What it actually costs
When to go
Brutal humidity 35°C+. Cherry blossom (late March-April) and autumn leaves (mid-November) are peak but magical.
Fushimi Inari at 6am is empty. By 10am it is a queue. Arashiyama bamboo grove same — go at dawn.
What locals know
Rent a bike — Kyoto is flat and compact. Cycling is faster than buses and you discover hidden temples.
Nishiki Market before 10am is the real experience. After noon it's shoulder-to-shoulder.
Many temples close at 4:30-5pm. Plan your last visit by 3:30pm.
Geisha district (Gion) — never block or chase geiko/maiko for photos. It's fined.
Honest warnings
Bus system is confusing and slow. Bike or walk is almost always faster.
Ryokan have strict rules — shoes off, quiet hours, set meal times.
Top restaurants require reservations weeks ahead. Don't wing it for kaiseki.
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