3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-style breakfast and excellent coffee at Inoda Coffee, a well-loved Kyoto institution near the Imperial Palace.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this iconic and stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, set amidst tranquil gardens and a reflecting pond.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Experience the world-famous minimalist rock garden epitomizing Zen aesthetics, near Kinkaku-ji.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy traditional Kyoto noodles at Omen Kodai-ji, well-regarded for its fresh udon served with seasonal vegetables.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Gion District

Stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, to admire traditional wooden machiya houses and historic streets.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Yasaka Shrine

Visit this vibrant Shinto shrine at the end of Shijo Avenue, known for its beautiful lantern-lit atmosphere during the evening.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Savor kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner featuring seasonal and local ingredients.
JPY8000, 2h0m

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on April 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee

Start with some of Kyoto's best specialty coffee and light pastries in central Kyoto.
JPY800, 0h45m

8:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk early through the iconic bamboo forest to avoid crowds and enjoy its ethereal beauty and tranquility.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning landscaped gardens and historic architecture.
JPY500, 1h15m

11:15am

Togetsukyo Bridge

Take a scenic stroll across this iconic wooden bridge with beautiful views of the river and mountains.
Free, 0h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine by the river on tofu-based seasonal cuisine at this peaceful restaurant in Arashiyama.
JPY3500, 1h15m

1:30pm

Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike up to see wild macaques with panoramic views over Kyoto city.
JPY550, 1h30m

3:30pm

Sagano Scenic Railway

Take this charming historic train along the Hozu River to return to the city.
JPY620, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at your hotel or visit a local onsen

Unwind with a soak at an onsen if available, or relax and prepare for dinner.
Varies, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nishiki Warai

Try local Osaka-style okonomiyaki in a friendly atmosphere close to Nishiki Market.
JPY2500, 1h30m

Day 3: Southern Kyoto & Traditional Arts

Kyoto, Japan on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Higashiyama

Have expertly brewed coffee and simple pastries in a stylish café near northern Higashiyama.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit the famous shrine known for thousands of orange torii gates winding up the sacred Mount Inari.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Enjoy a light and fresh lunch with excellent coffee near Fushimi Inari station.
JPY1300, 1h0m

1:30pm

Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore this temple renowned for its autumn leaves and traditional Japanese gardens.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Kyoto National Museum

Discover exquisite collections of traditional Kyoto art and cultural artifacts.
JPY750, 1h30m

5:00pm

Walk the Philosopher's Path

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along this scenic canal-side path lined with cherry trees and quaint shrines.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

End your day with authentic Kyoto-style home cooking in the heart of Gion.
JPY3500, 1h30m