3-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic City Centre

Kyoto, Japan on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Enjoy expertly crafted coffee and light pastries at this popular café known for its high quality Arabica beans, setting a perfect start to the day.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wooden stage and panoramic views over Kyoto; open 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h

11:45am

Stroll through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Streets

Wander these preserved historic streets lined with traditional shops and teahouses, perfect for souvenir shopping and cultural immersion.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savour handmade udon noodles in a tranquil setting near Kodai-ji Temple, open from 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple

Enjoy beautiful Zen gardens and seasonal flowers at this historic temple; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1.5h

4:15pm

Explore Gion District

Walk the atmospheric streets known for geisha culture and traditional wooden machiya houses; best experienced in late afternoon to early evening.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal showcasing seasonal Kyoto ingredients, reservation recommended; open 5:30pm to 9:30pm.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Arashiyama Nature & Culture

Kyoto, Japan on July 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Begin your day with specialty coffee and pastries at this scenic café located near the river, open from 7:00am.
JPY800, 1h

8:30am

Visit Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early to avoid crowds and enjoy serene natural beauty; open 24 hours.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple Exploration

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens and historic architecture; open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1.5h

11:30am

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Relax on a scenic boat ride along the picturesque Katsura River, offering a unique perspective on Arashiyama; boat rides typically run 9:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine on exquisite tofu cuisine overlooking the river, a speciality of this peaceful spot; open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY3000, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour the beautiful gardens and villa of famous actor Okochi Denjiro; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1.5h

4:30pm

Stroll the Sagano Scenic Railway Station

Experience the charming atmosphere of Sagano station area or enjoy an optional scenic train ride if time allows.
JPY620, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Eat traditional soba noodles with a lovely view of the river and mountains; open 11:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY1800, 1.5h
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Day 3: Traditional and Vibrant Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on July 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a Japanese-style coffee breakfast at this beloved historic café in central Kyoto, open from 7:30am.
JPY900, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates up the mountain at this famous shrine; open 24 hours, but best early morning to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Casual café near Fushimi Inari offering light meals and quality espresso; open 9:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit this large temple complex famous for its beautiful gardens and Zen architecture; open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1.5h

3:30pm

Walk through Gion again & Nishiki Market

Experience vibrant market stalls and traditional shops, ideal for gifts and tasting local snacks; Nishiki Market open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Choose from the many traditional restaurants along the atmospheric Pontocho alley, perfect for a Kyoto-style dinner to end your trip.
JPY4000-8000, 2h
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