Maximize Your Me-Time: 48 Hours in Kyoto’s Best Locations

Embark on a me-time adventure to Kyoto, where you can experience the true essence of “me time.” A journey from Tokyo Station to Kyoto via the Shinkansen takes just over two hours. While an early start on a day morning might be a bit challenging for some, it allows you to maximize your travel time and fully enjoy the adventure. Begin your journey with breakfast on the Shinkansen, setting the tone for a whimsical and fulfilling trip. Kyoto is perfect for a 2-night, 3-day trip, offering exciting experiences even for travel in Japan for the very first time. Here’s a delightful plan for two days to recommend you enjoy in Kyoto:

Perfect Balance of Peace and Popularity

Here are six locations in Kyoto where you can enjoy tranquility while also experiencing some of the city’s most talked-about attractions. It takes just under an hour and a half from Kyoto Station. The journey by train itself allows you to enjoy the charming cityscape of Kyoto. We highly recommend avoiding the crowds and capturing your favorite unobstructed photos in the early morning!

Recommended “Must-See” Spots for all Adventurist

Kyoto’s Wind Chime Temple – Shoju-in Temple

Located in Ujitawara, a town renowned for its tea, Shouju-in Temple belongs to the Koyasan Shingon sect of Buddhism. The Temple is famous for its heart-shaped windows and adorable ceiling paintings that will captivate anyone. Also there is 160 stunning ceiling paintings themed around flowers and Japanese landscapes. Every year from July 1 to September 18, the “Wind Chime Festival” showcases over 2,000 refreshing wind chimes, earning the temple the nickname “Kyoto’s Wind Chime Temple.”

A Must-visit Shrine – Fushimi Inari Shrine

For over 1,300 years, Inari Shrines have continued to uplift people’s faiths. The shrine is renowned for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, creating picturesque tunnels. It is the head shrine of about 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, revered for blessings for business and agriculture. Since the Edo period (1603 to 1868), it has become a tradition to express gratitude and have wishes granted (and supposedly have them come true) by being a donor to the torii gates. For photos without crowds, early morning starts are best!

Ancient Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion – Kinkaku-ji Temple

Stroll through Japan’s most beautiful garden while visiting Kinkaku-ji, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site under “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.” Among its three-tiered pavilions, the second and third tiers, adorned in gold leaf, shimmer brilliantly in the sunlight, leaving visitors speechless with their beauty. Reflecting in the water alongside lush greenery and the expansive sky, it creates a breathtaking vista.

The Golden Pavilion takes the shape of a boat, with its prow facing west towards the pavilion, symbolizing the Pure Land of the West. This concept represents a world of blissful peace and freedom from suffering, where lotus flowers bloom profusely in a distant, serene realm known as the Pure Land.

Don’t miss visiting the “Beauty Water” – Yasaka Shrine 

Located at the end of Shijo Street, Yasaka Shrine is bustling with visitors praying for household safety and disease prevention. The best seasons to visit Yasaka Shrine are summer and autumn. In summer of July, the extravagant Gion Festival takes place, featuring various religious ceremonies and events that enliven the entire city of Kyoto. In autumn from late November to early December, the shrine’s vermillion buildings are surrounded by vibrant maple leaves, creating a stunningly beautiful scene. Strolling through this elegant setting allows you to fully immerse yourself in the essence of Japan.

Don’t miss visiting the “Beauty Water” at Utsukushigozen Shrine, located on Yasaka Shrine eastern side. The shrine is beloved for its beauty deity, said to have had a remarkably attractive appearance, drawing many visitors. Legend has it that dabbing a few drops of the sacred spring water, known as “beauty water,” from the shrine on your skin will not only cleanse your body but also uplift your spirit. It’s leaving you feeling radiant inside and out.

One of the representative sceneries of Kyoto – Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 

Arashiyama’s iconic bamboo forest offers a peaceful escape. The pathway from Nonomiya Shrine to Okochi Sanso Villa is lined with towering bamboo, offering a serene walk. During the “Arashiyama Hanatouro” event in winter, the bamboo grove is beautifully illuminated.

The Bamboo Grove Path, once home to aristocratic villas in the Heian period (794 to 1185), became popular during the Edo period (1603 and 1868) with the rise of tea ceremonies and garden arts. Some believe it remains unchanged since then, while others think it was developed in the Meiji era (1868 – 1912).

Kyoto Food Guide

Dining experiences are one of the highlights for travel enthusiasts, offering a taste of the local culture and cuisine. These recommendations can lead to discovering hidden gems, unique culinary experiences, and the best places to savor authentic dishes.

Photogenic Hand-rolled Sushi – AWOMB Karasuma

Create your own “Teori Sushi” with fresh seafood, colorful vegetables, and fruits. The variety of seasonings, including salt, sesame, and chili, make for an endless array of flavors. Ideal for solo travelers, as reservations are available for one person. The hand-rolled sushi at this cafe is visually stunning and photogenic. Sometimes, it’s worth waiting in line for your favorite food.

Handcrafted Soba Perfection – Arashiyama Yoshimura

Arashiyama Yoshimura is a popular restaurant that offers freshly ground, hand-made soba noodles with a beautiful view of Togetsukyo Bridge. They source buckwheat directly from producers nationwide and store it at low temperatures year-round for freshness that make flour keep fresh. Known for its fragrant and delicious soba, this place is certainly worth the wait.

Yuba and Sake Harmony – Higashiyama Yuuzu

In Gion, enjoy the famous yuba dishes at this beautifully designed, modern Japanese restaurant. With counter seating, it’s a comfortable and ideal spot for solo diners. The yuba pairs excellently with sake, making it a delightful combination. The menu ranges from light snacks to full kaiseki courses. The elegant interior and delicious yuba dishes make this a great choice for everyone’s dining experience.

Sweets & Cafes in Kyoto

Discovering particular sweets stores and cafes in Kyoto for those signature special treats is indeed an obsessive journey.

Exquisite Wagashi and Drinks – ZEN CAFE

A minimalist Japanese cafe where you can unwind and enjoy exquisite wagashi and drinks. Signature sweets include seasonal confections, kuzumochi, and fruit sandwiches. A soothing place to relax after a day of walking.

Uji Matcha Heaven – Saryo Tsujiri Gion Main Store

This tea house began with the desire to let people enjoy Uji tea not just by drinking it but also by eating it. Try matcha parfaits and shiratama anmitsu made with premium Uji tea. The “Order Made Parfait” allows you to choose your favorite ingredients for a personalized treat. Enjoy handcrafted Uji tea sweets and light meals in a serene atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing break in Gion.

Stylish Zen Cafe – Yojiya Sagano-Arashiyama Store Shop & Cafe

Famous for its latte art featuring the iconic Yojiya logo, this cafe is set in a charming traditional house with a garden view. They offer hearty meals like pasta and curry, perfect for fueling up before an afternoon of exploration. The stylish, traditional setting makes it a lovely spot for a relaxing break during your Sagano-Arashiyama stroll.

East Meet West in Kyoto – Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya Store

Experience Starbucks like never before at this unique location where you can enjoy your coffee on tatami mats. This traditional Kyoto townhouse setting offers a modern bar counter and a welcoming atmosphere. Situated on Ninenzaka, leading to Kiyomizudera Temple, this Starbucks blends traditional Japanese culture with contemporary coffee enjoyment, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience.