Kyoto in 48 hours
Kyoto was Japan's imperial capital for more than a millennium, and it still feels like the keeper of the country's traditions. Its temples, gardens, tea houses and craft shops reward early starts and a slower pace.
Best time to visit. Spring cherry blossom, around late March to early April, and autumn color in November are spectacular but very busy. Late spring and early December are calmer; summer is hot and humid.
Where to base yourself
- Gion and Higashiyama. Wooden machiya houses, teahouses and the climb to Kiyomizu-dera.
- Arashiyama. Bamboo groves, the Oi River and Tenryu-ji, on the western edge of the city.
- Downtown. Nishiki Market, shopping arcades and the bars of narrow Pontocho alley.
- Okazaki and the Philosopher's Path. Museums, Nanzen-ji and a canal-side path lined with cherry trees.
- Northern Kyoto. Kinkaku-ji, Daitoku-ji's Zen sub-temples and the mountain villages of Kurama and Kibune.
Two perfect days
Day one · East
- Morning
- Fushimi Inari's gates at first light, before the crowds
- Afternoon
- The Philosopher's Path, Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji
- Evening
- Dinner in Pontocho, then a quiet walk through Gion
Day two · North and west
- Morning
- Daitoku-ji's sub-temple gardens and a bowl of matcha
- Afternoon
- Kinkaku-ji, then Nishiki Market for snacks
- Evening
- A late-afternoon boat or walk along the river in Arashiyama
Getting around
Buses reach most temples but can be packed; the two subway lines and private railways are often faster. Taxis are clean and convenient for short hops. Shinkansen trains from Tokyo take roughly two hours and a quarter.
Local tips
- Do not photograph geiko or maiko without consent, and respect signs on Gion's private lanes
- Forward large luggage between hotels by delivery service
- Keep some cash for small temples and shops
- Popular sites open early; arrive with the gates