Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary with Kids

Welcome to our Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary with Kids, your complete family plan for a weekend with kids or a short cultural trip! From walking the red torii gates of Fushimi Inari to exploring the heights of Kiyomizu Temple, this Kyoto itinerary with kids brings history, nature, and play together in one unforgettable journey. Whether you’re wondering what to do in Kyoto for 3 days or just need inspiration for your next Kyoto weekend with kids, this guide is filled with hands-on experiences, animal encounters, and magical moments to spark your child’s imagination.

Our Kyoto 3-Day Itinerary with Kids is designed with flexibility in mind, balancing sightseeing, playtime, and engaging activities for children of all ages. Whether you’re feeding monkeys at Iwatayama Monkey Park, trying your hand at traditional crafts, or enjoying a peaceful boat ride along the Hozugawa River, every day is an adventure.

If you’re looking for everything Kyoto in one convenient place, our Kyoto with Kids Hub compiles all our guides, itineraries, and kid-friendly adventures. For a full overview of the best family-friendly neighborhoods, essential transport tips, and key cultural highlights, don’t miss our comprehensive Kyoto Family Travel Guide.

Day 1: Temples, Monkeys & Bamboo Forests in Kyoto with Kids

Kyoto is a city where history comes alive, and today’s itinerary is all about exploring Kyoto’s most magical spots, from towering bamboo groves to playful monkeys and ancient temples. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and culture, with plenty of space for kids to run, climb, and explore! Families heading to multiple attractions will love the Klook Kansai Pass for discounted entry, and when paired with the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass, getting around is just as easy.

Morning: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Iwatayama Monkey Park

Main Activity: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Start the day at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of Kyoto’s most iconic sights. Walking through the towering green stalks feels like stepping into another world, and the gentle rustling of the bamboo in the wind makes it a magical experience for kids and adults alike.

Additional Stops:

• Nonomiya Shrine – A small, kid-friendly shrine hidden within the bamboo grove.
• Okochi Sanso Garden – A scenic tea garden offering matcha and sweets with a view.

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: Let them wander freely and listen to the “whispering” bamboo.
• Older Kids: Have them search for the tallest stalk of bamboo they can find!

Luca & Nico’s Challenge:

• Count how many different shades of green you see in the bamboo grove!

Late Morning: Monkey Adventures at Iwatayama Monkey Park

Main Activity: Iwatayama Monkey Park

A short hike up Iwatayama Mountain (about 20–30 minutes) leads to a monkey paradise! Here, kids can feed wild Japanese macaques safely from inside a designated viewing hut. The park also offers stunning panoramic views of Kyoto.

Additional Stops:

• Kameyama Park – A peaceful riverside area, perfect for a short break after the monkey park.
• Togetsukyo Bridge – A famous landmark with picturesque mountain scenery.

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: Watching monkeys roam freely is exciting, but they may need help on the uphill trail.
• Older Kids: Let them take charge of feeding the monkeys and spotting the baby ones!

Luca & Nico’s Challenge:

• Can you spot the monkey with the pinkest face? (Hint: The older ones often have brighter faces!)

Afternoon: Kyoto’s Most Famous Golden Temple

Lunch Spot: Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style tofu meal in the Arashiyama district. The gentle flavors are great for kids, and the peaceful setting is perfect for a mid-day break.

Main Activity: Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion)

After lunch, visit Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto’s shimmering golden temple, surrounded by stunning gardens and a tranquil pond. Kids will love seeing the sunlight reflect off the gold leaf exterior, and the walking paths offer a peaceful nature break.

Additional Stops:

• Ryoan-ji Temple – Famous for its mysterious Zen rock garden.
• Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – A great stop for families who want to pray for good luck in school!

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: Have them count the koi fish swimming in the temple’s pond.
• Older Kids: Challenge them to find the smallest rock hidden in the garden!

Luca & Nico’s Challenge:

• Find the hidden phoenix statue on the roof of Kinkaku-ji! (Hint: Look closely at the very top of the temple.)

Evening: Kyoto’s Riverfront & Relaxing Dinner

Dinner Spot: Pontocho Alley

Dine in one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric streets, Pontocho Alley, where traditional wooden buildings line the narrow paths. Some restaurants offer riverside dining along the Kamo River, making it a perfect, scenic way to end the day.

Main Activity: Strolling Along the Kamo River

After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Kamo River. In the evening, the riverbanks come alive with street musicians, families enjoying the fresh air, and kids playing along the stone paths.

