How to Plan Your Kyoto Full Day Trip: Top Highlights

Kyoto is a city that boasts a rich history, culture, and tradition. With so many temples, shrines, gardens, and historic sites, it can be overwhelming to figure out which ones to visit, how to get there, and how to make the most of your time. That’s why we recommend taking GetYourGuide’s Full Day Trip to Kyoto’s Top Highlights. In this blog post, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to plan your trip, everything you need to know, and what to expect from the tour.

Experience

Get ready to take a journey back in time in Kyoto, and explore the city’s most famous and picturesque sites with the comfort and efficiency of a guided tour. Highlights of the tour include the Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama. The tour lasts for 7.5 hours and starts and ends at Kyoto Station.

Itinerary

Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary for the Kyoto Full Day Trip: – Meet the tour guide at Kyoto Station at 8:15 AM, where you’ll embark on an air-conditioned coach. – The first stop is Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan, and known for its stunning and photogenic vermillion gates. – Next, you’ll head to Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO-listed temple that dates back to the 8th century. The temple is known for its impressive wooden stage that overlooks the breathtaking surroundings of Kyoto. Plus, you’ll get to stop for lunch nearby. – After lunch, you’ll visit Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, because the top two floors are covered in gold leaf, and surrounded by immaculately kept gardens. – Finally, the tour ends at Arashiyama, a district on the outskirts of Kyoto known for its natural beauty and famous bamboo groves. – After 30 minutes of exploring Arashiyama, the tour guide will take you back to Kyoto Station.

Meeting Point

The meeting point is at Kyoto Station, located in the heart of the city. The specific location is outside the Avanti entrance on the second floor. The tour guide will hold a sign that says “GetYourGuide.” The meeting time is at 8:15 AM sharp, so we recommend arriving a few minutes early to avoid any delays.

Main Stop

The main stops on this tour are the Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Arashiyama. Each stop is unique and offers a different perspective on Kyoto’s history and culture.

Highlights

The Kyoto Full Day Trip is designed to provide you with the best possible experience of Kyoto. Here are some highlights of the tour: – Explore Kyoto in the most convenient and comfortable way, by air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi on-board. – See the famous vermillion gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, which make for spectacular and Instagramable pictures. – Admire the gorgeous Kinkaku-ji, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, covered in gold leaf and surrounded by stunning gardens. – Discover the beautiful district of Arashiyama, with its natural beauty and famous bamboo groves.

Full Description

The Kyoto Full Day Trip is an excellent choice for cultural enthusiasts and history buffs. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable tour guide who will provide you with fascinating details and historical background about each site you visit. The tour begins at Kyoto Station, where you’ll meet the tour guide and hop on board an air-conditioned coach. The coach is equipped with free Wi-Fi, making your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. The first stop on the tour is Fushimi Inari Taisha. You’ll be amazed by its impressive vermillion gates, arranged in rows one after another. The site is perfect for taking pictures and immersing yourself in the ancient traditions of Japan’s Shinto religion. Next, you’ll head to Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. The temple, adorned with elaborate wooden architecture, offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop. You’ll get to stop for lunch nearby and enjoy some local cuisine. After lunch, the tour visits Kinkaku-ji, another famous site in Kyoto. The temple, covered in gold leaf, sits among immaculately kept gardens and is surrounded by a tranquil pond. You will have time to explore the temple’s surroundings and learn about its fascinating history. Finally, the tour ends at Arashiyama, known for its natural beauty and the famous bamboo groves. This district will enchant you with its charm and tranquility, and you’ll have 30 minutes to soak up the sights and sounds before the journey back to Kyoto Station.

Includes

The Kyoto Full Day Trip includes: – Round trip bus fare, starting from Fushimi-Inari – Local taxes

Book the Tour Here

Ready to explore Kyoto’s Top Highlights? Book the tour now on GetYourGuide to secure your spot and start planning your unforgettable journey to Kyoto.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kyoto

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most visited cities, with a rich history that spans over a thousand years. From its exquisite shrines and temples to its lively markets and festivals, Kyoto is a city that delights visitors from all over the world. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Kyoto.

What is Kyoto known for?

Kyoto is known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to many of Japan’s most treasured temples, shrines, and gardens. The city was Japan’s capital for over a thousand years, from the 8th century until the mid-19th century. Throughout this time, Kyoto was the heart of Japan’s cultural and artistic traditions, and many of these traditions continue to thrive in the city to this day. Kyoto is also known for its cuisine, including kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal that features seasonal ingredients.

When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto depends on your interests and preferences. Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit, as the weather is mild, and the city’s temples and gardens are at their most beautiful. Spring is the season of cherry blossoms, which typically bloom in late March or early April, while autumn is the season of colorful foliage, which peaks in late November. Summer is hot and humid, but it’s also the season of the city’s many festivals, including the Gion Matsuri in July. Winter is cold, but it’s a great time to experience the city’s hot springs and enjoy winter foods such as oden.

What are some must-see attractions in Kyoto?

There are many must-see attractions in Kyoto, but some of the most popular include: – Kiyomizu-dera: A stunning temple perched on a hillside, with beautiful views of the surrounding city. – Fushimi Inari-taisha: A shrine famous for its thousands of torii gates that form a tunnel-like path through the forest. – Kinkaku-ji: A Zen temple covered in gold leaf that reflects beautifully in its surrounding pond. – Arashiyama: A beautiful district on the western outskirts of Kyoto that is famous for its bamboo groves, temples, and gardens. – Gion: A historic district known for its traditional architecture, geisha, and tea houses. – Nishiki Market: A lively market that sells everything from fresh seafood to traditional Japanese sweets.

What is the best way to get around Kyoto?

Kyoto has an extensive public transportation system, with buses and trains that connect all parts of the city. The most convenient way to get around is by using a prepaid transportation card such as the ICOCA or Suica. Depending on your itinerary, it may also be worth renting a bicycle or using a taxi.

What are some local foods that I should try in Kyoto?

Kyoto is known for its cuisine, which includes many traditional Japanese dishes that are unique to the city. Some local foods that you should try in Kyoto include: – Kaiseki: A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that features seasonal ingredients. – Yudofu: A simple but elegant dish of boiled tofu that is often served with dipping sauces. – Obanzai: A type of Kyoto-style home cooking that features local ingredients and simple preparations. – Matcha: A type of green tea that is used in traditional tea ceremonies and many Kyoto sweets. – Kyo-gashi: Traditional Japanese sweets that are made with seasonal ingredients and are often shaped like plants or animals.

What are some traditional crafts that are unique to Kyoto?

Kyoto is home to many traditional crafts that reflect the city’s cultural heritage. Some of these crafts include: – Kyo-yuzen: A type of silk dyeing that is used to create vibrant, intricate designs on kimonos and other textiles. – Kyo-komon: A type of stencil dyeing that is used to create repeating geometric patterns on textiles. – Kyo-kumihimo: A type of braiding that is used to create decorative cords for kimonos and other textile goods. – Kyo-toji: A type of pottery that is made with a unique clay that is native to Kyoto and is known for its smooth texture. – Kyo-kanoko-shibori: A type of tie-dyeing that is used to create beautiful, intricate patterns on textiles.

What are some etiquette tips that I should keep in mind when visiting Kyoto?

Kyoto is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions. Some etiquette tips to keep in mind when visiting Kyoto include: – Be respectful when visiting temples and shrines, and follow local customs such as removing your shoes and covering your shoulders and knees. – Be polite and respectful when interacting with locals, and try to learn a few phrases of Japanese before you arrive. – Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas and at night. – Be mindful of waste, and try to minimize your use of single-use plastics and other disposable items. – Be respectful of nature, and avoid damaging or disrupting natural areas such as parks and forests.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto is a city that is rich in culture, history, and tradition. From its beautiful temples and shrines to its lively markets and festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city. By following local customs and respecting local traditions, visitors can have an unforgettable experience in Kyoto.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kyoto

Kyoto, situated in the central part of the island of Honshu, is located in the Kansai region of Japan. Kyoto is a city that boasts of rich history and culture. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for more than a thousand years, and it was the heart of Japanese court culture and was home to the Emperor. Tourists who come to Kyoto will be able to experience the rich culture and history of Japan. Here’s how you can spend your time as a tourist in Kyoto.

1. Visit the Famous Kyoto Temples

Kyoto is home to some of Japan’s most famous temples. One of these temples is the Fushimi Inari Shrine. It is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan and is known for the thousands of torii gates that line the paths leading up to the main shrine. Another famous temple is the Kinkaku-ji temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. The temple is covered in gold leaf and is set in a beautiful garden. Make sure to visit the Kiyomizu-dera temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is also famous for its amazing view of Kyoto.

2. Experience the Local Culture

Kyoto has a rich history and culture, which means that you can never get bored here. Try on a kimono and stroll around Gion, a famous traditional district of Kyoto. Watch Maiko performances and see geisha in Kyoto. Indulge in traditional Japanese sweets, such as Wagashi. You can also take part in a tea ceremony or try your hand at a traditional Japanese craft like calligraphy or pottery.

3. Visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace was where the Emperors of Japan resided until the Edo Period. Today, the palace is open to the public and offers an exciting glimpse into the history of Japan. There are guided tours that will take you through the palace, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and get a taste of what life in Kyoto was like in the past.

4. Take a Stroll through the Arashiyama District

Arashiyama is located on the outskirts of Kyoto and is famous for its bamboo forest, Togetsu-kyo Bridge, and Tenryu-ji Temple. This district is an excellent place to take a leisurely stroll while appreciating the beauty of nature. Rent a bicycle and ride through Arashiyama while taking in the stunning scenery.

5. Sample Kyoto Cuisine

Kyoto is famous for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes like Kaiseki Ryori, Obanzai, and Yudofu. Kaiseki Ryori is a multi-course meal that is both aesthetically pleasing and delicious. Obanzai is a local dish that is made up of various small dishes, each with a unique flavor. Yudofu is a hot pot dish that is made from tofu and served with a dipping sauce. Don’t forget to try Matcha tea and Matcha sweets, a Kyoto specialty.

6. Attend a Festival

Kyoto boasts of several festivals throughout the year. Make sure you attend the Gion Matsuri in July, which is one of the most famous festivals in Japan. The festival is a month-long celebration of the local culture and history and is the perfect time to immerse yourself in all things Kyoto. Other notable festivals include the Aoi Matsuri, Jidai Matsuri, and the Higashiyama Hanatoro.

7. Visit Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto’s Kitchen, is an excellent place to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s food culture. The market is full of stalls and shops selling everything from fish and vegetables to Kyoto specialties like Yuba, a tofu skin.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and there’s no shortage of things to do or see. From the famous temples to local festivals, there is something for everyone in Kyoto. Make sure to try the unique cuisine and take part in traditional Japanese activities to get the full Kyoto experience. Enjoy your time in this beautiful city, and don’t forget to take pictures of everything!