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Plan a trip Honeymoon,Romantic,City tours,Cultural exposure at Kyoto, Japan for 6 days In December

Nov 5, 2024 | Coleenant-Gr

Coleenant Gr

Exploring of Kyoto, Japan: An Overview

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is renowned for its stunning temples, beautiful gardens, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant cultural life. Situated in the Kansai region, Kyoto is an incredible blend of the old and new, embracing modernity while preserving its rich history and tradition.

Kyoto served as Japan's capital for over a thousand years. It is renowned for its classical Buddhist temples and gardens.

Kyoto is known for its traditional Japanese culture, tea ceremonies, and geishas. The city's economy thrives on tourism, traditional crafts, and academia.

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

In December, Kyoto experiences chilly weather, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 12°C. While it rarely snows, the city's winter landscape can be quite picturesque with occasional clear skies that make for excellent sightseeing conditions.

What Is the best Season for Visiting Kyoto, Japan?

The best time to visit Kyoto is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant and the city is adorned with cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.

Day 1 : Arrival and Evening Stroll

30 December, 2024

Kyoto, Japan

10:00 AM

Arrival at Kyoto Station

Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in after your journey.

$30

Ensure you have your passport and booking details handy for a smooth check-in.

1 hour

12:00 PM

Visit Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto's famous food market, offering a variety of traditional local snacks and fresh seafood.

$20

Try different street foods but keep some room for dinner.

2 hours

3:00 PM

Gion District Walk

Take a leisurely walk through the historic Gion district, famous for its preserved traditional wooden machiya houses and geishas.

Free

Respect the ongoing cultural activities and do not disturb geishas.

2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at a Traditional Restaurant

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a traditional Kyoto restaurant, savoring authentic Japanese cuisine.

$100

Reservations might be required; check beforehand.

2 hours

9:00 PM

Evening Stroll Along Kamo River

End your first day with a peaceful stroll along the picturesque Kamo River.

Free

Dress warmly as December evenings can be chilly.

1 hour

Day 2 : Temple Tour and Tea Ceremony

31 December, 2024

Kyoto, Japan

9:00 AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the iconic Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple in northern Kyoto with an impressive golden exterior.

$15

Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit.

2 hours

11:30 AM

Ryoan-ji Temple

Visit Ryoan-ji, famous for its rock garden, considered one of Japan's finest.

$10

Maintain silence to respect the serene atmosphere.

1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Local Sushi Restaurant

Enjoy an authentic sushi lunch at a local restaurant.

$60

Try a variety of sushi; the chef’s recommendations are usually the best.

1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Tea Ceremony at a Kyoto Teahouse

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, learning about its cultural significance and intricate procedures.

$50

Be punctual as these ceremonies are time-sensitive.

2 hours

6:00 PM

Return to Hotel and Relax

Return to your hotel to relax after a cultural day, maybe enjoying some quiet time in the hotel’s onsen (hot spring).

Free

Be mindful of the hotel’s onsen etiquettes.

Rest of the evening

Day 3 : Arashiyama and Bamboo Grove

01 January, 2025

Kyoto, Japan

9:00 AM

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Visit the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, walking through towering bamboo stalks.

Free

Go early to enjoy a less crowded experience.

1 hour

10:30 AM

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and historical significance.

$10

Respect the temple rules and maintain decorum.

2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at River-side Restaurant

Have lunch at a scenic river-side restaurant, enjoying the serene views and delicious Japanese cuisine.

$70

Try local specialties and seasonal dishes.

1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Sagano Scenic Railway Ride

Take a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

$30

Pre-book your tickets to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.

1 hour

5:00 PM

Romantic Boat Ride on Hozu River

Enjoy a romantic boat ride on the Hozu River, taking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

$50

Wear comfortable clothing and life jackets for safety.

1 hour

Day 4 : Fushimi Inari Shrine and Philosophers Walk

02 January, 2025

Kyoto, Japan

9:00 AM

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Climb through the iconic red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most famous sites.

Free

Wear comfortable footwear as the climb can be long and arduous.

2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Inari Area

Have lunch in the Inari area, enjoying local delicacies like kitsune udon.

$40

Explore the local eateries for authentic local flavors.

1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Philosopher’s Walk

Stroll along the Philosopher’s Walk, a scenic path lined with cherry trees, connecting Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji.

Free

Take your time to enjoy the path’s tranquility and picturesque views.

2 hours

4:30 PM

Explore Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Visit the beautiful Ginkaku-ji, known for its refined aesthetics and serene garden.

$10

Follow the guided paths to fully appreciate the garden’s design.

1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at one of the charming restaurants in Pontocho Alley, offering riverside dining and delicious cuisine.

$80

Reservations are recommended as it’s a popular spot.

2 hours

Day 5 : Cultural Experiences and Shopping

03 January, 2025

Kyoto, Japan

9:00 AM

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and historical significance.

$10

Arrive early to experience the castle without crowds.

2 hours

11:30 AM

Kyoto International Manga Museum

Visit the Manga Museum to learn about the history and cultural impact of manga in Japan.

$15

Allocate plenty of time as there's much to see and read.

2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Return to Nishiki Market for lunch, trying different stalls and foods you might have missed on your first visit.

$30

Try to avoid peak lunch hours for a more pleasant experience.

1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Take a guided tour of the Kyoto Imperial Palace to learn about its historical importance.

Free

Book your tour in advance to secure a spot.

1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Gion Corner Performance

Experience a traditional Japanese performance at Gion Corner, including tea ceremony, ikebana, and maiko dance.

$25

Ensure you check the schedule and book tickets in advance.

2 hours

Day 6 : Final Day and Departure

04 January, 2025

Kyoto, Japan

9:00 AM

Visit Kyoto Tower

Head to Kyoto Tower for a panoramic view of the city, offering a great overview of your trip’s accomplishments.

$10

Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.

1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Kyoto Handicraft Center

Visit the Kyoto Handicraft Center to shop for authentic Japanese handicrafts and souvenirs.

Varies

Allocate enough time to browse the extensive variety of items.

2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Downtown Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of Kyoto’s downtown restaurants, savoring your favorite Japanese dishes.

$50

Choose a restaurant that offers a variety of local tastes.

1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of the city, especially beautiful at sunset.

$10

Wear comfortable shoes as the walk can be bit steep.

2 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Hotel and Prepare for Departure

Head back to your hotel to pack and relax before your journey back home. Reflect on the memorable experiences of your Kyoto trip.

Free

Ensure all your belongings are packed and check out on time.

Rest of the evening

Remark

Travel Requirement

- Carry your passport at all times. - Respect local customs and traditions. - Avoid loud conversations in public places. - Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours. - Pre-book tickets for popular attractions.

Local Sayings

- 'Konnichiwa' means Hello. - 'Arigato' means Thank you. - 'Sumimasen' means Excuse me/Sorry. - 'Itadakimasu' is said before eating.

Connectivity Info

- Kyoto is well connected by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo and Osaka. - Kansai International Airport and Itami Airport serve international and domestic flights. - Bus and local train services are efficient for city travel.

Accept Currency + Payment Type

- The currency is Japanese Yen (¥). - Credit cards are widely accepted but carry cash for small vendors. - ATMs are available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven.

Nearby Shopping

- Nishiki Market for food and local products. - Shijo Street for fashion and souvenirs. - Teramachi Street for traditional crafts. - Kyoto Station underground shopping mall.

Safety Tips

- Kyoto is generally safe, but stay aware of your surroundings. - Keep valuable belongings secure. - Follow local advice during natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes).

Health & Medical Facilities

- Kyoto has several hospitals and clinics. - Pharmacies are well-stocked and located throughout the city. - Carry basic medical supplies and prescriptions from your home country.

Other Facilities

- Tourist Information Centers are located at major stations. - Public restrooms are widely available and clean. - English-speaking guides are available for hire.

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