Question 1

Which airport should I fly into?

Accepted Answer

Osaka (Kansai International Airport) is the most convenient gateway — it has excellent connections from most of Australia's major cities and regular international routes worldwide. From Osaka, Kyoto is easily reached by train in around 75 minutes. Tokyo is also an option, with the Shinkansen connecting to Kyoto in around 2.5 hours.

Question 2

What is the walking like?

Accepted Answer

The Kyoto walks wind through the city's forested foothills, past shrines and temples away from the main tourist crowds, along ancient paths walked by samurai, shoguns, and emperors. The terrain varies day to day — some sections involve gentle riverside and garden paths, others climb through wooded hills to quieter shrines with sweeping views over the city. Daily distances can be varied on most days to suit your pace and energy levels, making this a genuinely flexible itinerary.

Question 3

When is the best time to walk?

Accepted Answer

Spring and autumn are the most beautiful seasons. Late March and April bring the cherry blossoms, transforming the temple grounds and riverside paths into something otherworldly. October and November see the maple and ginkgo trees turn vivid gold and red — equally spectacular. Summer (July and August) can be boiling and humid in Kyoto, so if you're visiting then, starting your walks very early in the morning is important. The walk is offered in winter too — the city is quieter, the air is crisp, and the temple gardens have a serene stillness that is hard to match. Bring warm layers.

Question 4

What should I know about visiting temples and shrines?

Accepted Answer

Kyoto has over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, and the walk visits many of them. A few customs to know before you go. Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings — look for the raised floor as your cue. At Shinto shrines, it is customary to bow slightly at the torii gate before passing through. Speak quietly in sacred spaces and be respectful of any ceremonies in progress. Modest dress is generally expected — avoid very revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Photography is restricted in some inner temple areas — look for signage.

Question 5

What should I know about Japanese manners and customs?

Accepted Answer

A few things that will serve you well throughout the trip. Remove your shoes before entering homes, ryokans, and many traditional restaurants — indoor slippers are usually provided. Pointing at people is considered rude — use an open hand instead. Don't eat or drink while walking. Blowing your nose in public is frowned upon. On trains and buses, keep conversation quiet and take your backpack off to avoid taking up space. Slurping noodles is perfectly acceptable and actually signals enjoyment. And don't tip — it's not expected and can cause awkwardness.

Question 6

What is a yukata and how do I wear one?

Accepted Answer

If you're staying in a ryokan-style accommodation, a yukata (traditional cotton robe) will be provided for the evenings. Wear something underneath, fold the left side over the right — never the other way, as that is reserved for the deceased — and tie the belt firmly. A loose yukata is considered disrespectful. It's perfectly acceptable to wear your yukata around the inn and in some cases in the surrounding streets.

Question 7

What currency do I need, and can I use cards?

Accepted Answer

Japan runs largely on cash. While cards are more widely accepted in Kyoto than in rural Japan, many smaller temples, cafés, and local restaurants still prefer cash. The most reliable way to withdraw yen is at 7-Eleven and other convenience store ATMs, which accept foreign cards.

Question 8

Is tipping expected?

Accepted Answer

No. Tipping is not customary in Japan and is generally not expected anywhere — restaurants, ryokans, drivers, or guides. Excellent service is simply the standard.

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The Kyoto Trail – 5 Days

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August 2026

September 2026

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