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Your 3D2N Muslim-Friendly Itinerary To Kyoto’s Most Iconic Attractions

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Shasha Dania •  Nov 06, 2019

Let’s say you want to pay a visit to the historic city of Kyoto - but you have less than a week to spare! Or maybe you’re trying to fit Kyoto into a multi-city itinerary and you only have 3 days to squeeze it all in. Is it possible to see the best that Kyoto has to offer in just 3 days? ?

Credit: Giphy

Our answer: yes! Anything is possible if you plan carefully. Kyoto is a city steeped in centuries of rich history and heritage, and while you can’t see everything in just 3 days, you can definitely visit its most famous and iconic attractions! From the bamboo forests of Arashiyama to the vermillion red gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha and the glimmering golden exterior of Kinkaku-ji temple, this 3D2N itinerary is just what you need to explore Japan’s former capital if you’re short on time. ?

Getting to Kyoto

If you plan to fly to Kyoto, you’ll want to land in Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka, which is the closest international airport to Kyoto. Thankfully getting from KIX to Kyoto is fairly easy! The fastest way to get from KIX to Kyoto Station is the JR Limited Express Haruka train which completes the journey in just 1 hour and 20 minutes. The train service starts from 6.30AM (Mon-Fri) or 6.40AM (Sat, Sun, Holidays) and ends at 10.16PM (Mon-Sun) so there’s definitely a timing that will suit you!

You can purchase your ticket for the Haruka at the train station at KIX itself, and it costs just JPY3430 for a one-way trip. You can also opt for an ICOCA reloadable transport card and Haruka ticket bundle which costs either JPY3630 (One-way) or JPY5260 (Round-trip) and includes the ICOCA card which can be used in subways and buses across Kyoto and the Kansai region. If you already have an ICOCA card, present it to the counter to get a discount on your Haruka tickets!

P.S. You can also pre-purchase an ICOCA card for pick-up at KIX! If you’re planning to visit Kyoto or other cities in the Kansai area such as Osaka, Nara, and Hiroshima, you’ll definitely put your ICOCA to good use. ?

Day 1: Arashiyama, Nijo Castle, and Gion

Arashiyama and Sagano Bamboo Grove (1.5-2.5 hours)

  • Start your Kyoto journey by travelling to Hankyu Arashiyama Station via the Hankyu-Arashiyama railway line.
  • From here, follow the area maps (and your Google maps too!) and make your way across the famous Togetsukyo Bridge. Togetsukyo Bridge is one of the Arashiyama region’s famous landmarks and was originally built during the Heian Period before being rebuilt in the 1930s.
  • The bridge is especially beautiful during spring and autumn when the foliage is out! ?? The fresh air and beauty of the Arashiyama mountain behind it makes it a tranquil and scenic spot to enjoy in the morning.
  • P.S. If you’re a caffeine fiend (like we are!) you can stop by %Arabica’s Arashiyama outlet which is located along this path! %Arabica only serves coffee, and we can promise from personal experience that their delicious blends will energise you for the day ahead. ☕️

%Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama

Halal Status: Only serves coffee. No alcohol used or served.

Opening Hours: Open daily; 8AM - 6PM

Address: 3-47 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8385, Japan (〒616-8385 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺芒ノ馬場町3-47)

Contact: +81 75-748-0057

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  • Stroll along the Katsura River and you’ll arrive at Kameyama Park which is located at the southern end of the famous Bamboo Grove. Follow the signposts in the park to reach the bamboo grove. The walk-up only takes about 15-20 minutes but the park is on quite a steep hill, so we don’t recommend this route if you are travelling with strollers or mobility aids such as wheelchairs.
  • You can also visit Tenryuji Temple on your way up, which is another of Kyoto’s iconic historical sites! Find out more about this World Heritage Site in our 5D4N Muslim-friendly itinerary to Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and more. ?

  • The Bamboo Grove is accessible 24/7 but the crowds can arrive as early as 9AM! If you’re looking to get a photo without being surrounded by tons of other visitors, try to arrive just after sunrise to squeeze in some memorable shots. By the time we arrived (slightly after 9AM) there were already some serious photographers setting up tripods for 'serious' shots, and around 9.30AM a crowd was beginning to form.
  • P.S. Arriving via the southern end tends to give you a bit of an advantage at avoiding the crowds, but if you’re looking for another hidden gem walk through the grove towards Nonomiya Shrine. After Nonomiya Shrine, turn left and cross the railroad tracks to reach the Bamboo Forest Trail (竹林の散策路). This little grove has even more bamboo you can take photos with - and the last time I visited, it wasn’t as packed as the main grove! ?

Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7 but we recommend you visit during daylight hours as there is limited light in the bamboo groves and it can get quite dark after sunset.

Address: Sagatenryuji Tateishicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8375, Japan (〒616-8375 京都府京都市右京区嵯峨天龍寺立石町)

Getting there: The nearest train stations are Toroko Arashiyama station, JR Arashiyama station, Randen Arashiyama station, and Hankyu Arashiyama station.

  • After you’ve gotten your fill of photos, walk towards the Randen Arashiyama Station. There are several shops along the way that include kimono rentals, souvenir stores, and rickshaw pullers lingering at the side of the road. We didn't get to try out a rickshaw, but you can book an Arashiyama rickshaw tour here to bring you up close with the magical nature of the area! The tour guides can also be very informative in telling you about the history and culture of the area.
  • If you’re travelling with strollers or mobility aids, we recommend you visit the bamboo grove via this station as the path is less steep and more manageable. You’ll see lots of families arriving via here and enjoying the shops on their way to the bamboo. ?

Lunch at Yoshiya (1-1.5 hours)

  • Have your lunch at Yoshiya Kyoto Arashiyama located near the Randen Arashiyama station. Yoshiya specializes in halal washoku (traditional Japanese dishes) including tofu hotpots, bento sets, and even a wagyu set! They also sell croquettes and fried chicken karaage for takeaway - perfect for a snack. ?
  • I tried their Mahou Croquette and Deep Fried Chicken Set, which comes with a side of soft Oboro-tofu too. The croquette was crunchy on the outside and so soft (and piping hot!) on the inside, and the chicken was savoury without being too salty. The portion of rice looks pretty small, but with all of the small dishes and some hot cup of tea, I left the restaurant feeling very full and ready for the day ahead! ?
  • #HHWT Tip: When you're in Kyoto, you should definitely try some halal authentic Japanese dishes! Click here for 12 amazing eateries to savour Japanese cuisine in the city.

Halal Status:Halal-certified menu available. Prayer room with ablution facilities on the premises - do approach the staff to use the room, and remember to bring your own prayer garments.

Average Price: JPY2,500

Opening Hours: Open daily; 9AM - 5.30PM

Address: 31, Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto (右京区嵯峨天龍寺造路町31, Kyoto, Japan)

Contact: +81 075-871-0456 (No reservation required except for private rooms or large groups)

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Nijo Castle (1.5-2 hours)

  • Travel back into the city to arrive at Nijo Castle. The castle is situated right in the middle of a residential neighbourhood, but it used to be the seat for the rulers of the country when Kyoto was the capital! It's definitely one of the most historic monuments still remaining in Kyoto.
  • Walk through the historic grounds that housed and witnessed the rise and fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The grounds are huge (covering everything can take over 2 hours!) but if you’re short on time make sure to check out the stone ramparts of the former castle before it was rebuilt. Be careful as the stairs up are pretty steep! There are also daily 60-minute tours (JPY1,000 per person) starting at 10AM and 12PM if you would like more in-depth explanations of each area.

  • History buffs should definitely take some time to walk through Ninomaru-goten Palace, one of two palaces on the castle grounds and a designated National Treasure as it's Japan's only surviving example of a fortified palace complex. The rooms are furnished as they would have been centuries ago and it’s a unique peek into Japan’s past.
  • #HHWT Tip: The castle’s rest area has a multipurpose room that can be used for prayers. Approach a staff member if you need to do your prayers, and do remember to bring your own prayer mat and garments. Ablution can be taken at the nearby washrooms. There is also a nursing room and coin-operated lockers.

Ticket prices: JPY620 (Adult), FOC (Children in high school and younger). Cash, credit cards and contactless smart cards are accepted for payment.

Opening Hours: 8.45AM - 4PM (Oct-Jun), 8AM - 5PM (Jul-Aug), 8AM - 4PM (Sept)

Address: 541 Nijo-jo-cho, Horikawa-nishi-iru, Nijo-jo-dori, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City 604-8301 (〒604-8301 京都府京都市中京区二条城町541)

Getting there: The nearest train stations are Nijojo-mae station, and Nijo station.

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Gion (2-2.5 hours)

  • From Nijo Castle, walk to Nijo Station and take the Touzai subway line to Sanjo Keihan station. From there, transfer to the Keihan line and travel to Gion-shijo station which is right next to the world-famous Gion district.
  • Walk down the main Hanamikoji-Dori, which is lined with teahouses and cafés, and shops selling traditional wares. If you want to pick up some souvenirs, you can visit Eirakuya which has been selling cotton fabric since 1615. The beautifully patterned cloths can be used as tea towels, gifts, and wraps and each design is uniquely inspired by Japanese culture.
  • P.S. The Kyoto government has restricted photography and videography outside of the main Hanamikoji-Dori street. You can still walk through the side streets but may receive a fine for taking photos or videos.

  • If you’re lucky, you might even spot some geiko (the local title for 'geisha') who are high-end artistic performers that live and work in Gion. Geiko train for several years as maiko and learn skills such as the shamisen or traditional dance forms. To walk in a geiko's shoes for a day, you can rent your own kimono for a day from Yumeyakata which even provides hijabs made from traditional Japanese wagara patterns! Click here to find out more and see some of their beautiful designs. ?
  • Do note that visitors have been officially warned not to crowd or block the performers as they would be on their way to work. While some geiko may invite you to take photographs with them, do respect them and their work. You can sometimes catch free performances during peak festival seasons, so do keep an eye out for any news before your trip! ?

Address: 

Dinner at Naritaya (1-1.5 hours)

  • End your day with dinner at Naritaya which is a short walk away from Gion! There are 2 outlets – Naritaya Ramen and Naritaya Yakiniku so you can have a choice of a steaming bowl of ramen or a sizzling yakiniku. ? Look out for our sticker at the entrance of Naritaya Ramen!
  • If you’re visiting Naritaya Ramen we recommend their Miso Ramen, which comes with bamboo slices, chicken, and a delicious egg all in a bowl of flavourful broth. The broth has a pretty rich taste, with a slight oiliness to it (although it isn't very greasy). They also have chicken karaage (From JPY300) and gyoza (From JPY300) as side dishes. ?

Halal Status: Only halal-certified ingredients are used. No alcohol is used or sold. Prayer room with ablution facilities, prayer mats, and prayer garments available.

Average Price: JPY1,300 (Ramen)

Opening Hours: Open daily; 11AM - 10PM (May be closed on irregular days. Do check their Facebook for live updates at least 1 hour before your visit)

Address:

Naritaya Ramen: Ability Gian Building 1F, 424 Rinkacho Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 605-0062 (〒605-0062 京都府京都市東山区 通新橋東入林下町424 アビリティ祇園 1F 花見小路通り)

Naritaya Yakiniku: 422-2 Rinkacho, Higashiyama-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 605-0062 (〒605-0062 京都府京都市東山区林下町422番2 サンピアザビル 1F)

Contact: +81 75-531-8200

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Day 2: Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Ginkaku-ji, and Kinkaku-ji

Fushimi Inari Taisha (2-2.5 hours)

  • Begin your day by taking the JR Nara line to JR Inari station. That’s right, it’s time to visit the vermillion red gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha! Built to honour the deity Inari, this is the main shrine to Inari which is why the entire complex is so large. 'Fushimi Inari Taisha' technically refers to the initial shrine and the gates leading up to it, whereas 'Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii gates)' refers to the bright red-orange gates that have become the main draw of the area.

  • The shrine and gates are most crowded between 9AM – 5PM so if you want to arrive when it’s ‘crowd-free’ try to enjoy some peace and quiet before everyone else arrives. Try to avoid major holidays too as many locals and visitors alike will be visiting the shrine.
  • After sunset it does get much less crowded but I wouldn’t recommend arriving at this time (from personal experience) if you want to get a good photo of the gates as it’s too dark to see their vibrant colour. ? However the golden hour (approx. 1 hour before sunset) is quite an amazing time to arrive as the sun’s rays give the gates a unique glow!

  • Fun fact: The deity Inari is believed to communicate via foxes which is why there are so many fox sculptures, statues, and decorations around! If you're a fan of sushi, you might also recognize the popular 'Inari sushi' dish consisting of rice and beancurd - these were traditionally offered to Inari which is how they got their name. ☺️
  • P.S. For a unique experience, try out the 4.2KM hike around the back of the mountain which includes a bamboo forest and waterfall. Do note that there are multiple small shrines and active sites of worship here, and visitors should not take photographs or videos of these or of worshippers carrying out rituals.

Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7 but it is recommended you visit between sunrise and sunset.

Address: 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchi-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto City 612-0882 (〒612-0882 京都府京都市伏見区深草藪之内町68)

Getting there: The nearest train stations are JR Inari station, and Fushimi-Inari station.

Website

Kiyomizu-dera (1.5-2 hours)

  • From one iconic attraction to the next! ? Kiyomizu-dera temple is world-famous and is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. The temple is over 1200 years old and is dedicated to the deity Kannon. It's also a popular destination in the spring and autumn as there are many trees including cherry blossoms on the grounds!
  • The roof of the main hall is under renovation until March 2020, but visitors can still enter the main hall and temple grounds during the renovation period.

  • There are several halls across the entire complex, and if you visit during certain times of the year you might even be able to catch special festivals or events! This includes special night viewings in spring, summer, and autumn that will let you see the complex in a whole new way so make sure to follow the temple's social media for updates.
  • The Otowa waterfall is located at the base of the main hall, and is one of the spots in the complex all visitors should try to visit. You can also queue up to drink from the waterfall, but the lines can get pretty long!
  • #HHWT Tip: Wear comfortable shoes when visiting as there are many stairs around the complex and the different halls that you'll have to climb up and down to get to. ☺️

Opening Hours: Open daily; 6AM - 6PM or 6AM - 6.30PM depending on the season. During special night opening hours, the temple opens until 9PM. Do check the opening hours before planning your visit.

Address: 1-294, Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan (〒605-0862 京都府京都市東山区清水294)

Getting there: The nearest train station is Kiyomizu Gojo station (Keihan main line). You can also take several public bus routes to reach the temple complex.

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Lunch at Curry Club Ruu Kyoto Ninenzaka (1.5-2 hours)

  • Right outside Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the latest halal eateries to open in Kyoto! Selling Japanese curry rice, Curry Club Ruu is the perfect place to recharge after a morning of walking and exploring.
  • Their menu includes local specialities including Chicken Nanban Curry (Fried chicken topped with tartar sauce) and Wagyu Croquette Curry.
  • You can even ask for spicier curry (at an additional JPY100-200) or add on side dishes such as chicken cutlet, salt-grilled mackeral, or broiled cheese (JPY130-380).

Halal Status: Halal-certified by Nippon Asia Halal Association. A prayer room with ablution facilities and prayer mats is available on the 2nd floor. Do remember to bring your own prayer garments.

Average Price: JPY890

Opening Hours: Open daily; 11.30AM - 8.30PM

Address: 349-20 Masuyacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0826, Japan (〒605-0826 京都府京都市東山区桝屋町349-20)

Contact: +81 75-741-6203

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Tetsugaku no Michi/Philosopher's Path (1-1.5 hours)

  • If you have time after lunch, enjoy a leisurely walk up Tetsugaku no Michi (Philosopher's Path) on your way to Ginkaku-ji Temple. The Path runs alongside a stream that's lined with cherry blossom trees (making this another popular springtime destination!) as well as small souvenir shops and cafés.

Ginkaku-ji/Silver Pavilion (30 minutes - 1 hour)

View of Kyoto from the top of the route in Ginkaku-ji

  • Located on Mount Higashiyama at the northern end of the Philosopher's Path, you'll find Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion. Officially named Jisho-ji, it's named to contrast with Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and is famous for the tranquil zen aesthetic of its grounds.
  • Following the path through the grounds, you'll see traditional features of zen gardens such as specifically sand gardens, moss, bamboo, waterfalls, and stone arrangements. The view of the city from here was one of the most memorable parts of my trip - being able to see the mountains, lush trees, and rooftops all felt almost too good to be true. ?

Ticket prices: JPY500 (Adult), JPY300 (Primary and middle school students)

Opening Hours: 8.30AM - 5PM (March-Nov), 9AM - 4.30PM (Dec-Feb)

Address: 2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8402, Japan (〒606-8402 京都府京都市左京区銀閣寺町2)

Getting there: There are no train stations nearby Ginkaku-ji, but you can take a public bus to the base of Mount Higashiyama and walk up.

Website

Kinkaku-ji/Golden Pavilion (1.5-2 hours)

  • From Ginkaku-ji, take a bus to reach this famous landmark. Also known as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji is famous for the gold tiles that cover its exterior that almost make it look like it's glowing in the sunlight! It's truly a remarkable sight year-round. ? The temple was was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
  • While the golden pavilion might be the most famous spot in the temple complex, the entire area was originally built to create a sense of 'heaven on earth' with the golden pavilion being the dazzling centerpiece.
  • P.S. To really get a stunning view, visit during the golden hour to see how the setting sun lights up the pavilion!

Ticket prices: JPY400 (Adult), JPY300 (Primary and middle school students)

Opening Hours: Open daily; 9AM - 5PM

Address: 1 Kinkakuji-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8361 Japan (〒603-8361 京都府京都市北区金閣寺町1)

Getting there: From Ginkaku-ji, take city bus services 102 or 204 directly to Kinkaku-ji. There are no train stations nearby Kinkaku-ji, but you can take a public bus that stops directly at the temple.

Website

Dinner at Nanzan (2-3 hours)

  • End your day by treating yourself to a luxurious wagyu dinner at Nanzan! It's increasingly easier to find halal wagyu across Japan, but Nanzan is one of the few places in Kyoto where you can not only eat halal wagyu but grill it yourself yakiniku-style! ?
  • It's definitely a pricey option but personally, it was one of the best meals (and cuts of beef) I've ever had. After a long day of walking, it felt like a treat to myself especially since it was my first time having wagyu! The beef melts in your mouth, and dipping it into the salt really brings out the rich and creamy flavour of the meat. ? The chef even shared with us that the beef is dry-aged for a month using techniques he learnt in France!

Halal Status: Muslim-friendly menus available which have been halal-certified by the Kyoto Council for Sharia and Halal Affairs. Do note that they also serve non-halal meat and alcohol in the restaurant.

Average Price: Muslim-friendly sets range between JPY5,000 - JPY10,000 per pax.

Opening Hours: Open daily; 11.30AM - 8.30PM

Address: Kitayama Notre Dame Mae, 31 Shimogamo Kitanononogami-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto city 606-0846 (京都市左京区下鴨北野々神町31 北山通ノートルダム小前)

Contact: +81-75-722-4131

Getting there: From Kinkaku-ji, the fastest way to get to Nanzan is to travel to Kita-Oji station near Kinkaku-ji and take the Karasuma subway line to Matsugasaki station. The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from Matsugasaki station.

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Day 3: Kyoto Gyoen, Kyoto Masjid, Nishiki Market, Kyoto Station

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden (1-2.5 hours)

  • Start your last day in Kyoto by visiting the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, which was originally where Edo-era nobles would reside. After the national capital was transferred to Tokyo, the garden was officially established in order to preserve and protect the imperial palaces located within.
  • Today, the garden is accessible year-round to everyone and is a fantastic green space within the city. Visitors may sometimes be able to witness a tea ceremony (for a small fee) or visit a former mansion, the Kaninnomiya Residence within the garden.

  • If you have some time, you can also book a tour to visit one of the Imperial Palaces located within the garden! Due to security concerns, the only way to visit the Imperial Palace is by attending the Japanese-guided tour (audio guides in English are available).
  • You are recommended to pre-register for a tour as slots are limited to just 50 per tour schedule. Walk-in registrations are also possible (after 11AM) but are on a first-come-first-served basis.
  • If your schedule is flexible enough we recommend going for this as it's rare to get the chance to visit an actual Imperial Palace!

Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7

Address: 3 Kyotogyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0881, Japan (〒602-0881 京都府京都市上京区京都御苑3)

Getting there: The nearest train stations are Marutamachi station, and Jingu-Marutamachi station.

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Kyoto Islamic Cultural Centre and Masjid (30 minutes - 1 hour)

  • The Kyoto Islamic Cultural Centre and Masjid is actually just a short walk away from the Teramichi-Gomon and Seiwain-Gomon Gates of the garden! ?
  • The Islamic Cultural Centre is run and managed by local Muslims and includes a co-op that sells halal-certified ingredients such as sauces and meat. If you're planning to cook your own meals while you're in Kyoto, definitely make plans to visit the co-op on your first day here to stock up!
  • The Masjid has spaces for men and women (separated by a curtain), and also holds Friday prayers. It is quite a small space as it can accommodate a maximum of 110 people, but it was really heartwarming to see how the local Muslim community has managed to support each other. ?
  • P.S. The co-op management currently does not allow photos to be taken within the co-op or masjid to be shared online, out of courtesy to the members of the co-op.

