One Perfect Day in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Traditional Japanese Breakfast

Start your day at Tsujiri Gion, where you can indulge in a delightful traditional Japanese breakfast featuring grilled fish, miso soup, and rice to energize you for your adventures ahead.
From Tsujiri Gion, take a short 15-minute walk to Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the stunning wooden stage of the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, overlooking the cherry blossoms and beautiful scenery of Kyoto.
Afterward, continue your journey by walking for about 20 minutes to the historic Higashiyama district.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Higashiyama

Wander through the charming streets of Higashiyama, taking in the serene atmosphere and visiting quaint shops selling handmade crafts and matcha treats.
End your walk at Ninenzaka Street before heading to lunch, a quick 10-minute stroll.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Savor a delicious lunch at one of the stalls in Nishiki Market, where you can try local specialties such as yakitori and fresh sushi while experiencing the vibrant food culture of Kyoto.
From Nishiki Market, the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is about a 30-minute tram ride.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Walk through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Experience the magical ambiance of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where tall green stalks create a breathtaking pathway that feels almost otherworldly.
Next, walk about 15 minutes to the nearby Iwatayama Monkey Park.
JPY600, 1 hour

4:00PM

Iwatayama Monkey Park

Get up close with friendly Japanese macaques and enjoy stunning views of Kyoto from the top of the hill at Iwatayama Monkey Park.
After exploring the park, head back down and take a tram back to the city center for dinner.
JPY800, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Finish your day at Gion Karyo, a beautiful restaurant offering kaiseki dining—a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients, culminating your day in Kyoto in a refined and delicious manner.
After dinner, take a stroll around the Gion district to spot geishas heading to their evening engagements.
JPY5000, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll in Gion

Wander the beautifully lit streets of Gion in the evening, soaking in the charm of the traditional wooden machiya houses and perhaps catching a glimpse of a geisha.
From Gion, it is a short stroll back to your hotel or accommodation.
Free, 1 hour
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