5-Day Scenic and Cultural Journey Through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Culture & History

Kyoto, Japan on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast with excellent coffee at this long-established café located in downtown Kyoto; a perfect start to the day.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding cherry and maple trees.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Walk Through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Stroll these charming historic streets filled with traditional shops, tea houses, and souvenirs, capturing the essence of old Kyoto.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Katsu

Try Kyoto-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake with various fillings, at this well-regarded eatery near Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY1200, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

See this historic Shinto shrine located at the east end of Gion district, well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional architecture.
Free, 45m

3:00pm

Explore Gion District

Wander around Kyoto’s famous geisha district, spotting traditional townhouses and perhaps catching a glimpse of a maiko in the afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa

Dine on authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in an intimate setting, offering seasonal dishes that highlight local ingredients.
JPY6000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature & Temples

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Start your day with specialty coffee and light pastries at this stylish café near the bamboo grove.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk in Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Experience the serene and towering bamboo forest pathway, a must-see natural wonder in Kyoto.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Tour the UNESCO-listed temple grounds and beautifully landscaped gardens offering tranquil views of the surrounding hills.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Have soba noodles with a view of the Katsura River at this popular riverside restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Katsura River, surrounded by mountains and vibrant nature (operate 9 am – 4 pm).
JPY2000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Explore this stunning villa and garden of a famous movie star with spectacular views over Kyoto.
JPY1000, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Shoraian

Savor tofu-centric Kaiseki cuisine in a tranquil setting near the water, renowned in Arashiyama.
JPY6000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Spiritual Heritage

Higashiyama & Fushimi, Kyoto, Japan on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabika Kyoto Higashiyama

Enjoy excellent coffee in a modern café setting located in the Higashiyama neighborhood.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates that wind up the mountain at this famous shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of rice.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore the temple’s zen gardens and historic architecture, especially famous for its impressive autumn colors but equally serene in spring.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Momoyama

Dine on seasonal Japanese cuisine near Fushimi Inari, featuring fresh local ingredients.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Sanjusangendo Hall

Admire the 1001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, in this historic temple dating back to the 13th century.
JPY600, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Higashiyama District

Walk the historic streets, browsing shops, galleries, and tea houses in the well-preserved district.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Izuju Sushi

Experience Edo-style sushi, a Kyoto specialty known for its vinegared mackerel, in a traditional setting.
JPY3500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Gardens & Philosophy

Northern Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a cozy breakfast with Western and Japanese options in a book-themed café in northern Kyoto.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning temple covered in gold leaf, set beside a beautiful reflective pond and surrounded by landscaped gardens.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Visit Ryoan-ji Temple

Contemplate the world-famous rock garden and serene temple grounds, offering a zen experience near the Golden Pavilion.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan

Experience traditional Buddhist vegetarian shojin cuisine near Ryoan-ji, a calm and authentic meal option.
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk the Philosophers' Path

Enjoy a scenic and contemplative walk along this famous path following a canal lined with cherry trees, temples, and shrines.
Free, 1h30m

3:45pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore the understated elegance of this Zen temple and its lovely moss gardens and sand garden near the end of Philosophers' Path.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Chez Kenji

Savor a blend of French and Japanese dishes in a quaint setting, perfect after a day of temple visits.
JPY5000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Temples & Day Trip

Southern Kyoto & Nara, Japan on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Demachi Futaba

Enjoy Kyoto-style tofu donuts and coffee at this casual spot before heading out on a day trip.
JPY800, 45m

8:30am

Travel from Kyoto to Nara

Take the JR Nara Line Rapid Service to Nara city center, approximately 45 minutes.
JPY710, 45m

9:30am

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Discover the massive Daibutsu (Great Buddha) housed in one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, a symbol of Nara’s rich history.
JPY600, 1h30m

11:15am

Explore Nara Park & Feed Deer

Stroll the expansive park home to freely roaming tame deer which are considered sacred and friendly.
JPY150 (deer crackers), 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou

Try famous mochi rice cakes freshly pounded at this popular shop in Nara’s Todaiji shopping street.
JPY500, 30m

1:15pm

Visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Walk through lantern-lined paths to the glittering shrine known for thousands of hanging lanterns.
JPY500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Travel back to Kyoto

Return to Kyoto by JR train for late afternoon and evening activities.
JPY710, 45m

3:30pm

Visit Fushimi Sake District

Tour sake breweries, taste various sake brands, and learn about Kyoto’s sake-making heritage.
Free entry, tastings priced individually, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Torito Fushimi

Enjoy delicious yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) in this lively local restaurant known for quality ingredients and atmosphere.
JPY3500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability