3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples Tour

Kyoto, Japan on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Kyoto breakfast and aromatic coffee at this historic cafe, open from 7:00am to 7:00pm, famed for its serene ambiance and classic Japanese-Western dishes.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this iconic wooden temple offering panoramic views of Kyoto from its famous veranda. Open daily from 6:00am to 6:00pm, it is a must-see for its stunning architecture and cultural significance.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Stroll through Higashiyama District

Walk through the atmospheric streets lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and crafts, immersing yourself in classic Kyoto culture and shopping for souvenirs.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy a delicious meal of udon noodles and seasonal vegetables at this cozy restaurant near Kodai-ji Temple, open from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Kodai-ji Temple and Zen Garden

Explore this peaceful temple featuring beautiful Zen gardens and tea houses, open daily 9:00am to 5:00pm, perfect for appreciating traditional Japanese garden design.
JPY600, 1h0m

3:30pm

Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Historic Lanes

Wander these preserved stone-paved streets filled with traditional buildings, shops, and snacks, capturing the spirit of old Kyoto.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Dine on exquisite Kaiseki cuisine in Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district, offering a seasonal tasting menu in an elegant setting. Reservations recommended; open 5:30pm–10:00pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nature and Bamboo Forest

Kyoto, Japan on May 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Grab specialty coffee and light pastries at this trendy spot known for its beans and scenic location. Opens at 7:00am.
JPY800, 0h45m

8:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the iconic bamboo forest early to avoid crowds. Open anytime, free to visit, its ethereal atmosphere captivates visitors.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens and historic buildings. Open 8:30am to 5:30pm; entry fee required.
JPY500, 1h0m

11:00am

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the river to see the beautiful surrounding nature and mountains. Services usually run from 9:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Experience shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, at the temple restaurant open for lunch between 11:00am and 2:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Sagano Scenic Railway

Take the scenic train ride through mountains and rivers along the Hozu River gorge. Runs from 9:00am to 4:30pm, tickets required.
JPY620, 0h25m

3:00pm

Okochi-Sanso Villa

Explore this beautiful villa with expansive gardens, tea houses, and panoramic views of Kyoto. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Dine overlooking the Oi River with specialty soba noodles and tempura. Open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Shrines and Sake

Kyoto, Japan on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Akagane Coffee

Enjoy carefully brewed drip coffee and freshly baked pastries in this cozy café open from 7:30am to 6:00pm.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Visit the famous shrine with thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain. Open 24/7, free admission, best to avoid midday crowds.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Sake Tasting at Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Learn about sake brewing history and sample varieties at this museum and tasting room. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm, closed Wednesdays.
JPY600, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Izutsu Yatsuhashi Honpo

Try Kyoto’s famous yatsuhashi sweets and light meals at this traditional shop open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore this sprawling temple famous for its beautiful autumn leaves and Zen gardens. Open 9:00am to 4:00pm; entry fee applies.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk along the Philosopher’s Path

Enjoy this peaceful canal-side walk lined with cherry trees, connecting temples and cafes. Open all day, free of charge.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Nishiki Market Food Stalls

Sample a variety of street foods and local specialties in this lively market atmosphere, open until 7:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m
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