Kyoto Temples 3-Day Itinerary - Best Temples & Shrines

Call this your crowd‑aware 3 days blueprint for Kyoto temples 3 days. Sakura forecasts swing by a week—our timing cushions for early or late bloom. We rotate districts, vary tempos, and weave in food stops that keep spirits high. We’ll keep detours in pocket: a café with modern roastery flair and a calm shrine when crowds swell. You’ll start at 09:00 with kinkaku-ji (golden pavilion) and ryoan-ji rock garden in Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto. Booking: No booking required. Tip: Early morning visits avoid crowds. Midday brings at 13:00 with nijo castle and imperial palace in Nijo Castle, Kyoto. Booking: Imperial Palace requires advance booking. Tip: Afternoon is peak visiting time. Later at 17:00 with gion district for traditional atmosphere in Gion, Kyoto. Booking: No booking required. Tip: Evening is best for geisha spotting. Wear broken‑in walking shoes to avoid blisters. Carry a refillable water bottle; convenience stores will keep you topped up.

Kyoto bookings vary by venue and week. Weekend slots sell out—book 2–3 weeks ahead. Reserve marquee meals 2–4 weeks out and observation decks 3–7 days out; allow buffers for weather. Wear broken‑in walking shoes to avoid blisters. Carry a refillable water bottle; convenience stores will keep you topped up.