3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Center & Markets

Kyoto, Japan on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast set accompanied by expertly brewed Kyoto-style coffee at Inoda Coffee, a beloved local café open from 7am.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Nishiki Market

Explore the bustling Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's Kitchen, to see and taste local specialties like pickles and fresh seafood. It opens at 9am and is great for immersive culture and snacks.
Free entry, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Izuju Sushi

Taste authentic Kyoto-style sushi at Izuju, a traditional restaurant near Gion, known for its pressed sushi made with local fish.
JPY2500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Gion District Walk

Stroll through historic Gion to glimpse traditional wooden machiya houses and possibly spot a Maiko (apprentice geisha). The area offers photogenic streets and cultural insight.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Tea Ceremony at Camellia Garden

Experience a formal Japanese tea ceremony in a serene setting at Camellia Garden, gaining perspective on this traditional art form. Sessions run until 5pm.
JPY1800, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Sushi

Enjoy dinner at Gion Kappa Sushi, a lively conveyor belt sushi restaurant known for fresh selections and a casual vibe.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Nature and Temples

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Benkei

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring grilled fish and miso soup in a cozy setting near the river, open from 7am.
JPY1500, 1h0m

8:45am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic bamboo grove early to avoid crowds. This natural beauty offers stunning photo opportunities and peaceful contemplation.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple with exquisite gardens reflecting seasonal beauty. Open 8am-5pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Savor vegetarian shojin ryori cuisine in a tranquil temple dining experience inside Tenryu-ji garden, open during lunch hours until 2pm.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Sagano Scenic Railway

Take a picturesque train ride along the Hozugawa River gorge aboard the Sagano Scenic Railway. Runs until late afternoon and provides natural scenery views.
JPY620, 1h0m

4:00pm

Okochi-Sanso Villa

Tour the beautiful gardens and villa of the late actor Okochi Denjiro, with tranquil views over Kyoto. Open until 5pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Enjoy a peaceful kaiseki dinner specializing in yudofu (boiled tofu) dishes near Tenryu-ji, a healthy Kyoto specialty.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Eastern Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Kyoto Higashiyama

Start with specialty coffee and light pastries from this popular café located in Higashiyama, open from 7:30am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:00am

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its wooden terrace overlooking Kyoto, open from 6am to 6pm. A must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka Streets

Wander these iconic preserved streets filled with traditional shops and cafes, a perfect place for souvenirs and photos.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy hearty udon noodles with seasonal vegetables in a beautiful setting near Kodai-ji Temple.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Philosopher’s Path

Walk this scenic path along a canal lined with cherry trees, connecting several temples, perfect for leisurely exploration and nature appreciation.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple

Visit this historic temple famous for its autumn colors and beautiful statues, open 9am-5pm.
JPY600, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Suetomo

Conclude your tour with a refined kaiseki dinner in Gion, offering seasonal dishes crafted from Kyoto's finest ingredients.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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