Kyoto by rail and on foot

Kyoto is too big to see on foot and too beautiful to see from a bus window. The answer is a rhythm: ride the train to one district, then walk it slowly. This is the starting route in the OffBeatHoliday app, built from the city's own sample itineraries, one area a day.

Day 1 · Southern Higashiyama

The classic Kyoto day. Climb the lanes to Kiyomizu-dera, the hillside temple famous for its great wooden stage over the trees. Continue to the quieter gardens of Kodai-ji, then walk down into Gion to Yasaka Shrine, where the lanterns are at their best towards evening.

Day 2 · Arashiyama

Take the train west for a greener day. Begin at Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple with a pond garden, part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto World Heritage listing. Its north gate leads straight into the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Finish at Togetsukyo Bridge over the river, with the hills behind.

Go early if you can. The bamboo grove is calmest before the day-trip crowds arrive.

Day 3 · Northern Higashiyama

A gentle day of temples linked by one of the city's loveliest walks. Start at Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion, and its raked sand garden. Follow the Philosopher's Path, a stone walkway beside a canal lined with cherry trees, south to Nanzen-ji, with its huge gate and brick aqueduct.

Pace notes

• Rail first, then walk. Getting between districts is quick by train; walking between them is not.
• Expect slopes and steps. Temple approaches climb, so build in time and rest.
• Be a good guest. Respect residential lanes and photography restrictions, especially in Gion and inside temple grounds.

Seasons change Kyoto completely, from spring blossom to autumn colour, so check conditions and opening hours before you go. Stops and day themes follow Kyoto Travel's sample itineraries.