5-Day Kyoto Family Trip: Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Kimono Experience Itinerary Guide

Standing 131 meters tall, Kyoto Tower was completed in 1964. The observation deck at the top offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city of Kyoto. Additionally, there is a buffet restaurant inside the tower where visitors can enjoy delicious meals while taking in the high-altitude scenery — perfect for travelers who want to relax and indulge in good food right after landing.

■ Address: Karasuma-dori Shichijo-agaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto (Coordinates: 34.987512, 135.759482)
■ Access: 1-minute walk from the Karasuma exit of Kyoto Station
■ Phone: +81 75-361-3215
■ Operating Hours: 09:00–21:00 (Last admission: 20:40)
■ Recommended Stay Duration: 2.5 hours
■ Kyoto Tower Official Website

Second Stop: Kyoto Station

The current Kyoto Station is the fourth generation, completed in 1997. Its futuristic design sparked quite a discussion in the past and also brought a fresh vibe to the millennia-old capital — Kyoto. Kyoto Station is a large multi-functional complex, housing not only restaurants and department stores but also a star-rated hotel.

The reason the editor suggests such a long stay here is because it’s a fantastic place for shopping, and Kyoto Station is no small space — just browsing through its vast array of goods can easily take up your time.

■ Address: 901, Higashi Shiokoji Dori, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto (Coordinates: 34.985875, 135.758777)
■ Recommended Stay Duration: 3 hours
■ JR Kyoto Station Official Website

“Today’s Highlight: Kimono Experience, Kiyomizu-dera, and Surroundings — Consider Using a One-Day Bus Pass”

First Stop: Kimono Experience

One traditional experience you absolutely cannot miss when visiting Kyoto is wearing a kimono. And coming with your girlfriends makes this an even more unforgettable activity. The editor has listed the kimono experience as the first stop because if you’re going to wear one, you might as well make the most of it. Wear it all day until the afternoon as you stroll through Kyoto’s classic old alleyways — it will definitely add a special charm to your trip.

“Recommended Shop: Four Seasons Sakura / Rental Kimono Four Seasons Sakura”

■ Address: 110-9 Tatsumi-cho, Kamikyo-ku, Karasuma-dori Matsubara-agaru, Kyoto (Coordinates: 34.998262, 135.781044)
■ Phone: +81 75-533-6666
■ Access: Take Bus to “Kiyomizu-michi” Stop ① From JR Kyoto Station, take Bus No. 206 ② From Hankyu Kawaramachi or Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, take Bus No. 207
■ Business hours: 09:00–20:00 (all experiences end by 17:00 on the day)
■ Recommended experience duration: 5 hours
■ Official website of Four Seasons Sakura

Recommended shop: Sakura-kyo Kimono / Kimono Shop Kyoto

■ Address: 2nd floor, Karasuma-Gosho Building, 290 Daigochō, Shimogyō-ku, Kyoto, Japan 600-8106 (Coordinates: 34.996553, 135.759415)
■ Phone: +81 75-285-2313
■ Transportation: ① Exit 2 of Gojo Station on the JR Karasuma Line ② Take city bus No. 5 / 26 / 101 from Kyoto Station, get off at Karasuma-Gojo Bus Stop, located on the 2nd floor next to Yoshinoya
■ Business hours: Open year-round 09:00–20:00 (all experiences end by 19:00 on the day)
■ Recommended experience duration: 5 hours
■ Official website of Sakura-kyo Kimono

Second stop: Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Jishu Shrine

Kiyomizu-dera Temple can be said to be the most popular temple in Kyoto. In addition to the famous Kiyomizu Stage, the Otowa Waterfall beneath the stage is also a must-visit spot for tourists. It is said that drinking from one of the three mountain spring water streams can fulfill a wish for longevity, academic success, or love!

Highly recommended among female visitors is Jishu Shrine, a famous power spot for love. It is said that if you close your eyes and touch from one of the two Love Stones to the other within the shrine, your love life will go smoothly!

Editor’s note:

Kiyomizu-dera Temple underwent a large-scale three-year renovation starting in early 2017. The main hall and stage were fitted with scaffolding and covered with temporary enclosures. Although visitors can still worship, an alternative visitor route has been planned.

■ Address: 294 Kiyomizu 1-chōme, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyōto-fu, 605-0862 Japan (Coordinates: 34.994876, 135.785060)
■ Transportation: Take city bus No. 46, 100, 201, 202, 203, 206, or 207 and get off at “Kiyomizu-michi” or “Gojozaka,” then walk for 5 minutes
■ Business hours: 06:00–18:00 (extended to 18:30 in August and September)
■ Recommended stay duration: 2.5 hours
■ Official website of Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Third stop: Ninen-zaka, Sannen-zaka, and Kiyomizu-zaka

In addition to the many temples you can visit around Kiyomizu-Gosho, the surrounding area is one of the most traditional districts in Kyoto. In short, it’s somewhat similar to the concept of old streets in Taiwan. It’s recommended to stroll along Kiyomizu-zaka and Ninen-zaka all the way to Sannen-zaka after visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

The most recommended time is in the afternoon when the sun is about to set, as the sunset scenery paired with the classic old streets is incredibly beautiful. There are also many souvenirs, snacks, and small goods in the alleys, so you can take care of shopping and lunch here!

■ Recommended stay duration: 2.5 hours

Fourth stop: Shopping in Kawaramachi

The area around Shijo-Kawaramachi can be described as the most modern part of traditional Kyoto. You can find all the major well-known department stores here. If you’re looking to go on a shopping spree after a day of sightseeing, don’t miss the super shopper-friendly Kawaramachi!

■ Areas to explore: Takashimaya, O1O1, Kawaramachi OPA, Daimaru, Fujii Daimaru, Loft, and Shin-Kyogoku. The editor recommends deciding in advance what you want to buy or which brands you’re interested in — otherwise, walking through all these department stores really requires great stamina!

■ Transportation: Take the subway to “Kawaramachi,” or take buses 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 32, 46, 59, 104, 106, 201, 203, 205, or 207 to “Shijo-Kawaramachi.”
■ Recommended duration: 3 hours

Recommended reading:

“Today’s Highlights: Nara & Fushimi Inari Taisha”

First stop: Nara

Nara is about 40 kilometers from Kyoto and is perfect for a day trip from the city. What Nara is most famous for nowadays is probably the friendly and food-loving deer!

In fact, what makes Nara truly special isn’t just the deer, but the fact that it houses the world’s oldest collection of wooden architecture, including Tōdai-ji and Kasuga Taisha. So when you visit Nara, don’t just rush through — take the time to appreciate these remarkable buildings!

■ Recommended duration: 3.5 hours
■ Kyoto → Nara: You can reach Nara from Kyoto Station by either JR or Kintetsu express trains, both taking about an hour. The JR fare is approximately 690 yen, while Kintetsu costs about 610 yen.

Second stop: Fushimi Inari Taisha

Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine of Inari, famous for its “Senbon Torii” (thousands of red torii gates). The shrine enshrines Ukanomitama-no-Kami and other Inari deities, who have been regarded since ancient times as gods of agriculture and commerce. As a result, many worshippers visit the shrine each year to pray for business prosperity, making it one of the most popular shrines in the Kyoto area. Simply put, visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha feels a bit like Taiwanese people paying respects to the God of Wealth.

■ Address: Japan 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 612-0882 (Coordinates: 34.967167, 135.772682)
■ Transportation: Get off at “Inari Station” on the JR Nara Line (a 2-minute walk), or at “Fushimi Inari Station” on the Keihan Electric Railway (a 5-minute walk)
■ Operating hours: 08:30–16:30
■ Recommended duration: 2 hours
■ Fushimi Inari Taisha Official Website

Editor’s tip:

If you exit from Keihan Electric Railway’s “Fushimi Inari Station,” you’ll find a small street to explore. If you exit from JR Nara Line’s “Inari Station,” you’ll be right at the main gate of the shrine. The editor recommends trying different modes of transportation for the outbound and return journeys.

Third stop: Nishiki Market

Locals know that to truly experience a place, you need to visit its markets. If you want to dive deep into the daily life of Kyoto residents, Nishiki Market is a must. This market offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of locals — when you see the fresh ingredients and daily goods here, you can sense the unique culture of Kyoto. Some shops even offer set meals or bento boxes. It’s recommended to come here to sample some of the finest local flavors. (Link to full article)

■ Address: Japan 609 Nishidaimonji-cho, Teramachi-dori, Shijo-agaru, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 604-8054 (Coordinates: 35.005045, 135.763308)
■ Transportation: Kyoto Metro Karasuma Line “Shijo” Station, or Hankyu Railway “Shijo” or “Kawaramachi” Stations (a 5-minute walk)
■ Opening hours: Vary by shop, generally 10:00–18:00
■ Recommended duration: 2 hours
■ Nishiki Market Official Website

Fourth stop: Kamo River

The Kamo River is renowned for its clean and clear waters, running through the heart of Kyoto. Along its banks, you can find numerous bridges, and the riverbed features two of the most famous attractions: the Turtle Jumping Stones and the Kamo River Summer Terrace. The Kamo River showcases different scenery in each of the four seasons.

In spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the riverbanks, while in summer (May to September), wooden platforms called yuka are set up on the Summer Terrace, allowing visitors to dine above the river and enjoy the lush greenery, creating a refreshing experience.

■ Transportation: Take the Tozai Subway Line to 'Kyoto City Hall' Station, then walk 5 minutes toward Mido Bridge
■ Recommended stay time: 1 hour

"Today’s highlights: Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Heian Shrine; consider using a one-day bus pass"

First stop: Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Philosophers' Path

The Ginkaku-ji you see today is not the original but was rebuilt during the Edo period. In addition to the well-known temple itself, the dry landscape garden features the famous Tsukimi-dai (Moon-Viewing Platform) and Ginshadan (Silver Sand Field), with the patterns on the sand created by Edo-period garden designers.

The Philosophers' Path is located right next to Ginkaku-ji and is recommended to be visited together. Known for its beautiful scenery throughout the year, it is a popular spot for cherry blossom and autumn leaf viewing. It also has a cultural touch, as it was a favorite place for the famous Kyoto philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who often walked and meditated here.

■ Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 606-8402, Japan (Coordinates: 35.027171, 135.797873)
■ Transportation: Take city buses 6, 17, 93, 102, 203, or 204 and get off at 'Ginkakuji-mae,' then walk 10 minutes
■ Opening hours: 08:30–17:00 (March to November), 09:00–16:30 (December to February)
■ Recommended stay time: 2.5 hours
■ Ginkaku-ji official website

Second stop: Heian Shrine

On the way to Heian Shrine, you’ll pass through Sanjo Shirahechi. This area offers different views in each season, with willows in summer and cherry blossoms in spring. Not far from Heian Shrine, you can also enjoy cherry blossoms by boat along the Biwako Sosui (Lake Biwa Canal).

Heian Shrine was established in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto as the capital of the Heian period. The shrine is best known for its 'Shinen' garden, which features flowers that reflect the seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy both traditional Japanese architecture and faith-based art alongside the natural beauty of each season.

■ Opening hours: 06:00–17:00 (for general grounds), 08:30–16:30 (for the Shinen garden)
■ Admission fee: 600 JPY (Shinen garden entry requires a fee)
■ Address: Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture (Coordinates: 35.015982, 135.782426)
■ Transportation:
1. Take the Kyoto City Subway Tozai Line (exit 1 at Higashiyama Station) and walk about 10 minutes to reach the shrine.
2. Take the Keihan Electric Railway Keishin Line to either 'Sanjo' Station or 'Kamiyacho' Station, then walk 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Take city bus lines 5 or 100 and get off at 'Kyoto Kaikan / Heian Jingu Mae,' then walk about 1 minute to reach the shrine.
■ Recommended stay time: 1.5 hours
■ Heian Shrine official website

Third stop: Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is a castle located in Nijojocho, built in the architectural style of a fortress. Constructed in the early Edo period, it once served as the residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu and was a symbol of power for the Tokugawa shogunate. As one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles, both the main keep (Honmaru Palace) and the five-story pagoda have been well-preserved throughout history.

Nijo Castle consists of six main buildings, with the sliding door paintings (shoji screens) in their rooms painted according to different purposes and uses. The castle grounds are planted with cherry, maple, and ginkgo trees, presenting splendid scenery in spring and autumn. On spring nights, visitors can even enjoy night views of cherry blossoms!

■ Opening Hours: 08:45–17:00 (last entry at 16:00), closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December, and closed from December 26 to January 4.
■ Admission: 600 yen
■ Address: 541 Nijojocho, Nijo-dori, Horikawa-nishi-iru, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture (Coordinates: 35.014215, 135.748250)
■ Transportation:
1. Take the Tozai Subway Line and get off at “Nijojo-mae Station”
2. Take bus routes 9, 50, 101, or 12 and get off at Nijojo
■ Recommended Stay Duration: 1.5 hours
■ Official Website of Nijo Castle

Stop 4: Shopping on Shin Kyogoku Street

Shin Kyogoku Street is a commercial street that runs from Sanjo-dori to Shijo-dori. It features affordable, trendy items and has a youthful vibe, making it a popular shopping destination among young people. It is ranked alongside Osaka’s Senba and Tokyo’s Asakusa as one of Japan’s three major bustling streets.

Editor’s Tip:

If you still haven’t had enough of Kawaramachi on the second day, you can plan to visit Shin Kyogoku on the fourth day. If you’ve already covered everything on the second day, you can arrange another preferred activity for the fourth stop instead.

■ Address: East side of Shin Kyogoku-dori, Tako-ishi-zaka, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto (Coordinates: 35.005805, 135.767260)
■ Business Hours: 10:00–21:30 (varies by shop)
■ Transportation:
1. Take a bus to “Shijo-Kawaramachi.”
2. Hankyu Railway, exit 4 at Kawaramachi Station.
3. Keihan Railway, exit 4 at Gion-Shijo Station.
4. Subway Karasuma Line, exit 9 at Shijo-Karasuma (Kita).
■ Recommended Stay Duration: 2 hours

Recommended Reading:

“Today’s Highlights: Yasaka Shrine, Kinkaku-ji Temple – One-Day Bus Pass Available”

Stop 1: Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Street

Those who wish to enhance their beauty must visit this Yasaka Shrine. Located near Hanamikoji Street and home to the Bijogama Shrine within its grounds—dedicated to three beautiful goddesses who are believed to bless artistic talent and beauty—this shrine is especially favored by geisha and maiko. Additionally, next to the small Bijogama Shrine, there is a “beauty water” spot, said to grant a beautiful appearance if a few drops are applied to the face.

Editor’s Tip:

If you don’t have many days in Kyoto but still want to visit Yasaka Shrine, it’s recommended to combine it with a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple on the same day. Basically, you can cover Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kiyomizu-zaka, and Yasaka Shrine all in one day. I’ve done this schedule myself, and it’s really exhausting, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed trip, I wouldn’t suggest arranging it this way.

■ Visiting hours: No restrictions
■ Admission fee: Free
■ Address: 1 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture (Coordinates: 35.003682, 135.778543)
■ Transportation: To get there from Kiyomizu-dera, you can walk along Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Nene-dōri to reach Yasaka Shrine (you can explore shops and the quaint streets along the way); alternatively, take a bus (routes 46, 100, 201, 202, 203, 206, 207) to “Gion” stop.
■ Recommended visiting time: 1 hour
■ Yasaka Shrine official website

Second stop: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

The well-known Kinkaku-ji is actually called Rokuon-ji. It earned the nickname “Golden Pavilion” because its Kannon Hall (Shariden) is completely covered in dazzling gold leaf. The temple grounds offer beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons, but the most popular view is the winter snowscape. The soft snow covering the roof contrasts beautifully with the golden walls, creating what is called the unforgettable “Snowy Golden Pavilion.”

■ Opening hours: 09:00–17:00
■ Admission fee: 400 yen
■ Address: 1 Kinkaku-ji-cho, Kita Ward, Kyoto (Coordinates: 35.039373, 135.729208)
■ Transportation: Take city bus routes 12 or 59 to “Kinkaku-ji” and walk 1 minute, or take city bus routes 101, 102, 204, or 205 to “Kinkaku-ji-michi” and walk 3 minutes.
■ Recommended visiting time: 2 hours
■ Kinkaku-ji official website

Bonus: Arashiyama

If you’re looking for a nearby destination in Kyoto, the best choice is Arashiyama. The area includes many must-visit attractions such as Togetsukyo Bridge, the Bamboo Grove, the Hozugawa River, and the Sagano Romantic Train, as well as many charming shops with a traditional Kyoto vibe. The food and sights in Arashiyama are just as good as those in other areas, and the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing. I recommend setting aside a full day to explore Arashiyama.

[KKday Travel Experience] Authorized repost. Original article: [How to Plan a 5-Day, 4-Night Trip to Kyoto, Japan?]