Additional Stops:

• Shijo Bridge – A great place to see Kyoto lit up at night.
• Nishiki Market (if time allows; most shops close around 6 PM) – A fun place for Kyoto-style street snacks and souvenirs.

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: Let them play on the large stepping stones in the river!
• Older Kids: Have them watch for herons standing in the shallow waters.

Downtime Suggestions:

• If the kids are tired, stop at a Japanese sweets café for matcha ice cream or warabi mochi before heading back to the hotel.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Feeling adventurous? Take a short evening boat ride along the Kamo River for a unique Kyoto night experience.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Pontocho Alley looks small, but there are secret side alleys leading to hidden restaurants! If you’re feeling adventurous, let the kids pick a mystery turn and see where it leads.

As you plan your daily adventures, remember to also consider your accommodation. If you haven’t booked your Kyoto hotel yet, our Kyoto Hotel Guide highlights the top family-friendly stays conveniently located near temples, train museums, and peaceful neighborhoods perfect for kids. For even more ideas to fill your itinerary, explore our Best Things to Do in Kyoto with Kids, covering everything from bamboo forests to cultural crafts and riverside picnics.

Day 2: Hands-On Culture & Hidden Temples in Kyoto with Kids

Today is all about immersing your family in Kyoto’s traditions through hands-on activities, historic temples, and hidden gems. From dressing up as samurai or geisha to exploring Kyoto’s quieter temple districts, this day offers an engaging mix of creativity, history, and adventure!

Morning: Kimono & Samurai Dress-Up Experience

Main Activity: Samurai & Kimono Dress-Up Experience

Kick off the day by stepping back in time! At Samurai & Ninja Museum Kyoto, kids can try on full samurai armor, learn how to swing a wooden katana, and even practice ninja star throwing. For those who prefer elegance, families can rent beautiful kimonos and explore Kyoto’s historic streets in style.

Additional Stops:

• Kodaiji Temple – A peaceful temple nearby, perfect for photos in traditional outfits.
• Yasaka Pagoda – One of Kyoto’s most scenic spots for family photos.

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: Samurai dress-up is a great way to make history fun and engaging.
• Older Kids: They can join a samurai sword lesson or try throwing shuriken (ninja stars)!

Luca & Nico’s Challenge:

• Can you do a samurai pose while keeping a serious face?

Afternoon: Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Temples

Lunch Spot: Nishiki Market

Head to Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s famous “Kitchen Alley,” to enjoy a variety of local treats, including:

• Takoyaki (Octopus Balls) – A fun street food snack.
• Soy-Glazed Yatsuhashi – Kyoto’s famous cinnamon-flavored sweet.
• Matcha Ice Cream – A must-try for green tea lovers!

Main Activity: Tofukuji Temple & Fushimi Inari Shrine

After lunch, take a peaceful stroll through Tofukuji Temple, one of Kyoto’s best-kept secrets. Unlike the busier temples, this one features stunning Zen gardens and wooden bridges over maple-filled valleys, a great spot for kids to explore.

Then, head to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates leading up the mountain. Kids will love walking through the tunnel-like paths, pretending they’re on a secret mission!

Additional Stops:

• Sennyu-ji Temple – A quiet alternative if Fushimi Inari is too crowded.
• Fushimi District – Stop by the area’s cute fox-themed souvenir shops!

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: The shorter walking trails at Fushimi Inari are perfect for little legs.
• Older Kids: Challenge them to find the hidden fox statues along the paths.

Luca & Nico’s Challenge:

• How many torii gates can you walk through before losing count?

Evening: Gion & the Magic of Kyoto at Night

Dinner Spot: Kyoto-Style Kaiseki or Okonomiyaki

For dinner, try a Kyoto-style Kaiseki meal (a multi-course Japanese feast) or okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes) at a kid-friendly teppanyaki restaurant.

Main Activity: Gion & Hanamikoji Street

After dinner, take a gentle evening stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. The beautifully lit streets and traditional wooden buildings create a magical atmosphere, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a real geisha on her way to an evening engagement! Please be considerate of the rules.

Additional Stops:

• Shirakawa Canal – A peaceful, lantern-lit path perfect for family walks.
• Yasaka Shrine – A great place to end the night with a small fortune-telling paper slip (omikuji)!

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: The softly glowing lanterns make this a calm and dreamy walk.
• Older Kids: Have them listen for the sound of wooden geta sandals as geisha walk by!

