Unforgettable 3-Day Itinerary in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on March 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica

Start your day with freshly brewed specialty coffee and delicious pastries at this popular café chain, known for its stunning minimalist decor.
JPY900, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji

Also known as the Golden Pavilion, this zen temple is surreal with its top two floors completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully in the surrounding pond.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Gion District

Wander through Kyoto's famous geisha district, filled with traditional wooden machiya houses and tea shops while keeping an eye out for geisha and maiko.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Enjoy a variety of street food offerings from over 130 shops and stalls, from fresh sushi to matcha desserts, all set in a vibrant market atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Walk through the iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates at this important Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Indulge in kaiseki dinner, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal, crafted from seasonal ingredients in an elegant setting.
JPY8000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan on March 14, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Tosca

Savor a delightful breakfast with a variety of pastries and a western-style meal before heading to Nara.
JPY1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a giant bronze Buddha statue, a must-see for its historical significance and stunning architecture.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Nara Park stroll

Take a leisurely walk in Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming deer, making for an enchanting and photogenic experience.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Maguro Koya

Enjoy fresh sushi bowls or donburi featuring seasonal fish, all within the quaint ambience of this local eatery.
JPY2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Kasuga-taisha Shrine

Explore this Shinto shrine famous for its lanterns, both stone and bronze, with a serene forest setting offering a peaceful escape.
JPY500, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Kyoto

Head back to Kyoto by train to unwind and prepare for dinner.
JPY800, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Ippudo

Experience a bowl of tonkotsu ramen at this popular chain, where flavorsome broth and handmade noodles await in a casual setting.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on March 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy authentic soba noodles with a beautiful view of the Katsura River, perfect before a day of sightseeing.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through the enchanting bamboo forest, where towering stalks create a magical atmosphere that's perfect for photos.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Iwatayama Monkey Park

Hike up to see wild monkeys in their natural habitat at this unique park, which also offers stunning views of Kyoto.
JPY600, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Sagano

Indulge in a traditional kyo-kaiseki set lunch, featuring beautiful and seasonal dishes embodying the essence of Kyoto cuisine.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Discover this large Zen temple complex with stunning gardens and historic architecture, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Experience a unique twist on ramen with their signature burnt miso ramen, a delicious and smoky flavour that stands out.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours
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