Embark on a delectable 2-day 'Food & Wine' adventure through Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital. This itinerary is crafted for epicureans and culture enthusiasts eager to explore the city's rich culinary traditions, from bustling markets and serene tea ceremonies to exquisite multi-course dinners and renowned sake breweries. Prepare to indulge in the authentic tastes and refined artistry that define Kyoto's gastronomic landscape.
Food 6
Culture 1
Nightlife 1
Sightseeing 2
Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.
Day 1
5 stops · about 9.5 hrs
Food, Culture, Nightlife
1
Nishiki Market
Food
2 hours
Explore Kyoto's 'Kitchen' with endless stalls offering local street food, fresh produce, and unique culinary delights.
Good to know
Arrive in the morning for the freshest selections and fewer crowds; easily accessible from Shijo Station.
2
Pontocho Alley
Food
1.5 hours
Enjoy a traditional Kyoto lunch at a riverside restaurant, soaking in the historic atmosphere of this narrow, charming alley.
Good to know
Many restaurants offer lunch sets; consider booking ahead for popular spots, especially those with river views.
3
Gion District (Tea Ceremony Experience)
Culture
1.5 hours
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with a traditional tea ceremony, often accompanied by wagashi (Japanese sweets).
Good to know
Book a tea ceremony experience in advance, as many are small and popular; look for venues near Hanamikoji Street.
4
Traditional Kyoto Kaiseki Restaurant
Food
2.5 hours
Indulge in an exquisite multi-course Kaiseki dinner, a culinary art form showcasing seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation.
Good to know
Reservations are essential, often weeks or months in advance for highly-rated establishments; dress smart casual.
5
Pontocho Alley Bar Hopping
Nightlife
2 hours
Conclude your day with drinks at a cozy bar in Pontocho, enjoying local sake, craft beer, or cocktails in a historic setting.
Good to know
Many bars are small and intimate; be mindful of noise levels and local customs; cash is often preferred.
Day 2
5 stops · about 10 hrs
Sightseeing, Food
6
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple
Sightseeing
2.5 hours
Start the day with a serene walk through the iconic bamboo forest and explore the beautiful gardens of a UNESCO World Heritage temple.
Good to know
Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the tranquility; accessible by JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
7
Yudofu Sagano (or similar Yudofu restaurant in Arashiyama)
Food
1.5 hours
Savor a traditional Yudofu (boiled tofu) lunch, a vegetarian specialty of Kyoto, perfect for a peaceful meal after exploring Arashiyama.
Good to know
Many Yudofu restaurants are located near Tenryu-ji Temple; expect a calm, traditional dining experience.
8
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Sightseeing
2 hours
Walk through thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates, an iconic and spiritually significant Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice.
Good to know
Wear comfortable shoes for walking uphill; accessible by JR Nara Line to Inari Station, directly opposite the shrine entrance.
9
Fushimi Sake District (Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum & tasting)
Food
2 hours
Discover Kyoto's renowned sake brewing heritage with a visit to a museum and enjoy tastings of various local sake varieties.
Good to know
Many breweries offer tours and tastings; check their operating hours in advance; accessible via Keihan Line to Chushojima Station.
10
Kyo-ryori Restaurant
Food
2 hours
Conclude your trip with a final taste of authentic Kyo-ryori, focusing on seasonal ingredients and Kyoto's unique culinary traditions.
Good to know
Consider booking ahead, especially for popular establishments; many restaurants offer set menus at various price points.
Where to stay
Hotels in Kyoto
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Things to book
Tours and activities in Kyoto Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.
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More Kyoto itineraries Other ways to spend a few days in Kyoto, from our own travel research.
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Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Is 2 days enough for Kyoto?
Yes, 2 days cover roughly five stops a day, including Nishiki Market, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Where to stay in Kyoto for 2 days?
Stay near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which keeps Nishiki Market and Fushimi Inari Taisha close by.
Which tours go with this Kyoto itinerary?
One tour fits this itinerary: «Kyoto: Gion Night Walking & Food Tour».
How long do you need at Nishiki Market?
Allow 2 hours at Nishiki Market. Arrive in the morning for the freshest selections and fewer crowds.
How long do you need at Gion District (Tea Ceremony Experience)?
Allow 1.5 hours at Gion District (Tea Ceremony Experience). It includes a traditional tea ceremony, often with wagashi.
What does Fushimi Sake District include?
Fushimi Sake District includes the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum and tastings of various local sake varieties.
What can you do at Pontocho Alley Bar Hopping?
You can enjoy local sake, craft beer, or cocktails at a cozy bar in Pontocho. Many bars are small and intimate.
Which day covers Yudofu Sagano?
Day 2 covers Yudofu Sagano, after Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Tenryu-ji Temple.
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