13-Day Kyoto Trip: Copy This Itinerary

Day 1 in Kyoto starts at Kinkaku-ji at 9 AM (allow 90 mins). Next, take a 30-minute bus ride (~$3) to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, arriving at 11 AM (stay for 60 mins). Finally, travel 30 minutes by train (~$2) to Fushimi Inari Taisha, where you’ll spend 2 hours exploring. This route is organized by proximity to the city center for efficiency.

Attractions

Kinkaku-ji

Visit this stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens and reflective ponds, offering a serene experience and iconic photo opportunities.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Wander through towering bamboo stalks in this enchanting grove, embracing the tranquility and unique beauty of this natural wonder just outside of Kyoto.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore this famous Shinto shrine, celebrated for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create picturesque trails leading up the sacred Mount Inari.

Start in Gion at 9 AM for 90 minutes, enjoying traditional tea houses. Travel via a 15-minute bus ride (~$2) to Nanzen-ji, arriving at 11 AM for another 90 minutes of stunning temple gardens. Depart at 12:30 PM for Kiyomizu-dera by a 20-minute bus ride (~$3), where you’ll spend 2 hours exploring the iconic wooden temple with breathtaking views. End your day at 3 PM.

Attractions

Gion

Stroll through Kyoto's historic Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and the chance to spot geishas in the evening.

Nanzen-ji

Discover this extensive Zen temple complex with beautiful gardens, impressive gate, and a historic aqueduct, offering a peaceful retreat from the city vibe.

Kiyomizu-dera

Visit this celebrated temple famous for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering breathtaking views of cherry and maple trees in both spring and fall.

Day 3 starts at Tetsugaku No Michi at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for a peaceful stroll. Travel 15 minutes by bus (¥230) to To-ji Temple, arriving by 10:30 AM (1 hour visit). Next, take a 30-minute bus ride (¥250) to Tenryu-ji, arriving around noon - allow 2 hours to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a balanced mix of cultural experiences and leisure.

Attractions

Tetsugaku No Michi

Walk along this scenic canal-side path lined with cherry trees, famous for its cherry blossom season and beautiful temples along the route, ideal for a peaceful stroll.

To-ji Temple

Explore this stunning Buddhist temple known for its five-story pagoda, the tallest wooden structure in Japan, and serene gardens that reflect traditional architecture.

Tenryu-ji

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its beautiful gardens and picturesque views.

Day 1 starts at Peace Memorial Park at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. Then, a short 5-minute walk brings you to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum by 11:30 AM for another 2 hours. Finally, take a 15-minute tram ride to Atomic Bomb Dome at 2 PM (about ¥200). Spend 30 minutes appreciating this iconic site before wrapping up your day.

Attractions

Peace Memorial Park - Hiroshima

A serene park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing, featuring monuments and fountains that symbolize hope and peace.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Discover the poignant history of Hiroshima before and after the bomb through artifacts and detailed exhibits that honor resilience.

Atomic Bomb Dome

The iconic symbol of Hiroshima, this dome remains as a harrowing reminder of the atomic bombing and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 2 starts at Shukkeien Garden (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore. Travel 10 minutes by tram to Hiroshima Castle (approx. ¥200) for a 2-hour visit starting at 11 AM. Afterward, take a 10-minute walk to Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art at 1:30 PM - spend 90 minutes appreciating the exhibits.

Attractions

Shukkeien Garden

This exquisite Japanese garden features ponds, tea houses, and scenic walking paths, ideal for relaxation and nature appreciation.

Hiroshima Castle

Explore this historic castle, known as the 'Carp Castle,' which showcases beautiful views, a museum, and traditional architecture.

Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art

Featuring works by prominent Japanese artists, this museum is a must-visit for contemporary art lovers seeking inspiration.

Day 3 starts at MAZDA Museum at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore this unique automotive experience. Travel 20 minutes by taxi (~¥2,000) to Hiroshima Orizuru Tower by 11:30 AM for stunning views and interactive exhibits (1.5 hours). Afterward, enjoy a 10-minute taxi ride (~¥1,500) to Hijiyama Park at 1:30 PM, where you can relax and enjoy nature for 2 hours.

Attractions

MAZDA Museum

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Mazda's history and innovations through engaging exhibits and factory tours.

Hiroshima Orizuru Tower

Experience breathtaking views of the city and Peace Memorial Park from the observation deck and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Hijiyama Park

A beautiful hilltop park with cherry blossoms in spring, trails, and stunning views of Hiroshima Bay.

Start Day 4 at Hiroshima Hondori Shopping Street at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for shopping and local snacks. Travel to Mitaki-dera by taxi (10 minutes, ~¥1,500) to explore the temple for 90 minutes, starting at 11:30 AM. At 1:30 PM, head to Saijo Sake Brewery Street via train (20 minutes, ~¥500) to taste local sake and enjoy the area for 2 hours.

Attractions

Hiroshima Hondori Shopping Street

A bustling shopping arcade filled with restaurants and shops, perfect for sampling local delicacies and Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

Mitaki-dera

Nested in the lush hills, this serene temple features stunning pagodas, a tranquil atmosphere, and beautiful trails for hiking.

Saijo Sake Brewery Street

Experience the tranquil beauty by walking or cycling along this scenic river, ideal for enjoying the outdoors and local flora.

Day 5 starts at Asa Zoo (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2.5 hours to explore the animals. Travel 30 minutes via local bus (~¥400) to reach JMSDF Kure Museum by 12 PM - allow 2 hours for exhibits. Head to Hiroshima Botanical Garden at 2:30 PM with a 20-minute taxi ride (~¥2,000) for a relaxing afternoon amidst beautiful flora.

Attractions

Asa Zoo

Home to a variety of animals from around the world, this zoo provides a fun day out for families and animal enthusiasts alike.

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Kure Museum

Learn about Japan's maritime history and the significance of naval operations through interactive exhibits and a battleship tour.

Hiroshima Botanical Garden

Home to diverse plant species and beautiful landscaping, this garden is a peaceful retreat for enjoying seasonal blooms.

Start your day at Fukuromachi Elementary School Peace Museum at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to explore. Travel 30 minutes by train (~¥500) to Yamato Museum at 10:30 AM - spend 2 hours here. Afterward, take a 30-minute bus ride (~¥300) to HIROSHIMA GATE PARK, arriving by 1 PM for a leisurely 1.5 hours to unwind.

Attractions

Fukuromachi Elementary School Peace Museum

A unique museum located in a former school, showcasing artifacts and memories from students who experienced the atomic bomb.

Yamato Museum (Kure Maritime Museum)

Explore Japan's naval history with the famous battleship Yamato exhibits and maritime artifacts that tell a compelling story.

HIROSHIMA GATE PARK

This park is a family-friendly space with playgrounds, walking paths, and beautiful gardens to enjoy outdoor activities.

Day 7 starts at Futabasan at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore the scenic views. Take a 20-minute taxi ride (~¥2,000) to Ujina Pier Park, arriving by 11:30 AM for an hour of leisurely strolls. Afterward, take a 15-minute taxi ride (~¥1,500) to Fujimidai Observation Deck, reaching by 1 PM to enjoy vistas for an hour before concluding your day.

Attractions

Futabasan

Offers panoramic views of Hiroshima Bay and a serene forest environment.

Ujina Pier Park

A beautiful park along the bay with walking paths and views of the water.

Fujimidai Observation Deck

Offers breathtaking views of Hiroshima City and the surrounding mountains.

Day 8 starts at Saijo Sake Brewery Street at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore local sake. Travel by local train (~30 mins, ~$500 JPY) to Gion Shrine, arriving around 11:30 AM for a 1-hour visit. Afterward, take a ferry from Miyajimaguchi (~45 mins, ~$1,000 JPY) to Itsukushima, arriving at 1 PM - allow 3 hours to fully enjoy the iconic shrine and scenery.

Attractions

Saijo Sake Brewery Street

Explore the history of sake production and enjoy tastings.

Gion Shrine

A peaceful shrine located in a forested area, perfect for a serene walk.

Itsukushima

A short ferry ride away, famous for its floating torii gate and hiking opportunities.

Start Day 9 at Hiroshima River Cruise at 9 AM - allow 2 hours. Travel by foot to Enkoji (15 minutes). Arrive at 11:30 AM - explore for 1.5 hours. For HIROSHIMA GATE PARK, take a 10-minute taxi ride (~¥800) from Enkoji, arriving by 1:30 PM. Enjoy the park for 1.5 hours before concluding your day.

Attractions

Hiroshima River Cruise

A natural valley ideal for hiking and enjoying tranquil water views.

Enkoji

A beautiful temple with a peaceful garden that showcases seasonal colors.

HIROSHIMA GATE PARK

A lush urban green space great for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Day 10 starts at HIROSHIMA GATE PARK at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes for a leisurely stroll. Next, take a 15-minute taxi (~¥1,500) to Hiroshimashi Central Park, arriving by 11 AM for 60 minutes of relaxation. Finally, travel 30 minutes by tram (~¥200) to Itsukushima Shrine, reaching by 12:30 PM. Spend an hour exploring its stunning Main Sanctuary & Hall of Worship.

Attractions

HIROSHIMA GATE PARK

Offers walking trails with scenic water views and local wildlife.

Hiroshimashi Central Park

Features a picturesque pond and beautiful landscaping, ideal for walks.

Itsukushima Shrine - Main Sanctuary & Hall of Worship

An ancient shrine surrounded by beautiful nature and tranquil atmosphere.

13-day itinerary in Kyoto & Hiroshima, Japan focusing on Top attractions and Nature and outdoor

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Kinkaku-ji

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Day 12

Day 13