Kyoto, Japan 4-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival at Kansai Airport

Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Complete immigration and customs procedures.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your accommodation, Miru Kyoto Nishiki, and settle in.

The hotel is centrally located, offering easy access to public transport and attractions.

Stroll Gion District

Explore Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district.

Wander through traditional wooden machiya houses, charming alleys, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko.

Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321451-Reviews-Gion-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html?m=66827. Remember to be respectful and not photograph geisha without permission.

Dinner in Gion

Enjoy a traditional Kaiseki meal or explore one of the many local restaurants offering delicious Japanese cuisine in the Gion area.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto.

The surrounding Higashiyama district is also charming.

Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321401-Reviews-Kiyomizu_dera_Temple-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html?m=66827. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking uphill.

Higashiyama District Walk

Wander through the picturesque streets of the Higashiyama district leading up to Kiyomizu-dera, filled with traditional shops, teahouses, and local crafts.

Lunch in Higashiyama

Enjoy lunch at a charming cafe or traditional restaurant in the Higashiyama area.

Yasaka Shrine

Visit Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, one of Kyoto's most famous shrines, especially beautiful in the evening when lanterns are lit.

It hosts the Gion Matsuri festival.

Rating: 4.4/5. Free entry. Easy walk from the Gion district.

Samurai Kembu Performance

Experience the art of Samurai Kembu, a traditional Japanese sword dance performance, showcasing samurai culture and martial arts.

Rating: 4.6/5. Booking recommended, check showtimes in advance. Pricing varies.

Travel to Osaka

Take a short train ride from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station (Umeda).

Osaka Castle

Visit the magnificent Osaka Castle, one of Japan's most famous landmarks, playing a major role in the unification of Japan during the 16th century.

Explore the museum inside and enjoy the surrounding park.

Dotonbori Lunch & Explore

Head to Dotonbori, Osaka's famous entertainment district.

Enjoy a delicious lunch trying local specialties like takoyaki or okonomiyaki, and take in the vibrant atmosphere with its iconic neon signs and street performers.

Namba Shopping

Explore the Namba district, known for its extensive shopping arcades, department stores, and entertainment complexes.

Find unique souvenirs or popular Japanese brands.

Return to Kyoto

Take the train back to Kyoto after a day of exploring Osaka.

Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen.

' Sample various local delicacies, fresh produce, and unique Japanese ingredients. It's a great place for breakfast or a snack.

Rating: 4.3/5. A fantastic place to try different street foods and find edible souvenirs.

Last-Minute Shopping

Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping around the hotel or near Kyoto Station for gifts and mementos.

Hotel Check-out

Check out from your hotel.

Travel to KIX & Departure

Travel from Kyoto Station back to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure.