12-Day Kyoto Trip: Copy This Itinerary

Day 1 starts at Kinkaku-ji at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Travel via bus (~45 minutes, ¥300) to Ginkaku-ji by 10:30 AM - spend 1 hour enjoying the gardens. Head to Fushimi Inari Taisha (12 PM) with a 30-minute train ride (~¥300) - dedicate 2 hours for hiking the iconic torii gates.

Attractions

Kinkaku-ji

This stunning gold-leaf covered Zen temple is set in beautiful gardens, offering breathtaking reflections in the surrounding pond—a must-see in Kyoto.

Ginkaku-ji

Known as the Silver Pavilion, this Zen temple features beautiful gardens and a moss-covered ground, creating a serene atmosphere for reflection.

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, this shrine offers a breathtaking walk through picturesque trails, making it a unique journey.

Day 2 starts at Arashiyama Bamboo Forest at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Take the JR Sanin Line from Saga-Arashiyama Station to Kyoto Station (15 mins, ~$2 USD) to reach Kyoto Railway Museum by 10:30 AM - allow 2 hours here. Afterward, take a 10-minute bus ride (~$1 USD) to Nijō Castle, arriving by 1 PM - allow 1.5 hours to enjoy the gardens and history.

Attractions

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Walk into a breathtaking green sanctuary, where towering bamboo stalks create a peaceful ambiance, perfect for family photos and quiet walks.

Kyoto Railway Museum

Explore Japan’s rich railway history through interactive exhibits and real trains, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Nijō Castle

This UNESCO World Heritage site features spectacular gardens and impressive historical architecture, showcasing the power of the shogun in the Edo period.

Day 3 starts at Gion at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore this historic geisha district. Travel via a 15-minute walk to Nidec Kyoto Tower, arriving by 11:30 AM for 1 hour. Afterward, take a 20-minute bus ride (around ¥230) to reach To-ji Temple by 1 PM, allowing 90 minutes to enjoy its stunning pagoda.

Attractions

Gion

Famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses, Gion is the perfect place to spot geisha, experience tea houses, and indulge in local crafts.

Nidec Kyoto Tower

Offering panoramic views of the city, Kyoto Tower stands tall as the perfect place to get a bird's-eye view of historic Kyoto.

To-ji Temple

Home to Japan's tallest wooden pagoda, this temple has a rich history and beautiful grounds, perfect for a peaceful walk.

Day 4 starts at Kiyomizu-dera at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore this iconic temple. Travel via bus (~$4 USD) for 15 minutes to reach Nanzen-ji by 11:30 AM - spend 1.5 hours enjoying its tranquility. Afterward, take a 20-minute scenic walk along the Philosopher's Path to Tetsugaku No Michi by 1:30 PM – allow 1 hour to stroll through this serene area.

Attractions

Kiyomizu-dera

This iconic temple, built on a hillside, provides breathtaking views of cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

Nanzen-ji

This large temple complex features impressive halls, gardens, and a beautiful aqueduct, offering a tranquil escape in the bustling city.

Tetsugaku No Michi

A picturesque stone path lined with cherry blossoms, perfect for a peaceful stroll, often leading to various temples and shrines.

Day 5 starts at Kōdaiji Temple at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to explore its beautiful gardens. Travel to Netcafe Cocone via a 15-minute taxi (~¥1,500) for a relaxing break at 10:30 AM (1 hour). Next, head to Fushimi Sake Village, a 20-minute subway ride (~¥300), arriving by 12 PM for a 2-hour sake tasting experience. Enjoy a balanced mix of culture and leisure throughout the day!

Attractions

Kōdaiji Temple

Known for its stunning gardens and beautiful Zen architecture, Kodaiji is a serene spot that reflects traditional Japanese aesthetics.

Netcafe Cocone

This charming cafe is known for its delicious coffee and unique Japanese-inspired drinks, providing a cozy spot to relax.

Fushimi Sake Village

Home to numerous sake breweries, this district offers tastings and tours, perfect for learning about Japan's beloved rice wine.

Day 6 starts at Teramachi-dori at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for shopping. Walk for 10 minutes to reach Nishiki Market by 11:30 AM, where you should spend 1.5 hours enjoying local delicacies. At 1:30 PM, take a 15-minute bus ride (around ¥230) to Tōfuku-ji Temple for a 1-hour visit. Enjoy a balanced day mixing shopping, culinary experiences, and cultural sights, all in proximity to Kyoto's city center.

Attractions

Teramachi-dori

A vibrant shopping district filled with shops selling everything from fashion to crafts, offering a taste of Kyoto's unique goods.

Nishiki Market

Known as Kyoto's kitchen, this lively market offers a wide array of local delicacies, perfect for food lovers and families.

