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5-Day December Kyoto Itinerary: 22 Awesome Things to Do
Kyoto perfectly blends old-world charm with modern vibes. Picture strolling through a serene Zen garden right next to towering skyscrapers—surreal, right?
The mountains seem to hug the city, making it cosy in winter.
After three and half amazing week in Japan, I can say Kyoto stole my heart. I’ll never forget the sight of Kodaiji, framed by Autumn leaves even in December!
With iconic temples like Kiyomizu-dera, Tenryu-ji, and Kinkaku-ji, plus day trips to Fushimi Inari Taisha and Arashiyama Bamboo Groves, deciding what to see first can be tough.
Don’t worry—our 5-day Kyoto itinerary for December has got you covered.
The guide includes top things to do, tips for avoiding crowds at Gion and Higashiyama, and recommendations for local food spots like Kichi Kichi Omurice.
With this, you can easily explore Kyoto by buses and trains, so that your trip doesn’t go out of budget. Plus you do it at your pace as vacationer.
Day 1 : Gion District and Higashiyama.
D1.1 Go to Yasaka Pagoda
You’ve probably seen Yasaka Pagoda in tons of photos—it’s the postcard-perfect symbol of Kyoto!
But You really have to see it in person to believe it. For photographers and history lovers, Yasaka Pagoda is an essential stop, no matter when you visit.
Wandering the cobblestone lanes and wooden houses feels like a real-life time machine. And that towering 5-storey pagoda built in 1440s? Looks way better in person than any Insta pic.
Get there around 8 AM to really soak in the quiet, peaceful atmosphere before it gets crowded.
Those staying in luxurious ryokans in Kyoto usually select the lanes around the pagoda. Both travellers and tour buses reach Yasaka Pagoda by 9:30.
Dedicate about 30-45 minutes to exploring and snapping photos. At one point, I could almost hear the clip-clop of horse hooves echoing through the lanes like in Edo period.
D1.2 Kyoto’s most colourful temple Yasaka Koshindo.
While wandering around Yasaka Pagoda, we stumbled upon a hidden gem of Kyoto on a December morning—Yasaka Koshindo.
While exploring near Yasaka Pagoda, we found Yasaka Koshindo—a hidden gem. It’s free to enter, and colourful cloth balls called “Kukurizaru” hang from the shrine’s eaves, each carrying a visitor’s wish.
It’s a cheerful spot most tourists miss. Spend about 20-30 minutes here to warm up on a chilly morning!
Fun fact: In ‘And Just Like That,’ Stanford Blatch sends a photo of himself dressed as a monk here
D1.3 Walk Down Ninenzaka Street
When you walk up from Yasaka Koshindo Temple towards Kiyomizudera Temple, you’ll hit Ninenzaka Street—one of the most charming streets in old Kyoto. It’s full of cute shops and restored traditional buildings.
Even the shopfronts have pretty Wagasa (traditional paper umbrellas) displayed. Arrive early and catch the street while it’s still waking up—totally peaceful.
In December, with a bit of fog in the air, Ninenzaka feels almost magical.
Must do things at Ninenzaka street are :
Stop by the Ghibli shop, grab a unique souvenir, or get your portrait sketches. You can easily spend 45 minutes just walking here.
From traditional Japanese hair accessories Kanazashi to Tsumami Zaïku Earrings, you find it all here at Ninenzaka street.
D1.4 Have Brunch at the Coolest Starbucks in the World
This Starbucks at Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya sual starbucks—it’s inside a 100-year-old house! Looks like a regular shop from the outside, but step in and boom—traditional vibes meet frappes.
Head upstairs (which is the second floor in Japan) and you’ll find a proper tatami setup with low tables and comfy cushions.
I bet there’s no other Starbucks where you can sip your coffee in such a traditional setting!
So surely spending a hour sipping good coffee at Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya is one of the must things to do in Kyoto, especially on a cold winter morning.
