Kyoto’s eastern hills are home to some of Japan’s most beautiful temples, wooden lanes and gardens. A slow weekend lets you enjoy them without rushing.
Saturday: Higashiyama
Arrive at Kiyomizu-dera soon after it opens to enjoy the views from its wooden terrace before the crowds. Wander down the preserved lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, past the five-storey Yasaka Pagoda, then stop in a traditional tea house for matcha and sweets. In the evening, stroll through Gion, where lanterns glow in the twilight.
Sunday: the Philosopher’s Path
Follow this two-kilometre canal-side path between Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji, pausing at small cafés and shrines. At Nanzen-ji, don’t miss the red-brick aqueduct hidden in the temple grounds.
Where to stay and eat
Consider a night in a traditional ryokan with a multi-course kaiseki dinner. Booking ahead is wise in spring and autumn.
Kyoto pairs beautifully with Tokyo and Osaka, and our planners can arrange the whole route with rail passes.
