3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on April 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a classic Kyoto breakfast and a cup of expertly brewed coffee at Inoda Coffee, a beloved coffee shop with a retro atmosphere open from 7:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, famous for its stunning gold-leaf facade reflecting over a tranquil pond. It's a must-see historic site with opening hours from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

11:00am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Explore Ryoan-ji, renowned for its zen rock garden which invites contemplation. Open from 8:00am to 5:00pm, it’s a serene spot close to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style udon noodles at Omen Kodai-ji, located near several temples, offering seasonal dishes from 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Nijo Castle

Tour Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ornate interiors and 'nightingale floors.' It is open from 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk around Nishiki Market

Stroll through Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s famous food market, filled with local specialties and souvenirs. Most shops operate until 6:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Sushi

Dine on fresh sushi in Gion District at Gion Kappa Sushi, open until 10:00pm, offering a vibrant local dining experience.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Scenic Eastern Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Higashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries at % Arabica Higashiyama, open from 8:00am to 6:00pm, perfect for starting your day in eastern Kyoto.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:00am

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit Kiyomizu-dera, famous for its wooden stage with views over Kyoto and beautiful cherry blossoms in season. Open 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets

Enjoy a stroll on these historic pedestrian streets lined with traditional shops and tea houses, offering a glimpse into old Kyoto.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Savor traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) at Okutan, a historic restaurant near Kiyomizu-dera, open from 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Philosopher's Path

Walk the scenic Philosopher's Path, a beautiful canal-side route particularly lovely in spring, open all day.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore Ginkaku-ji, the Silver Pavilion with its lovely gardens and cultural significance. Open from 8:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

5:30pm

Return to city center

Head back to central Kyoto for dinner and relaxing evening activities.
Transport cost approx. JPY300, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in one of many riverside restaurants along Pontocho Alley, offering a lively atmosphere with various food options until around 11:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Southern Temples & Relaxation

Kyoto, Japan on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Viennoiserie Taka

Indulge in French-style pastries and coffee at Viennoiserie Taka, open from 7:30am to 6:00pm, for a perfect start before heading south.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:00am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore the famous torii gate tunnels at Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic and photogenic site open 24 hours, best visited early to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple known for its tranquil gardens and impressive autumn colors, open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Torito

Enjoy yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other local dishes at Torito near Fushimi Inari, open for lunch 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Sanjusangendo Hall

See the impressive hall housing 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h0m

3:30pm

Kyoto Station and shopping

Return to Kyoto Station to explore shopping areas and enjoy views from the station’s Skyway, open until late evening.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Izuju Sushi

Dine on traditional Kyoto-style sushi at Izuju near Gion, open until 7:30pm, for a memorable last meal in Kyoto.
JPY3000, 1h0m
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