3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic and Culinary Start

Kyoto, Japan on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style café breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and light pastries in this iconic Kyoto coffeehouse, open from 7:30am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Visit the famed shrine known for thousands of vermilion torii gates forming scenic walking trails up Mount Inari, a must-see cultural treasure open from 6am to 6pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Yamasen Soba

Taste authentic Kyoto-style soba noodles at this local restaurant near Fushimi Inari, open for lunch from 11am to 3pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m

1:30pm

Stroll through Gion District

Experience Kyoto's famous geisha district with historic streets and traditional tea houses; a perfect opportunity to spot maiko if visiting early afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore this lively shrine located at the edge of Gion, open till dusk, known for its vibrant festivals and architecture.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in one of the many traditional restaurants in Pontocho Alley, open from 5pm, offering seasonal kaiseki cuisine along the picturesque Kamogawa River.
JPY5000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Temples and City Life

Kyoto, Japan on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start your day with world-renowned coffee blends and light pastries in a chic setting, open from 7:30am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its wooden stage and scenic views of Kyoto; open from 6am to 6pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Enjoy a traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) lunch, a Kyoto specialty, at this historic restaurant near Kiyomizu-dera, open 11am to 3pm.
JPY2500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk along Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Streets

Explore these charming stone-paved streets lined with shops selling crafts, sweets, and souvenirs, perfect for leisurely afternoon strolls.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Nishiki Market

Experience Kyoto’s famous food market, sampling local snacks, pickles, and sweets; market open typically 9am - 6pm.
Varies, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Savor exquisite kaiseki dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients in an intimate setting; reservations recommended as it opens at 5:30pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Nature and Iconic Sights

Kyoto, Japan on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy freshly brewed specialty coffee and pastries with a view of the Katsura River, open from 8am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through this breathtaking bamboo forest early morning to avoid crowds, a serene natural attraction open 24 hours.
Free, 1h0m

10:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s top Zen temples featuring beautiful gardens and scenic views, open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine on traditional tofu-based cuisine in a peaceful riverside setting in Arashiyama, open 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning golden temple reflected in the pond, a top Kyoto landmark open 9am to 5pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Ryoan-ji Garden

Contemplate the famous Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, located nearby to Kinkaku-ji and open until 5pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience a refined Kyoto kaiseki menu in an elegant atmosphere; the restaurant opens at 5:30pm and offers an unforgettable last night dining experience.
JPY10000, 2h0m
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