Hotel Stays
Here are some budget and moderate hotels in Kyoto, along with their price ranges:Budget Hotels (under ¥10,000 or $90 per night):
1. Nijo Guest House (¥4,500-¥6,000 or $40-55 per night)
* A hostel-style hotel with dormitory-style rooms and private rooms
* Located near Nijojo Station
2. Guest House Kiyomizu (¥5,000-¥7,000 or $45-63 per night)
* A small, family-run guesthouse with private rooms
* Located near Kiyomizu-dera Temple
3. Hotel Gion Nanba (¥6,000-¥8,000 or $55-72 per night)
* A budget hotel with simple but clean and comfortable rooms
* Located near Gion District
Moderate Hotels (¥10,000-¥30,000 or $90-270 per night):
1. Hotel Mume (¥12,000-¥20,000 or $110-180 per night)
* A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere
* Located near Kyoto Station
2. Kyoto Tower Hotel (¥15,000-¥25,000 or $135-225 per night)
* A hotel located inside the Kyoto Tower building, with great views of the city
* Room rates vary depending on the view and room type
3. Hotel Gajoen Kyoto (¥18,000-¥30,000 or $160-270 per night)
* A unique hotel with beautifully decorated rooms and a traditional Japanese bath
* Located near Kitayama Station
Please note that prices may vary depending on the time of year, room type, and availability. It's always a good idea to check the hotel's website or a hotel booking website like Booking.com or Agoda for the latest prices.
Suggested Itinerary
Here's a suggested itinerary for a 3-day visit to Kyoto:Day 1:
* 9:00 AM - Start the day by visiting the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form a tunnel up the mountain.
* 11:00 AM - Take a short walk to the nearby Fushimi Station and take the JR Nara Line to Kyoto Station.
* 12:30 PM - Have lunch at Gion Nanba, a traditional Kyoto restaurant known for its delicious kaiseki cuisine.
* 2:00 PM - Visit the nearby Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks.
* 4:00 PM - Take a stroll around the nearby Higashiyama district and explore its charming streets, teahouses, and souvenir shops.
* 7:00 PM - Enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style dinner at a local restaurant, such as Gion Karyo.
Day 2:
* 9:00 AM - Start the day by visiting the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), a beautiful Zen temple covered in gold leaf.
* 11:00 AM - Take a short walk to the nearby Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden.
* 12:30 PM - Have lunch at a local café or tea shop.
* 2:00 PM - Visit the Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns.
* 4:00 PM - Take a break and rest at your hotel or a local café.
* 6:00 PM - Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the Urasenke Foundation.
* 8:00 PM - Explore the Gion district and its geisha culture, and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3:
* 9:00 AM - Start the day by visiting the Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) again to see it from a different perspective.
* 10:30 AM - Take a short walk to the nearby Edo-Tokyo Museum, which showcases the history of Tokyo and its relationship with Kyoto.
* 12:30 PM - Have lunch at a local restaurant.
* 2:00 PM - Visit the Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy.
* 4:00 PM - Take a stroll around the nearby Otaguro district and explore its charming streets and souvenir shops.
* 7:00 PM - Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on the wonderful experiences you had in Kyoto.
Of course, this is just one example of an itinerary, and you can customize it to fit your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Kyoto!
Suggested Restaurants
Here are some restaurant recommendations in Kyoto, along with their price ranges:Traditional Japanese
1. Kikunoi () - Michelin 3-star restaurant, known for its Kaiseki cuisine ( mult-course meal featuring local and seasonal ingredients). Price range: ¥20,000-¥50,000 (around $180-$450 USD) per person.
2. Gion Nanba () - Historic machiai-zukuri-style restaurant serving traditional Kyoto cuisine. Price range: ¥3,000-¥8,000 (around $25-$70 USD) per person.
3. Kyubey Gion () - Renowned for its high-quality sushi and traditional Edomae-style sushi. Price range: ¥5,000-¥20,000 (around $45-$180 USD) per person.
