24 Hours in Kyoto

The city of Kyoto dishes an opportunity for travelers to explore and learn more about Japan’s rich history, culture and traditions.
by Marky Ramone Go | December 15, 2016

A day or two of exploring Kyoto riding the city’s highly effective mass transit system — and to some, pedaling on a bicycle — shall give you the chance to tick off a majority of the city’s 17 World UNESCO Heritage Sites.  The Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto encompasses a wealth of knowledge representing Japan’s rich history dating back to the 10^th century.

To kick off your first day around Kyoto, here are a list of places that should make you embrace and further understand the country’s unique culture.

Fushimi Inari-taisha

Count the seemingly endless rows of orange Torri gates as it leads you to the Fushimi-Inari temple which is considered as the mother of all Shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto God of Rice, Foxes and Snakes. Amidst the crowd, a perfectly timed photograph along its picturesque pathway shall produce you with a stunning travel memento.

A photo posted by @markyramonego on Nov 2, 2016 at 8:15am PDT

Tenryū-ji and the Bamboo Forest

Another surreal walking experience is achieved as you make your way to the snaking bamboo forest trail leading to Tenryu-Ji Temple. The towering green bamboos almost transports you to another realm — synonymous to the same vibe that exists during the olden times where the very same ground serves as the playground of ancient Japan’s noble class.

A photo posted by Nomadic Experiences (@nomadicexperiences) on Sep 21, 2016 at 6:41am PDT

Rokuon-ji (Kinkakuji Temple) or the Golden Pavilion

A few bus stops and train stations after and you will find yourself in awe of the grandness of the Rokuon-ji as it glitters under the sun and the glow of its surrounding fabulous landscape. The spot where the Pavilion has stood beautifully since the 14^th century and the reflection it creates on the pond generates a very powerful image worthy of staring at for a prolonged period of time.

A photo posted by @markyramonego on Sep 20, 2016 at 10:45pm PDT

Nishiki Market

Situated in downtown Kyoto and referred to by the local’s as “Kyoto’s Pantry,” Nishiki Market is the perfect place to go on an authentic Japanese food experience as various food stalls opens from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. After a half day of exploring Kyoto’s heritage sites, having a sumptuous lunch here to regenerate your energy should infuse you with renewed vigor in combing the rest of Kyoto’s cultural gems the rest of the day.

A photo posted by Jackie Teh (@jackieteh) on Dec 13, 2016 at 6:19am PST

Jishō-ji or the Silver Pavilion

Encircled by a lavishly landscaped garden and soaring trees, the Jisho-ji is another UNESCO World Heritage site that will surely invite your inner Zen to make you just cherish the quaintness of the place.

A photo posted by Rokphish Dage (@rokphishtt) on Dec 2, 2016 at 9:06am PST

Kyoto Imperial Palace

The historic grounds of Kyoto Imperial Palace dates back to the golden years when the Emperors of Japan resided here until 1869 after the Meiji Restoration. Lavish gardens and an interesting cluster of structures and royal residences can be seen inside.

A photo posted by Nomadic Experiences (@nomadicexperiences) on Sep 22, 2016 at 9:59am PDT

Geisha District of Gion

Cap your day with a night visit to the famed Geisha district of Gion where ochaya teahouses, Japanese restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops line up the charming narrow pathways and streets. Spot Geisha apprentices as they walk by and explore the many interesting sights within the district that includes a Kabuki theater, Chugen-ji temple and Gion’s most famous street, Hanami-Koji among many others.

A photo posted by Hasnul Yakin (@hasnulyakin_kyotobandit) on Dec 14, 2016 at 3:28am PST

Allotting another day of touring Kyoto will afford you the chance to tick off the rest of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the city such as; Kamowakeikazuchi Shrine, Kamomioya Shrine, Kyōōgokoku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Nijo Castle to name a few.

Travel Tips: avail of the day bus pass for only JPY 500.00. Riding the bus should take you to most of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Another faster but a little expensive option is to buy the day-long JR Train pass at around JPY 1,000–1,300. Bicycles can also be rented for a day from JPY 1,000-2,000. Check your hotel and hostels on where to rent a bicycle as some charges a lower rental fee. Other biking tours such as Kyoto Cycling Tour Project offers bike tours around the city.

A photo posted by @markyramonego on Sep 20, 2016 at 5:38pm PDT

Budget Tips: There are affordable capsule hotels and hostels in Kyoto where you can book a bed from JPY 2,000 per bunk bed to 3,800 for a private room.

Temple Fees: Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites charges an entrance fee from JPY 400-500 for their conservation fund.

Got more tips for Kyoto? Post them below!