Listly by Joanna James
The beautiful Japanese city, of Kyoto, is blessed with an abundance of rich culture, history, and natural beauty. If you’re planning to spend three days in this delightful city, this guide is for you.
The cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is home to an array of cultural and historical attractions. The country has the gift of natural beauty too, and the mouthwatering cuisine is another thing that makes Kyoto a worthy tourist destination. Kyoto is also a hub of traditional arts and crafts. You can also witness mesmerising tea ceremonies, explore kimono textiles, and even try your hand at making Japanese sweets. One of the most charming aspects of Kyoto is its preservation of the old-world charm. In districts like Gion, you’ll find geishas gracefully walking by. The cherry blossoms are another picturesque aspect of Kyoto. Your three days in Kyoto will be over before you know it, so be sure to make the most of it.
Kyoto is a city that’s beautiful year-round. So, the best time to visit really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Spring in Kyoto is magical. From March to May, the city is packed with domestic and international tourists. Early April is particularly busy with crowds pouring into the city to see the cherry blossoms. Summer is another excellent time to visit Kyoto. It’s a bit hot and humid, but this is when festivals like the Gion Matsuri take place. Autumn is another fantastic time to spend three days in Kyoto. During this time, gardens and parks are ablaze with red, orange, and yellow hues. Winter in Kyoto is quite cold, with occasional snowfall that adds a serene beauty to the cityscape. The city is a bit quieter during the winter months, making it the perfect time for a peaceful vacation.
Kyoto is popular as a travel destination. Travellers of all kinds visit the city to enjoy its cultural, historical, and natural delights. To accommodate them all, there’s a wide array of lodging options available. From budget to high-end, you can choose anything you want, but consider the top things to do in Kyoto when choosing your hotel. A place like Park Hotel Kyoto by the Park Hotel Group is recommended for those looking for a central location with easy access to Kyoto’s attractions.
Start your three-day break by visiting the temples. Temples in Kyoto are time capsules that contain fascinating historical details. Among the must-visit sites, Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, stands out with its golden exterior and the reflective pond. Ginkaku-ji, or the Silver Pavilion, is another must-visit; it’s a testament to timeless elegance. For breathtaking views, visit Kiyomizu-dera, and to see the eye-catching torii gates, head to Fushimi Inari Taisha. You might not be able to visit all these places during your three-day trip, but choose the ones located close to your hotel, and spend at least an hour at each one of those places.
Offering an otherworldly experience, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove has a serene and peaceful atmosphere. However, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto, so there will be crowds. To steal a peaceful moment or two, visit early in the morning. Nearby, you’ll find Iwatayama Monkey Park where Japanese macaques reside. While you’re in the area, carve out some time to take a boat ride on the Hozu River.
Kyoto isn’t known as a shopping destination, but the city is home to traditional markets and high-end boutique shops. In the Gion District, you’ll find kimono shops that sell a variety of exquisite fabrics. Head to the Nishiki Market, also known as Kyoto’s Kitchen, to sample unique local delights and pick some souvenirs. On the other hand, the Shijo-Kawaramachi area is home to high-end shopping malls and fashion boutiques.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.