3-Day Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Temples Tour

Kyoto, Japan on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring coffee and light sandwiches at this iconic Kyoto café open from 7:00am to 9:30pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, famous for its beautiful gardens and reflecting pond. It is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Explore Ryoan-ji Temple

See the famous rock garden that embodies Zen philosophy and enjoy serene lotus ponds. Open from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor delicious handmade udon noodles with seasonal vegetables in a cozy atmosphere near the temples. Open from 11:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Philosopher’s Walk

Enjoy a peaceful 2 km walk along the canal lined with cherry trees, connecting Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji temples. Available anytime.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Discover the impressive temple grounds and beautiful aqueduct, an outstanding example of Japanese architecture. Open from 8:40am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Enjoy refined Kyoto kaiseki dinner with seasonal ingredients, offering a taste of traditional Japanese haute cuisine. Open from 5:00pm to 10:00pm.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Central Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kagizen Yoshifusa

Have a traditional Japanese sweet breakfast with matcha tea at this historic shop open from 8:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its nightingale floors and beautiful gardens. Open from 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

11:15am

Stroll through Nishiki Market

Discover Kyoto’s kitchen with dozens of shops selling fresh seafood, local delicacies, and souvenirs.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Izuju Sushi

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style sushi with lightly vinegared rice in a quaint atmosphere. Open from 11:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Walk around the historic residence of the Imperial family, including the beautiful Kyoto Gyoen Park. Palaces open from 9:00am to 4:30pm (closed Mondays).
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Spend some time in Kyoto’s oldest park, perfect for people-watching and appreciating cherry blossoms if in season.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in one of the atmospheric restaurants along the alley famous for its traditional ambiance and local cuisine.
JPY4000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Southern Kyoto & Gion

Kyoto, Japan on May 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start early with some of the best specialty coffee and light pastries in a stylish café open from 7:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic famous shrine with thousands of red torii gates along scenic mountain trails. Open 24 hours, free entry.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Walk historical Tofuku-ji Temple Grounds

Admire large temple grounds and famous Zen gardens. Open from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Torisei

Dine on yakitori and flavorful grilled chicken dishes in a cozy traditional setting. Open from 12:00pm to 2:00pm and 5:00pm to 10:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Gion District

Stroll through Kyoto's famous geisha district, spotting traditional teahouses and historic streets. Available any time.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Tea Ceremony Experience at Camellia Garden

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, learning about its cultural significance. Reservations recommended; open until 6:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Enjoy exquisite Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in an intimate setting, perfect to cap off your Kyoto journey. Open from 5:30pm to 10:00pm.
JPY7000, 2h0m
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