If you want to enjoy Kyoto travel efficiently and affordably, this plan is for you.
We’ll introduce two model itineraries using the Kyoto Subway & Randen 1-Day Ticket (¥1,300)—perfect for covering the city in a single day.
Note: Prices are as of September 27, 2025. The Kyoto Subway & Randen 1-Day Ticket is available from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.
Option 1: Zen Experience Route (Arashiyama + Ryoanji + Ninnaji)
Ideal for travelers who want to soak up Kyoto’s quiet atmosphere and explore Zen culture.
Sample Itinerary
- 9:00 Depart Kyoto Station → Subway Karasuma Line → “Karasuma Oike” → Subway Tozai Line → “Uzumasa Tenjingawa” → Randen Arashiyama Line → “Arashiyama”
- 9:50 Explore Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge & Bamboo Grove)
- 10:40 Tenryuji Temple (UNESCO site, Garden ¥500)
- Lunch around Arashiyama or Katabiranotsuji shopping street on the way to Ryoanji
- 12:50 Depart Arashiyama → Transfer at “Katabiranotsuji” → Randen Kitano Line → “Ryoanji”
- 13:30 Ryoanji Temple (Famous Zen rock garden, ¥500)
- 14:40 Walk (~15–20 min) to Ninnaji Temple
- 15:00 Ninnaji Temple (Palace buildings & gardens, ¥500)
- 16:00 Depart → “Omuro Ninnaji Station” → Randen to “Kitano-Hakubaicho”
- 16:30 Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Free entry)
- 17:30 Return to Kyoto Station via Randen + Subway (Kyoto City Bus also available)
Estimated Budget
- 1-Day Pass: ¥1,300
- Admission Fees: ¥1,500
- Meals & souvenirs
Highlights
- Perfect for those who want a calm, authentic Kyoto atmosphere
- Efficient sightseeing along the Randen line
- Great for travelers who prefer a quieter experience
Option 2: Classic Kyoto Route (Arashiyama + Nijo Castle + Imperial Palace)
Best for those who want to dive into Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and history.
Sample Itinerary
- 9:00 Depart Kyoto Station → Subway Karasuma Line → “Karasuma Oike” → Subway Tozai Line → “Uzumasa Tenjingawa” → Randen Arashiyama Line → “Arashiyama”
- 9:50 Explore Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge & Bamboo Grove)
- 10:40 Tenryuji Temple (Garden ¥500)
- 12:00 Depart Arashiyama → Transfer at “Uzumasa Tenjingawa” → Subway Tozai Line → “Nijojo-mae”
- 12:30 Nijo Castle (Entry ¥800)
- Lunch near Nijo Castle or later around the Imperial Palace area
- 15:00 Depart Nijojo-mae → Subway Tozai Line → “Karasuma Oike” → Subway Karasuma Line → “Marutamachi”
- 15:30 Kyoto Imperial Palace (Free entry, garden walk)
- 17:30 Return to Kyoto Station via Subway
Estimated Budget
- 1-Day Pass: ¥1,300
- Admission Fees: ¥1,300
- Meals & souvenirs
Highlights
- Covers Kyoto’s nature, history, and Imperial culture in one day
- Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace are easy-to-understand must-sees, especially for first-time visitors
- Ideal for travelers who want the classic Kyoto experience
Which Route Should You Choose?
- Want a peaceful, Zen-inspired Kyoto vibe? → Option 1 (Zen Temple Route)
- Want to cover the must-see classics in one day? → Option 2 (Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace Route)
With the Kyoto Subway & Randen 1-Day Ticket (¥1,300), both routes are smooth, affordable, and efficient.
Expect a total budget of around ¥5,000 for the day (including meals and souvenirs).
Use this as your guide to enjoy a hassle-free, cost-effective Kyoto adventure packed with unforgettable things to do in Japan, local culture, and plenty of photo-worthy moments!