4-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples Tour

Kyoto, Japan on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto

Enjoy a specialty espresso or pour-over coffee paired with fresh pastries at this popular Kyoto cafe known for its quality beans and elegant setting.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this iconic Zen temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by stunning gardens and a reflective pond, a must-see symbol of Kyoto's rich heritage.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Experience tranquility at the famous rock garden known for its minimalist design and contemplative atmosphere, perfect for peaceful reflection.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor traditional Kyoto-style udon noodles with seasonal vegetables in a cozy setting close to Kodai-ji Temple.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Discover the historic residence of shoguns featuring beautiful gardens, ornate interiors, and unique nightingale floors that chirp when walked upon.
JPY1000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll through Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Enjoy a peaceful walk in the spacious park surrounding the Imperial Palace, offering scenic views and a glimpse into imperial history.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience a kaiseki dining meal, highlighting seasonal Kyoto ingredients with an artistic presentation in the historic Gion district.
JPY8000, 2h0m

Day 2: Scenic Arashiyama

Kyoto, Japan on May 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Kick off the day with a premium coffee experience and light pastries next to the beautiful Katsura River.
JPY800, 1h0m

8:30am

Togetsukyo Bridge and Bamboo Grove

Walk the famous bamboo groves and cross the iconic wooden bridge for stunning natural scenery and photo opportunities.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture nestled beside the mountains.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy a serene meal of shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, inside Tenryu-ji Temple grounds.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Boat ride on the Hozu River

Take a scenic boat tour offering views of river valleys, cliffs, and lush nature, a relaxing way to enjoy Arashiyama landscape.
JPY3700, 1h30m

4:30pm

Visit Iwatayama Monkey Park

Hike up to see wild macaque monkeys in a natural habitat with panoramic views over Kyoto.
JPY550, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Try soba noodles with a view overlooking the river, admired for its seasonal dishes and serene ambiance.
JPY2000, 1h30m

Day 3: Cultural Higashiyama Walk

Kyoto, Japan on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a classic Japanese coffeehouse experience serving rich coffee and fluffy toast.
JPY700, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk Philosopher's Path

Enjoy the scenic walk along a canal lined with cherry trees, visiting temples and quaint shops along the route.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Sample traditional tofu-based cuisine near Kiyomizu-dera Temple, celebrating Kyoto’s culinary heritage.
JPY2500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this world-famous temple with its large wooden veranda overlooking the city and stunning waterfalls.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka Streets

Wander through these preserved historic streets with traditional shops, cafes, and crafts showcasing Kyoto’s culture.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Visit this vibrant Shinto shrine known for its festivals and beautiful lantern-lit evening ambiance.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience refined kaiseki cuisine in an intimate setting, making for a memorable final dinner in Kyoto.
JPY12000, 2h0m

Day 4: Fushimi Sake and Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Robot COFFEE

Enjoy artisan coffee paired with breakfast sandwiches in a stylish modern cafe.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Walk through thousands of iconic orange torii gates leading up the mountain to the famous shrine dedicated to the god of rice.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Izutsu Yatsuhashi Honpo

Try yatsuhashi sweets and light meals near Inari, a delicious Kyoto specialty made from glutinous rice.
JPY1000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Fushimi Sake District Tour

Tour sake breweries with tastings in this historic town known for its premium sake production.
JPY1500, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore this large Zen temple complex known for its beautiful gardens and autumn foliage.
JPY400, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Torito

Enjoy yakitori grilled chicken skewers and other izakaya-style dishes in a lively local atmosphere.
JPY3000, 1h30m