One Perfect Day in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Kyoto Day

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day at Inoda Coffee, a traditional café famous for its rich coffee and delightful breakfast set, kickstarting the exploration with a taste of local culture.
Located in the city center, it's easily accessible by foot or public transport.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its wooden stage that offers breathtaking views of the cherry and maple trees, especially lovely during spring and autumn.
Take bus #100 from the café to Kiyomizu-dera, which takes about 20 minutes.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll Through Higashiyama District

After the temple visit, take a leisurely walk through the charming Higashiyama District, filled with narrow streets, traditional wooden houses, and lovely shops selling Kyoto's famous artisan crafts.
It’s a short 10-minute walk from Kiyomizu-dera.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Omen

Enjoy a delicious lunch of handmade udon at Omen, renowned for its unique broth and fresh ingredients, providing a perfect balance of taste.
Omen is located a 15-minute walk from Higashiyama.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

After lunch, head to Arashiyama to stroll through the breathtaking Bamboo Grove, an iconic site where towering bamboo stalks create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere.
Take the train from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama, which takes about 30 minutes.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Right beside the bamboo grove, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its beautiful garden and tranquil surroundings, allowing a moment of reflection.
A 5-minute walk from the bamboo grove.
JPY500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Tea at Tsujiri

Unwind with a traditional Japanese tea experience at Tsujiri, where you can enjoy matcha and delightful sweets in a serene setting.
Head back to Arashiyama Station and take the train towards Kyoto Station (30 minutes), then walk to Tsujiri.
JPY800, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Conclude your day with a meal at Gion Kappa, a cozy spot known for its tempura and traditional kaiseki dishes, offering an authentic dining experience in the heart of the city's historical district.
It's about a 20-minute walk from Tsujiri in Gion area.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll in Gion

End your perfect day with a relaxed evening walk through Gion, one of the most famous geisha districts in Japan, where you might spot a geisha or maiko while enjoying the illuminated streets.
You can explore the area on foot after dinner.
Free, 1 hour
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