The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days – Travel the Heart of Japan’s Culture

The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days – Travel the Heart of Japan’s Culture

Welcome to Kyoto in beautiful Japan! In this video, we will experience the best of Kyoto in just 3 days. Kyoto is the heart of Japan’s culture and you cannot miss it while traveling Japan! Join me and my husband Lukas, as we immerse ourselves in the magic of this incredible city. In just 3 days, we explore Kyoto’s most iconic and unforgettable spots.

On Day 1, we journey from Nagano to Kyoto on a bullet train Shinkansen, kicking off our adventure at the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside with breathtaking city views. We then stroll through the historic Higashiyama District, where old wooden houses line the streets, leading to the beautiful Yasaka Pagoda. As the sun sets, the district glows with the charm of old Japan.

Day 2 starts early to beat the crowds in the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walking through the towering, swaying bamboo feels like entering another world — it’s peaceful, otherworldly, and perfect for stunning photos. A visit to the tranquil Tenryu-ji Temple will take your breath away, with its gorgeous Zen gardens that have survived the test of time. From there, we explore Ryoan-ji Temple, where the famous rock garden invites moments of deep reflection and serenity. Our journey continues to Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, whose shimmering exterior perfectly reflects in the Mirror Pond, creating a scene so beautiful you won’t believe your eyes. We also share a fun travel hack: refreshing, cheap, and healthy frozen fruit blends from a 7/11 convenience store!

Day 3 is packed with more unforgettable experiences, starting at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. We walk through thousands of vibrant red torii gates. Next, we explore Nijo Castle, a masterpiece of samurai-era architecture, followed by a visit to the historic Imperial Palace, the former home of emperors, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Kyoto’s food scene is equally unforgettable! We head to Nishiki Market for a lively dinner, where you’ll find every Japanese dish you’ve ever dreamed of. For dessert, we indulge in fluffy, heavenly pancakes at A Happy Pancake, a local favorite that’s worth the effort of securing a reservation. Finally, we dive into the traditions of the Gion District, Kyoto’s geisha heart, where you can walk down narrow streets lined with wooden tea houses, spot a maiko in her colorful kimono, and experience a timeless slice of Japanese culture.

0:00 Welcome to Kyoto
1:07 Day 1
2:19 Day 2
8:15 Day 3
12:56 What’s next?

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