I recommend you buy their Cappuccino or anything with Matcha, like cakes or pastries.
Prices are typical to Japanese Starbucks, so around 400-600 yen. It’s a cosy spot to rest and enjoy a blend of old and new.
If you’re vegetarian, definitely try their Mexican Avocado Wrap—it’s a rare veggie find in Japan!
D1.5 Take a walk on Ishin No Michi
When you’re wandering around Ninenzaka Street, don’t miss Ishin No Michi perpendicular to Ninenzaka.
It’s a lovely street that feels totally different from the older lanes nearby. One end leads you into the city’s buzz, while the other gently guides you towards the mountains.
I’d say it’s one of those streets that are perfect for a quiet stroll—especially in winter when the air is crisp, and you might spot a few colourful leaves clinging to the trees.
The street’s vibe is a mix of calm and history, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a beautiful sunset! It’s one of those hidden spots that’s just nice to explore without a fixed plan.
D1.6 Enjoy Kodaiji Temple with Autumn Foliage
Kodaiji Temple is truly a highlight of our trip and our absolute favourite spots in Kyoto. And it’s not just the temple itself that’s captivating—the entrance alone is something else!
Picture a stone stairway lined with autumn foliage that feels straight out of a painting.
Once you make it to the top, you’ll be greeted by two adorable miniature stone statues of Japan’s historical lovebirds—Hideyoshi and Nene.
After Hideyoshi passed away, Nene became a nun and built this beautiful temple in his honour. There’s even a local belief that if couples touch these statues together, they’ll be blessed with a long-lasting marriage.
But here’s a twist—after hearing their love story, I was all warm and fuzzy inside until I found out that Hideyoshi was buried alongside his son from his concubine. Yeah, kinda takes the romantic edge off, right?
Architecture-wise, it’s similar to other Buddhist temples, but the Zen gardens pf Kodaiji are pure magic.
Winding pathways lead you through a garden filled with perfectly placed rocks and gravel, surrounded by vibrant seasonal plants.
There’s even a small wooden bridge over a peaceful waterbody that adds a dreamy vibe to the entire setting.
And when you reach the very top, you’ll come across a beautiful hut with a tea house—trust me, the colour saffron never looked more stunning than it does here.
And here’s a little secret: If you take a small detour on your way back, you’ll find a hidden bamboo grove dotted with gorgeous foliage along the pathway for 200m.
Hardly anyone knows about it, so you get to enjoy it without the crowds!
Surely paying 600 yen to enter Kodaiji Temple, is absolutely rewarding.
This place should definitely be on your Kyoto 5 Days itinerary, especially if you’re visiting in December when the fall colours are at their peak.
D1.7 Enjoy the Garden of Entoku-in
Everyone raves about doing a tea ceremony in Kyoto, so we thought—why not try one at Entoku-in?
It’s a small sub-temple of Kodaiji and definitely worth the 500 yen entrance fee. Plus extra fees for tea ceremony.
The main hall has stunning 1500s-style artwork, and the garden is beautifully manicured.
But the tea ceremony? Honestly, it was a bit meh. Just a basic cup of tea with a view. No Geishas, no traditional performances—nothing special. If you’re looking for an authentic tea experience, there are better spots in Kyoto.
But if you just want a casual stroll through beautiful gardens and some unique art, Entoku-in is still a solid choice.
You can Spend around 30-40 minutes sitting in the podium at courtyard watching the painting like garden full of orange leaves and boulder.
D1.8 Go on Street Food at Matsubara Dori
If you love street food as much as I do, Matsubara Dori is your go-to spot in Kyoto!
Gion District, which feels almost serene in the morning, turns into a buzzing street food paradise by evening.
Imagine this—fried fish, steamed buns, and sweet potatoes calling out your name as you walk by. Who could resist that?
Out of all the places in Japan, Kyoto felt like a haven for cheap and delicious food. It has a vibe similar to the street food scene in Varanasi ( It is where you get the best street food in India)
If you’re craving something crunchy, try the sweet potato fryums. They’re my absolute favourite! And for dessert?
You can’t leave without tasting the Kyo-Baum—a layered cake that’s a local specialty. Prices range from 200 to 600 yen, making it perfect for budget travellers.
There are also loads of stalls selling things like Mitarashi Dango (sweet rice dumplings) and Tora Fu Manjyu (steamed buns).
But my top pick? Definitely Waguri Mont Blanc—chestnut desserts that melt in your mouth. Plan to spend an hour or so here, hopping from one food cart to another.
Best Places for Street Food in Gion and Higashiyama Kyoto
- Kyo-Baum Kiyomizu: Sweet desserts Kyo Baum Near Kiyomizu Dera Temple,
- Tora Fu Manjyu: For Steamed buns Located near Ninenzaka stairways.
- Waguri Mont Blanc Cake Shop: For all the chestnut dessert lovers.
- Kyoto Pickles – Tsukemono: Traditional Japanese pickled cucumbers
- Street carts : Satsuma Age (Fried minced fish) most common street food.
- Small cafes : Mitarashi dango
D1.9 Watch the lights of Yasaka Shrine
Before you end your day with some yummy food, swing by Yasaka Shrine. It’s free to enter and one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Kyoto, especially in December.
The best part is, hundreds of softly glowing lanterns that make the entire place feel magical. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the peaceful vibe here.
Just find a quiet corner, sit down, and soak in the view.
Picture this: a chilly December night, glowing lanterns everywhere—it’s like stepping into a Japanese fairytale. Even if temples aren’t your thing, you’ll love the vibe here.
I ended up sitting there for almost an hour, just enjoying the calm. Totally worth it!
D1.10 Have a Vegan Meal at Zirael Restaurant
If you’re vegetarian or vegan in Japan, finding good food can be a pain—except in Kyoto! On our first day, we found Zirael Vegan Restaurant in Gion District, and it was a game-changer.
The place is run by the sweetest Russian-Japanese couple, Anna and her husband. It’s small and cosy, with just enough room for eight people, so you feel right at home.
We tried the Zirael Plate, made with fresh local veggies and Japanese rice. Even my meat-loving husband was impressed!
For dessert, we had an orange-based treat that was the perfect mix of sweet and tangy. Prices are pretty reasonable too—around 1,000 yen per plate.
It was such a warm experience that we ended up chatting with the couple for nearly an hour – Like how Anna explored Tokyo as a traveller, how they both met and why they left the Tokyo for the love of Kyoto.
Day 2 : Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari Shrine & Down Town
D2.1 Nijo Castle
Kick off Day 2 of your Kyoto trip at Nijo Castle. Built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period.
It’s not your typical castle with towering turrets like Neuschwanstein castle of Germany. And it is much different from the one in Osaka
Instead, it’s more like a beautiful palace complex. What blew my mind were the “nightingale floors” in Ninomaru Palace—they actually squeak when you walk on them, designed to alert the shogun if anyone was sneaking around!
I felt like a ninja just trying to make it across without a sound.
Fun fact: The opening scenes of the movie Inception were inspired by this very castle.
You’ll need about 2-3 hours to check out the intricate rooms and gardens. The peaceful tea garden at the back—perfect for a quiet break.
Entry fee is 1030 yen, and don’t forget to get a separate ticket if you want to see the Honmaru Palace ( which was closed for restoration when I visited Kyoto in December 2022)
D2.2 Fushimi Inari Shrine
From Nijo Castle, head to Kyoto Station and catch a train to Fushimi Inari Shrine – full of Tori gates and Fox statues.
Fushimi Inari’s Torii gates are all over social media, definitely on every Kyoto visitor’s bucket list ! But be warned—it’s like trying to get the perfect selfie in a packed concert.
