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Plan a trip Standard,Family and Friend,Outdoors,Bachelor Party at Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano, 下河原 祇園 Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan for 3 days In September

Sep 19, 2024 | Richard-Watkins

Richard Watkins

Exploring of Kyoto, Japan: An Overview

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city on the island of Honshu. Known for its classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto brims with rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy both the tranquility of Zen gardens and the bustling atmosphere of its streets.

Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan for over 1000 years.

Kyoto's economy is deeply rooted in traditional industries such as textiles and crafts. Its culture is rich with centuries-old traditions, including tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and Geisha performance which symbolize the Japanese aesthetics.

What Is the Weather Like in Kyoto, Japan During September?

September in Kyoto is marked by pleasant temperatures, with average highs around 27°C (80°F) and lows around 18°C (64°F). Light rain is common, so packing a light rain jacket is advisable. The weather is perfect for exploring both indoor and outdoor attractions without the extreme summer heat or winter cold.

What Is the best Season for Visiting Kyoto, Japan?

Although Kyoto is beautiful year-round, September provides a blend of mild temperatures and thinner crowds compared to the peak cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. It's a wonderful time to explore temples and enjoy outdoor activities without extreme weather.

Day 1 : Arrival and Exploring Higashiyama District

21 September, 2024

Kyoto, Japan

9:00 AM

Check-in at Ryokan Gion Sano

Settle into the traditional Japanese Ryokan, experience the ambiance of tatami rooms, and receive a warm welcome with green tea.

Free for guests

Be on time for check-in. Remove shoes before entering the room.

1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Kiyomizu Temple

Explore the historic Kiyomizu Temple, famous for its wooden stage that offers a stunning view of the city and its hallowed grounds.

$5 entrance fee

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Respect the sanctity of the religious site.

2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Izakaya

Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine at a local Izakaya. Savor dishes like sushi, tempura, and more.

$20 per person

Try a variety of dishes. Ask the staff for recommendations.

1 hour

3:00 PM

Tea Ceremony Experience

Participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony where you'll learn the intricate art of tea preparation and enjoy matcha tea.

$30 per person

Follow the host's instructions carefully. Maintain silence during the ceremony.

1 hour

5:00 PM

Stroll through Gion District

Walk through the picturesque Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and chances to see Geisha.

Free

Respect the local residents. Be mindful while taking photographs.

1.5 hours

Day 2 : Temple Visits and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

22 September, 2024

Kyoto, Japan

8:30 AM

Breakfast at the Ryokan

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast set featuring miso soup, grilled fish, rice, and pickles.

Included in stay

Be punctual. Don't waste food.

1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates.

Free

Wear comfortable shoes. Be prepared for a lot of walking.

2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Arashiyama

Dine in a riverside restaurant in Arashiyama, enjoying local Kyoto cuisine.

$25 per person

Taste regional specialties like Yudofu (boiled tofu).

1 hour

3:00 PM

Walk through the Bamboo Grove

Experience the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene and iconic natural walkway.

Free

Be quiet and respectful. Stay on the designated paths.

1 hour

5:00 PM

Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike up to the Monkey Park Iwatayama where you can observe monkeys in their natural habitat and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.

$6 entrance fee

Do not feed or touch the monkeys. Follow park rules.

1.5 hours

Day 3 : Nara Day Trip and Departure

23 September, 2024

Kyoto, Japan

7:00 AM

Breakfast and Checkout

Have an early breakfast and check out from Ryokan Gion Sano.

Included in stay

Ensure you have all your belongings. Settle any additional charges.

1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to Nara

Take a train from Kyoto to Nara, a city known for its temples and deer park.

$10 one-way

Purchase a train ticket in advance. Be seated and enjoy the ride.

1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world.

$7 entrance fee

Keep noise to a minimum inside the temple. Respect the cultural significance.

2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch in Nara

Enjoy local Nara cuisine at a recommended restaurant, indulging in dishes such as Kakinoha-zushi and Asuka Nabe.

$20 per person

Try the local delicacies. Enjoy the meal.

1 hour

3:00 PM

Nara Park

Stroll through Nara Park, feeding and interacting with the friendly deer that roam freely.

$2 for deer crackers

Purchase deer crackers if you wish to feed them. Handle the deer gently.

1.5 hours

Remark

Travel Requirement

  • Respect the cultural norms and traditions.
  • Follow trash disposal guidelines strictly.
  • Always carry a form of identification.
  • Learn a few basic Japanese phrases.
  • Keep cash handy as some places may not accept credit cards.
  • Use regional transportation passes for cost efficiency.
  • Stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing.
  • Observe silence in temples and spiritual places.

Local Sayings

  • 'Konnichiwa' means 'Hello'.
  • 'Arigato' means 'Thank you'.
  • 'Sumimasen' means 'Excuse me'.
  • 'Oishi' means 'Delicious'.
  • 'Wakaranai' means 'I don't understand'.
  • 'Daijoubu' means 'It's okay'.
  • 'Ohayou Gozaimasu' means 'Good morning'.
  • 'Konbanwa' means 'Good evening'.

Connectivity Info

  • Kyoto is well connected by bullet trains (Shinkansen) from Tokyo (2.5 hours).
  • Osaka is just a 15-minute train ride from Kyoto.
  • Kansai International Airport offers direct flights to and from major cities worldwide.
  • Buses and local trains connect Kyoto to nearby attractions like Nara and Kobe.
  • The city has an efficient public transportation system of buses and subways.

Accept Currency + Payment Type

  • The local currency is Japanese Yen (JPY).
  • Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but cash is preferred at small shops and restaurants.
  • ATMs are widely available, especially in convenience stores.
  • Carry small denominations for ease of payment.
  • Travel cards like Suica and ICOCA can be used for public transport and at many stores.

Nearby Shopping

  • Shijo Kawaramachi - An area packed with shops and dining options.
  • Nishiki Market - A famous market known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen'.
  • Kyoto Station Building - A large shopping complex with various brands.
  • Gion District - Specialty stores selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.
  • Teramachi & Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades - Popular shopping streets.

Safety Tips

  • Japan is very safe, but always be aware of your surroundings.
  • Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
  • Follow local traffic rules, especially as a pedestrian.
  • In case of emergencies, dial 110 for police and 119 for ambulance.
  • Always have your hotel’s name and address written in Japanese with you.

Health & Medical Facilities

  • Emergency medical services are reliable and quick.
  • Kyoto has several hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended.
  • Pharmacies ('Yakkyoku') are widespread and easily accessible.
  • For minor ailments, over-the-counter medicines are readily available.

Other Facilities

  • Convenience stores ('Konbini') like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson are open 24/7.
  • Station lockers are available for temporary baggage storage.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available at major tourist spots and cafes.
  • Public restrooms are clean and widely available.
  • Information centers at major attractions provide guidance in multiple languages.

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