We’re excited to welcome our first-ever guest contributor, travel writer Sophie Friedman. We hope you enjoy Sophie-san’s Kyoto travel tips!
For the second year in a row, Travel+Leisure has named Kyoto the world’s best city.
One of the most culturally rich cities in the world, Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, and is what many travelers picture when envisioning Japan.

Buddhist monk, Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is fairly compact and easy to navigate, but with so much to offer – 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, nearly 100 Michelin-starred restaurants, and countless tiny eateries and bars – it’s easy to get a little overwhelmed.
No matter how long you stay, you’ll never see all of the city’s gems, but the plan below will give you a great perspective if you only have three days in Kyoto. Heading to the modern capital" See our tips for one day in Tokyo
Don’t be afraid to wander aimlessly: a major part of Kyoto’s magic lies in its less glamorous yet equally charming backstreets, where you will stumble upon ancient temples, gardens, crafts shops, and other surprises.
Please note: the opening hours, entrance fees, and other details mentioned below are subject to change, so please make sure to confirm relevant details before visiting.
Day 1: Northwestern Kyoto
Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion
Zen Buddhist temple Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion) is one of Japan...