4-Day Comprehensive Itinerary for Tokyo and Kyoto: Cultural Highlights and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Tokyo Arrival & Exploration

Tokyo, Japan on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day with fresh sushi or traditional Japanese breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market, open from 5am to 2pm, famous for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h

9:30am

Explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Visit Asakusa’s famous Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, to admire traditional architecture and lively shopping streets around Nakamise-dori. Open 6am to 5pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Daikokuya Tempura

Enjoy classic tempura dishes at Daikokuya, one of the most famous tempura restaurants near Asakusa, known for its crispy and light batter. Open 11am to 8pm.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Ueno Park and Tokyo National Museum

Stroll around Ueno Park and explore the Tokyo National Museum to see extensive collections of Japanese art and archaeology. The museum is open 9:30am to 5pm (closed Mondays).
JPY620, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Akihabara

Walk through Akihabara, the district famous for electronics, anime, and manga culture, perfect for sightseeing and shopping tech gadgets.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishiazabu

Enjoy an atmospheric dinner at Gonpachi Nishiazabu, famously known as the 'Kill Bill restaurant,' serving traditional Japanese izakaya dishes. Open 5pm to 11pm.
JPY3500, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Tokyo Modern & Traditional Mix

Tokyo, Japan on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

Enjoy a garden-themed café experience with fresh floral surroundings and light breakfast dishes. Open from 10am but be early to grab a seat, breakfast served from opening.
JPY1500, 1h

10:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park

Explore the peaceful Meiji Shrine surrounded by extensive woodlands adjacent to vibrant Yoyogi Park. The shrine opens from sunrise to sunset.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Harajuku Gyoza Lou

Taste delicious handmade gyoza dumplings in the trendy Harajuku area. The restaurant is open 11:30am to 10pm.
JPY1000, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping and Exploring in Harajuku and Omotesando

Browse through fashionable boutiques, designer stores, and quirky shops in Harajuku and Omotesando, capturing Tokyo's youthful and stylish vibe.
Free to browse, 2h

4:30pm

Head to Shibuya and Cross the Famous Shibuya Scramble

Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing and explore nearby shopping centres and cafés. It’s a must-see for vibrant urban life.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka

Enjoy innovative conveyor belt sushi in a modern setting in Shibuya. Open from 11am to midnight.
JPY2000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Kyoto & Historical Sites

Kyoto, Japan on May 5, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Have a light breakfast before travelling. Many cafes open at 7am near Tokyo stations.
JPY1000, 1h

8:00am

Shinkansen Bullet Train Tokyo to Kyoto

Take the efficient shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Be sure to book tickets in advance for best rates.
JPY14000, 2h 15m

11:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous thousand red torii gates path at Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto's iconic landmarks. Open 24 hours, free entry.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Rest and enjoy light lunch options and coffee close to the shrine. Open 9am to 5pm.
JPY1200, 1h

3:00pm

Kiyomizu-dera Temple Visit

Walk through this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its wooden stage offering breathtaking views of Kyoto. Open 6am to 6pm, admission charged.
JPY400, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience dinner in Pontocho Alley, famous for its traditional Kyoto dining options and charming streets, many restaurants open until 10pm.
JPY3000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Kyoto Temples & Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a classic Kyoto coffee experience and traditional breakfast, open from 7:30am.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

See the iconic Golden Pavilion covered in gold leaf, set on a serene pond. Open from 9am to 5pm, ticket required.
JPY400, 1.5h

11:30am

Explore Ryoan-ji Temple

Visit the famous Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, just a short walk from Kinkaku-ji, open 8am to 5pm.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy delicious Kyoto-style udon noodles near Kodai-ji Temple. Open 11:30am to 9pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Stroll through Gion District

Walk around Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, perfect for sightseeing and historic ambiance, shops, and tea houses.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

End your trip with a refined kaiseki meal offering seasonal Kyoto cuisine in a traditional setting. Reservations recommended; open till 9pm.
JPY7000, 2h
View Hotel Availability