Kyoto in 2 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit

If you want to know the best things to do in Kyoto in 2 days, you've come to the right place. It is the only major Japanese city that was not bombed during World War II, so it has a great cultural, historical and architectural heritage that you can discover during your trip.

For the first day of your tour in Kyoto, I suggest you visit the oldest attractions and visit the Kinkaku-ji temple, the Arashiyama forest and one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan. I also invite you to take a walk in the Gion district.

Visit Kinkaku-ji temple

Kinkaku-ji is one of the most iconic and visited destinations in the city and also one of the best temples in Kyoto. This majestic Zen Buddhist building stands out for its three-storey structure covered entirely with gold leaf, which gives it a dazzling shine in the sun.

You can reach this temple on the Tozai line of the Metro and as soon as you enter the complex you will find a pond that reflects the silhouette of the building, creating an unmissable image. In addition, the exquisite gardens surrounding the temple are a visual spectacle, with a harmonious combination of trees, flowers and serene fountains.

The main building houses Buddhist relics and is surrounded by a Japanese landscaped garden. On the temple's paths you can take in the different perspectives of the structure and discover quiet nooks and crannies for contemplation. It is no coincidence that it is included in the best tours of Kyoto and you will see it when you book a private tour of Kyoto.

Stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Strolling through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto is a magical and captivating experience. This lush forest will immerse you in a world of natural beauty and tranquillity. As you enter the forest you will be greeted by tall bamboo stalks reaching up to the sky.

In the forest you will find small shrines and temples hidden among the bamboo. You can also explore the surrounding area and visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visiting on your own or booking a tour of Arashiyama will help you disconnect from the bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere.

Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha Shinto Shrine

The Fushimi Inari Taisha Shinto shrine is dedicated to the god of rice and agriculture, Inari, and is located about 15 kilometres from the centre of Kyoto. As you walk along the paths of the mountain, you will find yourself surrounded by a sea of torii creating a mystical and magical atmosphere, especially if you plan to visit Kyoto in autumn when the colour of the leaves contrasts with the torii.

The hike to the top of the mountain offers panoramic views of Kyoto and its surroundings. Exploring Fushimi Inari Taisha will also give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy traditional food.

At the base of the shrine you will find food stalls offering local delicacies such as yakitori and mochi, allowing you to enjoy the authentic flavours of the city and even find information on cooking classes in case you want to book a cooking class in Kyoto.

Walk around Gion, the famous geisha district

Gion still preserves the culture of the geisha, the graceful, elegant performers who represent grace and refined Japanese hospitality. You can see them dressed in their kimonos, with impeccable make-up and elaborate hairstyles. While seeing a geisha in person may be a rare experience, walking around Gion will bring you closer to their world.

This neighbourhood is also home to traditional restaurants and teahouses where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine on Kyoto's best food tours. Whether it's sampling kaiseki, the multi-course meal, or tasting a cup of matcha tea in a tranquil atmosphere, booking a food tour in Kyoto is always a good idea.

In addition to the geisha, Gion is home to several historic temples and shrines, such as Yasaka Temple and Kennin-ji Shrine, which allow you to explore traditional Japanese spirituality and architecture.

Dinner in Kyoto's Pontocho Alley

This narrow alley is lined with traditional restaurants, teahouses and bars, and has retained its historic charm over the centuries. Walking down Pontocho, you will be enveloped in a unique atmosphere, where old wooden facades and paper lanterns create a magical ambience.

The restaurants, many of which have been family-run for generations, offer a variety of authentic Japanese dishes, whether you are visiting Kyoto in winter or summer. In addition, some establishments offer live music, dancing and sometimes performances by a maiko or geisha.

Apart from the food and entertainment, dining at Pontocho will give you the opportunity to enjoy the views of the Kamo River and the nearby bridge. You can book a table near the windows to gaze out at the illuminated river at night and enjoy the serenity of this picturesque setting. It is so special that it is always included when booking a food tour in Kyoto.