Ramen and Noodle Shops
1. Ichiran () - Famous for its unique, rich tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. Price range: ¥500-¥800 (around $4-$7 USD) per bowl.
2. Sanuki Udon () - Specializing in Sanuki-style udon noodles. Price range: ¥800-¥1,200 (around $7-$11 USD) per bowl.
3. Ganko Sushi () - Offers a variety of Japanese noodles and curries. Price range: ¥800-¥1,500 (around $7-$13 USD) per dish.
Modern Japanese
1. Ishibei-do () - Serves modern Japanese cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Price range: ¥2,000-¥4,000 (around $18-$36 USD) per person.
2. L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon () - A unique, counter-style restaurant offering a modern take on French-Japanese cuisine. Price range: ¥5,000-¥15,000 (around $45-$136 USD) per person.
International Cuisine
1. Bella Vista () - Offers Italian-Japanese fusion cuisine with a beautiful view of Kyoto. Price range: ¥2,000-¥5,000 (around $18-$45 USD) per person.
2. Bread & Freedom ( breadandfreedom.com ) - A Canadian-Japanese fusion bakery-cafe serving sandwiches and pastries. Price range: ¥500-¥1,000 (around $4-$9 USD) per item.
Please note that prices are subject to change, and some restaurants may have special menus or pricing for large groups or events. It's always a good idea to check the restaurant's website or call ahead to confirm pricing and availability.
Local Food
Kyoto! The culinary capital of Japan. Here are some iconic and must-try dishes special to Kyoto:1. Kaiseki: A traditional multi-course Japanese meal featuring local and seasonal ingredients, often served at traditional ryokan inns.
2. Shojin-ryori: A vegetarian cuisine inspired by Buddhist monks, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and careful presentation.
3. Kyoto-style Washoku: A traditional Japanese cuisine focusing on local ingredients, such as green tea, miso, and pickles, often served at ryokans or high-end restaurants.
4. Yudofu: Boiled tofu served with a variety of seasonings and sauces. A signature Kyoto dish.
5. Tofu: Kyoto is famous for its tofu, often served in hot pots, as tempura, or in traditional dishes like "Tofu Houtou," a hearty hot pot.
6. Kinkaku-jin: A luxurious, golden-leaf pastry filled with wagyu beef, scallops, or vegetables.
7. Machiya-zushi: Handmade sushi created using traditional techniques, often with seasonal fillings like salmon or tofu.
8. Tofu Mochi: Tofu-filled mochi (rice cakes) grilled or fried to crispy perfection.
9. Yuba: Edamame skin (soybeans) used in various dishes, such as tofu, soups, or salads.
10. Kyoto-style Bentō: A beautifully arranged boxed lunch featuring local specialties like grilled eel or tofu.
11. Fukushima: A traditional Kyoto noodle dish served with dipping soup and characterized by its thick, chewy noodles.
12. Hakata Gyouza: Pan-fried dumplings typically filled with pork, vegetables, or kimchi, and often served at izakayas (Japanese gastropubs).
13. Matcha: Kyoto is famous for its high-quality green tea, often used in traditional sweets, ice cream, or matcha-flavored snacks.
14. Imuraya: A traditional Kyoto confectionery, famous for its citrus-shaped candies, cookies, and sweet pastries.
15. Gion Nanba: A popular cafe offering seasonal pastries, including the famous Kyoto-style desserts like matcha tiramisu and sesame-flavored cakes.
These dishes showcase Kyoto's emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and stunning presentation. Enjoy exploring the culinary delights of Kyoto!
Shopping
Kyoto is a shopper's paradise! Here are some must-visit shopping spots to explore in and around Kyoto:1. Gion District: This historic district is famous for its traditional Japanese machiya houses and geisha culture. You can find unique souvenirs, kimonos, and traditional crafts at the various shops and museums.
Shopping options:
* Gion Kawabata: This shopping street is lined with traditional shops selling local snacks, tea, and ceramics.
* Gion Kiyomizu: This small shopping street is filled with unique boutiques selling handmade crafts, accessories, and souvenirs.
