3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Southern Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-style Western breakfast featuring freshly brewed coffee and toast at this local favorite, open from 7:00am.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic thousands of red torii gates and experience the spiritual atmosphere at this famous Shinto shrine, open 24 hours daily.
JPY0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Yakitori Hitomi

Enjoy grilled chicken skewers made with fresh ingredients at this cozy spot near Fushimi Inari, open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Walk through Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit one of Kyoto's largest Zen temples famous for its beautiful gardens; the temple is open from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Gion District

Stroll through Kyoto's historic geisha district to admire traditional wooden machiya houses and perhaps catch a glimpse of a geisha, accessible at all times.
JPY0, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Sushi

Relish fresh sushi in an intimate setting, open from 5:00pm to 10:00pm, recommended for authentic Kyoto-style sushi experiences.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Northern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a western-style breakfast with coffee and pastries in a cozy bookstore-cafe environment, open from 8:00am on weekdays.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning gold-leaf covered temple reflecting on the pond, open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

10:30am

Explore Ryoan-ji Temple

Experience the serenity of Japan's most famous rock garden, open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor traditional udon noodles with fresh vegetables in a welcoming atmosphere near the Kodai-ji Temple, serving lunch from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple and Gardens

Enjoy the Zen gardens and historic temple buildings, open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h

3:00pm

Walk the Philosopher's Path

Take a contemplative stroll along this beautiful cherry-tree lined canal path, accessible all day.
JPY0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Tea Break at % Arabica Kyoto

Relax with some of the best specialty coffee in Kyoto before heading back, open until 7:00pm.
JPY800, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ganko Sushi Sanjo

Enjoy a variety of fresh sushi and sashimi preparations in a lively atmosphere, open until 10:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Central Kyoto Markets & Crafts

Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Sample a variety of fresh street food and local snacks for breakfast at this vibrant market, which opens around 9:00am but some stalls open earlier.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Explore Nishiki Market

Discover traditional Kyoto foods and crafts along this narrow shopping street, open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY0, 2h

11:30am

Visit Kyoto International Manga Museum

Dive into modern Japanese pop culture by exploring one of the most comprehensive manga libraries and museums, open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY800, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Izuu Sushi

Try Kyoto-style sabazushi (mackerel sushi), a local specialty, open 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY1800, 1h

2:45pm

Visit Kyoto Handicraft Center

Shop for souvenirs and watch artisans craft traditional pottery, textiles, and other crafts, open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY0, 1h

4:00pm

Walk around Pontocho Alley

End your day strolling this atmospheric narrow alley lined with traditional restaurants and tea houses, accessible all day.
JPY0, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Yakiniku Hiro

Enjoy premium Japanese grilled meats in a sophisticated setting, open from 5:00pm to 10:00pm.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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