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When visiting Kyoto, strolling through its historic streets is a must. However, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go with limited time.
Today, we present a perfect itinerary that lets you explore Uji, Fushimi, and Arashiyama all in one day. You’ll dive into the depth of Japanese culture, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and indulge in delicious gourmet treats.
Starting from Uji, the setting of “The Tale of Genji,” moving to the iconic vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, and finally wrapping up in Arashiyama, where nature and history harmonize beautifully.
We’ve actually walked this route and verified the timeline! This dense yet manageable schedule is perfect even for Kyoto first-timers.
| Time | Spot | Duration | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00 am | JR Kyoto Station → JR Uji Station | 20 min | Direct on JR Nara Line |
| 9:10 am | Uji Bridge | 20 min | Walking |
| 9:30 am | Byodoin Temple | 1 hr | UNESCO site, visit |
| 10:30 am | Matcha Gourmet Stroll in Uji | 30 min | Cafe hopping |
| 11:10 am | JR Uji Station → JR Inari Station | 15 min | Transfer via JR Nara Line |
| 11:30 am | Fushimi Inari Taisha | 1 hr | Visit Senbon Torii |
| 12:30 am | JR Inari Station → JR Kyoto Station → JR Saga - Arashiyama Station | Approx. 1 hr | Transfer to Sagano Line at Kyoto |
| 1:30 pm | Arashiyama (Exploring & Sightseeing) | Approx. 3.5 hrs | Togetsukyo Bridge, Bamboo Grove, Tenryu - ji Temple. Lunch here |
| 5:00 pm | JR Saga - Arashiyama Station → JR Kyoto Station | 20 min | Via Sagano Line |
| Night | Dinner around Kyoto Station | Free choice | Recommended: "Hanakushi" or "Tempura and Wine Kojima" |
🕛 9:00 am
We arrived in Uji, the setting of “The Tale of Genji.” It takes about 20 minutes from Kyoto Station on the JR Nara Line.
Let’s explore the famous spots of Uji!
🕛 9:10 am
After a 10-minute walk from JR Uji Station, we reached Uji Bridge.
Uji Bridge boasts 1,300 years of history and is known as one of Japan’s three oldest bridges. It appears in the “Kokin Wakashu” and “The Tale of Genji,” making it a significant historical site. A must-visit when in Uji.
Each giboshi at the bridge ends holds a story, with a particularly valuable inscription on the western side. The view of the Uji River from the bridge is stunning, especially in the crisp morning hours.
Read more about Highlights of Uji Bridge
🕛 9:30 am
Next, the climax of Uji sightseeing — the World Heritage-listed Byodoin Temple.
The vermilion Phoenix Hall reflected on the pond is breathtaking, resembling a scene from the Pure Land paradise. At the adjacent Hoshokan Museum, you can admire National Treasures such as the temple bell and Cloud-borne Bodhisattvas.
Read more about Highlights of Byodoin Temple
🕛 10:30 am
Uji is synonymous with matcha. From traditional tea houses to trendy cafes, Uji offers a wealth of matcha sweets.
You can enjoy a wide range of treats like matcha parfaits, soft serve, dorayaki, and even matcha takoyaki and gyoza. Taking a break in a traditional tea house is also highly recommended.
Read more about Matcha Sweets in Uji
🕛 11:10 am
Next, we head toward Inari Station to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, about 15 minutes by JR Nara Line.
🕛 11:30 am
Arriving at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. It has even been ranked as the number one must-visit destination in Japan by international travelers.
The endless rows of torii gates create a magical atmosphere. As you walk through the tunnels of torii, you eventually reach serene mountain trails. If time allows, we recommend venturing to the Inner Shrine and Yotsutsuji intersection.
Read more about Highlights of Fushimi Inari Taisha
🕛 12:30 am
From here, we head straight to Arashiyama.
After transferring at Kyoto Station, it’s about an hour’s journey.
🕛 1:30 pm
We arrived at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station.
Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sightseeing areas. From the natural beauty of Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove to historic temples like Tenryu-ji and Daikaku-ji, there’s plenty to see and do, including river cruises and scenic trains.
The Bamboo Grove is particularly soothing with the sound of swaying bamboo. The mountains viewed from Togetsukyo Bridge are stunning across all seasons, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
There’s also a wide variety of food options — from traditional Kyoto cuisine to modern sweets — perfect for strolling and eating. If you plan to enjoy activities, allow at least half a day here.
Read more about Highlights of Arashiyama
Read more about Gourmet in Arashiyama
🕛 5:00 pm
We’re back at Kyoto Station.
Check into your hotel and take a short break before heading out for the evening!
🕛 6:00 pm
Now that you’re hungry, here are two recommended izakayas (Japanese pubs) near Kyoto Station.
First up: Kushikatsu Hanakushi.
There are counter seats as well as table seating.
Start off with a refreshing beer!
The specialty is kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) — crispy and freshly fried.
It’s reasonably priced, making it easy to drop by. Reservations are recommended as it’s a popular spot.
| Name | Kushikatsu Hanakushi |
|---|---|
| Hours | 5:30 pm–12:00 pm |
| Closed | Sunday |
| Address | 726 Einocho, Shimogyo - ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture |
| WEB | Tabelog |
Second: Tempura and Wine Kojima Kyoto.
This casual yet stylish restaurant specializes in creative tempura paired with wine.
Not only is the tempura delicious, but it’s also beautifully presented.
Sea Urchin Salmon (left), Nori Ikura Canapé (right)
Excellent pairing with wine, with ikura adding a nice touch.
It’s stylish but not pretentious — a relaxed, cozy vibe.
| Name | Tempura and Wine Kojima Kyoto |
|---|---|
| Hours | 11:30 am–10:00 pm |
| Closed | Irregular holidays |
| Address | 234 Daikokucho, Shimogyo - ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture |
| Official Site | https://tempurakojima.owst.jp/ |
| @tenpura.kojima.kyoto |
The tranquility and history of Uji, the fantastical vermilion world of Fushimi, and the majestic nature of Arashiyama — walking through each area brought a rich and fulfilling journey.
The itinerary is well-balanced with easy transfers, sightseeing highlights, and gourmet stops. It’s been thoroughly verified, making it reliable even for first-time visitors.
This dense itinerary packs the charm of Kyoto from morning to night — perfect for both beginners and seasoned visitors.
Enjoy your one-day Kyoto journey packed with culture, scenery, and gourmet delights!
