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Japan
Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary
The perfect long weekend in Kyoto. Three days of must-see attractions, local favorites, and insider tips — from $65 to $400 per day.
Trip Overview
Duration
3 Days
Best Time
March to May, October to November
Budget Cost
$195
Mid-Range
$450
1
Day 1
Fushimi Inari sunrise
Fushimi Inari sunrise, Gion afternoon walk, kaiseki dinner
Estimated cost: $150 (mid-range)
2
Day 2
Arashiyama bamboo grove
Arashiyama bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji, Kinkaku-ji golden pavilion
Estimated cost: $150 (mid-range)
3
Day 3
Philosopher's Path
Philosopher's Path, Nanzen-ji, tea ceremony, Pontocho dinner
Estimated cost: $150 (mid-range)
Total 3-Day Cost Estimate
Budget
$195
$65/day x 3 days
Mid-Range
$450
$150/day x 3 days
Luxury
$1,200
$400/day x 3 days
Insider Tips
- Visit Fushimi Inari at sunrise — empty trails, golden light, no tour groups
- Book kaiseki dinner at a ryokan one night — it's the meal you'll remember most
- Rent a bike — Kyoto is flat and the temples are too spread out to walk between
- Stay in a machiya guesthouse in Higashiyama for the most atmospheric base
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