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Kyoto: A Journey Through Time ⛩️

William Schneider

William Schneider

18 Dec 2023

Embark on a captivating adventure through Kyoto's ancient wonders and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Discover majestic temples, stroll through vibrant markets, and get lost in the enchanting streets of Gion. Join me as I explore the hidden gems of this timeless city.

Trip to Kyoto

Day 1Zen Gardens and Golden Splendor
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$25

·

$ 4

Higashiyama Jisho-ji
This 15th-century Zen temple features picturesque gardens & a sand mound shaped like Mount Fuji.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
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$13
22 - 27 min

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Directions

Kinkaku-ji
Historic, tranquil temple with a gold-leaf facade set amid landscaped gardens & a reflecting pond.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
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$13
Day 2Sacred Temples and Imperial Grandeur
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$25

·

$ 4

Kiyomizu-dera
Iconic Buddhist temple on Mount Otowa known for the scenic views afforded from its sizable veranda.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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$25
33 - 40 min

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Directions

Kyoto Imperial Palace
Palace complex & former Imperial family residence reconstructed in 1855, with gardens & gates.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
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Free
Day 3Shrine Hopping and Culinary Delights
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$33

·

$ 8

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Shrine with 10th-century origins featuring annual festivals to mark natural & historical events.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
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$13
8 - 10 min

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Directions

Nijō Castle
Built in 1603, this cypress-wood castle with extensive gardens was a home for the shogun Ieyasu.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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$20
8 - 10 min

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Directions

Nishiki Market
400-year-old iconic market studded with stalls offering all manner of Japanese edibles.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
•
Free
Day 4Trains, Temples, and Technological Marvels
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$38

Kyoto Railway Museum
Contemporary space with exhibits on the railway & an array of locomotives & trains on display.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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$25
27 - 40 min

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Directions

Tō-ji Temple
Historic Buddhist temple with a 5-story wooden pagoda & sculptures of deities from the 8th century.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
•
$13
Day 5Mystical Shrines and Serene Beauty
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$13

·

$ 8

Kyoto Gion YASAKA SHRINE
This Shinto shrine was erected in 656 A.D. & is home to one of the most famous festivals in Japan.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
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Free
19 - 23 min

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Directions

Fushimi Inari Taisha
Mountainside Shinto shrine dating from 711 A.D. featuring a path with hundreds of traditional gates.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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Free
27 - 33 min

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Directions

Byōdō-in Temple
Tours are offered of this iconic temple with a scenic pond & garden, plus a building with artifacts.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
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$13

Budget breakdown: $155 In total

Activities & Food:$133
Transport:$23