3-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a hearty Japanese-style breakfast and great coffee at Inoda Coffee, a local favorite open from 7:30am.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, famous for its gold leaf-covered exterior and beautiful gardens. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Ryoan-ji Temple

Experience the serene rock garden of Ryoan-ji, an iconic zen site located close to Kinkaku-ji. Open from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Enjoy a delicious okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake) lunch at this well-rated spot near northern Kyoto temples. Open 11:00am to 2:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h

3:00pm

Stroll in the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Relax with a peaceful walk around the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, open from 9:00am to 4:30pm, offering scenic views and historical ambiance.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Dine on traditional Kyoto kaiseki cuisine at Gion Kappa, a charming restaurant located in Gion. Reservations recommended, open until 9:30pm.
JPY5000, 2h
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Day 2: Central Kyoto Heritage

Kyoto, Japan on April 26, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Savor a light Japanese-style breakfast with excellent coffee at this popular café, open from 8:00am.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Explore Nijo Castle

Immerse yourself in Edo period history by touring Nijo Castle, known for its beautiful gardens and “nightingale floors.” Open 8:45am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample diverse Kyoto street foods and fresh produce at Nishiki Market, the city's famous food market open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto International Manga Museum

Discover Japanese pop culture through the world's largest collection of manga at this engaging museum, open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY800, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Enjoy a serene late afternoon walk and maybe some cherry blossoms at Maruyama Park, open until dusk.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience Kyoto’s nightlife and dine at one of the traditional restaurants in atmospheric Pontocho Alley. Many places open until 10:00pm.
JPY4000, 2h
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Day 3: Southern Kyoto Shrines

Kyoto, Japan on April 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at a local convenience store

Grab a quick Japanese breakfast from a convenience store nearby to maximize your early start.
JPY500, 30m

8:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore the iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari, a spiritual site open 24 hours.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Admire the stunning traditional temple gardens at Tofuku-ji, a peaceful spot open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sushiro Kyoto Fushimi

Enjoy fresh and affordable conveyor belt sushi at Sushiro, open 11:00am to 10:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Fushimi Sake District

Walk through the historic sake brewery district, visit tasting rooms, and learn about Kyoto’s sake tradition. Many breweries open 10:00am to 4:00pm.
Free to enter, tasting fees vary, 2h

5:00pm

Return to central Kyoto or prepare for departure

Wind down your trip with shopping or rest before departure.
Varies, Flexible

7:00pm

Dinner at Yakiniku Hiro

Finish your visit with a savory grilled meat dinner at Yakiniku Hiro, a popular spot with locals. Open until 11:00pm.
JPY4500, 2h
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