Downtime Suggestions:

• If kids are too tired for a long walk, stop at a cozy matcha café for one last Kyoto-style dessert before heading back to your hotel.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Visit Kodai-ji’s night illumination if traveling in autumn or spring, it’s a magical experience!

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Stop by one of Gion’s old-fashioned sweet shops to try a taiyaki (warm fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean or custard)!

Day 3: Nature & Water Adventures in Kyoto with Kids

For the final day, it’s time to explore Kyoto’s natural beauty with a mix of boat rides, scenic countryside, and playful family-friendly activities. Today’s itinerary offers a relaxing yet adventurous way to wrap up your Kyoto experience!

Morning: Hozugawa River Boat Ride

Main Activity: Hozugawa River Boat Ride

Start the day with an exciting boat ride down the Hozugawa River, one of Kyoto’s most scenic waterways. This traditional wooden boat experience takes families on a 2-hour journey through Kyoto’s lush valleys, passing small rapids, forested cliffs, and even the occasional wildlife sighting. The skilled boatmen steer the vessel using long bamboo poles, making it a fascinating experience for kids.

Additional Stops:

• Torokko Kameoka Station – A great starting point if you want to combine the river ride with the Sagano Scenic Railway.
• Sagano Scenic Railway (Optional) – Take a charming, slow-moving “Romantic Train” ride through the mountains back to Arashiyama. Buy your tickets here.

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: The gentle sections of the boat ride are peaceful and relaxing.
• Older Kids: They’ll love spotting turtles, birds, and fish in the river.

Luca & Nico’s Challenge:

• Count how many times the boatmen have to push off a rock!

Afternoon: Exploring Kyoto’s Waterways & Family Fun

Lunch Spot: Tempura Matsu

A kid-friendly tempura restaurant near the Katsura River, where families can enjoy crispy, light-battered seafood and veggies with dipping sauce.

Main Activity: Kyoto Aquarium & Umekoji Park

After a morning on the river, Kyoto Aquarium is the perfect mix of play and education. It’s home to, Buy your tickets here:

• Giant salamanders (a Kyoto specialty!)
• Dolphin performances
• Jellyfish and deep-sea exhibits

Right next to the aquarium is Umekoji Park, an open green space with a small train-themed play area for kids.

Additional Stops:

• Kyoto Railway Museum – Just next to the aquarium, this is a must-visit for train lovers, featuring a massive steam locomotive exhibit and driving simulators. Buy your tickets here.
• Toji Temple – Home to Kyoto’s tallest pagoda and a great place for a peaceful family walk.

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: The touch pools at the aquarium let them get up close with small sea creatures.
• Older Kids: The train-driving simulator at the museum is a big hit!

Luca & Nico’s Challenge:

• Find the biggest fish in the Kyoto Aquarium, what kind is it?

Evening: Relaxing at a Kyoto Onsen

Dinner Spot: Kyoto-style Yakiniku or Family-Friendly Izakaya

For the last night, enjoy a yakiniku (Japanese BBQ) experience, where families can grill their own meats at the table, or opt for a family-friendly izakaya with small plates of Kyoto specialties.

Main Activity: Funaoka Onsen (Optional Relaxation)

For families looking for a traditional yet kid-friendly onsen experience, Funaoka Onsen offers warm, mineral-rich baths in a historic wooden bathhouse. While some onsen have age restrictions, this one allows younger kids to enjoy the gentle indoor baths.

Additional Stops:

• Kamogawa Riverside Walk – If you prefer an outdoor option, take one last stroll along the Kamogawa River and watch Kyoto’s evening lights.
• Gion’s Yasaka Shrine – A peaceful night-time visit with softly glowing lanterns.

Age Recommendations:

• Younger Kids: A short soak in the gentle, warm indoor baths is perfect before bedtime.
• Older Kids: They’ll enjoy trying the outdoor rotenburo (open-air bath).

Downtime Suggestions:

• If onsen isn’t an option, grab a warm taiyaki from a street stall and find a quiet riverside spot to relax before heading back to your hotel.

Optional Add-Ons:

• If the kids still have energy, check out a Kyoto-style Noh theater performance or a small Kyoto sweets-making workshop!

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Before leaving Kyoto, stop at a souvenir shop to grab some yatsuhashi (Kyoto’s famous cinnamon rice crackers), they’re a great take-home treat!

