10 Days in Kyoto, Japan
Japan

10 Days in Kyoto: A Day-by-Day Itinerary

A real plan from a traveler, day by day, with times. Follow it or make it yours.

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Here is how a real traveler spent 10 days in Kyoto. Day 1: Nijō Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace. Day 2: Gion, Fushimi Inari Taisha. Day 3: Nanzen-ji, Nidec Kyoto Tower. The stop most travelers include is Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, in 6 of 3 trips. The full plan below has times, ticket prices and travel time between stops.

Built from 3 real traveler itineraries on Packy AI. Last updated November 2026 by the Packy AI Travel Team.

The itinerary

10 days in Kyoto, day by day

A real plan from a traveler on Packy AI. Follow it as it is, or copy it and change anything.

Map of the route in Kyoto
Kyoto

Day 1: Nijō Castle and Kyoto Imperial Palace

Day 1 starts at Nijō Castle at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for exploration. Travel to Kyoto Imperial Palace by taxi (15 minutes, ~$20) for an 11:30 AM visit – spend 1.5 hours here.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Nijō Castle

    Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing stunning gardens and beautiful architecture that reflects Japan's history and culture.

    120 mins¥1,00020 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:30 AM

    Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Experience the serene gardens and historical architecture of the former residence of the Emperor of Japan, located in the heart of Kyoto.

    90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 1:30 PM

    Kinkaku-ji

    Marvel at this stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond and lush gardens.

    120 mins¥400

Day 2: Gion and Fushimi Inari Taisha

Day 2 starts at Gion at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to enjoy the geisha district. Take the subway from Gion to Fushimi Inari Taisha around 12 PM (15 minutes, ~$3 USD). Explore the stunning torii gates for 3 hours starting at 12:30 PM. Depart to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest at 4 PM, with a 30-minute train ride (~$4 USD).

  1. 9:00 AM

    Gion

    Stroll through Kyoto's famous Geisha district, enjoying traditional architecture, boutique shops, and authentic tea houses.

    180 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 12:30 PM

    Fushimi Inari Taisha

    Walk through thousands of vibrant red torii gates leading up the mountain, providing a spectacular display and spiritual experience.

    180 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 4:00 PM

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

    Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of towering bamboo stalks in this tranquil grove, perfect for peaceful walks and photography.

    120 minsFree

Day 3: Nanzen-ji and Nidec Kyoto Tower

Start Day 3 at Nanzen-ji at 9 AM (allow 1.5 hours). Travel by taxi (15 mins, ~¥1,500) to Nidec Kyoto Tower at 11 AM (1 hour). Afterward, take the subway from Kyoto Station (15 mins, ~¥300) to reach To-ji Temple by 12:30 PM (allow 2 hours).

  1. 9:00 AM

    Nanzen-ji

    Explore one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, known for its beautiful gardens, impressive gate, and serene atmosphere.

    90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:00 AM

    Nidec Kyoto Tower

    Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from this modern landmark, which offers a unique contrast to the city's traditional architecture.

    60 mins¥80020 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 12:30 PM

    To-ji Temple

    Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its five-story pagoda and beautiful gardens that embody Japanese architecture.

    120 mins¥600

Day 4: Heian-jingū Shrine and Kifune Shrine

Day 4 starts at Heian-jingū Shrine at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore its beautiful gardens. Travel 40 minutes via train to Kifune Shrine, arriving around 11 AM; spend 2 hours enjoying the serene atmosphere.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Heian-jingū Shrine

    Admire the beautiful architecture and serene gardens of this Shinto shrine, showcasing the culture of the Heian period.

    90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:00 AM

    Kifune Shrine

    Set amidst the tranquil mountains, this picturesque shrine is famous for its beautiful lanterns and serene atmosphere.

    120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 1:30 PM

    Soba-no-Mi Yoshimura

    Indulge in a traditional kaiseki lunch in a serene setting within a famous Zen temple complex, showcasing seasonal ingredients.

    90 mins¥3,000

Day 5: Pontocho Alley and Shōrenin Temple

Day 5 starts at Pontocho Alley at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore its quaint bars and restaurants. Travel 10 minutes by bus (~¥230) to Shōrenin Temple, arriving at 11:30 AM for a 1-hour visit.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Pontocho Alley

    Wander through this narrow alley filled with traditional tea houses, restaurants, and shops, offering a unique dining experience.

    120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:30 AM

    Shōrenin Temple

    Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and stunning gardens of this less crowded temple, perfect for meditation and reflection.

    60 mins¥50020 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 1:00 PM

    Tetsugaku No Michi

    Stroll along this scenic path lined with cherry blossoms and quaint shops, perfect for a reflective walk.

