meticulously maintained Japanese, French, and English gardens.

A peaceful escape from the city buzz.

Dinner in Shinjuku

Indulge in a delicious dinner in Shinjuku.

Consider trying a local izakaya for a variety of Japanese small dishes and drinks.

Akihabara Electric Town

Dive into the vibrant world of Akihabara, known for its electronics, anime, manga, and gaming shops. Explore multi-story stores and arcades.

Lunch in Akihabara

Grab a quick and quirky lunch in Akihabara.

Options range from maid cafes to themed restaurants or simple ramen joints.

teamLab Planets TOKYO

Experience teamLab Planets, an immersive digital art museum where you walk through water and become one with the flowers.

It features large-scale artwork spaces and gardens.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your slot. Be prepared to remove shoes and potentially get wet up to your knees.

Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko

Witness the iconic Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world.

See the famous Hachiko statue.

Dinner in Shibuya

Enjoy dinner in Shibuya, a district known for its diverse dining options, from casual eateries to trendy restaurants.

Imperial Palace East Garden

Explore the beautiful East Garden of the Imperial Palace, which is open to the public.

It features remnants of Edo Castle and serene Japanese landscaping.

Closed on Mondays and Fridays, so Wednesday is perfect. Admission is free.

Lunch Near Tokyo Station

Have lunch near Tokyo Station, which offers a vast array of dining options from casual to upscale in its underground malls and surrounding buildings.

Meiji Jingu Shrine

Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

Walk through its grand torii gates and lush forest.

Harajuku Exploration

Immerse yourself in Tokyo's youth fashion and culture in Harajuku.

Stroll down Takeshita Street for quirky shops and trendy boutiques, then explore the more upscale Omotesando avenue.

Dinner in Harajuku/Shibuya

Enjoy your final dinner in Tokyo in the vibrant Harajuku or nearby Shibuya area, selecting from a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisine.

Last Minute Souvenirs/Breakfast

Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast at a local cafe or do some last-minute souvenir shopping near your hotel or at a major station like Tokyo Station.

Hotel Checkout

Check out from your hotel.

Travel to Narita Airport (NRT)

Depart for Narita International Airport (NRT) for your international flight home.

Plan ample time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures.