4-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historical Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast with freshly brewed coffee at this historic café known for its classic ambiance.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site offering panoramic views of Kyoto and stunning wooden architecture; open 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Stroll through Higashiyama District

Wander the preserved streets lined with traditional shops, tea houses, and local crafts, capturing the essence of old Kyoto.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Sanjo Honten

Relish Kyoto-style yudofu (tofu hot pot) in a serene setting near Chion-in Temple, open 11:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Gion District

Explore the famous geisha district with traditional wooden machiya houses, and perhaps spot a geisha or maiko; area accessible anytime.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Tea at Camellia Garden

Experience a Japanese tea ceremony in this charming tea house specializing in matcha inside the Gion district.
JPY2000, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Savor kaiseki cuisine made with seasonal Kyoto ingredients in an intimate traditional setting; open until 9:30pm.
JPY6000, 2h
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Day 2: Nature and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on April 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama

Start the day with expertly brewed specialty coffee at this hip riverside café.
JPY800, 1h

8:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic towering bamboo forest, best seen early to avoid crowds; open 24 hours.
Free, 1h

9:30am

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple

Discover this Zen temple known for its exquisite gardens and scenic pond; open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h

11:00am

Visit the Monkey Park Iwatayama

Climb to the park atop the mountain to observe wild macaques and enjoy views of Kyoto; open 9:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY550, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory

Try whimsical Totoro-themed cream puffs at this beloved bakery right by the river.
JPY600, 0h45m

2:00pm

River boat cruise on Katsura River

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride offering scenic views of Arashiyama; cruises run 9:00am to 4:00pm, weather permitting.
JPY1500, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour the beautiful villa and gardens of a famous actor, offering stunning hillside views; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Dine on soba noodles with a picturesque river view, serving until 8:30pm.
JPY3000, 1.5h
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Day 3: Philosophy and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a cozy café atmosphere with Japanese-style pancakes and coffee.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Stroll along Philosopher’s Path

Walk this tranquil pathway lined with cherry trees and small temples; open anytime.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

See the Zen temple and its exquisite moss garden, open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor handmade udon noodles with seasonal vegetables near Kodai-ji Temple; open 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore this large Zen temple complex with tranquil gardens and impressive gate; open 8:40am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

2:45pm

Visit Eikan-do Zenrin-ji

Admire stunning autumn foliage and the famous statue of Amida Buddha; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h

4:00pm

Coffee and sweets at Iyemon Salon

Relax with matcha desserts in a modern Japanese café close to Philosopher's Path.
JPY1000, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ganko Sushi

Experience fresh Kyoto-style sushi at this reputable local chain, serving until 9:00pm.
JPY4000, 1.5h
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Day 4: Shrines and Markets

Kyoto, Japan on April 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Sample various traditional Kyoto street foods like tamago (egg) skewers and fresh mochi at market stalls.
JPY1000, 1h

8:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Walk the famous thousands of vermillion torii gates along the mountain trails; shrine open 24 hours.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Famous for its autumn leaves and impressive Zen gardens; open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Inari Sushi Koji

Enjoy traditional inari sushi near the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a light and flavorful lunch option.
JPY1000, 0h45m

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk through the beautifully maintained gardens and historic grounds; park open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Shopping in Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades

Browse anime goods, souvenirs, and artisan shops in these lively arcades near downtown Kyoto.
Varies, 1h30m

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Celebrate your Kyoto trip with elegant kaiseki dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant; booking recommended.
JPY15000, 2h
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