How to reach the city
We traveled from Osaka to Kyoto by bus. Since the two cities are so close, I think it's the best option if you're looking to save some money. The journey took around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and tickets usually cost ¥700–¥1,000 (€4–€6) one way. While the Shinkansen is faster, I don't think it's worth paying the extra cost for such a short distance.
Day 1: A Walk Through Kyoto's Timeless Streets
After checking into our hotel, to make the experience even more special, we rented a kimono. It was the perfect way to immerse ourselves in Kyoto's traditional culture, and I would absolutely recommend it. Kimono rentals usually cost around ¥3,000–¥6,000 (€18–€35), with many packages including hairstyling. You can rent Kimono in a lot of stores in this area.
We headed straight to Kiyomizu-dera, and the walk there turned out to be one of my favorite experiences in Japan. The narrow, traditional streets leading to the temple are full of charming shops, cafés, and local crafts. They were also among the busiest streets we visited, but that only added to the atmosphere.
The entrance to Kiyomizu-dera Temple costs ¥500 (€3) per adult. After exploring the temple and taking what felt like hundreds of photos, we discovered one of its most unique experiences: Tainai Meguri, a short spiritual walk through complete darkness that symbolizes the journey from darkness to enlightenment. The experience costs ¥100 (€0.60) and is definitely worth trying.
Before ending our visit, we continued uphill to Jishu Shrine, enjoying beautiful views over Kyoto along the way. The peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery made it one of the most memorable moments of our time in Kyoto.
We ended this part of the day by enjoying lunch and wandering through Kyoto's most famous streets, stopping to try some of the local food along the way. It was the perfect way to soak in the atmosphere before continuing our journey through the city towards Higashiyama.
From there, we continued to Yasaka Shrine before taking a walk through Gion Minamigawa, one of Kyoto’s most charming historic districts. With its traditional wooden houses and quiet streets, this is the area where Kyoto’s famous Maiko and Geiko continue to preserve centuries-old traditions.
Day 2 — Nature, Temples, and Kyoto's Most Iconic Views
We started our morning with a walk through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Walking among the towering bamboo was a peaceful experience and the perfect way to begin the day. Entrance is free.
Just a short walk away, we crossed the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, enjoying beautiful views of the river and the surrounding mountains. Our next stop was the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. After a short uphill hike, we were rewarded with incredible views over Kyoto and the chance to see wild monkeys in their natural habitat. Entrance: ¥800 (€5).
Before leaving Arashiyama, we stopped at Kyoto Prefectural Hozukyō Nature Park. Surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful mountain views, it was the perfect place to slow down and enjoy Kyoto's beautiful natural scenery. Entrance is free.
On our way back, we visited the Kimono Forest, an artistic installation made up of colorful pillars decorated with traditional kimono fabrics. It's a small but unique place that's perfect for a quick walk and a few photos. Entrance is free.
We ended the day at Kinkaku-ji, the famous Golden Pavilion. Seeing the golden temple reflected in the lake was the perfect way to finish another unforgettable day in Kyoto. Entrance: ¥500 (€3).
We ended the day at Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s famous food street. It was the perfect place to explore local flavors, try street food, and find some souvenirs to remember our journey. Entrance is free.
Day 3 — Castles, Sacred Gates, and Deer Encounters
We started our day by visiting Nijo Castle, a place that takes you back to Japan’s historical era. Walking through the castle grounds, we admired the traditional architecture, beautiful gardens, and the famous “nightingale floors” that were designed to make sounds when someone walked across them. Entrance: ¥1,300 (€8).
From Kyoto, we continued our journey to Nara Park, where we were welcomed by hundreds of free-roaming deer. Seeing them walk peacefully around the temples and feeding them special deer crackers was such a unique experience. It felt like stepping into a different side of Japan, where nature and tradition exist together. Entrance to the park is free; deer crackers cost around ¥200 (€1).
We ended the day at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most iconic places. Walking through thousands of red torii gates as the sun started to set created a completely different atmosphere—more peaceful, mysterious, and unforgettable. Entrance is free.
