A Perfect Day Off in Kyoto

Written by Izumi Wada

Hello everyone! My name is Izumi, and I am the Senior Program Coordinator at CIEE Kyoto. I moved back to Kyoto a little over two years ago when I began working with CIEE, and ever since, the city has continued to inspire me in countless ways. When I was given the opportunity to write a blog post, I knew I wanted to share my favorite ways to spend a day off here in Kyoto. 
Kyoto and the broader Kansai region are full of treasures that make any free day feel like a retreat into history, nature, and culture. Whenever I have time to myself, I love to slow down and immerse in the gentle rhythms of the city and its surroundings. Each of my favorite activities offers a unique glimpse into Kyoto’s timeless charm, and together they capture what makes this place so special. 
 

Walking Along the Kamo River 
Just a short 15-minute stroll from the CIEE center, the Kamo River unfolds as a natural sanctuary in the heart of the city. Heading north along the riverside, you’ll encounter locals jogging, families picnicking, and students sketching beneath the canopy of cherry blossom trees. Spring is the most magical season—the blossoms transform the riverbanks into a pastel wonderland, their petals drifting like snow across the water. 

Stopping at one of the riverside cafés for coffee and cake is a simple pleasure. Many offer takeaway options, perfect for a riverside picnic with friends or a quiet solo moment listening to the gentle flow of the river. Wildlife adds to the charm—herons, ducks, and turtles often make appearances along the banks. 

Hiking from Kurama Temple to Kifune Shrine 
For summer days, nothing beats escaping into the mountains north of Kyoto. The journey begins with the Eizan Railway, a scenic ride through tunnels of green maple leaves. Arriving at Kurama Station, you’re welcomed by crisp mountain air and lush forests. 

The hike from Kurama Temple to Kifune Shrine takes about 45 minutes and is beginner-friendly, winding through cedar groves and mossy paths. Kurama Temple is known as the birthplace of Reiki healing, adding a spiritual dimension to the trek. At the end of the trail, Kifune Shrine awaits, dedicated to the god of water. 

Here, you can indulge in a Kawadoko-style meal, where platforms are built over the river to keep diners cool. Imagine savoring chilled noodles or wagashi sweets while listening to the rush of water beneath your feet—a quintessential Kyoto summer experience.

Ginkakuji Temple and the Philosopher’s Path  

While most visitors flock to the Golden Pavilion, I find the Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji) far more enchanting. Built in the late 15th century, it embodies the quiet elegance of Zen aesthetics. Its sand garden, with the iconic “Silver Sea” and cone-shaped mound, invites contemplation and stillness. 

From Ginkakuji, it’s a short stroll to the Philosopher’s Path, a stone walkway tracing a canal lined with cherry and maple trees. Named after philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who meditated here daily, the path is especially breathtaking in autumn when the leaves blaze in shades of crimson and gold. Along the way, you’ll find small galleries, tea houses, and shrines that make the walk both peaceful and inspiring. 

Cafe and Bakery Hopping
Kyoto is a paradise for café lovers. Beyond sleek modern coffee shops, my favorites are those tucked inside Machiya-style townhouses—traditional wooden buildings lovingly renovated to preserve their character. Many feature serene Japanese gardens, where you can sip coffee while gazing at mossy stones, lanterns, and koi ponds. 

On rainy days, these cafés become cozy refuges. Bring a book, order a flaky croissant or a matcha roll cake, and let the sound of rain on the tiled roof set the mood. Kyoto’s bakeries also shine with seasonal specialties: sakura-flavored buns in spring, chestnut cakes in autumn, and yuzu tarts in winter.

Final Thoughts 
A day off in Kyoto and Kansai is never wasted. Whether it’s the serenity of the Kamo River, the cozy charm of Machiya cafés, the meditative walk along the Philosopher’s Path, or the refreshing hike to Kifune Shrine, each activity offers a perfect balance of culture, nature, and relaxation.