Kyoto 1 Day Itinerary (Ginkaku-ji, Nanzen-ji, Kiyomizu-dera)

Constructed in 1473 by shogun Yoshimasa Ashikaga, this temple had its beginnings as a mountain villa (Higashiyama Palace). The temple is seen as a masterpiece of Higashiyama culture which was imbued with the aesthetic sense of the shogun who reportedly embraced art and the tea ceremony. A World Heritage site, it has been granted 3 stars in the Michelin Green Guide.

This is a walking path that was created alongside the canal going south from Ginkaku-ji to the Eikan-do Temple area. At the beginning of April, you can enjoy cherry trees in full bloom there. Along the walk, there are general goods stores and cafés so that you can take a peek into them while enjoying the stroll.

The temple has a long corridor against the backdrop of the nature-filled mountain. Known as a famous place for the autumn colors in November, the dignified garden and buildings can be enjoyed for their beauty anytime you visit.

Nanzen-ji is very large with an impressive Sanmon gate that towers 22m in height. Once you pass the gate, you can see the picturesque scenery of Kyoto spreading out in front of you on good-weather days. In the vicinity, there are restaurants including those specializing in Kyoto’s famous dish of yudofu (boiled tofu) so lunch time is recommended here.

A historic shrine that was supposedly built in 656. The pagoda that rises above the old townscape has one of the most impressive views of Kyoto that can’t be missed. Yasaka Shrine is also affectionately called “Gion-san” by Kyoto citizens. It is located near Maruyama Park which is well known for its beautiful cherry trees, so if you have time, the park is also a good place to visit.

A temple built upon a hill reached by stone steps. There is an elegant atmosphere from this cultural property that has existed since the Azuchi-Momoyama Era. Also, there is a splendid garden that makes use of the environment in Higashiyama as well as a dry landscape garden in which waves are drawn into the white sand. During the spring, summer and fall, there is a special viewing of the illuminated garden at night (for a limited time).

This is an old town slope that continues on to Kiyomizu-dera. The area is popular with people visiting the many shops along the slope. You can shop for souvenirs or take a break at a café and easily have those special Kyoto snacks. It’s recommended that for shopping and taking a break, doing so on the way back from Kiyomizu-dera is best, taking into consideration the ending time for viewing the temple. Sanneizaka from dusk to evening when the store lamps are illuminated is also beautiful.

A World Heritage spot in famous Kyoto. The main hall called “Kiyomizu-no-butai” that was built in the early Edo Era was constructed without using a single nail, just putting together Japanese zelkova trees. Its dignified appearance is truly magnificent. During the seasons of spring cherry (around the beginning of April) and autumn colors (around November), there is a special nighttime viewing within the grounds so if you come to Kyoto during these times, then this is a must-see sight.