One Perfect Day in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Traditional Japanese Breakfast

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast at 'Kikunoi' where you can enjoy seasonal ingredients beautifully presented.
From your accommodation, take a short walk to Kikunoi located in Gion.
JPY3000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Next, visit the stunning Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Take bus number 101 or 205 from Kiyomizu-gojo Station to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Experience serene beauty as you walk through the famous bamboo groves that feel like a peaceful retreat from the city.
Take the JR Sagano Line from Kinkaku-ji to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Arashiyama, Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a delicious Yudofu (tofu hot pot) lunch at 'Yudofu Sagano' amidst the peaceful nature of Arashiyama.
Walk from the Bamboo Grove location; it's conveniently close.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

After lunch, explore Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful garden and stunning architecture.
It's a short 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
JPY500, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at the Philosopher's Path

Take a tranquil walk along the Philosopher's Path, a cherry tree-lined canal that is particularly stunning in spring.
Catch a bus from Tenryu-ji back toward the city and get off at Ginkaku-ji.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Gion Kappo

End your day with an exquisite kaiseki dinner at 'Gion Kappo', where you'll savor the flavors of the season in a multi-course meal.
From the Philosopher’s Path, take a bus to Gion.
JPY8000, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening Walk in Gion

Take a stroll through Gion district, where you may catch a glimpse of Geishas and enjoy the charming traditional wooden buildings.
You can easily walk around Gion after your dinner.
Free, 1 hour
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