Day 1: Arrival and the Eastern Highlands

Start your Kyoto adventure in the historic Higashiyama district, where cobbled lanes and wooden machiya townhouses set the scene.

• Morning: Wander Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka stone-paved lanes before the crowds arrive

• Late Morning: Visit Kiyomizudera Temple perched over the forested hillside (open from 6am)

• Lunch: Grab kaiseki-style bento boxes at Kagizen Yoshifusa on Gion's Shijo street

• Afternoon: Stroll through Gion and spot maiko in the Hanamikoji alley at dusk

• Dinner: Izakaya hopping along Pontocho's lantern-lit narrow corridor

Tip: Book Kiyomizudera tickets online in advance during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons to skip long queues.