4-Day Historical and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with traditional Japanese coffee and light breakfast set in a historic coffee shop that's been serving locals since 1947.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the iconic golden temple set beside a serene pond offering beautiful reflections, a must-see for history and architecture lovers.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Ryoan-ji Temple Garden

Walk the famous Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, known worldwide for its minimalist design and contemplative atmosphere.
JPY500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kinkakuji

Enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetarian meal near Kinkaku-ji, famous for its healthy and seasonal tofu dishes.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Ninna-ji Temple Visit

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and the architecturally stunning temple, opening at 9am and closing at 5pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Stroll through the expansive gardens surrounding the former residence of the Emperor of Japan, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined kaiseki cuisine that highlights seasonal Kyoto ingredients.
JPY15000, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Central Kyoto Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee and freshly baked pastries in a stylish cafe located in the historic Higashiyama district.
JPY1000, 1h

9:45am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Walk through the famous thousands of red torii gates leading up the sacred Mount Inari, this shrine is open 24 hours.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - Espresso Bar & Info

Enjoy light meals and excellent espresso just at the base of the Fushimi Inari with views of the shrine entrance.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit this large Zen temple famous for its beautiful gardens and impressive sanmon gate, open from 9am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Walk the Philosopher's Path

A serene walking trail lined with cherry trees bordering a canal, perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience traditional Kyoto cuisine in an intimate setting, with dishes prepared using centuries-old recipes.
JPY12000, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Southern Kyoto & Gion

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Kyoto Cafe

Indulge in matcha tea and Japanese sweets in a modern tea house famed for its creative traditional flavors.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Sanjusangen-do Temple

Famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, this temple presents a striking and powerful spiritual experience, open 8am-5pm.
JPY600, 1h

11:00am

Kyoto National Museum

Explore a superb collection of traditional Japanese art and cultural artifacts, open 9:30am–5pm (closed Mondays).
JPY520, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Sanjusangendo

Enjoy a delicious tofu-based lunch at a historic restaurant near the temple, serving seasonal specialties.
JPY2000, 1h

3:00pm

Walk through Gion District

Stroll the streets of this famous geisha district, spotting traditional wooden machiya houses and tea houses.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Enjoy exquisite Kyoto kaiseki dining in Gion featuring beautifully presented seasonal dishes and serene ambiance.
JPY14000, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Arashiyama Adventure

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Eat traditional soba noodles with stunning views of the river and mountains, a perfect start before exploring the area.
JPY1500, 1h

8:30am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Experience the iconic Arashiyama bamboo forest early to avoid crowds and enjoy its magical atmosphere, open 24 hours.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h

11:00am

Boat Ride on Hozu River

Enjoy a scenic and relaxing boat trip offering stunning views of the river gorge and surrounding mountains, check weather conditions.
JPY4300, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Savor shojin ryori, a Zen Buddhist vegetarian meal served at the Tenryu-ji Temple restaurant, reservation recommended.
JPY3000, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Explore this beautiful villa and garden complex with panoramic views of Kyoto, open 9am-4:30pm.
JPY1000, 1h

5:00pm

Return to central Kyoto

Travel back to your accommodation or explore central Kyoto for evening leisure.
Transport Cost, 1h
View Hotel Availability