2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple: This famous temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning views of Kyoto. You can find traditional Japanese souvenirs, tea, and snacks at the temple's gift shop.
3. Kawaramachi: This popular shopping street is lined with trendy boutiques, department stores, and souvenir shops.
Shopping options:
* Kyoto Handicraft Center: This shopping center showcases traditional Japanese crafts, including lacquerware, ceramics, and textiles.
* Marui Department Store: This iconic department store offers a wide range of international and Japanese products, including electronics, clothing, and souvenirs.
4. Nishiki Market: This famous "Kyoto's Kitchen" offers a wide range of local ingredients, snacks, and prepared foods. You can find unique local products, such as Kyoto-style tea, pickled vegetables, and traditional Japanese sweets.
5. Kyoto Station Building: This shopping mall is located inside Kyoto Station and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Shopping options:
* Kyoto Handmade Pottery Store: This store offers handmade ceramic products, including tea sets, vases, and decorative items.
* Kyoto Handicraft Association: This co-op sells a wide range of traditional Japanese crafts, including textiles, ceramics, and woodworking.
6. Shimogyo District: This trendy district is known for its fashionable boutiques, vintage shops, and unique souvenir stores.
Shopping options:
* Kyoto Fashion Center: This shopping mall offers a collection of boutique fashion stores, including clothing, accessories, and beauty products.
* Shimogyo Original Gifts: This store sells unique, handmade souvenirs and gifts, including ceramics, jewelry, and traditional crafts.
7. Kyoto Railway Market: This bustling market offers fresh produce, snacks, and local specialties, including Kyoto-style tea and wagashi (Japanese sweets).
8. Kyoto Handicraft Village: This village is dedicated to traditional Japanese crafts and offers workshops, exhibitions, and sales of handmade crafts, including woodwork, textiles, and ceramics.
When shopping in Kyoto, be sure to try some local snacks and drinks, and don't be afraid to ask questions or negotiate prices!
Regional Wine
Kyoto, a city famous for its traditional Japanese culture, is also home to a growing oenophile scene. With many wine bars, restaurants, and shops popping up in recent years, wine enthusiasts can now explore a wide range of international and Japanese wines. Here are some wine options to consider in Kyoto:1. Wine Bars:
* Wine Bar Pia (Gion): Offers a curated selection of wine from around the world, with a focus on natural and organic wines.
* The Wine Corner (Gion): A cozy wine bar with a wide selection of wine, including Japanese labels and unusual international varieties.
* Mosaic (Gion): A stylish wine bar with an impressive selection of wine, craft beer, and whiskey.
2. Wine Restaurants:
* Café & Wine (Shijo): A charming café-restaurant serving wine, coffee, and delicious food with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
* Le Cafe (Gion): A café-restaurant offering a wide selection of wine, coffee, and tea, along with light bites and desserts.
* Restaurant Kazaana (Gion): A Michelin-starred restaurant with an extensive wine list, featuring international and Japanese labels.
3. Wine Shops:
* Wine-Go-Round (Shijo): A cozy wine shop with a wide selection of wine, including many Japanese labels and unique international varieties.
* Tsunami Wine (Gion): A small, family-owned wine shop offering a curated selection of wine, including organic and natural options.
* La Maison du Vin (Gion): A wine shop with a focus on French and Italian wines, as well as Japanese labels.
4. Wine Experiences:
* Wine and Sake Brewery Tours: Join a guided tour to explore Kyoto's local wine and sake production, including visits to breweries and wineries.
* Wine & Sake Tastings: Attend wine and sake tastings at various locations throughout Kyoto, including wine bars, restaurants, and shops.
5. Japanese Wines:
* Japanese labels like Suntory, Fuji-Gap, and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti should not be missed. These wines showcase the country's growing wine industry.
Some popular wine varieties in Kyoto include:
* Sparkling wine (e.g., bubbles from Japan and worldwide)
* Riesling (German and international)
* Pinot Noir (international)
* Japanese sake and shochu
* Champagne (French)
When visiting Kyoto, be sure to explore the local wine scene and don't miss the opportunity to taste some of the amazing Japanese wines and sakes on offer.
