A few-day itinerary in Kyoto

Hi there, I’ve got a few questions about Kyoto for our trip in early November (we’re staying 5 days): 1) Is it worth spending a day in Kurama/Kibune from Kyoto? Has anyone tried the onsen in Kurama? 2) Visiting Fushimi Inari for sunset and wandering around in the evening—good idea? 3) Going to the Gion Corner show in Kyoto? 4) Skipping the more touristy temples in Kyoto (Golden Temple, Silver Temple) to see less crowded ones like Shinshogokuraku-ji and Tofuku-ji? 5) Any recommendations for a kaiseki dinner (under 10,000 yen)? Thanks!

Hey Patbill, I did the hike from Kibune to Kurama... and I was so happy to take a dip in the Kurama onsen... it's amazing! (The onsen, not the hike! :)) If it's sunny, it's the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Note: halfway up the climb, there's a small terrace that's ideal for viewing... but it can get really crowded, especially if it's sunny. Gion Corner... it's a touristy show, but if, like me, you can't afford to invite them to dinner at one of the restaurants where they perform, it's still better than nothing. All the temples are beautiful and worth visiting, but there are over 1,000 of them... it really depends on whether you can handle the crowds or not. Since the "must-see" experts will probably ask you when you get back if you've seen Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji... it's up to you. Omakase Sanzen-in no sato restaurant in Gion. Maybe the best in the city, but expect to pay around 15,000 yen as a base price. Have a great trip!