Tripadvisor Kyoto (2024)

FAQs

How many days in Kyoto is enough? ›

If you're pressed for time or have a tight travel schedule, a short stay of 2-3 days will still allow you to experience the essential highlights of Kyoto. With its abundance of attractions, it's crucial to prioritize your must-see sights to make the most of your limited time in the city.

The best times to visit Kyoto are from March to May and from September to November when the weather is the mildest. However, the blooming cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant fall foliage are big tourist draws, so be prepared for higher hotel rates and fewer vacancies.

Dubbed by locals as Kyoto's most beautiful street, Shirakawa (白川) is a few minutes' walk from central Gion and the Hanamichi (花道小路) area. It is off the beaten path, and there seemed to be no sight of other tourists when we visited it. The street runs into a Y-shape, with a little shrine situated at the intersection.

I also save a few of the popular spots for ideal visiting times (think early) to make the trip feel better as well. Kyoto is super popular to visit so know that the earlier you rise, the better chances you'll have for fewer crowds. There is so much to enjoy there, I'd aim for 4 days in Kyoto if you can.

Kyoto is one of the most walkable cities in Japan. In fact, you may walk around most parts of Kyoto without hiccups as many sidewalks are well-paved with visible signposts.

The biggest decision you must make is which city to visit first: Osaka or Kyoto? Here, we'll suggest visiting Osaka first, but you could easily switch them around. Note that the two Osaka days here are a summary version of our Osaka 2-Day Itinerary.

For centuries, Miyama has provided a peaceful mountain retreat from the nearby city of Kyoto. The Miyama region is well known within Japan for its traditional village atmosphere, with many small hamlets nestled between steep forested mountains.

Safety at night:Very safe

Kyoto is regarded as a very safe city to walk alone at night. The streets are well-lit and the crime rate in Kyoto is low compared to many other international cities. Locals are usually helpful and respectful.

Nara is 35 kilometers south of Kyoto City and about 28 kilometers east of Osaka. Thus, it's within easy day trip distances of these cities. Of course, if you want to slow down and enjoy Nara a bit more, it makes sense to stay a night in Nara to really explore the area.

Nara is also deeply rooted in history, as it was the first permanent capital of Japan from 710-794 before it moved to Kyoto, and then ultimately, Tokyo after the Meiji Restoration. Luckily, you can easily take a day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto through the train.

Is 5 days too long in Kyoto? ›

Five days in Kyoto is the perfect amount of time to spend in Kyoto. You can explore the main sightseeing districts and take a daytrip to Nara. This itinerary allows you to get the best out of five full days in the city.

Are 2 days in Kyoto enough? Ideally, I would spend at least 3 nights in Kyoto, so that you can see more attractions and temples without feeling rushed. However, most people spend a night or two in Kyoto (some take a day trip from Tokyo or Osaka!), especially coming from the US when we don't have a lot of vacation time.

Osaka and Kyoto 1-Week Itinerary Summary

A good breakdown is 2 days in Osaka and 4 in Kyoto. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the most convenient airport to Osaka and Kyoto. A Japan Rail Pass is not a good idea for this itinerary, but a Kansai Thru Pass may be.

For most people, the ideal breakdown is 2 full days in Tokyo and 4 full days in Kyoto (travel days are not considered full days). If you are more interested in modern Japan, then you could spend 3 days in Tokyo and 3 in Kyoto.