Your Ultimate Weekend Guide to Kyoto: Bamboo Groves, Temples, and Geishas

Planning a weekend in Kyoto? Get ready to step into a world of shimmering golden temples, serene bamboo groves, and the timeless charm of geishas gliding through lantern-lit streets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japan traveler, this guide will help you experience Kyoto’s magic in just two unforgettable days.

How to Get There: Tokyo to Kyoto on the Shinkansen

Kick off your adventure with a ride on the iconic Shinkansen (bullet train). Leave Tokyo early Saturday morning between 7:00–8:00 AM and enjoy a scenic 2-hour journey to Kyoto Station.

Tip: Grab an ekiben (bento box) for breakfast and watch the Japanese countryside unfold outside your window.

Upon Arrival: Drop Off Your Bags

Maximize your sightseeing time by dropping your luggage at your hotel. Top recommendations:

• Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae PREMIER: Stylish, quiet, and just a 5-minute walk from Kyoto Station.

• ALA Hotel Kyoto: Modern amenities, a public bath, and chic design steps away from the station.

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Saturday Morning: Explore Kyoto's Spiritual Heart

First stop:

• Fushimi Inari Taisha at around 10:00 AM — famous for its 10,000 vibrant torii gates. Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos.

Second stop:

• Tofukuji Temple (~11:30 AM) — known for its serene Zen gardens and picturesque wooden bridges.

Both locations are conveniently close to each other, making your morning efficient and breathtaking.

Lunch Options: Ramen or Market Feast

• Option 1: Slurp down some rich broth at Ramen Sen no Kaze Kyoto.

• Option 2: Wander the vibrant Nishiki Market for a foodie adventure among 400-year-old stalls.

Cash is king at Nishiki, so come prepared with small bills!

Afternoon: Rest & Recharge

After lunch, check into your hotel, freshen up, and relax before diving into Kyoto’s magical evening atmosphere.

Saturday Evening: Gion Stroll & Izakaya Dining

Start with a stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s most iconic geisha district. Hanamikoji Street is lined with preserved wooden houses and softly glowing lanterns. Keep an eye out — you may spot a real geisha gracefully moving between tea houses!

Dinner at Kurakura Izakaya offers a cozy, local experience full of small plates and sake pairings. End your night with a meander through Pontocho Alley, where the narrow, lantern-lit lane feels like a portal to old Japan.

Sunday Morning: Bamboo Dreams

Wake up early and head straight to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walking through the towering bamboo stalks at sunrise feels otherworldly. Visit nearby Tenryu-ji Temple for tranquil Zen gardens and sweeping river views.

Midday: Temple-Hopping Time

Grab a taxi and head toward:

• Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) — Kyoto’s dazzling, gold-leaf-covered temple reflected in a shimmering pond.

• Optional: Ryoanji Temple for its famous Zen rock garden, perfect for quiet reflection.

Lunch & Free Time

Head back downtown for a leisurely lunch:

• Menya Inoichi (light, clear ramen)

• Sushi Iwa Kyoto (refined sushi)

• Mumokuteki Café (healthy Kyoto-style meals)

Afterward, enjoy some free time exploring Kyoto’s charming streets or grabbing last-minute souvenirs.

Return to Tokyo

Board your afternoon Shinkansen (~5:00 PM) back to Tokyo. Pro tip: sit on the right side of the train for possible Mount Fuji views!