3-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Central Kyoto Tour

Kyoto, Japan on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Start your day tasting local street foods and fresh Japanese delicacies in this lively market known as Kyoto's kitchen.
JPY0, 1h0m

9:30am

Nijo Castle Visit

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful gardens and historical significance as a former shogun residence. Open 8:45am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

11:30am

Lunch at Izuju Sushi

Enjoy authentic Kyoto-style sushi in this well-established restaurant located near Gion, known for its unique style and fresh ingredients.
JPY2000, 1h

1:00pm

Gion District Walk

Stroll through the historic geisha district, spotting traditional machiya houses and possibly some geisha and maiko on their way to appointments.
JPY0, 2h0m

3:30pm

Yasaka Shrine Visit

Visit this vibrant shrine that connects Gion with Higashiyama, a great spot for photos and local culture. Open 24 hours.
JPY0, 0h45m

5:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Experience traditional Kaiseki dining offering beautifully presented seasonal dishes in a refined setting in Gion.
JPY6000, 2h0m

Day 2: Arashiyama Nature

Kyoto, Japan on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Coffee House

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and Japanese-style toast to start your day in the scenic Arashiyama area.
JPY800, 1h0m

8:30am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Walk early to avoid crowds in this iconic bamboo forest famous for its serene atmosphere and photogenic paths.
JPY0, 1h0m

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple Visit

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage temple known for its stunning Zen garden and peaceful temple grounds. Open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Dine at the temple's shojin ryori restaurant featuring traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Okochi-Sanso Villa

Explore this beautiful villa and gardens with spectacular views of Kyoto. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Togetsukyo Bridge Walk

Relax with a stroll over this iconic wooden bridge offering picturesque views of the Katsura River and mountains.
JPY0, 0h45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura Soba

Taste handmade soba noodles served with scenic views of the river, perfect after a day of exploring nature.
JPY2500, 1h30m

Day 3: Northern Kyoto Culture

Kyoto, Japan on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Kyoto Kitaoji

Start your day with specialty coffee made from carefully sourced beans, a local favorite for coffee lovers.
JPY800, 0h45m

9:00am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit one of Kyoto's most famous Zen temples, known for its spectacular gold-leaf covered exterior shimmering over the pond. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

10:30am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Explore the renowned Zen rock garden considered a masterpiece of minimalism and meditation. Open 8:00am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Izusen

Enjoy traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine near Nanzen-ji Temple, highlighting seasonal and delicate flavors.
JPY3000, 1h15m

1:30pm

Philosopher's Path Walk

Walk this serene canal-side path lined with cherry trees and stops at smaller temples, perfect for reflection and nature appreciation.
JPY0, 2h0m

4:00pm

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Visit this historic Zen temple with elegant gardens, contrasting the Golden Pavilion and offering a peaceful end to your trip. Open 8:30am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Hyotei

Savor exquisite Kaiseki cuisine in a restaurant with over 400 years of history, an unforgettable culinary experience to conclude your visit.
JPY9000, 2h0m