A HIDDEN GEMS ITINERARY IN KYOTO: STEP INTO ANOTHER WORLD

Lately, my Instagram feed has been flooded with reels showcasing the beauty of Kyoto. If you’ve caught a glimpse of them, you’ve likely been amazed by the amount of tourists visiting this historic city. Kyoto is often known for its temples, shrines, and traditional Japanese charm. But this time, I want to take you on a 2-night, 3-day itinerary that allows you to explore Kyoto’s rich history and uncover its hidden, mystical spots – all while avoiding the usual crowds. Let’s explore Kyoto like a local!

Day 1 – Discovering Central Kyoto

9:00 Breakfast at Tsumugi Cafe

Start your morning in Kyoto with a delicious breakfast at the charming Tsumugi Cafe. This cozy spot offers fluffy shokupan toast, iced coffees, and other specialty drinks. Japanese shokupan is renowned for its soft and delightful texture – a must-try for visitors! For around 700 yen, try their toast topped with a refreshing scoop of ice cream – making it perfect for a hot summer day! But don’t fill up too much, as there are more foodie adventures to come!

Tsumugi Cafe Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7xbhhtf5E4U91g6Z7

Learn more about the delicious azuki butter toast in our article on red beans!

11:00 – 12:15 Wagashi Making at Kanshundo East Store

Just 20 minutes away from Tsumugi Cafe, you’ll find yourself at Kanshundo East Store, where you can experience making wagashi for 3,300 yen. Wagashi are traditional Japanese confections, often enjoyed with tea, crafted from natural ingredients like rice flour, sweet bean paste, and seasonal fruits. In this workshop, you’ll create four types of wagashi, paired with matcha tea. Moreover, each season offers different beautiful designs, making this an unforgettable memory.

Even if you don’t speak Japanese, don’t worry! English texts are available. Just be sure to book in advance and arrive 10 minutes early to get settled.

Kanshundo East Store Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XxStGhG2tTcTe8NP8

Wagashi Making Experience Reservations: https://www.kanshundo.co.jp/wagashiform/

12:30 Exploring Kyoto City

Kyoto’s city center is incredibly convenient and has an amazing transportation system, making it easy to see the sights! Start your day at Nishiki Market, a busy street with over 130 vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to local favorites like soy milk doughnuts. Afterwards, take a stroll through the beautiful Kyoto Gyoen National Garden – only a 40 minute walk away from each other. This garden is home to the Kyoto Imperial Palace and is a must-see no matter the season!

Nishiki Market Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Cchv3jZLDspqvTpr7

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1DYWDUDB8HZHa1iQA

15:30 – 17:00 Crafting Kanzashi at Oharibako

By now, you’ve noticed many people wearing beautiful kimonos with cute accessories. At Oharibako, you can create your own kanzashi (traditional hairpin) that perfectly compliments a kimono for just 3,300 yen. No need to worry if you don’t speak Japanese, the friendly staff will guide you through the process step by step. Making a personalized kanzashi is a truly memorable activity to do in Kyoto!

Oharibako Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z4YM2jEZ5WM92XBJ7

19:00 Dinner at Minoru Dining – Kyoto Porta

If you’re visiting in summer, you’re a lucky one. This restaurant serves dishes made with Manganji Amatou, a representative vegetable of Kyoto. Additionally, it’s the first ingredient from Kyoto to be registered with a geographical indication (GI) and is sweet and tasty indeed. It’s in season from June to October, so be sure to taste the real Kyoto brand products at Minoru Dining.

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/giuVBeoTcjA5gVTL7

20:00 Rest at Genji Hotel

During the second day, you will go hiking, so it’s best to get a good night’s sleep. At Genji Hotel, you can enjoy the beauty of Kyoto’s four seasons in a harmonious blend of Western and Japanese styles. This hotel is not just a place to sleep, but somewhere to experience Kyoto’s Omotenashi (hospitality) culture. The interiors, crafted by Kyoto artisans, to the views from the windows, are all concepts that embody the spirit of Kyoto.

The best thing is that it’s just 20 minutes away from Kyoto Station on a walk, making it a perfect base for your stay. Be sure to check out more details in this blog.

Genji Hotel Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rZjRVdMAM8t4i52c8

Day 2 – Hidden Treasures and God’s Domain

9:30 Breakfast at Coffee Shop Yamamoto-Shimogamo

Past the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, you can savor delicious Wagyu beef cutlet sandwiches, fruit sandwiches, and morning coffee at coffee shop Yamamoto-Shimogamo. Since you’ll be moving a lot today, have a good breakfast and take some snacks for your journey!

For the next locations, it is easier to use a car compared to public transportation. For more information on car rentals, please take a look at this article from Japan Airlines. If you are interested in using public transportation, be sure to check Google Maps for the most efficient bus and train routes to get to these locations!

