Enchanting 3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Temples and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese coffee and handmade pastries at Inoda Coffee, a Kyoto institution open from 7:00am to 7:00pm.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the breathtaking Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple with its top two floors covered in gold leaf, surrounded by a serene pond and beautiful gardens. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Discover the famous Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, an iconic site for meditation and contemplation, located just a short walk from Kinkaku-ji. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kurumazushi

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style tofu dishes at Okutan Kurumazushi, a historic restaurant near Ryoan-ji, open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Nijo Castle

Visit the grand Nijo Castle, famous for its beautiful gardens and nightingale floors, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Open 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll through Nishiki Market

Wander Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s Kitchen, sampling snacks and browsing local crafts. Most shops open until 6:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Dine on authentic Kaiseki cuisine in the historic Gion district, open nightly from 6:00pm.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Historic Streets & Shrines

Kyoto, Japan on April 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Enjoy artisan coffee and light pastries at this stylish café, open from 7:00am.
JPY700, 0h45m

8:30am

Walk the Philosopher’s Path

Take a peaceful walk along this scenic canal-side path lined with cherry trees, connecting several temples. Open anytime.
Free, 1h30m

10:15am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore another stunning Zen temple known for its moss gardens and beautiful surroundings. Open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Try handmade udon noodles with fresh seasonal toppings near Kodai-ji Temple. Open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m

1:00pm

Tour Kodai-ji Temple and Gardens

Visit this tranquil temple famous for its gardens and tea houses, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore Yasaka Shrine, a lively Shinto shrine known for its festivals and vibrant atmosphere, open all day.
Free, 0h45m

3:30pm

Explore Hanamikoji Street

Stroll along this historic street in Gion lined with traditional teahouses and shops, perfect for cultural immersion.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Choose from numerous restaurants along this atmospheric alley famous for dining and nightlife, many open from 5:00pm onwards.
JPY4000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Iconic Landmarks & Culinary Delights

Kyoto, Japan on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Komeda’s Coffee

Enjoy a hearty Japanese breakfast set with coffee at Komeda’s, open from 7:00am.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:15am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates on this famous shrine’s trails. Open 24 hours.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Travel to Tofuku-ji Temple

Short train ride to Tofuku-ji, known for its autumn colors and Zen gardens. Open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Tofuku-ji Express Café

Light lunch available near Tofuku-ji with traditional Japanese dishes. Open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Sanjusangendo Hall

Marvel at 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in this impressive temple. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h0m

3:30pm

Tea break at Tsujiri Tea House

Experience Kyoto’s famous matcha tea and sweets at Tsujiri, open from 10:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY800, 0h45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Izuju Sushi

Conclude your trip with traditional Kyoto-style sushi at Izuju, a longstanding establishment open until 8:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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