Kyoto and Osaka 3-Day Perfect Itinerary 2024
Kyoto and Osaka - where ancient charm meets modern bustle. A 3-day journey through Kansai's two major cities offers a luxurious experience of contrasting "Japanese and Western" and "tradition and innovation."
Through my 10 years of living in Osaka, I have come to understand the charm of these two cities more deeply.
Kyoto's World Heritage temples and shrines show different faces with each season, offering new discoveries no matter how many times you visit. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and snow scenes in winter—the beauty of the four seasons never loses its value, even with the large number of tourists.
Meanwhile, Osaka, amid its vibrant cityscape, actually breathes with the taste of long-established shops and the warmth of people's hospitality.
In this article, I will introduce an efficient itinerary to fully enjoy the charm of both cities. I'll guide you through a fulfilling 3-day journey while sharing local tips that only residents know!
For those who want to discover the appeal of the entire Osaka area, please check out the Osaka Guide.
Table of Contents
・What Makes Kyoto and Osaka Special?
・Key Points for 3-Day Kyoto and Osaka Tour
・Day 1: Exploring Kyoto's World Heritage Sites
・Day 2: Enjoying Kyoto's Nature
・Day 3: Experiencing Osaka to the Fullest
What Makes Kyoto and Osaka Special?
Kyoto and Osaka are Kansai's two major cities where Japanese traditional and modern culture harmoniously blend.
Osaka is known as the "city of food lovers," rich in casual and delicious B-grade gourmet food. On the other hand, Kyoto, with its numerous World Heritage sites like Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, embodies the very image of "Japan" that many foreigners envision.
What's particularly noteworthy is that these two attractive cities are just 30 minutes to an hour apart by train. The convenience of being able to enjoy top-ranked tourist destinations in just a few days is unparalleled worldwide.
Key Points for 3-Day Kyoto and Osaka Tour
Next, I'll introduce important points to consider when touring Kyoto and Osaka over three days.
Spend More Time in Kyoto
When planning a Kyoto and Osaka tour, I first consider time allocation.
Osaka is a relatively compact city where major tourist spots can be efficiently accessed by subway. Meanwhile, Kyoto's temples and shrines are scattered throughout the city, primarily requiring bus and walking transportation.
Also, since there are overwhelmingly more attractions than in Osaka, I recommend allocating more time to Kyoto.
Dedicate a Full Day if Visiting USJ
Source: Google Map
As a USJ annual pass holder, I am well-versed in the park's attractions.
While this itinerary doesn't include a USJ visit, if you plan to go, I strongly recommend using a full day. The vast grounds contain numerous attractions and points of interest that can't be fully appreciated in just half a day.
Please also check the USJ Guide article.
Spring and Autumn are the Best Seasons
The best seasons for Kyoto sightseeing are spring, when cherry blossoms reach full bloom in early April, and autumn, when fall colors peak around November. While these seasons attract many tourists, the beauty makes you forget about the crowds.
During other seasons, when Kyoto's charm is slightly reduced, considering substituting one day for USJ is an option.
For more about Kyoto's seasons, check out the Kyoto Seasons Guide article.
Day 1: Exploring Kyoto's World Heritage Sites
Here's my detailed 3-day itinerary. Day one focuses on Kyoto's iconic spots.
Morning (AM8:30-PM12:00): Fushimi Inari Shrine
On your first day of Kyoto sightseeing, I recommend visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine first thing in the morning. It's just 5 minutes from Kyoto Station to Inari Station. By visiting early morning, you can photograph the Instagram-famous thousand torii gates without crowds.
The hike to the summit is a 2-3 hour round trip, but along the way, you'll encounter torii gates of various sizes, creating a mystical atmosphere.
I've visited many times, but I discover new photo spots each time. Admission is free, and you can purchase lucky charms and commemorative shrine stamps within the grounds.
For more about this area, check out the [Fushimi Guide] article.
Website: https://inari.jp/en/
Afternoon (PM1:30-5:00): Kiyomizu-dera Area
Return to Kyoto Station from Fushimi Inari, take the subway to Shijo Station, then transfer to the Hankyu train to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station. I recommend walking from the station to Kiyomizu-dera through the atmospheric Gion district.
Make sure to stop by Yasaka Shrine along the way. At Kiyomizu-dera, first enjoy the view from the famous Kiyomizu Stage. During cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons, I recommend extending your visit to nearby Kodai-ji Temple.
Don't forget to explore Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes on your way back, where you can experience old Kyoto's atmosphere.
For more about this area, check out the [Kiyomizudera] article.
Website: https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/
Evening (PM6:00-9:00): Gion Exploration
Take a leisurely 20-30 minute walk back to Kawaramachi from Kiyomizu-dera. Gion at night has a different, magical atmosphere from daytime. The illuminated Yasaka Shrine is particularly stunning.
