3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Kyoto Introduction

Kyoto, Japan on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start your day with artisanal coffee and fresh pastries at this iconic specialty coffee shop located near Kiyomizu-dera. It opens early and serves excellent quality brews to energize your morning.
JPY700, 45m

9:00am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers panoramic views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace. It is renowned for its historic architecture and beautiful gardens. Open from 6:00am - 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Stroll through the historic Higashiyama District

Walk the preserved streets of old Kyoto with traditional shops and tea houses, soaking in authentic cultural vibes and artisan crafts.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy Kyoto-style udon noodles and fresh seasonal vegetables in a traditional setting near Kodai-ji Temple. This local favorite is praised for its comforting and flavorful dishes. Open 11:30am - 2:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple and gardens

Discover this beautiful Zen temple famous for its tranquil gardens and tea ceremony rooms. It offers a peaceful retreat within the city. Open 9:00am - 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Gion District

Walk through Kyoto’s famous geisha district with historic teahouses, spotting traditional architecture and possibly geiko or maiko on their way to appointments.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience refined kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal Kyoto ingredients in an intimate setting. Advanced reservation recommended. Open 5:00pm - 10:00pm.
JPY12000, 2h

Day 2: Natural Beauty & Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama’s % Bakery & Table

Enjoy fresh baked breads and a variety of coffee and teas overlooking the Katsura River, the perfect start before exploring nature attractions.
JPY1000, 45m

8:30am

Visit the Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple

Walk the iconic bamboo forest path and visit the stunning Tenryu-ji, Kyoto’s head temple of the Rinzai Zen sect featuring magnificent gardens. Open 8:30am - 5:30pm.
JPY500, 2h

11:00am

Explore the Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour this beautiful villa featuring manicured gardens, tea houses, and scenic views of Kyoto. Admission includes a tea and sweet. Open 9:00am - 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Savor soba noodles with a view of the river, popular for their handmade buckwheat noodles and serene atmosphere. Open 11:00am - 3:00pm.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

See the famous golden temple shining beside its reflective pond, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Open 9:00am - 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

3:30pm

Relax in Ryoan-ji Temple's Zen garden

Contemplate the world-famous rock garden, an essential experience to understand Zen aesthetics. Open 8:00am - 5:00pm.
JPY500, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Delight in traditional Kyoto cuisine served with seasonal ingredients in a historic townhouse. Reservations recommended. Open 5:00pm - 9:30pm.
JPY15000, 2h

Day 3: Fushimi & Cultural Heritage

Kyoto, Japan on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee Main Store

Classic Kyoto cafe experience serving robust coffee and fresh toast, popular since the 1940s. Opens at 7:30am.
JPY800, 45m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Experience the stunning thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain, a must-see iconic shrine open 24 hours.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Tour Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Learn about sake production and appreciate tastings at this historic brewery museum located in Fushimi. Open 9:00am - 5:00pm.
JPY300, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Torito Fushimi

Enjoy yakitori grilled chicken skewers and local dishes, a casual dining spot popular in the Fushimi area. Open 11:00am - 2:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore this large Zen temple complex famous for its autumn foliage and beautiful gardens. Open 9:00am - 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h

3:30pm

Walk through the historic streets of Fushimi

Stroll the atmospheric old streets lined with historic sake breweries and traditional shops, capturing the essence of Kyoto’s brewing culture.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gogyo Kyoto

Try the signature burnt miso ramen in a stylish setting to finish your Kyoto culinary experience. Open 6:00pm - 11:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h