3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Kyoto Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast set featuring matcha and handcrafted sweets in a modern tea house setting, perfect to start your Kyoto journey fresh and energized.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf reflecting beautifully on its surrounding pond, a must-see cultural landmark open from 9am to 5pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk in Ryoan-ji Garden

Experience the famous rock garden of Ryoan-ji, a serene spot for meditation and contemplation located next to Kinkaku-ji, open until 5pm.
JPY500, 45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bolero Cafe

Relax with a light lunch of fresh sandwiches and coffee at this cozy, quiet cafe near Ryoan-ji, perfect for a midday break.
JPY1200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour the historic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring beautiful gardens and ornate interiors, open from 8:45am to 5pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Take some time to relax and refresh before dinner.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience exquisite Kaiseki cuisine in Gion, the historic geisha district, offering seasonal dishes in a traditional setting.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Southern Kyoto Temples and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start with a classic Japanese-Western breakfast including coffee and toast at a well-loved Kyoto chain open from 7am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a spiritual and photogenic highlight, accessible 24/7.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Tour Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore Tofuku-ji, famous for its large temple complex and traditional Japanese gardens, open from 9am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Enjoy light lunch options and excellent coffee near Fushimi Inari in a friendly cafe open from 10am to 6pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Sanjusangendo Temple

View 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, inside this historic temple open from 8am to 4:30pm.
JPY600, 1h0m

4:00pm

Stroll in Kyoto National Museum

Explore Japanese art and history in the museum open until 6pm on weekdays, ideal for a late afternoon visit.
JPY520, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Musashi Sushi

Enjoy budget-friendly conveyor belt sushi in central Kyoto, open until 10pm, offering a local public dining experience.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Central Kyoto City Life

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Coffee

Savor freshly brewed specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular Kyoto coffee shop open from 8am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Nishiki Market

Visit Kyoto’s famous food market for local snacks, fresh produce, and souvenirs; most shops open by 10am.
Free entry, food costs vary, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk through the expansive grounds and gardens of the former imperial residence, open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy traditional udon noodles and tempura in a peaceful setting near Kodai-ji Temple, open from 11am to 3pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple and garden

Explore beautiful Zen gardens and historic temple buildings, open from 9am to 5pm.
JPY600, 1h30m

4:00pm

Shopping at Teramachi and Shinkyogoku Shopping Arcades

Shop for souvenirs, fashion, and traditional crafts in Kyoto’s central pedestrian shopping streets, stores typically open until 8pm.
Free entry, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Yakiniku Motoyama

Indulge in high-quality Japanese BBQ grilled right at your table in a lively atmosphere, open until 10pm.
JPY5000, 2h0m
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