3-Day Escape to Kyoto

Day 1: Culture & Classic Kyoto • 🛕 Kiyomizu-dera Temple • 🏮 Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka Streets • ⛩ Fushimi Inari Taisha – Iconic torii gate tunnel • 🍵 Tea Ceremony in Gion • 🌆 Gion District – Geisha spotting & traditional Kyoto Day 2: Arashiyama Nature & Zen • 🎋 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove • 🪷 Tenryu-ji Temple & Gardens • 🌉 Togetsukyo Bridge • 🐒 Monkey Park Iwatayama (optional) • 🍜 Dinner in Pontocho Alley Day 3: Temples & Market Wander • ✨ Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) • 🪨 Ryoan-ji Rock Garden • 🏯 Kyoto Imperial Palace or Philosopher’s Path • 🛍 Nishiki Market – Snack & shop • 🚄 Kyoto Station – Explore or head to your next destination 🏨 Accommodation Suggestions • 🛌 Luxury Ryokan: Gion Hatanaka / Ryokan Yachiyo • 🛏 Mid-range Boutique: Cross Hotel Kyoto / Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel • 💰 Budget: Guesthouse Wind Villa / The Millennials Kyoto Stay in Gion for charm, Kyoto Station area for convenience. 🍴 Food Recommendations 🥢 Day 1 • Lunch: Okutan (Yudofu / Buddhist tofu cuisine) • Dinner: Gion Karyo (kaiseki) or Gion Tanto (local dishes) 🥢 Day 2 • Lunch: Shigetsu (temple vegetarian meal) • Dinner: Gogyo (burnt miso ramen) or Pontocho Izakaya 🥢 Day 3 • Lunch: Inoda Coffee or stalls at Nishiki Market • Dinner: Torito (yakitori) or Musashi Sushi (conveyor belt) 📌 Tips • 🚍 Transport: Get a 1–2 Day Kyoto Bus & Subway Pass or use an IC card (ICOCA/Suica). • 📷 Best Photo Times: Visit tourist spots early morning for quiet shots. • 📦 Luggage: Use station lockers or luggage forwarding if switching hotels. • 🎴 Cultural Etiquette: Be quiet in temples, bow respectfully, and avoid eating while walking. • 📅 Book in Advance: Kaiseki meals, tea ceremonies, and kimono rentals can fill up quickly.