Ultimate Day Trip in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica

Start your day with a beautiful cup of specialty coffee paired with their matcha croissant, a local favorite, at this charming cafe with stunning city views.
Walk or take a short bus ride to % Arabica located in the Arashiyama district.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene and mystical atmosphere as sunlight filters through.
The grove is a short walk from % Arabica, approximately 5 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple

Just nearby, discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tenryu-ji Temple, which features stunning gardens and exquisite architecture.
Walk for 10 minutes to reach Tenryu-ji Temple.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tenryu-ji Shigetsu

Indulge in a traditional vegetarian kaiseki lunch at Tenryu-ji Shigetsu, where you can savor seasonal dishes while overlooking beautiful gardens.
The restaurant is located within the temple grounds; a 5-minute walk.
JPY3000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

After lunch, head to the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, renowned for its shimmering gold leaf exterior and beautifully manicured gardens.
Take bus number 101 from the Tenryu-ji bus stop to Kinkaku-ji; the journey takes about 30 minutes.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Philosopher's Path

Next, enjoy a scenic walk along the Philosopher's Path, a picturesque cherry-tree lined canal famous for its stunning beauty, especially during springtime.
Take bus number 204 from Kinkaku-ji to the Ginkaku-ji-michi stop; walk to the path from there.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen

End your day with a delicious bowl of tonkotsu ramen at Ippudo, one of the best ramen chains in Japan, where the rich broth and tender noodles will delight your palate.
Take a 15-minute tram ride to central Kyoto from the Philosopher's Path.
JPY1500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening Stroll in Gion District

Conclude your day with an evening stroll through Gion, Kyoto's historic geisha district, where you may spot geiko and maiko walking to their appointments.
It's a 15-minute walk from Ippudo to Gion.
Free, 1 hour
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