And here’s a little secret: if you visit in December post lunch or early morning, the crowds are much smaller than during cherry blossom season.
It got tips on how to skip the crowds, a guide to hiking up the mountains and other places to visit nearby like Sake brewery and 1000 buddha statue temple.
Well, we hiked Fushimi Inari halfway and came back to Kyoto. You can definitely spend a whole day there if you are into some semi-difficult hiking.
D2.3 Explore Kyoto Station Area at evening
Call me weird, but I actually loved hanging out at Kyoto Station after dark! From sushi bars to a huge aquarium, and even a cool Prada showroom, there’s so much to see.
For foodies, the ramen at Kyoto Ramen Koji, right across the station, is a must-try and Ashrith loved Chicken Ramen in Salt Broth.
If you’re into gadgets, Yodobashi Camera is a tech lover’s paradise. I spent way too long looking at colourful rice cookers and random tech stuff I didn’t even need!
The Nidec Kyoto Tower behind JR Station—it’s all lit up and makes for a great photo op at night.
Oh, and if you’re visiting in December, keep an eye out for winter illuminations near Shoseien Garden. It’s perfect for a quick evening stroll before heading back to your hotel.
Just don’t miss the last bus at 10:30 PM – Kyoto Public Transport is safe at nights like any other city in Japan.
But public transportation stops by 10.30. Then expensive taxis or walking 5km is your only way to get back to your hotel room in Kyoto.
Want more night-time fun? Consider joining a night walk tour to see Kyoto’s hidden gems!
Day 3 : Kiyomizu-dera temple and Downtown Kyoto.
D3.1 Experience a Jin-riksha Ride
After two days of a lot walking around and exploring Kyoto’s nightlife, let’s take it easy and get back to historical Kyoto.
Start by hopping on a hand-pulled rickshaw (Jin-Riksha) near Kiyomizu Dera Temple.
Our rickshaw driver was super friendly and even shared some local legends and stories that we would’ve never known otherwise!
You can pick how long the ride is and they’ll show you around based on your choice.
I’ll admit, I felt a bit silly at first, but it turned out to be one of the most unique experiences of the trip.
Tip: If you’re wearing a kimono, keep those sandals on tight—they’re trickier to walk in than they look!
D3.2 Take a short hike in Kiyomizu-dera temple.
If you’ve ever Googled “Kyoto,” you’ve probably seen a picture of Kiyomizu-dera Temple perched on a green hillside. Seeing this UNESCO World Heritage structure is truly one of the the must and famous things to do in Kyoto.
Entrance fees is 400 yen, and it’s worth every bit!
It’s a huge complex with the main hall—an incredible 1200-year-old wooden structure that feels like it’s floating in mid-air.
The hike up is super easy and gives you stunning views of Kyoto. I spent ages just taking it all in. One of my favourite spots was a bright orange pagoda hidden further up the trail!
And if you’re up for a laugh, check out the Hand Water Basin (Chozuya).
I totally messed up the purification ritual and ended up just watching locals do it instead!
You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring, so plan to arrive early if you want fewer crowds.
D3.3 Walk to Downtown Nishi Market
After exploring the historic side of Kyoto, it’s time for something new! Head to Nishiki Market—where tourists and locals all hang out together.
Now, it’s not just a place to shop—it’s more like a treasure hunt with loads of food stalls, quirky shops, and souvenirs you won’t find elsewhere.
If you love snacking as much as I do, you’ll be in food heaven! And guess what? It’s a covered arcade, so it’s perfect even on a rainy day or cold mornings fo winter.
I’ll be honest: Nishiki Market can be a bit of a madhouse.
I’ve gotten lost there, bought a bunch of random things I didn’t need, and ended up trying the best Fried Tofu and Ashrith devoured lots of Takoyaki.
Just before lunchtime is the best time to visit Nishiki Market with fewer crowds. Plus, you can easily turn those delicious snacks into an early lunch!