In Pontocho and Hanamikoji, you might be lucky enough to encounter maiko (apprentice geisha). However, calling out to or photographing maiko is strictly prohibited. Please observe proper manners and don't interfere with their professional work.
For more about this area, check out the [Gion Guide] article.
Day 2: Enjoying Kyoto's Nature
Kyoto is actually rich in natural beauty. Day two is a luxurious schedule enjoying both Kyoto's nature and traditions.
Morning (AM8:30-PM2:30): Arashiyama Exploration
It's about 15 minutes from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station on the JR San-in Line. I recommend visiting the Bamboo Grove first thing in the morning. Early morning has fewer tourists, allowing you to fully enjoy the quiet dignity of the bamboo forest.
Then, take photos at Arashiyama's symbol, the Togetsukyo Bridge. The view of the Hozu River and mountains from this atmospheric bridge is spectacular. At the World Heritage Tenryu-ji Temple, you can appreciate the beautiful dry landscape garden.
If you have extra time, I recommend visiting Iwatayama Monkey Park. Here, you can observe wild Japanese macaques up close and enjoy a popular viewpoint overlooking Kyoto's cityscape.
For more about this area, check out the [Arashiyama Guide] article.
Afternoon (PM2:30-5:00): Uji Exploration
After exploring Arashiyama, return to Kyoto Station on the JR San-in Line, then transfer to the Nara Line to Uji Station. Uji is known as one of Japan's premier matcha-producing regions.
Here, you can visit the Byodoin Phoenix Hall, which appears on the 10-yen coin. The majestic Buddhist hall and beautiful garden seem to recreate paradise on earth.
After your visit, I recommend enjoying sweets and drinks made with Uji matcha in the surrounding area.
For the second night, I recommend staying at a hotel in Osaka to prepare for the next day's Osaka sightseeing. Considering travel time from Kyoto to Osaka, this is more efficient.
For more about this area, check out the [Uji Guide] article.
Day 3: Experiencing Osaka to the Fullest
Let's fully enjoy the compact city of Osaka on the final day.
Morning (AM10:00-PM12:00): Kaiyukan Aquarium
On the final day of your journey, it's time to fully experience Osaka's charm. First, take the subway from Osaka Station to "Osakako" Station. At Kaiyukan, one of the world's largest aquariums, you can encounter marine life from around the world, including the massive Pacific Ocean tank.
As of 2024, I want to note that Kaiyukan has implemented a timed entry system. To avoid crowds, I strongly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance.
The approximately 2-hour viewing course allows you to leisurely observe various marine life, including whale sharks, dolphins, and penguins.
Website: https://www.kaiyukan.com/language/eng/
Afternoon (PM1:00-4:00): Shinsaibashi and Namba
It's about 20-30 minutes by subway from Kaiyukan to the Shinsaibashi area. The Shinsaibashisuji Shopping Street is Osaka's premier shopping arcade, lined with fashion brands and variety stores.
At Kuromon Market, you can enjoy food-hopping through fresh seafood and Osaka specialty foods. I particularly recommend enjoying conversations with market workers while sampling foods. Even if you don't understand Japanese, you can experience Osaka's friendly communication style through simple English and gestures.
In Amerikamura, the youth culture hub, you can experience street fashion and pop culture. For those interested in Japanese pop culture, I also highly recommend "Den Den Town" in Nipponbashi. It's a major district full of specialty stores selling electronics and anime goods.
For more about this area, check out the [Namba Guide] article.
Evening (PM4:00-8:00): Dotonbori
Dotonbori, a short walk from Shinsaibashi, is the heart of Osaka's food culture. First, take a commemorative photo at Osaka's landmark "Glico Sign." Then, I recommend comparing different takoyaki and okonomiyaki shops. Since each shop has its own unique taste and batter texture, I suggest trying multiple places.
At night, you can experience Osaka's izakaya culture in Hozenji Yokocho. In the narrow alley lined with atmospheric izakayas, you can enjoy interactions with locals. Finally, take a stroll along the illuminated Dotonbori River. The brilliant night view will be a fitting end to your journey.
A 3-day journey through Kyoto and Osaka offers a luxurious experience where you can enjoy the unique charm of Japan's tradition and modernity intertwined. In Kyoto, you'll touch ancient history and culture, while in Osaka, you'll feel the pulse of a vibrant city.
I've crafted this itinerary based on my experience to maximize the appeal of both cities. I encourage you to create your own memorable journey by flexibly adjusting the schedule according to the season and weather.
When planning your trip, I recommend checking each facility's business hours and crowd conditions in advance. For popular spots, I particularly suggest early morning visits are best.
I hope this itinerary helps make your Kansai journey wonderful!