Japan
Kyoto's most picturesque streets and the Golden Pavilion
Explore the Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka neighborhoods, the iconic Hokan-ji, and the beautiful Kinkaku-ji.
Start your day at Hokan-ji
Begin your Kyoto adventure with a visit to Hokan-ji, also known as Yasaka Pagoda. This 5-story pagoda is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Nestled in the charming streets of Sannenzaka, its timeless beauty is best appreciated early in the morning. Arrive before sunrise to enjoy a peaceful moment and snap photos without the crowds. Trust us, the early wake-up call is totally worth it!
Explore Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka
After visiting Hokan-ji, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. These charming lanes are lined with traditional wooden houses, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Early in the morning, the streets are wonderfully quiet, with lanterns lit. Perfect for some instagram-worthy pictures! You can explore quaint shops and teahouses, and there’s even a Starbucks in a traditional Japanese house if you want to get your daily dose of caffeine. Just keep in mind it only opens at 8 AM.
Your next destination is an hour away by public transportation.
Visit Kinkaku-ji
Next, head to Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto’s famous Golden Pavilion. This stunning temple, covered in real gold leaf, is one of the most photographed sites in Japan. We were completely mesmerized by the shimmering golden temple in the middle of a pond! It’s especially beautiful when the sun shines because it makes the gold sparkle. We’ll warn you in advance: this place gets crowded! However, we still found some places with less people so that we could take in its beauty, and take some pictures ;-)
Your dinner spot is 30 minutes away by public transportation.
Dinner at Honke Owariya
End your day with a meal at Honke Owariya, one of Japan’s oldest restaurants, founded in 1465. This charming spot is housed in a traditional wooden building and offers delicious Kyoto soba dishes.