Tōfuku-ji Temple

Famous for its beautiful gardens, particularly stunning during autumn, Tōfuku-ji offers tranquility and striking landscape design.

Day 7 starts at Ryōan-ji at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for the rock garden. Travel 30 minutes via a bus (~$3) to Kyoto Aquarium, arriving at 10:30 AM for a 2-hour visit. After, head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum at 1 PM - a 15-minute bus ride (~$2), where you can enjoy for 1.5 hours.

Attractions

Ryōan-ji

Home to Japan's most famous rock garden, Ryoan-ji is a serene spot perfect for appreciating Zen philosophy and tranquility in design.

Kyoto Aquarium

A family-friendly aquarium featuring marine life from the local rivers and oceans, with interactive exhibits.

Kyoto International Manga Museum

A must-visit for manga fans and families with children, showcasing a vast collection of manga to read.

Day 8 starts at HOSHINOYA Kyoto at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to enjoy the scenic views and relax. Travel to Sanmon Gate via taxi (~15 mins, ~$20) arriving around 12:30 PM for a 30-minute visit. Then, head to Kifune Shrine with a scenic train ride (~30 mins, ~$10) and explore from 1:30 PM for 90 minutes. This itinerary is balanced, allowing time for leisure and exploration.

Attractions

HOSHINOYA Kyoto

A luxury ryokan with a beautiful onsen (hot spring) experience alongside stunning views of the river.

Sanmon Gate

Visit the grand Sanmon Gate of Nanzen-ji, an impressive wooden structure and a great photo spot.

Kifune Shrine

A beautiful shrine located in the mountains, known for its scenic walks and lovely lanterns.

Day 9 starts at Kyoto Handicraft Center at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore traditional crafts. Travel by bus (15 minutes, ¥230) to Hojo Teien, arriving at 11:30 AM - enjoy the serene Rock Garden for 1.5 hours. Then, take a 30-minute bus ride (¥230) to Toei Kyoto Studio Park, starting at 1:30 PM - spend 3 hours experiencing movie sets and attractions.

Attractions

Kyoto Handicraft Center

A place to explore and purchase traditional Kyoto crafts, including pottery, textiles, and more.

Hojo Teien (Rock Garden)

A fun and interactive experience where children can learn about and see foxes up close.

Toei Kyoto Studio Park

A theme park that lets you experience the world of samurai and ninja with shows and activities.

Day 1 starts at Tokyo Tower at 9 AM - allow 1.5 hours for exploration. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~￥1,200) to Ueno Park, arriving at 11 AM. Spend 2 hours enjoying the park's beauty. At 1:30 PM, head to Akihabara Electric Town via a 15-minute train ride (~￥200). Enjoy 2 hours exploring the vibrant shops and culture.

Attractions

Tokyo Tower

This iconic symbol of Tokyo offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, especially beautiful at sunset.

Ueno Park

This expansive park features beautiful cherry blossoms, museums, and a zoo, making it a perfect spot for families and nature lovers.

Akihabara Electric Town

Famous for its electronics shops and otaku culture, Akihabara is a vibrant shopping district filled with anime, manga, and tech stores.

Day 2 starts at Odaiba at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore attractions like teamLab Borderless. Take the Yurikamome Line (20 minutes; ~$3) to reach Meiji Jingu by 12:30 PM - spend 90 minutes enjoying the serene surroundings. Finally, take the JR Yamanote Line (15 minutes; ~$2) to Ginza at 2:30 PM, where you can shop and dine for 2 hours.

Attractions

Odaiba

This futuristic man-made island features shopping, entertainment, and stunning views of Tokyo Bay, making it a fun destination for families.

Meiji Jingu

As a serene oasis in the city, this Shinto shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, surrounded by a lush forest.

Ginza

Tokyo's upscale shopping district is lined with luxury boutiques, department stores, and fine dining, offering a taste of high-end Japan.

Day 3 starts at Asakusa (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore Senso-ji Temple. Travel via Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Shibuya (~30 mins, ¥300). Arrive at Shibuya Crossing by 11:30 AM for 30 minutes of sightseeing. Next, take the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Tokyo Skytree (around 30 mins, ¥350) to arrive by 12:30 PM - spend 2 hours enjoying the views.

Attractions

Asakusa

Home to Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, Asakusa combines traditional culture with vibrant markets selling local snacks and souvenirs.

Shibuya Crossing

Known as one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world, experiencing the hustle and bustle of Shibuya Crossing is a must for every visitor.

Tokyo Skytree

As the tallest structure in Japan, Tokyo Skytree features observation decks with breathtaking views and shopping opportunities at the base.

Complete family friendly 12-day guide to Kyoto & Tokyo, Japan with Top attractions and For kids and Shopping

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Kinkaku-ji

Ginkaku-ji

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