3-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Kyoto Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Enjoy traditional Japanese breakfast with matcha tea and seasonal side dishes in a cozy teahouse setting, opening at 7:30am.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by serene reflective ponds and beautiful gardens.
JPY400, 1h

11:00am

Tour Ryoan-ji Zen Rock Garden

Experience the famous minimalist rock garden and learn about its unique symbolic meaning in Zen Buddhism.
JPY500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nishijin Shoyu Ramen

Savor handcrafted ramen with rich broth made from locally brewed soy sauce in the historical Nishijin district.
JPY1000, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll Nishijin Textile Center

Discover the art of traditional kimono weaving and silk dyeing with live demonstrations and exhibits.
JPY600, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee Break at Arabica Kyoto

Enjoy specialty coffee with views of the Higashiyama mountains in a modern minimalist café, opens until 6:00pm.
JPY700, 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Dine on traditional Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in an intimate setting with seasonal ingredients.
JPY4500, 2h
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Day 2: Central Kyoto Heritage

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee Main Store

Enjoy a classic Kyoto-style breakfast set with freshly brewed coffee in an atmospheric old café.
JPY900, 1h

9:00am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore the historic flatland castle with impressive wall paintings and beautiful Japanese gardens.
JPY1030, 2h

11:30am

Tour Kyoto Imperial Palace

Walk through the former residence of the Imperial family and learn about traditional Japanese architecture.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Relish delicious udon noodles with vegetable tempura in a beautiful traditional setting near Gion.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Gion District

Stroll through the historic streets of Gion, spotting geisha culture and traditional tea houses open for visitors.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Tea Ceremony Experience at Camellia Garden

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and appreciate the art of tea preparation.
JPY2000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Choose from a variety of izakaya and kaiseki restaurants along the charming illuminated riverside alley.
JPY3500, 2h
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Day 3: Southern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Vie de France Kyoto Station

Grab fresh pastries and coffee at this popular bakery near the station, open from 7:00am.
JPY800, 45m

8:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates on the sacred mountain trails, an unforgettable spiritual experience.
Free, 2h

10:30am

Explore Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover one of Kyoto’s major Zen temples noted for its large gardens and autumn colors, open 9am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Inari Sushi Koji

Taste Kyoto-style inari sushi and other local delicacies in a cozy eatery near the shrine.
JPY1000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto Station Sky Garden

Relax at the rooftop garden offering panoramic views of the city and modern architecture of the station.
Free, 45m

3:00pm

Explore Kyoto Railway Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits detailing Japan’s railway history, great for all ages, open 10am to 5pm.
JPY1200, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Musashi Sushi Kyoto Station

Enjoy fresh conveyor belt sushi with a wide variety of selections to end your Kyoto adventure deliciously.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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