One Perfect Day in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Explore Kyoto's Charm

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day at the iconic Inoda Coffee, where you can enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast set featuring grilled fish, miso soup, and rice, all while savoring expertly brewed coffee.
Head east on Shijo-street from your accommodation to Inoda Coffee, which is conveniently located nearby.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

After breakfast, take a bus to the stunning Kinkaku-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its serene gardens and the shimmering gold leaf exterior of the pavilion reflecting on the pond.
Catch bus 101 or 205 from 'Kiyomizu-dera' stop to 'Kinkaku-ji' stop.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll Through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Next, head to Arashiyama, where a stroll through the enchanting bamboo grove will make you feel like you've stepped into a scene from a Miyazaki film.
From Kinkaku-ji, take the bus back to 'Kyoto Station' and then transfer to the JR train for a short ride to 'Saga-Arashiyama' station.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Togetsu-kyō Restaurant

Enjoy a delectable lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the river in Arashiyama, where you can savor Yudofu (tofu hot pot) and seasonal side dishes.
Walk a few minutes from the Bamboo Grove to find this charming riverside spot.
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple

After lunch, visit Tenryu-ji, a famous Zen temple with breathtaking gardens, the perfect spot to soak in the tranquility of traditional Japanese design.
A short 10-minute walk from the restaurant will get you to Tenryu-ji.
JPY500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Discover Fushimi Inari Taisha

Continue your journey to Fushimi Inari Taisha, known for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that wind through the mountains, offering an enchanting hiking experience.
Take the JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station back to 'Inari' station, which is a short walk away from the shrine.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Finish your day with a kaiseki dinner (traditional multi-course meal) at renowned Isshisoden Nakamura, where you'll experience the art of Japanese cuisine with beautifully presented dishes.
Head back to the station and take a taxi for a quick ride to the restaurant.
JPY8000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Evening Walk in Gion

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and the chance to spot a Geisha.
It’s a short taxi ride or a pleasant 20-minute walk from the restaurant to Gion.
Free, 1 hour
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