This time last year, I was in Japan—like many travelers lately, we took advantage of the strong dollar and favorable yen. We visited Tokyo, Kyoto, and (of course) Tokyo Disneyland. What surprised me most is how often families skip Kyoto, even though it’s one of Japan’s most magical, kid-friendly cities. It’s where modern life and ancient beauty meet—from the lantern-lit streets of Gion to hilltop temples and tea-scented lanes.
If you’re planning your first trip (or a return), spend at least three days in Kyoto. You’ll find temples, tea traditions, and timeless streets that feel like stepping into another era.
🏯 Day 1 — Higashiyama & Gion
- Meander Sannenzaka → Ninenzaka (stone alleys, snacks, souvenirs)
- Kick off with a rickshaw tour through backstreets (kid-friendly + great photo spots)
- Walk to a casual lunch nearby
- Head uphill to Kiyomizu-dera for sweeping city views
- Finish at Yasaka Shrine as the lanterns glow — easy on foot
🎋 Day 2 — Arashiyama
- Visit the Bamboo Grove early, then enjoy riverside views near TogetsukyĹŤ Bridge
- Coffee break at % Arabica (or similar scenic spot)
- Optional temples or park time along the river
🍵 Day 3 — Hoshino Coffee, Nishiki Market & Mouriya Gion
- Begin your final morning at Hoshino Coffee Kyoto Station, a classic Japanese kissaten with hand-drip coffee and soufflé pancakes served on elegant porcelain. It’s the perfect calm start before your train or next adventure.
- Head to Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s lively “kitchen,” where you can snack your way through matcha mochi, yuba (tofu skin), and freshly fried soy doughnuts.
- Stop by Ippodo Tea for a quick tasting or matcha-whisking experience — a lovely bridge between Kyoto’s coffee and tea traditions.
- Optional: visit Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine tucked behind the market, or wander the Teramachi & Shinkyogoku shopping arcades for charming gifts and street snacks.
- Return to Gion in the evening for a memorable dinner at Mouriya Gion. They serve both Kobe beef and Mouriya’s “carefully selected” beef — the latter offers the same buttery texture and marbling without the Kobe certification (and price). The A5 sirloin course we tried was rich, tender, and perfectly seared. Families can easily share one set since portions are generous. [Link to restaurant] — reservations can be made via TableCheck.
- If you have time before departure, circle back to Kyoto Station’s rooftop garden for one last view of the city — a peaceful way to close out three beautiful days in Kyoto.
👉 Try a Private Rickshaw Tour
This was one of our favorite Kyoto experiences (recommended by a family member who travels to Asia often). The guides led us through quiet, scenic areas perfect for photos — and they even took pictures for us! If you visit in fall, the streets glow with red and golden leaves, making it extra special.
👉 Join a Traditional Tea Ceremony
One of Kyoto’s most authentic experiences. You’ll learn to whisk matcha, savor wagashi sweets, and connect with the quiet rhythm of Japanese hospitality.
Check out the experiences we personally booked (affiliate links):
Higashiyama and Gion Area
Photos from our rickshaw tour through Higashiyama and Gion. Our drivers led us to quieter, more private spots—so easy to shoot. They were incredibly polite, and (as is customary in Japan) kindly declined a tip.
Kiyomizu-dera Area
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Area
Where to buy Matcha in Kyoto
Kyoto (and nearby Uji) is famous for shaded green tea. If you want to bring some home, I broke it all down here: Kyoto Matcha Buying Guide.
Food Places to Check Out
After the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, head to % Arabica by Togetsukyō Bridge on the Katsura River—a perfect spot to sip coffee or matcha with a view. [Link to % Arabica in Arashiyama]
Kyoto is full of street food and cafés, but for a sit-down breakfast I liked Hoshino Coffee. It’s inside Kyoto Station and the breakfast sets are affordable (and yes, the tiny creamer is adorable). It was about a 2-minute walk from my hotel.
Kobe Beef Steak Mouriya Gion
For Thanksgiving night we booked Mouriya Gion. They offer both Kobe beef and Mouriya “carefully selected” beef — the latter is similar in quality but without the Kobe certification (and price). We chose the A5 sirloin course from the selected beef and it was rich, buttery, and super satisfying. Our kids found it a bit fatty, and the set comes with a lot of food, so families can likely share one set instead of ordering individually. [Link to restaurant] — we reserved via TableCheck.
Where to Stay
For a short stay (3 days), I recommend staying near Kyoto Station. It’s the main transport hub, easy for day trips, and you can grab breakfast at Kyoto Station before heading out. Gion/Higashiyama is prettier and more “old Kyoto,” but the station area is more convenient with kids and luggage.
- Kyoto Station area — best for convenience, trains, and airport transfers.
- Gion / Higashiyama — best for atmosphere, walking to shrines and evening photos.
- Kawaramachi / Downtown — best for shopping, cafés, and Nishiki Market.
Final Thoughts
Three days in Kyoto is the perfect way to experience the city’s timeless mix of temples, tea, and tranquil beauty. Wander through Gion’s lantern-lit streets, stroll the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and end your journey with a memorable dinner at Mouriya Gion.
If this guide helped you plan your trip, save it for later or share it with someone dreaming of Japan. Follow me on Instagram @lindakphoto for photos, itineraries, and everyday travel inspiration. 🍵📸