Table of contents:
Summary
Kyōto (京都市) Trip - Reise Guide offers a comprehensive overview of traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, highlighting an enjoyable nine-hour car journey marked by well-maintained highways and picturesque landscapes dotted with valleys, lakes, and mountains. It discusses the convenience of driving, including rest stops and personal comfort, while also addressing the environmental impact compared to train travel. A suggested stop in Hamamatsu features the serene Hamana Lake, known for its unique freshwater and saltwater mix, and includes a dining experience at the local restaurant Shibuki. The guide also highly recommends taking the Shinkansen for a quick and comfortable ride to Kyoto, emphasizing the spacious seating and amenities. Finally, it lists the top five must-visit attractions in Kyoto, including the tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the vibrant Nishiki Market for an authentic culinary experience.Our Road Trip from Tokyo to Kyoto
Today we set out to drive from Tokyo to Kyoto. Although the trip took a total of nine hours, it was still pleasant, because my mother and I took turns driving.
The highways in Japan are very well developed and well signposted. There are also plenty of rest stops along the route where we could freshen up.
During the drive we were able to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Along the highway there were always green valleys, lakes, and mountains we passed by. This made the drive very relaxing and varied.
However, I must say, it's a bit unfortunate that driving a car is still cheaper than taking the train, especially in light of climate change. Compared to the car, the train is almost twice or even three times as expensive, which means that many people still prefer to drive, even though there’s a more eco-friendly alternative.
On the other hand, I also have to say that I appreciate the comfort of a car. We could rest whenever we wanted, stop whenever we needed a break, and always had our own things with us. That’s not necessarily the case when traveling by train.
A Stopover in Hamamatsu: Relaxing at Lake Hamana
If you're on your way from Tokyo to Kyoto, it's worth making a stop in Hamamatsu. We especially checked out the beautiful Lake Hamana there—a place of peace and relaxation.
What’s especially interesting about the lake is the fact that it has both a freshwater and a saltwater part. For this reason, eels are also bred here, which makes it very popular among fish lovers.
After a walk along the lake shore, we went to the nearby restaurant Shibuki. The restaurant even offers English menus, which made ordering easier. My mother and brother tried the famous grilled eel there, while I chose the dish with Shirasu (baby sardines).
So if you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, I can highly recommend a stop in Hamamatsu and at Lake Hamana. Here you can not only enjoy nature, but also discover local cuisine and culture.
Taking the Shinkansen to Kyoto
If you’re heading to Kyoto, you should definitely take the Shinkansen—Japan’s super-fast train. With top speeds up to 320 km/h, it gets you to Kyoto in less than three hours. Once on board, you’ll immediately notice how spacious and comfortable the seats are. With Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat, you can keep working or just relax during the journey.
The Best Sights in Kyoto
You’ve finally made it to Kyoto and you’re wondering which sights you absolutely have to visit? Here are our top 5 recommendations:
Arashiyama: The Bamboo Grove
If you’re longing for nature and tranquility, Arashiyama is the perfect place for you. Here you’ll find a bamboo grove you can stroll through.
Arashiyama Walking Tour – Bamboo, Temples & Monkeys
Discover Kyoto’s Arashiyama district on a guided tour: Stroll through the famous bamboo forest, visit Tenryu-ji temple, and hike up to the monkey park with city views. Ideal for nature and culture lovers. (Agoda)
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Nishiki Market: The famous market for food and souvenirs
If you’re looking for an authentic experience, visit Nishiki Market. Here you’ll find local delicacies and souvenirs you can bring home.
We hope our top 5 recommendations help make your trip to Kyoto unforgettable.
Kamo River 鴨川
If you’re looking for a place of relaxation and beauty in Kyoto, then you should definitely check out the Kamo River. It’s a welcome change from the temples, shrines, and the city.
Especially in spring, there are some spots along the river with beautiful Sakura trees that transform the landscape into a colorful sea of pink and white.
Even though there are many great sights in Kyoto, the Kamo River is definitely worth a visit. Whether you want to cycle along the river or just take a walk, you’ll surely be impressed by the beauty of this place.
Visiting Temples and Shrines in Kyoto
Goju-no-to Kyoto
Goju-no-to Kyoto is an impressive building in Kyoto. It is a five-story pagoda tower that’s part of the Tō-ji temple. The tower was built in 1644 and is an important part of the city’s cultural heritage. The tower is best known for its size and beauty, as well as for the many Buddhist statues kept inside. If you’re in Kyoto, you should definitely visit the Goju-no-to Kyoto to see this impressive landmark.
Fushimi Inari-Taisha: The famous shrine with thousands of Torii gates
Ready for an impressive hike? Then visit Fushimi Inari-Taisha, the famous shrine with thousands of Torii gates. The hike takes about two hours, but the breathtaking view and the unique atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience.
Fushimi Inari Taisha – Private Half-Day Tour in Kyoto
Experience the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha with its endless red Torii tunnels on a private half-day tour. A local guide will accompany you along the historic paths, tell you the stories behind the fox statues (Kitsune) and lead you to hidden corners away from the tourist crowds. Perfect for anyone who wants to discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto in an intense and personal way.
Kinkaku-ji: The Golden Pavilion
The Golden Pavilion, also known as Kinkaku-ji, is one of the most famous landmarks in Kyoto. The temple is covered in gold leaf and reflects in the calm water of the pond. It’s a beautiful and peaceful setting you shouldn’t miss.
Guided Tours at Kinkaku-ji Temple
Guided tours are also available. If you’d like to explore Kinkaku-ji Temple with a local guide, you can book them directly on-site.
Kiyomizu-dera: The Temple on Stilts
The Kiyomizu-dera Temple is another gem in Kyoto. The temple was built without nails or screws and stands on stilts. From here you have a breathtaking view over Kyoto.
Exploring Kyoto by Bicycle
If you want to explore Kyoto in a special way, then a bike ride through the city is just what you need. With a bicycle, you can quickly and easily get from one attraction to the next and experience the city’s beauty from a different perspective. We recommend renting a bike and taking one of the many bike routes through the city. This way, you can visit the famous temples and shrines, cycle through narrow alleys, and experience Japanese culture up close. A bike tour through Kyoto is an unforgettable experience and a great way to explore the city.
Kyoto and the Cherry Blossom: Hanami in the Ancient Capital
Kyoto is beautiful at any time of year, but during cherry blossom season, the city turns into a real fairytale land.
There are many places in Kyoto where you can admire the cherry blossoms. One of the best known is the Philosopher’s Path, where you can walk under blooming cherry trees and enjoy the beauty of nature. The path is named after philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who often walked here to think and meditate.
Discover Kyoto with a Local – Custom Private Tour
Experience Kyoto like a local: This private tour is individually tailored to your interests—whether famous temples, hidden alleys, or culinary highlights. Your guide will plan the route with you so you can explore the city just the way you like. Perfect for anyone who wants to experience Kyoto authentically and flexibly.
Kyoto Highlights – Private Day Tour
Kyoto Highlights – Private Day Tour: Explore the most famous places in Kyoto in one day with a private guide—from the Golden Pavilion to the Arashiyama bamboo forest to Fushimi Inari and the Gion district. Perfect for getting to know the city in a compact and stress-free way.
*Affiliate link: If you book an activity through my widget or my link at viator.com, I receive a small commission. There are no additional costs for you and you support my blog. I’m very grateful and wish you lots of fun traveling (^_^)
*Affiliate link: If you book an activity through my widget or my link at viator.com, I receive a small commission. There are no additional costs for you and you support my blog. I’m very grateful and wish you lots of fun traveling (^_^)
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