3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural Icons

Kyoto, Japan on April 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-style breakfast and excellent coffee at Inoda Coffee, a beloved local chain known for its cozy atmosphere.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:45am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit this iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that create scenic walking paths up the mountain, an essential spiritual experience.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Yakimonya Taka

Enjoy a meal of grilled local delicacies, including yakitori and seasonal vegetables, located near the Fushimi Inari area for authentic flavors.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Gion District Walk

Explore Kyoto’s famous geisha district, stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, and spot geiko and maiko on their way to appointments.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Stop by Yasaka Shrine to admire its vibrant architecture and enjoy the historic ambiance that is especially lovely in the afternoon light.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Savor kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course meal, in the elegant setting of Gion Kappa for a true taste of Kyoto’s culinary artistry.
JPY6000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature & Temples

Kyoto, Japan on April 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Coffee

Grab freshly brewed specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular café located in Arashiyama to start a day immersed in nature.
JPY800, 0h45m

8:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the mesmerizing bamboo forest early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere surrounded by towering bamboo stalks.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, offering peaceful reflection amidst nature.
JPY500, 1h15m

11:15am

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles and tempura with views over the Katsura River, providing a relaxing riverside dining experience.
JPY2500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion covered in gold leaf, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks surrounded by beautiful gardens and a reflective pond.
JPY400, 1h0m

2:30pm

Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

Experience the minimalist beauty of Ryoan-ji’s rock garden, a classic example of Zen landscaping that invites contemplation.
JPY500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to Central Kyoto

Travel back towards central Kyoto to rest and prepare for dinner.
Transport cost approx. JPY500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Explore this lively street lined with restaurants and choose from various options offering traditional Japanese dishes in an atmospheric setting along the river.
JPY3000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Markets & History

Kyoto, Japan on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Sample a variety of street foods and pick up fresh, local ingredients in this bustling market known as Kyoto’s kitchen.
JPY1500, 1h30m

9:45am

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Tour the historic home of Japan’s imperial family with spacious gardens and beautiful traditional buildings. Note: guided tours open at 9:00am and run until 4:30pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy hand-pulled udon noodles served in a calming traditional ambiance close to Kodai-ji Temple.
JPY2000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Kodai-ji Temple and Zen Garden

Explore the beautiful temple and its garden, famous for seasonal flowers and peaceful walking paths.
JPY600, 1h0m

3:00pm

Philosopher’s Path

Take a leisurely stroll along this famous cherry-tree-lined canal route connecting several important temples, perfect for reflection and photography.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Kikunoi Honten

Finish your trip with a memorable kaiseki meal at this Michelin-starred restaurant, showcasing seasonal Kyoto cuisine with exquisite presentation.
JPY10000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability