Window Seats Only

Kyoto and Osaka are super popular destinations in Japan, each offering its own distinct charm. Kyoto offers temples and traditional streets, while Osaka brings energy with vibrant street food and a modern city vibe. You might be adding this to a longer Japan itinerary or focusing solely on the Kansai region, and either way, this 4-day itinerary is a great place to start. I am so excited to tell you exactly how to spend 4 days in Kyoto and Osaka! So keep reading and let’s dive in!

Getting to Kyoto

Kyoto does not have its own international airport, but it is easily accessible with Japan’s transportation system.

From Tokyo: If you are already in Tokyo, the best way to get to Kyoto is by shinkansen (bullet train). The Tokaido Shinkansen gets you from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station in about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Flying In: You can fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX), located just outside Osaka. From KIX, you can take the Haruka Express, a limited express train that takes you directly to Kyoto Station in about 75 minutes.

Where to Stay In Kyoto

The big question: Do you stay in Kyoto or Osaka? I recommend basing yourself in Kyoto for all four nights and doing a day trip to Osaka. It is the most efficient way to enjoy both cities, with Kyoto offering a more peaceful stay and Osaka just a quick train ride away when you are ready for urban views and foodie adventures.

So, in Kyoto, stay in Gion, Higashiyama, or Downtown Kyoto for walkable access to sights and restaurants. Here are my top recommendations:

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Hotels:

• The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo: Clean, comfortable, and in a great central location.
• Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion: Elegant, modern rooms with a traditional touch. Located near Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine. Great breakfast and onsen-style bath.
• Kyoto Granbell Hotel: Stylish boutique hotel tucked in Gion with a public bath.
• The Blossom Kyoto: A newer hotel near downtown Kyoto with spacious rooms and convenient subway access.

Ryokan Experiences:

• Ryokan Yachiyo: Located near Nanzen-ji Temple, it is traditional and has garden views, in-room dining, and public baths.
• Seikoro Ryokan: Historic ryokan with over 180 years of history. It has beautiful architecture and authentic meals.

Day 1: Kyoto: Arrive in Kyoto & Explore Gion

After you have arrived in Kyoto and gotten settled into your accommodation, ease into the city by exploring Gion, the historic and traditional geisha district, and check out the following:

• Hanami-koji Street: A picturesque lane of traditional machiya townhouses and lantern-lit restaurants. You might glimpse a maiko (apprentice geisha) on her way to an engagement.
• Shirakawa Canal: Especially pretty at night, this path is lined with trees and quaint bridges.
• Yasaka Shrine: A lively shrine at the edge of Gion.

Dinner: Start your first evening off with a high bar by reserving a spot at Sushi Sha, a small and intimate sushi restaurant. Definitely choose the chef’s omakase. This was one of the best sushi meals I had in Japan!

Day 2: Kyoto: Temples, Tea, & Culture

Start your day early with a visit to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). This golden exterior temple has a beautiful pond, gardens, and architecture. Take your time walking the grounds and admiring the peacefulness.

Next, head to the nearby Ryoan-ji, which is where you can see the famous rock garden. It is really unique and makes you feel quite at peace.

For lunch, head to Nishiki Market. Try a variety of local foods, from fresh seafood to traditional sweets. The market is also a great place to pick up unique snacks and souvenirs.

Book a traditional Japanese tea ceremony experience. You will learn the ritual behind matcha preparation and get to enjoy tea in a peaceful setting. Such a fun experience!

Next, walk through the historic Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets to reach Kiyomizu-dera, which is famous for its impressive wooden stage that overlooks the city and its stunning cherry and maple trees. It is known for beautiful views and the Otowa Waterfall, which locals believe has healing powers. It is a great spot to take in some history and breathtaking scenery.

Return to Gion for another evening stroll or head to Pontocho Alley for dinner. For sushi, Tai Sushi is a great option.

After dinner, enjoy unique cocktails at L’Escamoteur or Grace Note. These are seriously such fun places to end your evening!

L’Escamoteur has Harry Potter vibes with dim lighting and vintage décor. To find it, look for the narrow wooden door at street level, and you will spot the sign above it, then head upstairs to enter the bar.

Grace Note is a low-key, hidden, jazz-inspired cocktail bar that definitely feels like a secret. Finding it can be tricky, but their Instagram has video instructions on how to find it: @gracenote_kyoto.

Day 3: Oska: City Views & Food

Getting to Osaka: Take the JR Special Rapid Service from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station (~30 minutes).

Start at Umeda Sky Building: Begin your day with a ride up to the Floating Garden Observatory for 360° views of the Osaka skyline. It is especially pretty on a clear day! Make sure to grab some ice cream at the top like I did!

Visit Osaka Castle: Next, explore Osaka Castle, surrounded by a park. While the castle interior is a museum, the highlight is climbing to the top for views and admiring the stone walls and moat.

Afternoon in Dotonbori & Shinsaibashi: Spend the afternoon in Osaka’s most iconic district. Dotonbori is neon-lit and wild, overwhelming, and perfect for food lovers. Try:

• Takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers)
• Okonomiyaki (savory pancake)

Walk the covered Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Street to browse Japanese cosmetics, fashion, and quirky souvenirs.

Osaka is more lively at night, while Kyoto quiets down early. So, if you are looking for a late-night option, utilize this day in Osaka to extend your food adventures into the evening and pair it with some bar hopping.

Return to Kyoto whenever you are ready.

Day 4: Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Shrine & Departure

On your last day in Kyoto, spend the morning at Fushimi Inari Shrine. This is famous for its 10,000 bright red torii gates that create a stunning tunnel up Mount Inari. As you hike through the gates, you will pass by smaller shrines. The main shrine at the base is colorful and impressive, and you will get some great views of Kyoto as you climb higher.

I could not recommend getting to Fushimi Inari Shrine early enough! As with many attractions in Kyoto and Osaka, it will get VERY busy! To better your experience, definitely arrive before 8 am.

Depending on your departure time, grab a quick lunch at Kyoto Station (there is a great ramen street on the 10th floor!) before catching your train or flight.

Tips & Things to Know Before You Go

• Utilize the various transportation options: There are many buses around Kyoto, which can be convenient, but they can also be slow during peak traffic hours. I would also recommend utilizing the train, Uber, or walking (some of the best parts of Kyoto and Osaka are found while wandering).
• Pack comfortable shoes: As always in my itineraries, you will be doing a lot of walking, especially around Kyoto’s temples and through Osaka’s street food districts.
• Book popular restaurants and attractions in advance and be prepared for crowds: Kyoto and Osaka are two of the most visited cities in Japan, and major attractions and restaurants (which are often very limited in space) can get very busy!
• Cash is still common. Be prepared to still use cash at food stalls and some local shops. Many places do accept cards, but having some yen on hand is still a good idea.
• Be respectful at temples and shrines. Dress modestly, speak quietly, and follow any posted etiquette, especially when visiting sacred spots.
• Utilize Google Maps or Apple Maps. These resources are great for train times/routes, and walking directions.

I hope you now know exactly how to spend 4 days in Kyoto and Osaka! Have fun!