For a first day in Kyoto, start early at Fushimi Inari, then take the train back to the centre and walk through Higashiyama in the afternoon. This order avoids the worst crowds at the shrine, and it puts the old streets at the end of the day, when the light is soft. The route works well with one bag and comfortable shoes.
Why this order
Fushimi Inari is one of the most visited shrines in Japan. Its path of red torii gates is famous, and it is busy from mid morning. Go early and you walk through the gates with fewer people around you.
Higashiyama is the hilly area east of the centre. It has temples, shrines and narrow stone lanes. It is also close to Gion. The streets are best at the end of the day, when many visitors have left.
Morning: Fushimi Inari
Take a train to the Inari station, which is a short walk from the main gate. The lower part of the path is the busiest. The upper paths are quieter, but they climb, so wear shoes with good grip.
- Bring water and a small snack.
- Walk to the first main shrine buildings, then decide how far up you want to go.
- Turn back when you feel tired. Going back down is also a good walk.
Check first: Check the opening times of Fushimi Inari Taisha on its official website. Shrine grounds are open all day, but some buildings and offices have set hours.
Midday: back to the centre
Return to Kyoto Station by train. The station is large and easy to use, with shops and places to eat on the upper floors. Use it as your base for lunch. Use Tabelog to choose a place near the station that fits your group. Read recent reviews, because menus change.
Kyoto Station is also the start point for the buses to Higashiyama. Buy an IC card or a day pass if you plan many bus rides. Check the bus map before you board, because the stops are busy.
Afternoon: Higashiyama
Walk from the bus stop toward Kiyomizu-dera. The last part of the route goes up steep, old lanes with shops and tea houses. Take your time. Some slopes are stairs, and the stone can be slippery after rain.
After the temple, walk down the lanes and into Gion. The streets near the main road have wooden machiya houses and small shops. Keep your voice low and do not block the lanes. Some people in Gion are working, so take care.
Check first: Check the opening times and entry fees of Kiyomizu-dera and any other temple on its official site before you walk there. Do not rely on an old blog for either.
Evening
Finish the day near Yasaka Shrine at the east end of the main street. The shrine is open at night, and it is quiet compared with the shops. Then eat near your hotel or go back to the station area. Walking in the evening is pleasant, but keep to the main roads after dark.
Tips for a first day
- Wear shoes you can walk in for hours. Expect many steps and some slopes.
- Carry an IC card. It works on many buses and trains in Kyoto.
- Plan one or two temples and leave time to walk. Do not try to see everything.
- Take off your shoes only when a sign asks you to. Follow the signs at each temple.
If you have less time
If you arrive late or have only half a day, skip the upper paths at Fushimi Inari. Walk the lower gates, take a few photos, and move on to Higashiyama. The lower part of the path is where most visitors stop, so you still see the gates.
Plan dinner before you leave the hotel in the morning. Popular places near the river and the centre fill up in the evening. Use Tabelog to find a place that suits your group, and book ahead when the option exists.
What to do next
If you have more time in Kyoto, read the guide on where to base yourself. You can also check the Kyoto city page for more places.
