One Perfect Day in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Explore Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Traditional Japanese Breakfast

Start your day with a traditional breakfast at Tsujiri, where you can enjoy grilled fish, miso soup, and freshly steamed rice, providing a nutritious and energizing start.
Take a short walk or a quick bus ride to your next activity.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji

Explore the stunning Zen Buddhist Temple of Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, which reflects beautifully in the surrounding pond.
From Tsujiri, take Bus 101 to Kinkaku-ji-Mae (about 30 minutes).
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Take a leisurely walk through the captivating Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
From Kinkaku-ji, return to the bus stop and take the bus to Arashiyama (about 40 minutes).
FREE, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Savor a delicious tofu-based meal at Yudofu Sagano, where you can relish in the delicate flavors of Kyoto's locally sourced tofu.
Enjoy a brief walk from the bamboo grove to the restaurant (about 10 minutes).
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Wander through the gardens of Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the stunning scenery, especially the views of the surrounding mountains.
It’s a short 5-minute walk from the restaurant to the temple.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine

Take the scenic route to Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermillion torii gates which create a captivating path up the sacred mountain.
Take the JR train from Saga-Arashiyama station to Inari station (about 30 minutes).
FREE, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion Owatari

End your day with a traditional Kaiseki dinner at Gion Owatari, experiencing a multi-course meal that showcases seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation.
Travel back to Gion area via subway or bus (about 30 minutes).
JPY8000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening Walk in Gion District

Take a leisurely evening stroll through the historic Gion District, where you just might encounter a Geiko (Geisha) on her way to an appointment.
Gion Owatari is located in the Gion District, so enjoy this walk at your leisure.
FREE, 1 hour
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