So, grab a treat, wander around, and enjoy the Nishiki Market vibe. It’s a little crazy, but that’s what makes it awesome!
D3.4 Walk by the Kamo River
Walking by the Kamo River was one of the most peaceful moments of my time in Kyoto.
I thought it would be like the vibrant Ganga in Varanasi or have a historical vibe like the Salzach River in Salzburg.
But nope! The river is super clean (typical to Japan), but there’s not much going on. It’s not developed as a fancy riverfront, and definitely not as romantic as some bloggers make it out to be – Still it is nice to just sit by.
It’s a nice walk if you want some quiet time. Maybe pack a snack and sit by the riverbank to just watch people go by—it’s peaceful, but don’t expect vibrance!
D3.5 Early dinner at the world-famous Kichi Kichi Omu Rice.
If you’re up for a fun dining experience, Kichi Kichi Omurice in Kyoto should be on your list! Chef Motokichi Yukimura isn’t just cooking; he’s putting on a show.
The chef’s a total entertainer, flipping omelettes like a boss and cracking jokes while he’s at it. Kichi Kichi must be part of your Kyoto 5-day itinerary for this.
Bonus? He’s happy to whip up veggie and vegan versions too. Definitely lives up to the hype! My Veg Omu rice and Ashrith’s chicken Omu rice both were delicious.
How to make a reservation at kichi kichi omurice?
They switch between online and same-day bookings. Follow Chef Motokichi on Instagram for updates—same-day spots open at 8 AM for a 5:30 PM seating!
In December 2022, we waited 1.5 hours just to snag a table at 5:30 PM! If you’re keen on sitting right in front of the chef’s stove, a prior reservation is a must.
D3.6 Take a stroll through Pontocho Alley
After enjoying a hearty serving of Omu rice, head over to the historic 400-year-old Pontocho Alley.
It’s a narrow, lantern-lit street that’s packed with traditional restaurants, bars, and tea houses—definitely different from the Gion district.
Once known as the Geisha district during the Edo period, you might not spot any Geishas in winter, but the alley’s lanterns, bamboo screens, and wooden slats make it just as magical.
Pontocho is easily one of the most romantic alleys in Japan!
It runs from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori, right beside the Kamogawa River. You’ll find everything here, from budget-friendly yakitori spots to modern Kyoto cuisine, and even exclusive places that require some serious connections (and a fat wallet)
So walking here is the best thing we did on Kyoto December evening and went ahead to grab some cheap meals.
D3.7 Check out Bar Scenes at Kiyamachi Dori
From Pontocho, head over to Kiyamachi Dori—one of the lively places to visit in Kyoto during December.
This vibrant street, free from vehicles, is packed with cosy bars, izakayas – Perfect choice for bar-hopping in winter.
Club Metro and Nokishita711—are the most popular places of Kiyamachi Dori but a bit pricey.
We checked out Amore Kiyamachi, an Italian place serving Japanese ramen and hot sake. The mix of locals and expats created a cool vibe without breaking the bank
Just keep in mind, hookah rules here aren’t like those in the Middle East.
Day 3 : Arashiyama Day Trip
Arashiyama, a small town 10 km from Kyoto, is often synonymous with its famous Bamboo Forest.
I get it—it’s one of the top reasons people visit Kyoto. It’s pretty, and it’s super easy to reach by bus or tram.
So, I thought it’d be overcrowded as it is the famous tourist spots in Kyoto and just another tourist trap. But, wow—Arashiyama turned out to be so much more than that!
Beyond the bamboo groves, it surprised me with beautiful hiking trails, charming machiya streets, unique temples, and even some delicious temple meals.
I’m so glad I didn’t skip it—otherwise, I would’ve missed the stunning 5 km hiking trail and the peaceful Katsura River route that takes you through some of Japan’s most scenic and rural areas.
