3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day at this beloved Kyoto café, known for its rich, aromatic coffee and delicious breakfast sets including toast and eggs. They open at 7:00am, perfect for an early start.
JPY1000, 1h

9:15am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this iconic Zen temple with its stunning golden exterior reflected on a serene pond, a must-see for the quintessential Kyoto experience. Opens from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

10:30am

Ryoan-ji Temple and rock garden

Visit this world-famous Zen rock garden known for its minimalist design and contemplative atmosphere. Opens from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy traditional udon noodles served with fresh seasonal vegetables and a flavorful dipping sauce in a cozy, authentic setting. Open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Philosopher's Path walk

Stroll along this scenic canal-side path lined with cherry blossom trees, connecting several temples and shrines. Great for a peaceful walk and taking photos.
Free, 1h30m

3:15pm

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Visit this serene temple with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, perfect after your Philosopher’s Path walk. Open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

After a busy day of sightseeing, take some time to relax and refresh.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Indulge in a Kaiseki dining experience with multi-course traditional Kyoto cuisine in the historic Gion district. Reservations recommended. Open 5:30pm to 9:30pm.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Central Kyoto Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee and fresh pastries at this stylish café that opens at 7:30am, setting a vibrant tone for your day.
JPY800, 45m

8:30am

Nijo Castle

Discover the historic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ornate interiors and beautiful gardens. Opens 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

10:30am

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk through the spacious and peaceful park grounds surrounding the former residence of Japan’s Imperial family. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Experience the vibrant food market where you can sample local specialties like grilled mochi, takoyaki, and fresh seafood. Market open typically 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Varies, 1h

1:30pm

Visit To-ji Temple

Explore Kyoto’s tallest five-story pagoda and a temple complex rich in history. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

3:00pm

Tea at Camellia Garden

Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a tranquil garden setting, immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of Kyoto. Reservations recommended. Open until 5:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h

5:00pm

Return to hotel and relax

Take some downtime to rest and freshen up for the evening.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at one of the many traditional restaurants along the atmospheric Pontocho alley, known for Kyoto-style kaiseki and grilled fish. Open usually until 10:00pm.
JPY4000, 2h
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Day 3: Southern Kyoto Historical Sites

Kyoto, Japan on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bibliotic Hello!

Start your last day with coffee and a light Western-style breakfast at this book-themed café open from 8:00am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through the iconic thousands of red torii gates at this famous Shinto shrine, open 24 hours, so an early morning visit is peaceful and beautiful.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ramen Sen no Kaze

Warm up with a bowl of hearty Kyoto-style ramen at this popular spot near Fushimi Inari, open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s oldest Zen temples featuring beautiful autumn foliage gardens and expansive grounds. Open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Nanzen-ji Temple and aqueduct

Visit this large Zen temple complex with lovely gardens and the famous aqueduct, great for photography and nature lovers. Open 8:40am to 4:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

5:30pm

Return to central Kyoto

Head back to your hotel or final destination for rest or onward travel.
Free, 30m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Enjoy unique Kyoto-style burnt miso ramen in a cozy setting to cap off your trip. Open 6:00pm to 11:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h30m
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