4-Day Kyoto Cultural and Historical Tour Including Key Temples and Markets

Day 1: Temple and Castle

Kyoto, Japan on April 26, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Kyoto-style breakfast and excellent coffee at this local café, open from 8:00am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

10:30am

Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Kinkakuji Temple, known for its gold-leaf covered exterior and beautiful garden setting. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Enjoy traditional Japanese savory pancakes in a cozy setting, open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Nijo Castle

Explore the historic Nijo Castle, famous for its beautiful gardens and nightingale floors. Open from 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience a traditional kaiseki dinner, showcasing seasonal Kyoto ingredients. Reservations recommended. Open from 5:30pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m

Day 2: Nature and Relaxation

Kyoto, Japan on April 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries just minutes from the bamboo grove. Open from 8:00am.
JPY800, 0h45m

9:00am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early to avoid crowds and enjoy serene natural beauty.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens near the bamboo grove. Open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Dine at this shojin ryori (vegetarian Buddhist cuisine) restaurant inside Tenryu-ji Temple, open 11:00am to 2:00pm.
JPY3000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Boat Ride at Katsura River

Enjoy a scenic boat ride for a different perspective of Arashiyama’s landscape.
JPY2000, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Saga Tofu Ine

Taste delightful tofu-based dishes near Arashiyama, open from 5:00pm onwards.
JPY2500, 1h30m

Day 3: Historic Temples & Traditional District

Kyoto, Japan on April 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Higashiyama

Enjoy top-quality coffee and light breakfast near Kiyomizu-dera. Open from 8:00am.
JPY800, 0h45m

9:30am

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this iconic temple known for its wooden terrace with panoramic views. Open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Gion Tanto

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style home cooking in the heart of Gion. Open 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Gion District

Wander through Kyoto’s famous geisha district, see machiya houses, and possibly spot geisha in the afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Enjoy kaiseki and local specialties in a traditional setting, open from 5:00pm. Reservations recommended.
JPY6000, 2h0m

Day 4: Market and Departure

Kyoto, Japan on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast near Nishiki Market

Try a Japanese-style breakfast sandwich or coffee at a nearby café before exploring the market.
JPY1000, 0h45m

9:00am

Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto’s famous food market for local snacks, pick up souvenirs, and experience the culinary culture. Market opens at 9:00am.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Warai

Experience okonomiyaki and casual dining at this popular Nishiki Market eatery.
JPY1200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Last-minute shopping or cafe visit

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at a nearby café or shopping in downtown Kyoto before departure.
JPY500, 1h30m