Family Travel Tips for Kyoto

Kyoto is a wonderful city for families, offering a mix of history, nature, and hands-on experiences that make it easy to explore with kids. Here are essential tips to help your trip run smoothly! Traveling by train across Japan or planning day trips from Kyoto? Our Japan Train Travel Guide for Families has everything you need for smooth, family-friendly adventures!

Transportation Tips

• Getting Around Kyoto: Kyoto’s public transportation system is efficient, but buses can get crowded. The best way to get around with kids is a mix of:
  • Subways & Trains – The Karasuma Line (North-South) and Tozai Line (East-West) are the easiest subway routes for families.
  • Taxis – Readily available, reasonably priced for short trips, and more convenient than crowded buses.
  • Biking – Kyoto is bike-friendly, and renting a family bike with child seats is a fun way to explore.

• IC Cards: Get a ICOCA card (works on all trains, buses, and even vending machines).

• Stroller Accessibility:
  • Subways have elevators, but some temples and shrines have stairs or gravel paths.
  • Compact strollers or baby carriers are best for navigating Kyoto’s historic areas.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: If taking the bus, avoid peak hours (8–10 AM & 5–7 PM) and sit near the rear exit to make getting off easier!

Packing Tips

• Weather Considerations:
  • Spring & Fall – Light layers and a windproof jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
  • Summer – Hat, sunscreen, cooling wipes, and a portable fan (Kyoto summers are hot and humid).
  • Winter – Warm layers, gloves, and a scarf (it gets cold, especially near the mountains).

• Kid Essentials:
  • Refillable water bottle – There are free water stations at major attractions.
  • Wet wipes & tissues – Some public restrooms don’t have paper towels.
  • Snacks – Rice crackers, onigiri, or small fruit packs are great for kids on the go.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Bring socks for kids! Some temples require you to remove shoes, and socks help keep feet warm on colder days.

Dining Tips

• Family-Friendly Kyoto Foods:
  • Yudofu (Hot Tofu) – A gentle, warm dish, great for younger kids.
  • Okonomiyaki (Japanese Savory Pancakes) – Fun, customizable, and easy to eat.
  • Sushi & Obanzai (Kyoto-style home cooking) – Mild flavors that kids enjoy.
  • Yatsuhashi (Cinnamon-flavored rice crackers or mochi) – Kyoto’s signature sweet treat!

• Best Places to Eat with Kids:
  • Nishiki Market – Try small bites of different Kyoto specialties.
  • Kyoto Station Food Court – Easy options like ramen and tempura.
  • Izakaya with Private Rooms – Some have tatami mat seating where kids can move around comfortably.

Want help budgeting for your Japan adventure? Check out our Japan Family Budget Guide for tips on planning your daily costs, transportation, food, and fun!

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Looking for a fun meal? Try conveyor belt sushi (kaitenzushi)! Many places have touchscreen ordering, making it easy for kids to choose their own sushi!

Timing & Downtime

• Best Times to Visit Attractions:
  • Morning (8–10 AM): Great for popular temples (Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera) before crowds arrive.
  • Afternoon (1–4 PM): Ideal for parks, cultural workshops, or river walks.
  • Evening (5–8 PM): Perfect for Gion, Kamogawa Riverside strolls, or seasonal illuminations.

• Where to Take Breaks with Kids:
  • Kyoto Gyoen National Garden – A wide, open space perfect for running around.
  • Umekoji Park – Near Kyoto Aquarium, with playgrounds and open green fields.
  • Tea Houses & Cafés – Many traditional cafés welcome families with sweet treats and matcha lattes.

Luca & Nico’s Tip: Need a quick indoor break? Stop by a Kyoto-style “kissaten” (retro coffee shop) for a melon soda float, kids love it!

FAQs: Traveling to Kyoto with Kids

Planning a family trip to Kyoto comes with plenty of questions, so here are some of the most common FAQs to help you make the most of your visit.

Until Next Time…

After three unforgettable days in Kyoto, it’s time to say goodbye, but only for now! From walking through mystical bamboo forests and dressing up as samurai to cruising down the Hozugawa River, Kyoto is a city full of magical moments for families.

Whether your little explorers loved feeding monkeys at Iwatayama, making their own Kyoto crafts, or simply enjoying the city’s peaceful gardens, Kyoto offers something new to discover every time you visit.

But remember, there’s always more to explore! Next time, why not take a day trip to Nara to meet the friendly deer, visit the tea fields of Uji, or experience a night at a traditional ryokan with an onsen bath? Kyoto’s wonders are endless, and your next adventure is just waiting to begin!

Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~