Want to know more? Check out my detailed post where I show you how to explore Arashiyama beyond the Bamboo Forest on a day trip.
Day 5 : Trip to Nara
How would you feel about seeing deer wandering beside the streets, right in front of Japanese temples, as freely as humans? Sounds crazy but also pretty fascinating, right?
That’s Nara for you—where deer roam free in a town that was once Japan’s capital back in the 8th century AD.
The good news is that Nara is just an hour away from Kyoto by train. So, if you’re staying in Kyoto for five days or more, Nara makes for one of the best day trips you can take!
Beyond feeding deer and visiting temples, Nara has so much more to show you!
I’ve put together a detailed guide on things to do in Nara in one day.It includes tips on getting there from Kyoto, must-visit spots, and where to head next.
Instead of heading back to Kyoto, we continued our journey to Osaka straight from Nara. It’s a great option if you want to make the most of your trip and explore multiple cities!
Tips to follow our 5 Day Kyoto December Itinerary
Start Early: No need to wake up at 5 AM, but aim to hit the streets by 8 AM. It’s essential for getting the most out of this 5-day Kyoto itinerary and avoiding the mid-day rush.
Temple Pass: The Kyoto Temple Pass might seem like a good way to save money, but unless you’re planning to visit almost every temple in Kyoto, it’s not worth it. Visiting too many temples can get repetitive and tiring, especially on a short trip.
Walking and Public Transport: The itinerary involves a lot of walking and easy hikes. Use the Kyoto Subway and Bus Pass for unlimited rides within the city.
Dress for the Weather: No dress code for temples, but dress warmly for winter in Kyoto. Wear good shoes and carry a transparent umbrella—it’s a must-have for sudden showers.
Famous Kyoto Tourist Spots you must Skip in December
Philosopher’s Path: Skip in December as the cherry blossoms are absent – It was the least of all spots in Kyoto in December
Kinkaku-ji: Crowded – We went near the entrance, got shocked with crowd in waiting line. Kodaiji is much more peaceful
Animal Cafes: Often overpriced and can feel unethical, one of the tourist traps in Kyoto
Gion Corner: Limited performances during winter; feels touristy and lacks authenticity.
Toji Temple Flea Market: Fewer vendors and less lively during cold months.
FAQ
Is Kyoto a walkable city?
Kyoto is a walkable city with well-paved sidewalks and beautiful cityscapes. Although it’s smaller than Tokyo, many tourist attractions are 3 km apart, and some are on the outskirts. You can explore Kyoto on foot within neighbourhoods and take a bus to reach other historical sites further away.
How long should I spend in Kyoto
You need at least 3-5 days! You’ll need a few days to see the famous temples, explore downtown, and squeeze in some cool day trips like Nara.
How much money do I need for 5 days in Kyoto?
As a budget traveller, expect to spend around 7,000 yen per day/person in Kyoto – It covers meals from Kombini and street food, transportation, accommodation in business hotels, and a few sightseeing entrance fees.
What would you recommend for one day in Kyoto Japan
If you have just one day in Kyoto, explore Gion and Higashiyama. Start with Yasaka Pagoda and Yasaka Koshindo, then head to Ninenzaka Street, grab coffee at Starbucks Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya, stroll Ishin No Michi Street, and visit Kodaiji Temple. End with street food at Matsubara Dori.
What airport do you fly into for Kyoto?
The nearest airport is Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka. From there, it’s about 1.5 hours to Kyoto by train or bus.
Is Kyoto closer to Tokyo or Osaka?
Kyoto is much closer to Osaka! It’s just a 15-minute Shinkansen ride away, while Tokyo is over 2 hours by bullet train.
Does Kyoto have public transport?
Absolutely! Kyoto has a solid network of buses and trains. Buses run from 6 AM to 11 PM, and trains operate from 5:30 AM to 11 PM. There’s even a tram that goes to the outskirts of Kyoto
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