Welcome to Our Kyoto Journey!
We’re a family of four—mom, dad, and two kids—based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, ready to explore the cultural heart of Japan in Kyoto. From the vibrant Gion Matsuri to serene temples and thrilling hikes, our 15-day itinerary blends relaxation, adventure, and family fun. Join us as we share our planned journey for July 17–31, 2025!
Accommodation: [Hotel/Airbnb Name, e.g., Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Shinmachi Bettei], [Address, e.g., 123 Shinmachi, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto]
Day 1: July 17, 2025 – Arrival and Gion Matsuri Evening
Rest and Festival Kickoff
Land at Kansai International Airport and take the JR Haruka train to Kyoto (~75 min). Check into our accommodation and relax after the journey from Chiang Mai.
Evening: Stroll to Yasaka Shrine to catch the Gion Matsuri’s yoiyama (float displays, ~1 hour). Enjoy the festive lights and atmosphere.
Tip: Perfect light start after travel. Bring water for the warm evening.
Day 2: July 18, 2025 – Gion Matsuri Parade
Cultural Immersion
Morning: Watch the Gion Matsuri Yamaboko Junko parade (9:00 AM–12:00 PM, Shijo Street). Marvel at massive floats and enjoy street food.
Afternoon: Explore Gion’s Hanami-koji Street for teahouses and shops.
Tip: Arrive by 8:00 AM for parade viewing spots. Wear hats for sun protection.
Day 3: July 19, 2025 – Relaxation Day at Kinkaku-ji
Serene Temple Visit
Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion, 9:00 AM–11:00 AM, ~¥400/adult). Stroll the tranquil gardens.
Afternoon: Join a traditional tea ceremony at En Tea House (~¥3,000/person, booked in advance) for a calming experience.
Tip: Early visit to Kinkaku-ji avoids crowds. Tea ceremony is kid-friendly.
Day 4: July 20, 2025 – Kiyomizu-dera and Historic Streets
Cultural Exploration
Morning: Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple (8:00 AM–10:00 AM, ~¥400/adult) and its scenic stage.
Afternoon: Walk Sannen-zaka and Ninnen-zaka for shops and lunch (e.g., katsu or ramen).
Tip: Flat paths, great for families. Comfortable shoes recommended.
Day 5: July 21, 2025 – Adventure Day at Fushimi Inari
Thrilling Hike
Morning: Hike Fushimi Inari Taisha’s torii gate trails (8:00 AM–12:00 PM, free). Family-paced, ~1–2 hours.
Afternoon: Picnic at Fushimi Inari grounds and visit smaller shrines.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water. Short hike option for younger kids.
Day 6: July 22, 2025 – Nishiki Market and Aquarium
Family Fun
Morning: Shop for snacks and souvenirs at Nishiki Market.
Afternoon: Visit Kyoto Aquarium (10:00 AM–2:00 PM, ~¥2,400/adult, ~¥800/child).
Tip: Indoor aquarium is perfect for hot days.
Day 7: July 23, 2025 – Gion Matsuri Cultural Day
Festival and Kimono Experience
Morning: Visit Yasaka Shrine for festival exhibits and performances (9:00 AM–11:00 AM, free).
Afternoon: Try a kimono-wearing experience (~¥5,000/person, booked in advance) and stroll Gion for photos.
Tip: Kimono rental is fun for all ages.
Day 8: July 24, 2025 – Gion Matsuri Second Parade
Festival Finale
Morning: Watch the Hanagasa Junko parade (10:00 AM–12:00 PM).
Afternoon: Relax at a Kawaramachi café and shop on Shijo Street.
Tip: Early arrival for parade spots. Stay hydrated.
Day 9: July 25, 2025 – Arashiyama Exploration
Scenic Day
Morning: Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple (8:00 AM–10:00 AM, ~¥500/adult).
Afternoon: Lunch at a riverside café, see Togetsukyo Bridge. Optional Hozu River boat ride (~¥4,000/person).
Tip: Boat ride adds fun for kids.
Day 10: July 26, 2025 – Nijo Castle and Sushi Workshop
Cultural Learning
Morning: Explore Nijo Castle (9:00 AM–11:00 AM, ~¥800/adult).
Afternoon: Join a sushi-making workshop (~¥6,000/person, booked in advance).
Tip: Workshop is interactive for all ages.
Day 11: July 27, 2025 – Kurama and Kibune Day Trip
Adventure and Relaxation
Morning: Train to Kurama (~¥420/adult), hike to Kurama-dera Temple (~1 hour).
Afternoon: Riverside lunch in Kibune (~¥3,000–¥5,000/person, booked in advance).
Tip: Family-paced hike; reserve dining early.
Day 12: July 28, 2025 – Philosopher’s Path
Peaceful Stroll
Morning: Walk the Philosopher’s Path and visit Ginkaku-ji (9:00 AM–11:00 AM, ~¥500/adult).
Afternoon: Relax at a café and explore nearby shrines.
Tip: Flat path, ideal for families.
Day 13: July 29, 2025 – Monkey Park and Shopping
Fun and Souvenirs
Morning: Hike to Monkey Park Iwatayama (9:00 AM–11:00 AM, ~¥550/adult, ~¥250/child).
Afternoon: Shop at Kyoto Station’s Porta or Isetan.
Tip: Monkey feeding is a hit with kids.
Day 14: July 30, 2025 – Free Day
Flexible Fun
Morning: Revisit favorite sites or relax at hotel. Optional Kyoto Tower visit (~¥800/adult).
Evening: Stroll Pontocho Alley for dinner.
Tip: Perfect for rest or last-minute exploration.
Day 15: July 31, 2025 – Departure
Farewell Kyoto
Morning: Pack and explore near hotel (e.g., Kyoto Station).
Afternoon: Take JR Haruka train to Kansai International Airport for flight to Chiang Mai.
Tip: Keep activities light for smooth departure.