📅 Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first trip to Kyoto? This 3-day itinerary hits the must-see temples, cultural gems, hidden corners, and delicious local spots that make Kyoto unforgettable. 🌸🍵⛩️ 📍 Day 1: Classic Kyoto — Temples & Tradition Morning 🛕 Kiyomizudera Temple: Start early to beat the crowds. Don't miss the Otowa Waterfall for luck! 🛍️ Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka: Wander historic lanes full of souvenirs and matcha treats. Afternoon 🏯 Kodaiji Temple & Garden: Peaceful and elegant, with bamboo paths. 🍵 Lunch at a nearby teahouse — try Yudofu (tofu hot pot)! Evening 🌆 Gion District: Spot a geisha, stroll through Hanamikoji street. 🍣 Dinner at Pontocho Alley (atmospheric and full of options). 📍 Day 2: Arashiyama & Western Kyoto Morning 🎍 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Get there by 8 AM for quiet photos! ⛩️ Tenryu-ji Temple: Zen gardens with a mountain backdrop. 🚣 Optional: Take the scenic Hozugawa River boat ride (2 hrs). Afternoon 🐒 Iwatayama Monkey Park: A short hike with fun views (and monkeys). 🍜 Lunch: Try soba noodles near Togetsukyo Bridge. 🚂 Ride the romantic Sagano Scenic Train (advance booking recommended). Evening ♨️ Optional Onsen: Try Fufu no Yu for a local onsen experience. 🍱 Dinner back in central Kyoto or in Arashiyama. 📍 Day 3: Fushimi Inari + Southern Kyoto + Uji Morning ⛩️ Fushimi Inari Taisha: Walk through 1,000+ red torii gates. 🥐 Light breakfast at a café near Inari station Late Morning 🏯 Tofuku-ji Temple: Zen gardens and fewer crowds. Afternoon 🚆 Head to Uji (20 min from Kyoto): Known for premium matcha! 🍵 Visit Byodoin Temple (on the ¥10 coin), try a matcha parfait. Evening 🎁 Souvenir shopping around Kyoto Station. 🍶 Final dinner: Go for a Kyoto kaiseki meal to wrap it up in style.