You say you only have one day to sightsee in Kyoto? If someone asked me that, I would have said, “Are you kidding? I bet you would say, “Are you kidding? Even if I had a week, I would not be able to see everything in Kyoto. But if it is an excuse to come back, I dare not be greedy! How will you use your time in Kyoto, of which you only have one day this time? Please refer to the following.
The most popular course
Sanneizaka – Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Yasaka Shrine – Gion
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is not to be missed only because of its unique architecture. It is because the area leading up to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, called Sanneizaka, is lined with stores selling souvenirs and street food!
If you only have about two hours, stop here. If you only have a couple of hours, stop here, but if you have more time, walk to Yasaka Shrine and then to Gion. There are many famous temples and shrines on the way to Yasaka Shrine, so you can adjust your time here.
Nature Walking Course
Kuramadera Temple – Kibune Shrine
If you like nature, this might be better than visiting famous shrines and temples in the center of Kyoto. Take the train to Kurama and then just walk up Mt. Kurama, a place of legend and revered by the people, is full of power. It is a bit of a mountain trail, so comfortable walking shoes and clothing are a must. The last stop is Kibune Shrine. You should allow 4 to 5 hours for this tour, including the time from Kyoto Station.
Walking around Kyoto, old and new
Nijo Castle – Karasuma Oike – Nishiki Market
If you like to see castles when it comes to sightseeing, go to Nijo Castle! Take a walk around the castle, which looks simple but is filled with luxurious decorations and furnishings in the Japanese sense of the word.
A 15-minute walk will take you to Karasuma Oike. Enjoy lunch at a modern and stylish restaurant. If you still have time, visit Nishiki Market. The market is called the kitchen of Kyoto and is lined on both sides of narrow streets with stores selling foodstuffs and delicatessen items.
Holey tourist spot
Ujigami Shrine – Byodoin Temple
The area around Uji is different from that of Kyoto City, where time passes at a leisurely pace. Ujigami Shrine has the oldest shrine architecture built in the Heian period. The Phoenix Hall in Byodoin is famous as the place depicted on the Japanese 10-yen coin. Uji is known for its tea production, and there are many stores that sell tea and offer matcha green tea desserts. It is recommended for a 3-4 hour afternoon stroll.
Spots not temples or shrines
Kyoto International Manga Museum – Kyoto Aquarium
Kyoto has only historical facilities? Let me tell you about a slightly different Kyoto. First of all, the ”Kyoto International Manga Museum”, as the name suggests, has exhibits related to manga. You can also read manga from the museum’s collection. It takes about an hour just to visit the museum. Within walking distance from Kyoto Station is the Kyoto Aquarium. The giant salamander, a national special natural treasure, can only be seen here.
Two famous temples to see!
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – Kinkakuji Temple – Ryoanji Temple
Kinkakuji Temple with its shining gold color and Ryoanji Temple with its dry landscape garden. These two famous temples are must-see destinations for many people! I am sure that many of you would like to visit these two famous temples. Kinkakuji and Ryoan-ji are located close to each other, so it is better to visit them on the way. Starting from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, it takes about 3 to 4 hours to visit Kinkakuji Temple and Ryoan-ji Temple. You can also go around from the opposite direction. If you have time, visit Ninna-ji Temple, which is located beyond Ryoan-ji Temple.
Bakery Tour
Bread in Japan and in Kyoto? Some may wonder. Kyoto residents eat more bread than the national average. Japanese bread has developed in its own unique way. One of the most well-known examples is anpan (bun with red bean paste inside).
There are many reputable bakeries in the city, so you can find your favorite while touring around. I recommend “Tamaki Tei” near Obaku Station. I also recommend “Shinshindo,” which has several stores in addition to the one at Kyoto Station.