Opening Hours: The co-op is open from 12PM - 6PM (Tues-Sat), closed on Sundays and Mondays. The mosque is accessible 24/7 (Mon-Sat), closed on Sundays, and is located in the basement.

Address: 92F Miyagawa- cho, Kawaramachi, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-0853 1st floor, Riverside Aragamiguchi (〒602-0853 京都府京都市上京区 寺町通荒神口上る東入宮垣町92)

Contact: +81 075-231-3499

Getting there: The nearest train station is Jingu-Marutamachi station (Keihan main line).

Website

Nishiki Market (1.5-2.5 hours)

  • It's time to visit Kyoto's iconic street market - Nishiki Market! You'll find a mix of fresh seafood and produce, ready-to-eat meals, and all types of souvenirs here. The market officially opens at 9.30AM, but if you want to get here before the crowds do try to arrive by 9AM to watch the stallowners setting up.
  • While there are no halal-certified stalls within the market, there are stalls selling fresh (raw) seafood that you can snack on as you explore this traditional market. ? You can pick up some of the freshest sea urchin, sliced sashimi, and more for an affordable price! You can request for soy sauce or extra flavourings not to be added, and we recommend you dine at your own discretion. Click here for some easy phrases and tips for asking about ingredients in Japanese!
  • If you're on the hunt for souvenirs, look out for pulau deco which sells local pottery, hand-woven bags, cutlery and more that you can bring back home. Nishiki Marunalso sells Kyoto's speciality Uji Matcha tea and sugar candy such as konpeito - do note that konpeito traditionally contains only sugar, but we were unable to confirm the origin of specific colourings or flavourings used. We recommend that you dine at your own discretion.

Opening Hours: Open daily; 9.30AM - 6PM (Hours vary according to stores and may change on weekends and holidays)

Address: Nakauoyacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8045, Japan (〒604-8045 京都府京都市中京区中魚屋町)

Getting there: The nearest train stations are Shijo station (Karasuma subway line) and Karasuma station (Hankyu-Kyoto line).

Lunch at Ayam-ya (1.5-2 hours)

  • It's finally time to visit one of the most popular halal eateries in the city - Ayam-ya! Their chicken broth, slices of chicken char siu, and perfectly cooked ramen egg have made them one of our (and our readers’) favourite spots in Kyoto for sure. ?
  • I tried the Spicy Shio (Salt) Ramen and the broth was so good! The char siu went really well with the soup, and the noodles were chewy without being too thick. Even their shichimi (seven-spice powder) adds an extra kick to the broth that will have you slurping away. Don't forget to try out their chicken karaage too - the crunchiness is what makes it a favourite for patrons of the store!
  • Their current location can be a little bit confusing to get to as it's down an alleyway. Just keep an eye out for the large menu board located outside the entrance so you won't miss the corridor leading to the store.

Halal status: Halal-certified by Malaysia Halal Corporation Japan. A prayer room is available if you wish to do your prayers one of the staff will lead you there. Do bring your own prayer garments.

Average Price: JPY650

Opening hours: Mon-Sat; 12PM - 3PM (Last order 2.30PM), and 6PM - 9.30PM (Last order 9PM), Sun; 11.30AM - 2.30PM

Address: 1F, Douka Bld., 470, Kannondocho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto (中京区新町通四条上ル東入観音堂町 470 道家商事ビル 1F, 604-8222 Kyoto, Japan)

Contact: +81 75-708-5666

Getting there: The nearest train station is Shijo station.

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Shopping at Kyoto Station (3-4 hours)

  • Kyoto Station is definitely one of the busiest spots in the entire city and is the perfect place to complete all of your souvenir shopping. ? Not only is it where multiple JR, subway, and railway lines intersect but the station itself is surrounded by Isetan, Porta, and The Cube department stores. Best of all, many of the shops here are tax-free! ?
  • While I couldn't find any halal-certified snacks sold within the station, there are several shops that sell items such as Nama Yatsuhashi (a type of mochi typically made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and red bean paste although the fillings may vary), and Uji Matcha tea blends. We recommend you check the ingredients list or ask the staff for more information, and dine at your own discretion. ☺️

3 days might seem like a very short time, but it's actually more than enough to see Kyoto's most iconic sights! Whether you're making a short trip over a weekend or working it into a longer trip (maybe adapting it into our 7D6N West Japan itinerary? ?) you'll fall in love with this beautiful city for sure!