For the second day of your tour of Kyoto, I suggest the Higashiyama district and the Kiyomizu-dera temple. You can also visit the traditional Nijo Castle, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Japan, and the Nishiki market, which is very present in the daily life of the local citizens.

Tour Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Famous for its panoramic views of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera Temple will leave you in awe. Built on top of a hill, it stands out for its unique architecture and its wooden platform stretching over the cliff, which you can reach by public transport or on one of the best tours from Kyoto.

The temple will amaze you with its imposing structure, beautiful gardens and waterfalls that add a tinge of serenity to the place. However, it is from the wooden platform that the true magic of Kiyomizu-dera is revealed. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.

In addition to the views, Kiyomizu-dera Temple houses several halls and prayer rooms, as well as a five-storey pagoda. There you can explore the interior of the temple, admire the statues and sacred artefacts and immerse yourself in the spirituality that permeates the place. You can also book a tea ceremony in Kyoto.

See the cobblestone streets of Higashiyama Ward

Booking a tour of the Higashiyama district or visiting it on your own will allow you to immerse yourself in an enchanting atmosphere and discover the essence of Japan's ancient capital. This traditional neighbourhood, full of narrow cobbled streets, is dotted with historic temples, shrines and teahouses that evoke the beauty and charm of the city.

You will marvel at the wooden houses and alleys lined with craft shops and cafés. Every corner seems to contain an ancestral history and will transport you back in time. Higashiyama is also known for housing some of Kyoto's most iconic temples, such as Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka.

In addition, from high vantage points such as the Kiyomizu-dera viewpoint, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, especially during the sakura, or cherry blossom, season and in autumn, when the colours of the leaves transform the landscape.

Visit Nijo Castle, former residence of the shoguns

Nijo Castle was the former residence of the shoguns and represents the magnificence of the feudal era, as well as marking the kilometre 0 of the city. When you enter its grounds, you will find yourself immersed in an atmosphere of power and opulence. It is also an ideal place to visit if you are travelling to Kyoto with children.

Nijo Castle stands out for its architecture and gardens. As you walk through the halls and rooms, you will appreciate the intricate details of the wood panelling, decorated doors and ceilings painted with traditional motifs. Every nook and cranny will transport you back to Japan's imperial past. In addition to the structure, Nijo Castle has beautiful gardens.

One of the most notable features of the castle is the Nightingale Floor, an ingenious mechanism that produces a soft squeaking sound when someone walks on it, alerting the castle's inhabitants to the presence of possible intruders. This detail shows the sophistication and attention to detail of the time.

Explore the Nishiki marketplace

Exploring the Nishiki Market in Kyoto is a way to travel to the world of flavours, colours and culinary traditions of Japan. It is located in the southern part of the city and is a paradise for food lovers. So much so that it is often included when booking a food tour in Kyoto.

Walking through the market you will find yourself surrounded by food stalls offering a wide variety of fresh produce, local ingredients and ready-made dishes. From fresh seafood and sushi to traditional sweets and matcha tea, you'll find options to suit every palate.

In addition, the Nishiki market also offers a wide range of handmade products and kitchen utensils. From sharp knives and fine pottery to special ingredients such as condiments and tea. If you plan to visit Kyoto in December, you can also see this place converted into a Christmas market.

Take a boat ride on the Hozu River

Taking a boat ride on the Hozu River in Kyoto is a fascinating way to explore the natural beauty and serenity of the region. As you enter the tranquil waters of this river that runs through the city, you will witness a landscape of lush forests, mountains and cliffs.

If you plan to visit Kyoto in February or during the winter , you will be able to watch the migration of water birds such as herons and ducks. In addition, the local guide will provide you with interesting information about the history and geography of the area, further enriching your experience.

The Hozu River also has an important cultural significance. For centuries it was used to transport wood and other materials to the city of Kyoto. Therefore, the boat trip will allow you to connect with the history and economic importance this tributary has had in the region.

During this 2-day tour you will get to know the cultural profile of Kyoto, one of Japan's most traditional cities, as well as its natural attractions, especially those in the areas near the Hozu River. The activities in the surrounding area remain to be seen, which is a good excuse to come back.