5-Day Family Friendly Luxury Itinerary in Kyoto with Authentic Cuisine

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation

Kyoto, Japan

2:00PM

Arrive at KIX

After passing through customs, prepare for your onward journey to Kyoto.
Proceed to the train station in the airport.
Free, 30 minutes

2:30PM

Haruka Express to Kyoto Station

Take the Haruka Express train to Kyoto Station, enjoying the scenic journey.
Train ride for 75 minutes.
JPY 3000 per person, 1.25 hours

4:00PM

Check into Ryokan

Settle into a traditional ryokan, such as Gion Hatanaka, where you can enjoy tatami-matted rooms and exquisite hospitality.
Short walk from Kyoto Station to the ryokan.
JPY 50000, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Stroll through Gion District

Wander through the historic streets of Gion, spotting geisha and learning about traditional tea houses.
Take a 10-minute walk from the ryokan.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Savour an authentic kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal ingredients in a beautiful setting perfect for a family celebration.
Just a short walk from Gion District.
JPY 8000 per person, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Try freshly-made soba noodles for breakfast at this famous spot with views of the river.
Take a taxi to Arashiyama (approx. 30 minutes).
JPY 1500 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji

Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion, surrounded by beautiful gardens, which reflects the elegance of Kyoto.
Taxi from Arashiyama for about 20 minutes.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk through Ryoan-ji

Relax in the calming atmosphere while observing the famous rock garden and temple grounds.
10-minute walk from Kinkaku-ji.
JPY 500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various authentic street foods at this bustling market, from yudofu to sakana (grilled fish).
Taxi back to the city centre, about 30 minutes.
Varies depending on purchases, 2 hours

2:30PM

Explore Nijo Castle

Discover the historic castle with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, rich in Japanese history.
15-minute walk from Nishiki Market.
JPY 1000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in one of the captivating restaurants along Pontocho Alley, where you can enjoy authentic Kyoto cuisine with a riverside view.
Take a 15-minute taxi to Pontocho.
JPY 6000 per person, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature & Relaxation

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shigetsu in Tenryu-ji

Savour an authentic Buddhist vegetarian breakfast, known as shojin ryori, in a serene temple setting.
Taxi for a 30-minute ride to Arashiyama.
JPY 2200 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting bamboo forest, a stunning display of nature perfect for family photos.
Near the dining location.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park

Spend time with the playful monkeys in a natural setting, with a beautiful view of Kyoto from the top.
30-minute hike from the Bamboo Grove.
JPY 600, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Savour authentic soba noodles while overlooking the river, enjoying the serene natural surroundings of Arashiyama.
Head back to the restaurant after the hike.
JPY 2000 per person, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Boat Ride on Hozu River

Relax and admire the picturesque scenery on a traditional boat ride along the Hozu River.
5-minute walk from the restaurant.
JPY 4000 per person, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Ryokan & Relax

Spend time relaxing at the ryokan, soaking in an onsen or enjoying family time over tea.
Taxi back to the ryokan.
JPY 2000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Hyotei

Experience a lavish multi-course kaiseki dinner at this renowned restaurant, celebrating Kyoto's culinary traditions.
Taxi to Hyotei for a 15-minute journey.
JPY 12000 per person, 2.5 hours
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Day 4: Historic Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Veloce

Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and authentic Japanese pastries at this local café.
Short walk from the ryokan.
JPY 800 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Marvel at the wooden stage and panoramic views of the city, surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms.
Taxi for about 15 minutes.
JPY 400, 2 hours

11:30AM

Wander through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Streets

Stroll these quaint historic streets lined with shops, cafes, and traditional architecture.
Short walk from Kiyomizu-dera.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Katsu Yoshinoya

Delight in a traditional pork cutlet (tonkatsu) meal, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
5-minute walk from Sannenzaka.
JPY 1500 per person, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Experience the Philosopher's Path

Take a scenic walk along this beautiful canal lined with cherry trees, connecting several quaint temples.
Take a taxi for a 15-minute ride.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore the stunning temple complex, known for its impressive Sanmon gate and peaceful gardens.
Short walk from the Philosopher's Path.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Enjoy a refined kaiseki dinner made with seasonal ingredients at this family-friendly renowned restaurant.
Take a taxi for a 20-minute ride.
JPY 10000 per person, 2 hours
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Day 5: Shopping & Departure Day

Kyoto, Japan

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Grab a last authentic breakfast of kyotan delicacies, including grilled fish and pickled vegetables at this bustling market.
Short walk from the ryokan.
Varies depending on purchases, 1 hour

7:30AM

Last-minute shopping at Nishiki Market

Spend time picking up souvenirs and local delicacies to take home.
Stay in Nishiki Market.
Varies depending on purchases., 1 hour

8:30AM

Check-out and Transfer to KIX

Check out from the ryokan and take the Haruka Express train back to Kansai International Airport for your departure flight.
10-minute walk to taxi stand, then head to Kyoto Station.
JPY 3000 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arrive at KIX

Arrive at the airport ensuring you have ample time to check in for your 11:00 AM departure.
Train ride for 75 minutes.
Free, 15 minutes
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