48 Hours In Kyoto: Hidden Temples You Must Visit

Kyoto’s the kind of place where ancient traditions and natural beauty just seem to blend seamlessly. With over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines scattered everywhere, it’s easy to feel lost trying to fit everything into a couple of days. So, where do you even start when you’ve only got 48 hours? I’d say skip the crowded hotspots and chase down Kyoto’s lesser-known temples instead—they’re quieter, full of charm, and packed with stories most tourists miss. Here’s a plan to help you make the most of your two days in Kyoto, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Day 1: Eastern Kyoto’s Hidden Corners

Morning: Honen-in Temple

Kick off your day at Honen-in, tucked away in the forested hills of eastern Kyoto. It’s nothing like the busy Kiyomizu-dera—this little temple is usually calm, wrapped in mossy stone paths and old trees. The garden bursts with seasonal flowers, and if you’re into photography, you’ll love the atmosphere. Honestly, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Arrive early, before the local tour groups show up. Take a minute to just listen—the birds, the leaves, the soft morning air. Kyoto mornings here are something special.

Midday: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Not far from Arashiyama, Otagi Nenbutsu-ji stands out with its 1,200 quirky stone statues. Each figure—disciples of Buddha—wears a different expression. Some grin, some meditate. The place has a playful, almost mischievous energy that’s a nice change from the usual solemn temples. Bring water and a snack, because there’s nowhere to grab food on-site, and wandering up and down the hillside can take it out of you.

Lunch: Try Local Kyoto Cuisine

After all that walking, find a nearby spot and order yudofu—a warm, simple tofu dish that’s part of Kyoto’s temple food tradition. It’s vegetarian, delicious, and gives you a taste of the city’s centuries-old culinary roots.

Afternoon: Northern Kyoto Explorations

Shoren-in Temple Post-lunch, head over to Shoren-in. Somehow, this place manages to fly under the radar, so you’ll often have the gardens and the lovely gold-leaf sliding doors to yourself. It’s perfect for a bit of quiet reflection or just soaking up the peace between the buildings and the greenery. Nanzen-ji Temple Sub-Temples Nearby, the Nanzen-ji complex sprawls across the area, hiding several smaller sub-temples. Tenjuan and Rinsen-en are both worth a wander—each garden feels like a world apart, and there’s barely a tourist in sight. It’s a totally different side of Kyoto, far from the crowds. Wear good shoes; you’ll hit plenty of uneven paths and stone steps as you duck into these hidden corners.

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Day 2: Southern Kyoto and the Philosopher’s Path

Morning: Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple

Start your second day at Eikan-do Zenrin-ji. In autumn, the colors are jaw-dropping, but even out of season, the gardens and old halls offer a tranquil escape. Early mornings are best—sometimes you’ll have the place almost to yourself. It’s peaceful and perfect for a slow walk or a few photos.

Midday: Honpo-ji and Nearby Neighborhood Temples

Next, wander over to smaller neighborhood temples like Honpo-ji or Anraku-ji. These little spots hide out in quiet residential streets. They’re not flashy, but you get a real feel for local Kyoto life, and you’ll probably have the grounds to yourself. If you’re traveling solo or just want some downtime, these temples are ideal for a little meditation or quiet exploration.

Lunch: Kyoto Street Food

For lunch, hit Nishiki Market and graze your way through matcha ice cream, grilled mochi, and pickled veggies. It’s casual, tasty, and lets you sample a bunch of local flavors without sitting down for a big meal.

Afternoon: Strolling the Philosopher’s Path

Wrap up your Kyoto trip with a walk along the Philosopher’s Path. The canal is lined with cherry trees, and the whole stretch feels peaceful, especially if you go early or late in the day. You’ll stumble across small, hidden temples and quiet gardens—perfect for a quick pause and a moment to take it all in. If you’re here in spring, the cherry blossoms turn this area into a dream. Try to catch it when it’s quiet, and you’ll understand why people fall in love with Kyoto.

Quick Tips for Your 48 Hours in Kyoto

Start early—mornings are when these hidden temples truly shine. Pick up a one- or two-day bus pass for easy travel between spots. Keep your backpack light and wear comfy shoes—there’s a lot of walking, and temple paths aren’t always smooth.

Don’t miss out on discounted Kyoto packages—check the latest travel deals and secure your dream trip now. Planning ahead ensures you make the most of every moment in this historic city.

Check photography rules before snapping pictures, and always be respectful. Book your accommodation and transport ahead of time. That way, you can focus on wandering Kyoto’s backstreets instead of worrying about logistics.

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