I (first-time solo traveller) would've loved to spend multiple days in Kyoto, but logistics means that I can only manage just the one, and potentially come back a couple days later for half-day.
I thought the below seemed manageable (will take place in November), but I ran it through an AI (I know 😅) and it was quite critical.
- Get the earliest train possible from Osaka to Kyoto
- Start at Ginkaku-ji, hopefully just beat the tourist rush
- Walk to the Otoyo Shrine
- Make my way along the Philosopher's Path
- Check out Eikan-do and Nanzen-ji
- Wander through streets to the Imperial Palace
- Either walk or catch subway to To-ji complex
- Train back to Osaka (don't mind if it's fairly late)
by Zach-dalt