3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic City Centre

Kyoto, Japan on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with traditional Japanese-style breakfast and fragrant coffee at this beloved Kyoto café, open from 7:00am, offering a perfect morning atmosphere.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Nishiki Market Visit

Wander through this lively marketplace known as Kyoto's kitchen, sampling seasonal foods and observing local artisans. It opens at 9:00am and is perfect for food lovers.
Free entry, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy a famous udon noodle meal in a serene setting near Kodai-ji Temple, serving delicious handmade noodles popular with locals and tourists alike.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Gion District

Stroll the atmospheric streets of this historic geisha district, admiring traditional wooden machiya houses and possibly spotting geiko in the early afternoon.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Visit this iconic Shinto shrine at the edge of Gion, open all day and a beautiful place to witness local spirituality and seasonal festivals.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience kyoto kaiseki cuisine at this cozy Michelin-starred restaurant, offering seasonal and artfully presented dishes, reservations recommended.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Nature and Temples

Kyoto, Japan on April 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Grab a smooth artisan coffee with stunning riverside views. Opens at 7:30am, perfect for an energising start before exploring Arashiyama.
JPY600, 45m

8:30am

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through this iconic bamboo forest early to avoid crowds, surrounded by towering bamboo stalks and a tranquil atmosphere.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Tour this UNESCO World Heritage temple, famous for its stunning gardens and traditional architecture, open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h

11:00am

Riverboat Ride on Katsura River

Enjoy a scenic boat trip along the Katsura River, offering picturesque views of nature. Check availability as tours vary by season.
JPY1500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Experience traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine within Tenryu-ji grounds, offering a peaceful dining environment and wholesome flavours.
JPY3500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire this dazzling gold-leaf covered temple and serene pond, one of Kyoto’s must-see landmarks. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Contemplate the famous Zen rock garden near Kinkaku-ji, known for its minimalist beauty and tranquillity.
JPY500, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Savour a warm, comforting tofu-based meal in a traditional Kyoto setting, open until 8:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 3: Historic Southern Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Indulge in expertly brewed coffee and light pastries in a sleek café near popular temples, open from 8:00am.
JPY700, 45m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous thousands of red torii gates up the mountain trail. This shrine is open 24 hours and is best experienced early to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover this serene Zen temple with beautiful gardens, including a notable autumnal maple foliage area. Open 9:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Okina Soba

Enjoy handcrafted soba noodles in a traditional atmosphere near Tofuku-ji, a local favourite for hearty Japanese meals.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Sanjusangendo Hall

Marvel at the 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in this striking temple. Opens 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Kyoto Station Area

Visit the striking modern architecture, shops, and observation deck. Perfect last-minute shopping and photo opportunities before departure.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Ramen Koji

Sample a variety of regional ramen dishes under one roof at Kyoto Station’s ramen street, open until late evening.
JPY1000, 1h
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