3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Heart Tour

Kyoto, Japan on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a classic Kyoto-style breakfast at Inoda Coffee, a beloved local café known for its rich coffee and light meals.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore one of Kyoto's most famous temples, known for its wooden stage that offers stunning views over the city and colorful seasonal foliage.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:45am

Stroll Through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Walk these historic streets with preserved traditional wooden shops and teahouses, perfect for souvenir shopping and absorbing the atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Warai

Enjoy fresh Kyoto-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake with local ingredients, at this popular spot located near Nishiki Market.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Discover the vibrant Yasaka Shrine, a beautiful Shinto shrine that is a central cultural and spiritual site in Kyoto.
Free, 0h45m

3:30pm

Explore Gion District

Wander through Kyoto’s famous geisha district, spotting traditional teahouses and possibly geiko or maiko on their way to appointments.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Tea Ceremony Experience at Gion Hatanaka

Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to appreciate Japanese tea culture in an authentic setting.
JPY3500, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Dine on exquisite kaiseki cuisine, featuring seasonal ingredients and beautifully presented dishes typical of Kyoto haute cuisine.
JPY8000, 2h0m

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy excellent specialty coffee and light pastries near the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge to start your day in Arashiyama.
JPY900, 1h0m

8:30am

Walk Bamboo Grove

Experience the serene walk through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a must-see natural landmark with giant bamboo stalks.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Tour this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning garden and historical significance in Zen Buddhism.
JPY500, 1h0m

11:00am

Boat Ride on Hozu River

Take a relaxing boat cruise along the Hozu River to enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
JPY4000, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Savor tofu-based cuisine at this renowned riverside restaurant, offering exquisite dishes that highlight Kyoto’s specialty ingredient.
JPY3500, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Explore this beautiful villa and its expansive gardens with amazing views of Kyoto, often less crowded and peaceful.
JPY1000, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to city and Rest

Head back to central Kyoto and relax before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a traditional yudofu hot pot meal, perfect for a calm and authentic Kyoto dining experience.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 3: Palaces & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Nishiki

Grab specialty coffee and a light bite near Nishiki Market to fuel up for a day of sightseeing.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:15am

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Tour the beautiful grounds of the former residence of Japan’s Imperial family with stunning gardens and historical architecture.
Free (Reservation recommended), 1h30m

11:00am

Walk in Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this expansive garden surrounding the Imperial Palace with seasonal flowers and greenery.
Free, 1h0m

12:15pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Eat Udon noodles and vegetable dishes at a cozy restaurant near Kodai-ji Temple known for fresh, seasonal ingredients.
JPY1800, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple

Explore this Zen Buddhist temple famous for its gardens, tea houses, and beautiful bamboo grove paths.
JPY600, 1h0m

2:45pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Discover this historic UNESCO site known for its stunning gardens and the nightingale floors that chirp as you walk.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:30pm

Explore Nishiki Market

Browse Kyoto’s famous food market for local snacks, souvenirs, and fresh ingredients before ending your trip.
Free to browse, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Izuju Sushi

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style sushi, including pressed sushi and other local specialties in a historic setting.
JPY3500, 1h30m