Epic Day Trip in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Explore Cultural Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Inoda Coffee, a beloved local spot known for its freshly brewed coffee and fluffy French toast.
Located in the heart of the city, take Bus #205 from your accommodation to the stop at Shijo Takakura.
JPY 1,200, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the stunning gold leaf exterior of the Kinkaku-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site that reflects its beauty on the surrounding pond.
After breakfast, catch Bus #101 from Shijo Takakura to Kinkaku-ji-michi. It's a 30-minute ride.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Experience serenity walking through the towering bamboo stalks of Arashiyama, creating a magic moment captured in time.
From Kinkaku-ji, take Bus #205 back to the city center, then transfer to the JR Sanin Line at Kyoto Station to reach Arashiyama (30-minute train ride).
JPY 600, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy a traditional soba noodle lunch overlooking the Katsura River at Arashiyama Yoshimura, a scenic dining experience unique to this area.
The restaurant is located just a short walk from the Bamboo Grove entrance.
JPY 1,500, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore Tenryu-ji, Kyoto's most important Zen temple, surrounded by lovely gardens designed to reflect nature’s beauty.
It's a short 10-minute stroll from the restaurant to Tenryu-ji Temple.
JPY 500, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Tour Fushimi Inari Taisha

Make your way to Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of vermillion torii gates, inviting you to walk up the mountain while enjoying breathtaking views.
From Tenryu-ji, walk back to Arashiyama Station, take the JR Sanin Line to Kyoto Station, then transfer to the JR Nara Line (total travel time about 30 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Gion Kappo

Conclude your day with a traditional Kaiseki dinner at Gion Kappo, where culinary artistry showcases seasonal ingredients in a harmonious multi-course meal.
Take the JR Nara Line back to Kyoto Station, then walk or bus over to the Gion district (15-minute ride).
JPY 5,000, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Evening Stroll in Gion District

Take the rest of the evening to stroll the enchanting streets of Gion, perhaps catching a glimpse of a Geisha moving to her next appointment.
Walking around Gion would be the easiest choice after dinner.
Free, 1 hour
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