Enchanting 6-Day Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Awakening

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ippodo Tea Co.

Start your day with a calming traditional Japanese breakfast of tea and seasonal local delicacies at one of Kyoto’s renowned tea houses.
Located in the city centre, easy access by bus or walking.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the breathtaking Zen Buddhist temple, with its gold-leaf façade shimmering in the surrounding pond.
Take bus #101 or #205 directly to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander among towering bamboo stalks, embracing nature's serenity in one of Kyoto's must-visit sites.
Take JR San-In Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station, then walk.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Savour delicious soba noodles with a beautiful river view; a perfect break after the morning’s adventures.
Located near the Bamboo Grove.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Discover one of Kyoto's most significant temples, known for its stunning gardens and serene atmosphere.
Short walk from the Bamboo Grove.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Walk around Gion District

Explore the historic streets, spotting traditional wooden machiya houses and geishas in the early evening.
Take bus #28 from Tenryu-ji to Gion.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Indulge in a kaiseki meal, a traditional multi-course dinner highlighting seasonal ingredients.
Located within the Gion District.
JPY8000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historical Insights

Kyoto, Japan

7:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Kochi

Enjoy a delectable breakfast of matcha pancakes or traditional toast and coffee.
Located close to the city centre.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Hike through the iconic pathways lined with thousands of red torii gates, dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice.
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto to Inari Station.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Tofuku-ji Temple

Admire the stunning Zen gardens and tranquil atmosphere at one of Kyoto's oldest temples.
Take bus #202 to Tofuku-ji Temple.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shishin Samurai Restaurant

Relish in samurai-themed dining with a variety of local dishes served in a unique atmosphere.
Short walk from Tofuku-ji.
JPY2500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Nijo Castle

Discover the magnificent castle and its gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the power of the shoguns.
Take bus #9 from Shishin to Nijo Castle.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Enjoy a Tea Ceremony Experience

Participate in a traditional tea ceremony, gaining insight into Japanese culture.
Return to Gion area; various schools offer this experience.
JPY3500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Nishiki Market

Explore the vibrant food stalls and try a variety of local delicacies while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Walk from the tea house to Nishiki Market.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature and Culture

Nara, Japan

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hiraso

Start your day with traditional Nara kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves) for a unique taste.
Located near Nara Park.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Nara Park

Encounter freely roaming deer while taking in the beautiful park and temple complex.
Central location; easily accessible.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Todai-ji Temple

Marvel at the Great Buddha statue within this monumental temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Short walk from Nara Park.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Delight in fresh sushi and sashimi sourced from local markets, offering an authentic taste of Nara.
Located nearby Todai-ji Temple.
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Discover this ancient shrine known for its rustic atmosphere and thousands of stone lanterns.
Take a short walk from Maguro Koya.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Wander through Naramachi

Explore the preserved district, with traditional wooden houses and artisan shops.
Walk from Kasuga-taisha Shrine.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nara Sake Brewery

Taste local sake paired with delicious grilled fish; a special end to your day in Nara.
Located within Naramachi district.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Urban Adventure

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Club

Enjoy western-style brunch options, perfect to energise you for a day of exploration.
Located near Osaka station.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the historic castle along with its beautiful gardens, offering panoramic views from the top.
Take the JR Loop Line to Osakajo-Koen Station.
JPY600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dotonbori Street

Indulge in Osaka’s famous street food, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Take subway from Osakajo-Koen to Namba Station.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Shitenno-ji Temple

Visit Japan's oldest temple, founded in 593, showcasing exquisite architecture and tranquil gardens.
Take subway to Shitennoji-mae Yuhigaoka Station.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk through Kuromon Ichiba Market

Meander through this bustling market, sampling fresh seafood and local produce.
Return to Namba Station taking subway.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Savour the famous Matsusaka beef grilled to perfection in this highly acclaimed yakiniku restaurant.
Located near Namba Station.
JPY10000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Coastal Beauty

Kobe, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de Flore

Enjoy a warm croissant and fresh coffee in this classy café while surrounded by an elegant ambiance.
Located in the Sannomiya district.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Meriken Park

Take in the picturesque waterfront views, including the iconic Kobe Port Tower.
Short walk from Cafe de Flore.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Kobe Maritime Museum

Learn about Kobe's rich maritime heritage and see various model ships.
Located in Meriken Park.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Steakland Kobe

Experience Kobe beef prepared right before your eyes; a culinary delight not to be missed.
Located in Sannomiya.
JPY8000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Take the Ropeway to Mount Rokko

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kobe and Osaka from the top of this mountain.
Take a bus from Sannomiya to the ropeway station.
JPY1500, 2 hours

5:30PM

Walk Through Kobe Chinatown

Explore the vibrant streets filled with shops and restaurants, capturing the essence of Chinese culture.
Return to Sannomiya Station via bus.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kobe Beef Kaiseki 511

Dine in luxury, finishing your day with an exquisite kaiseki meal featuring the world-renowned Kobe beef.
Located within the Chinatown area.
JPY12000, 2 hours
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Day 6: Final Touches

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Katsu Café

Enjoy a delicious katsu sandwich with fresh ingredients, fueling you for the final explorations.
Easily reachable by train from Kyoto city.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Heian Shrine

Explore the beautiful gardens and traditional architecture of this stunning shrine.
Take bus #204 from the city centre.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Kyoto Imperial Palace

Wander through the expansive grounds and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Take a short bus ride from Heian Shrine.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Savour delicious okonomiyaki, a savory pancake, known as a local specialty.
Located near the Imperial Palace.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Enjoy a Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Explore local shops for unique Kyoto souvenirs, capturing memories of your trip.
Easily accessible within the shopping districts.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Conclude your journey with an exquisite kaiseki meal, reflecting on the beautiful experiences you’ve had.
Located near the train station for convenience.
JPY10000, 2 hours
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