4-Day Scenic and Cultural Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast with coffee and light pastries in one of Kyoto's oldest coffee shops, open from 7:00am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion temple surrounded by beautiful gardens, a must-see Kyoto landmark. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Explore the famous rock garden of Ryoan-ji nearby, known for its zen design and calming atmosphere.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen

Savor handmade udon noodles and seasonal vegetables at this cozy, traditional restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Nishijin Textile Center

Discover Kyoto's traditional textile arts with a live kimono weaving demonstration. Open until 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Dine on exquisite kaiseki cuisine in the historic Gion district, offering seasonal multi-course meals.
JPY8000, 2h0m

Day 2: Central Kyoto Gems

Kyoto, Japan on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries at this trendy coffee shop near Nijo Castle, opens at 7:30am.
JPY900, 0h45m

9:00am

Nijo Castle

Tour this historic UNESCO World Heritage site featuring beautiful gardens and the famous nightingale floors. Open 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

11:30am

Nishiki Market

Explore this lively market known as Kyoto's kitchen and sample local foods and crafts.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Daiyasu

Try fresh Kyoto-style tofu dishes at this well-loved local eatery inside Nishiki Market.
JPY1200, 1h0m

3:00pm

Kyoto International Manga Museum

Browse an extensive collection of manga and learn about this unique art form. Open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY800, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Musashi Sushi

Enjoy conveyor belt sushi with fresh and affordable options in central Kyoto.
JPY2000, 1h0m

Day 3: Historic East Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start your day with excellent hand-drip coffee and light bites near Fushimi Inari Shrine.
JPY900, 0h45m

8:30am

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Early morning visit to the iconic torii gate tunnels of Fushimi Inari, avoiding crowds. Open 24 hours.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit this famous temple and its beautiful gardens known for autumn leaves but delightful any season.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Inari Sushi Koji

Enjoy tasty sushi and local dishes close to Fushimi Inari Shrine.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Gion District Walk

Stroll this famous historic geisha district and explore traditional shops and teahouses. Best during afternoon light.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience refined kaiseki dining in a traditional setting serving seasonal Kyoto ingredients.
JPY9000, 2h0m

Day 4: Arashiyama & Departure

Kyoto, Japan on May 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles with a view of the river in scenic Arashiyama, opens at 7:00am.
JPY1500, 1h0m

8:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through stunning bamboo groves early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Open all day.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO site with beautiful gardens and classic Zen architecture. Open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

11:30am

Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike to natural monkeys in a forested park offering panoramic views of Kyoto. Open 9:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY550, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Rilakkuma Cafe

Relax with themed desserts and light meals in this charming character cafe.
JPY1200, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return to Hotel and Departure

Relax and pack up for departure or next destination.
Free, 2h0m