Yamamoto-Shimogamo Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rxgbyYJbcRGvBYfc8

*There are a few parking spots around the building, but if they’re full use a paid parking lot.

11:00 Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple

Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple is just 15 minutes away from Coffee Shop Yamamoto-Shigamo by car and around 30 minutes by city bus. While it’s bustling during summer and winter events, it’s usually a quiet spot. Fortunately, free parking is available. The temple is known for its tanuki (raccoon dog) statues, which visitors have been leaving since around 1970. The current main hall was built in 1986, standing along the mountainside like Kiyomizu Temple, so be sure to visit!

Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4G84N1jz1qRjdhTP9

13:00 Lunch at Onnellinen

Only a 40-minute drive away from Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple, is Onnellinen. This restaurant offers onigiri set meals starting at 1,650 yen. The yuzu pepper-scented karaage and Omi beef hamburger steak match perfectly with the onigiri. However, they close at 2 PM, so watch out for the last order time!

Onnellinen Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ycnJnsRx18nZZ99q8

Option 1
14:15 – 15:00 Gohodo Benzaiten

From Onnellinen, it’s 10 minutes away to Paraca Saga Shakado Fujinoki-cho Daiichi Parking (paid one), and then 15 minutes to Gohodo Benzaiten by foot. The main attraction here is the green maple leaves in summer and the vibrant red leaves in autumn. At the end of autumn, the ground is covered with red leaves, creating a stunning view.

Gohodo Benzaiten Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f9EEkbi8jgMW7vzg8

Paraca Saga Shakado Fujinoki-cho Daiichi Parking Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JcqeQmQj69ZtY57HA

16:30 Visit Kayabuki No Sato

From Paraca Saga Shakado Fujinoki-cho Daiichi Parking, it takes 1 hour and 10 minutes to Kayabuki no Sato, a small village of traditional Japanese houses. This village was designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in 1993. In addition, there are two accommodations in the village, but you should book in advance due to potential closing days. There are also several places to stay a bit further away, which you can check out here.

Furthermore, Kyoto’s Miyama town provides various events throughout the year. My top recommendation is the “Miyama Kayabuki no Sato Snow Lantern Festival” in January. There are also many activities and tours in English, so don’t miss out to check the official website and enjoy the rich nature of Kyoto!!

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/M5xbQhK3Bi3RABWYA

Option 2
14:15 – 16:30 Hike to Kuya Falls

From Onnellinen, it takes 15 minutes to Sakuraya Parking (700 yen to 1,200 yen). Since the trail to Kuya Falls is rugged, please wear comfortable shoes. This waterfall is the largest in the Kyoto area, about 15 meters tall, and offers a satisfying nature hike unlike a first day. However, it takes about an hour to reach Kuya Falls (2 hours round trip), so it is recommended to be there earlier when it is still bright out. If you travel during the winter season, you may want to skip your plan of visiting Tanukidani-san Fudo-in Temple. The path is complex, so follow this website for directions!

Kuya Falls Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/1uZcWdmxJji2Y7SX7

Sakuraya Parking: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4ZvefngMt8aks3fN7

18:00 Kayabuki No Sato

From Sakuraya Parking, it is a 1 hour and 15 minutes drive.

Option 3
15:00 – 16:00 Kamo Shrine

It’s about a 50 minute drive from Onnellinen to Kamo Shrine. Unlike larger shrines, Kamo Shrine is hidden within a cedar forest, which may feel a bit lonely. However, it offers a mystical experience, as if stepping into the realm of gods. Since it can be dangerous after dark, adjust your plans according to the season as well. And also, there is parking available, but remember to close the wildlife prevention gate on your way in.

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AAW8vvmGd1adfnwh7

17:00 Kayabuki No Sato

From Kamo Shrine, it takes 35 minutes to drive.

Day 3 Goodbye to Kyoto

10:00 Check Out

Following checking out from the hotel, you can spend the rest of the morning exploring the village.

12:00 Lunch at Oshokujidokoro Kitamura

After your exploration, why not try Nishin soba at Oshokujidokoro Kitamura? Nishin soba is a local dish of both Hokkaido and Kyoto. Unlike the sweet soy sauce-based soup from Hokkaido, the Kyoto version uses light soy sauce, offering a refined taste. Be sure to compare both versions when traveling in Japan!

Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dF7ueo45F8P9KJFLA

13:00 Return to Kyoto Central City

In this blog, I’ve introduced a 2-night, 3-day plan to discover Kyoto’s hidden gems. While famous tourist spots are wonderful, don’t miss the chance to visit these mystical places that make you feel as if you’ve stepped into another world. In addition, Arigato Travel offers various tours in Kyoto, so be sure to check them out! So if you’re planning a trip to Japan, make sure to include Kyoto in your itinerary. I promise you won’t regret it and look forward to seeing you there!

Featured Photo Credit: nekko_nekon

Ready for a trip to Kyoto?, why not join a culinary tour and discover the city as a local?