    120 minsFree

Day 6: Daitoku-ji Temple and Tōfuku-ji Temple

Day 6 starts at Daitoku-ji Temple (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore its stunning gardens. Take a 15-minute taxi (~¥1,000) to Tōfuku-ji Temple for a 11:30 AM visit, allocating another 2 hours for its beautiful landscapes.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Daitoku-ji Temple

    Discover one of Kyoto's largest Zen temple complexes, featuring beautiful gardens and serene meditation spaces.

    120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:30 AM

    Tōfuku-ji Temple

    Famous for its breathtaking gardens, this historical temple is a stunning example of Zen Buddhism's aesthetic.

    120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 2:00 PM

    Sanjūsangendō Temple

    Marvel at the 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in this truly unique and awe-inspiring temple.

    90 mins¥600

Day 7: Ryōan-ji and Kōdaiji Temple

Start Day 7 at Ryōan-ji at 9 AM for 90 minutes. Travel 15 minutes by taxi (~¥1,500) to Kōdaiji Temple at 11 AM, allowing 90 minutes to explore. Finally, take a quick 10-minute bus ride (~¥250) to Nanzen-ji at 1 PM, spending an hour soaking in the serene atmosphere.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Ryōan-ji

    Experience the tranquility of this famous rock garden, which is one of the most renowned examples of Zen landscaping.

    90 mins¥50020 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:00 AM

    Kōdaiji Temple

    Discover this serene temple known for its beautiful gardens and historic significance, a true embodiment of Zen philosophy.

    90 mins¥60020 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 1:00 PM

    Nanzen-ji

    Explore the beautiful gardens and contemplative environments of this Zen temple, away from the larger crowds.

    60 mins¥400

Day 8: Nishiki Market and Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

Day 8 starts at Nishiki Market at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore local delicacies. Take a 25-minute bus ride (~$2 USD) to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, arriving at 11:30 AM for 1.5 hours of serene views.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Nishiki Market

    Explore this vibrant market filled with shops offering local delicacies, unique souvenirs, and traditional crafts, a feast for the senses.

    120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:30 AM

    Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple

    Discover this charming temple known for its 1,200 unique stone Buddha statues, each with distinct expressions and personalities.

    90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 1:30 PM

    Katsura Imperial Villa

    Explore the extraordinary architecture and exquisite gardens of this opulent villa representing Japan’s cultural richness.

    120 minsFree

Day 9: Chōhō-ji (Rokkaku-dō) Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Day 9 starts at Chōhō-ji (Rokkaku-dō) Temple at 9 AM - allow 1 hour. Travel 30 minutes by bus (~$2) to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, arriving around 10:30 AM for 90 minutes of exploration. Finally, take a 30-minute train ride (~$3) to Hojo Garden at Nanzen-ji, starting at 12:30 PM for another 90 minutes of relaxation.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Chōhō-ji (Rokkaku-dō) Temple

    Famous for its unique hexagonal shape, this temple offers a tranquil escape and insightful Buddhist teachings.

    60 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 10:30 AM

    Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

    Find a range of local crafts and bamboo products, perfect for souvenirs that capture the essence of Kyoto’s heritage.

    90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 12:30 PM

    Hojo Garden (南禅寺方丈庭院)

    Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional architecture of the Nanzen-ji Hojo, which is an important part of the Nanzen-ji Temple complex, offering a serene experience in the heart of Kyoto.

    90 mins500 JPY

Day 10: Kyoto Handicraft Center and Kyoto Aquarium

Day 10 starts at Kyoto Handicraft Center at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. Travel to Kyoto Aquarium by taxi (~$10, 15 minutes) for a 90-minute visit starting at 11:30 AM. Then, take a 10-minute bus ride (~$2) to Eikan-dō Temple for a scenic 1:30 PM visit, allowing 90 minutes to enjoy the gardens and architecture.

  1. 9:00 AM

    Kyoto Handicraft Center

    Discover traditional Japanese crafts and souvenirs, and take part in workshops that allow you to try your hand at various artisanal skills.

    120 minsFree to enter; workshops vary20 mins by walk to the next stop
  2. 11:30 AM

    Kyoto Aquarium

    A delightful family-friendly attraction showcasing marine life from Kyoto's rivers and the oceans. The aquarium features interactive exhibits and a large dolphin show.

    90 mins2,050 JPY20 mins by walk to the next stop
  3. 1:30 PM

    Eikan-dō Temple

    Famous for its autumn leaves and exquisite temple architecture, Eikan-do offers a tranquil setting and beautiful gardens to explore.

    90 mins600 JPY

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Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about spending 10 days in Kyoto

Yes. The plan on this page fits 30 stops into 10 days, about 3 a day. Travelers on Packy have planned Kyoto trips from 3 to 14 days.

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