Nearby places to explore
Kyoto is a wonderful city, and there are many other amazing cities to explore in the surrounding region. Here are some suggestions:1. Osaka: Only an hour away from Kyoto by train, Osaka is a lively city known for its food, entertainment, and nightlife. Must-visit attractions include Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, and the famous Dotonbori area.
2. Nara: Located about an hour and a half south of Kyoto, Nara is a city steeped in history and culture. The Todai-ji Temple, which houses the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world, is a must-see. Don't miss the Nara Park, a beautiful nature reserve with thousands of wild deer.
3. Kanazawa: About three and a half hours away from Kyoto by train, Kanazawa is known for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and beautiful Higashi Chaya district. Visit the stunning Kenrokuen Garden, Higashi Chaya district, and the magnificent Hakuichi store for gold leaf products.
4. Kobe: Located directly south of Osaka, Kobe is a chic and vibrant port city known for its beautiful harbor views, delicious seafood, and the iconic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Visit the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens for panoramic views of the city and a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Hiroshima: About three hours away from Kyoto by bullet train, Hiroshima is a city with a somber history. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing of 8 August 1945, is a peaceful tribute to the tragedy. Don't miss the beautiful Shukkeien Garden and the busy Motoyasu Street.
6. Miyajima Island: Just off the coast of Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is a beautiful and peaceful destination. The famous Itsukushima Shrine appears to float on water during high tide and is one of Japan's three most beautiful sights. Take a ferry to the island to explore the shrine and enjoy the stunning views and wildlife.
7. Fushimi Inari Shrine: Located about 30 minutes away from Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a breathtaking tunnel effect. Hike up the mountain to explore the shrine and enjoy the beautiful views of Kyoto.
Each of these destinations offers a unique experience and a glimpse into different aspects of Japanese culture, history, and natural beauty.
Local Transport
Kyoto has a comprehensive public transportation network, making it easy to get around the city without a car. Here are some common public transportation options:1. Kyoto City Bus (): Kyoto has an extensive network of buses that cover most areas of the city. You can pay with cash or a prepaid IC card.
2. Kyoto Metro (): The metro has two lines, the Karasuma Line and the Tozai Line, which cover many popular tourist areas. The fare is ¥210-¥360 (approx. $2-3.50) for a single ride, or ¥850-¥1,200 (approx. $7.50-10.50) for a day pass.
3. Keihan Railway (): Keihan is a private railway line that connects Kyoto with Osaka and other nearby cities. You can use an IC card or a prepaid ticket.
4. Hankyu Railway (): Hankyu is another private railway line that connects Kyoto with Osaka, Kobe, and other cities.
5. Subway Bus (): Some subway lines have companion buses that connect to nearby areas, providing more comprehensive coverage.
6. Keinomachi Loop Bus (): This bus runs in a loop around the city, stopping at major tourist spots and railway stations.
7. Kyoto Electric Railway (Keihan): Runs between Kyoto and Osaka, with many stops in between.
8. Fukuju Bus (): Connects Kyoto with nearby towns and cities in Western Japan.
9. Rental Bicycles (): Kyoto has a bike-sharing system, making it a great way to explore the city. You can find rental shops at major stations.
Some popular public transportation passes in Kyoto:
1. 1-Day Area Pass: ¥810-¥1,200 (approx. $7.50-10.50) for unlimited public transportation for 1 day.
2. 2-Day Area Pass: ¥1,620-¥2,400 (approx. $14-20) for 2 days of unlimited public transportation.
3. Kyoto City Sightseeing Pass: ¥2,300 (approx. $20) for a 1-day pass that includes unlimited public transportation and discounts at attractions.
When using public transportation in Kyoto, consider purchasing a prepaid IC card like an ICOCA card, which can be refilled and reused. Many IC cards can be used on Japan Railways, buses, and subways, making it convenient for your travels.
Remember to always follow Kyoto's public transportation rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.