4-Day Scenic and Cultural Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples

Kyoto, Japan on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Kyoto

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast with matcha and fresh seasonal ingredients to start your day right in a serene atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:30am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the iconic golden Zen temple with its stunning reflections on the pond, perfect for immersive cultural photos and history.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Ryoan-ji Zen Rock Garden

Explore the famous rock garden renowned for its minimalist design and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for meditation and reflection.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine on exquisite yuba (tofu skin) cuisine at this restaurant overlooking the quiet river in northern Kyoto.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:15pm

Daitoku-ji Temple Complex

Wander through this large temple complex known for its Zen culture, beautiful gardens, and art exhibitions.
JPY500, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Waraku

Experience authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal local ingredients in a traditional setting.
JPY6000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Landmarks

Kyoto, Japan on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a light Japanese-Western style breakfast with freshly brewed coffee in a historic cafe popular with locals.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Nijo Castle

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful gardens, ornate interiors, and historic significance as a shogun residence.
JPY1030, 2h0m

11:30am

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Visit the former residence of the Imperial family, surrounded by beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor handmade udon noodles and seasonal vegetable dishes near the famous Kodai-ji Temple.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Kodai-ji Temple and Garden

Stroll a peaceful temple complex with stunning gardens and elegant architecture, especially beautiful in spring.
JPY600, 1h15m

4:00pm

Philosopher’s Path

Walk along this scenic canal-side path lined with cherry trees and quaint cafes, a favorite for leisurely strolls.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Enjoy refined Kyoto cuisine in the historic Gion district, blending tradition with elegant modern flavors.
JPY7000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Traditional Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a cozy breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee in this stylish book-themed cafe in central Kyoto.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit the famous shrine known for thousands of bright red torii gates forming scenic mountain trails.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - Espresso Bar & Info

Casual lunch spot with light meals and delicious coffee, near the entrance to Fushimi Inari Shrine.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore this large Zen temple complex famous for its gardens and autumn foliage, peaceful and less crowded.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Gion District Walk

Experience Kyoto’s preserved historic geisha district with traditional teahouses, shops, and scenic streets.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Choose from many traditional restaurants along the atmospheric narrow alley by the river, with options for kaiseki or yakitori.
Variable, approx. JPY5000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Nature & Scenery

Kyoto, Japan on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Sip some of Kyoto’s best specialty coffees paired with light pastries while enjoying views of the Katsura River.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple

Walk through the famous bamboo forest and visit nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO site with beautiful gardens.
Tenryu-ji JPY500, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy traditional shojin ryori (vegetarian Buddhist cuisine) at this serene restaurant inside Tenryu-ji Temple grounds.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Boat Ride on the Hozu River

Take a scenic boat trip down the Hozu River amidst lush greenery and picturesque natural views.
JPY3500, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto city center

Relax on the train ride back to the central Kyoto area for last night’s dinner and souvenirs.
JPY500, 1h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Giro Giro Hitoshina

Experience modern kaiseki cuisine in a lively setting, perfectly wrapping up your Kyoto adventure.
JPY8000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability