What to do in Kyoto (1 day)?
 

This is my first time traveling outside of the US, and I'll be going to Japan for 6 days! I'm landing in Tokyo (Haneda Airport) at 5 am and plan to spend the first day and night in Kyoto. The following day, I want to return to Tokyo and spend the remainder of my trip there.

Can anyone help me plan the itinerary for the Kyoto portion?

For instance, what's the best way to get from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Kyoto? My Kyoto hotel is within 1 mile of Kyoto Station. What should I see to make the most of my limited time there? Or is it better to find a tour service? (I'm on a bit of a budget.)

Thanks for any tips you can give me!

A single day upon arrival from the US to tour Kyoto, which you will reach by train after a transpacific flight? Think twice about whether you want to do this. Round trip train will be around $350.00. You can use www.hyperdia.com to check schedule and prices. The total amount is the amount you pay for buying tickets, not only fare. A JR Pass might save you money if you plan to make another trip outside of Tokyo during your stay. Japanican also offers tour packages which include round trip train and a night in a hotel for about the same price as train only...but I'm thinking they require at least 2 people and/or charge a high single supplement. But check those two options out anyway.

If you decide to go, some of my favorite spots in Kyoto are Kiyomizudera and Nijojo. With jet lag and travel fatigue, those two places would do you in I think.

KimJapan gives you good advice.

I also wonder whether you are sure that you want to give just one day to Kyoto. I think many people would give a more even split between Kyoto (with its wealth of traditional / historic sights) and Tokyo (with its modern sights, and only a few districts from before WWII).

Also, have you already purchased your airline tickets? If not, check open jaw options, flying into Kansai and out of Narita or vice versa.

Hope that helps, and hope you enjoy your first international trip!

It might be less expensive to fly between Tokyo and Kyoto than to take a train if you can use one of the special fares that can be purchased with an international flight....see the following for further info:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2364.html
But I agree with KimJapan and kja that your proposed schedule is really not ideal....

If you must do this then get a discounted r/t air ticket from Haneda to Itami see here:

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2364.html

Don't know your interests or time of year you are traveling to recommend anything in Kyoto but you can take a look here to see if anything interests you.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html

Aloha!

Thank you for the tips! I did not realize it would be so hectic to pursue such a plan. I am revising my itinerary to make it a bit more do-able and less stressful. I appreciate the suggestions and links above!