One Perfect Day in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica

Start your day with a perfect cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast at % Arabica, known for its freshly brewed espresso and beautiful pastries.
Walk 10 minutes from your hotel or take a local bus to the café.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

After breakfast, stroll through the breathtaking gardens of Kinkaku-ji, a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf that reflects beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Take bus #101 or #205 from % Arabica to Kinkaku-ji, approximately 30 minutes.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Head to the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove where you can walk through towering lush bamboo stalks and experience a serene atmosphere.
Travel by tram from Kinkaku-ji to Arashiyama (approximately 40 minutes).
JPY600, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Yoshimura

Savor a traditional soba noodle meal at Yoshimura, known for its handmade soba served in a tranquil setting overlooking the nearby river.
Walk 15 minutes from Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to the restaurant.
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

After lunch, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tenryu-ji Temple, significant for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
A short 10-minute walk from Yoshimura takes you to Tenryu-ji.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk along the Philosopher's Path

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Philosopher's Path, a picturesque canal lined with cherry blossom trees, cafes, and small temples.
Take a bus from Tenryu-ji to the northern entrance of the Philosopher's Path (approximately 30 minutes).
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Conclude your day with dinner at Gion Kappa, where you can indulge in authentic kaiseki cuisine in the historic Gion district.
Walk 20 minutes to the Gion district from the Philosopher's Path.
JPY5000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Evening Stroll in Gion

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through Gion, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko while exploring charming wooden machiya houses.
Explore Gion on foot, as it is best discovered by walking.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability