5 Days in Kyoto, Japan

We spent five days in Kyoto, one of the most historic and spiritually rich cities in Japan. While it’s no secret that Kyoto can be crowded—especially at major landmarks—it’s also filled with peaceful pockets, local insights, and deeply moving experiences that stayed with us long after we left.

Here’s a recap of our favorite places to visit in Kyoto, with honest thoughts, travel tips, and one spiritual moment we’ll never forget.

Fushimi Inari Taisha: The Iconic Torii Gates

If you're going to Kyoto, you've likely seen photos of the endless orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari. Yes, it’s busy—but absolutely worth it.

We didn’t get up early to beat the crowds, and honestly, we didn’t need to. As you hike further up the trail, the crowds thin out naturally. The journey to the top becomes peaceful and quiet, giving you a moment of reflection surrounded by sacred space... but covered in sweat! 

Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)

Also known as the Golden Temple, Kinkaku-ji is covered in gold leaf and sits peacefully on the edge of a pond. It's just as striking in real life as it is in photos.

We went on a rainy day, which made the experience even better—humid, misty, and calm. Before exiting the temple grounds, we stopped at the small tea house inside the temple grounds for a traditional matcha and sweet. It was the perfect moment to slow down and take in the scene.

Shinkyogoku Shopping District + Kamo River

For something more lively, spend a few hours in the Shinkyogoku Shopping District. It's packed with thrift stores, street food stalls, and souvenir shops!

One of our favorite meals came from a small teppanyaki stall, where we ate sizzling hot food right at the counter. Afterward, we wandered along the Kamo River, watching locals relax, couples walking, and artists sketching in their notebooks.

It’s a perfect reminder that Kyoto isn’t just temples—it’s a living city, too.

Hirano Jinja: A Shrine Without the Crowds

Kyoto has no shortage of famous temples and shrines, but we found one of our most memorable moments in a lesser-known spot: Hirano Jinja.

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood, this Shinto shrine had no tour groups, no lines, and no crowds—just us, a few locals, and the sound of wind through the trees. It’s a side of Kyoto that many miss, and one we’ll never forget.

Sometimes, the most spiritual experiences are the quietest ones.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A Crowded Highlight

Kiyomizu-dera Temple was easily the most crowded place we visited in Kyoto—but it was also one of the most beautiful and meaningful.

You reach the temple via a 10-minute uphill walk lined with shops selling pottery, traditional sweets, handmade crafts, and local clothing. It’s vibrant and full of energy.

Once inside, there are 14 different sites to visit. Our favorites were:

• The three-story pagoda, one of the tallest in Japan

• The main gate, which welcomes you in with dramatic architecture and a view over the city
  Despite the crowds, this temple had something special—a sense of weight and wisdom in the air.

Inside the temple grounds, we watched a short documentary about the history and philosophy of Kiyomizu-dera. One quote, in particular, stayed with us:

"Buddha nature is equal to life itself. Life resides in everything. All forms of life are precious, irreplaceable, equal, and dignified."
 

To hear this while standing inside a centuries-old temple, after days of absorbing Japanese culture and spirituality, gave it even more weight.

It reminded us that travel isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about seeing differently. And that every life we encounter along the way, including our own, is worthy of reverence.

Kyoto gave us everything we were hoping for—and more.
Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, it’s full of tourists. But beyond the crowds, you’ll find quiet gardens, warm tea, spiritual truths, and welcoming people.

You just have to slow down enough to see it.

We hope this helps you plan your own trip to Kyoto, and encourages you to seek out not just the highlights, but the in-between moments too. Follow along as we share more of our journey through Japan.

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