3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Coffee Kyoto

Start your day with specialty coffee and pastries at this trendy café in Higashiyama, known for its quality beans and minimalist design.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site with panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is renowned for its wooden stage and vibrant seasonal foliage.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:45am

Stroll through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets

Walk through these preserved historic streets filled with traditional shops and tea houses, perfect for photos and souvenir shopping.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy Kyoto-style udon noodles in a cozy traditional setting near the Kodai-ji Temple, open from 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m

2:30pm

Kodai-ji Temple

Visit this serene temple and its beautiful Zen gardens, which offers a tranquil escape within the city.
JPY600, 1h0m

4:00pm

Tea at Camellia Garden

Relax at this charming tea house offering traditional matcha in a peaceful garden setting, open until 5:30pm.
JPY800, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Experience Kyoto’s nightlife and cuisine by dining at one of the many restaurants along this atmospheric, narrow alley by the river.
JPY3000, 2h0m

Day 2: Nature and Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee Main Branch

Enjoy a classic Japanese-style western breakfast with coffee at this historic Kyoto café, open from 7:00am.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest early to avoid crowds and immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens and scenic views of Arashiyama mountains.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian Tofu Restaurant

Relish traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) cuisine specializing in fresh tofu dishes, located near the bamboo grove.
JPY2500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the stunning golden temple reflected in the pond, a must-see symbol of Kyoto reflecting Muromachi period culture.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Ryoan-ji Temple

Discover the famous rock garden here, an example of calm and minimalistic Zen landscaping.
JPY500, 1h0m

5:30pm

Return to city center and rest

Enjoy some downtime at your accommodation or a short walk around downtown Kyoto.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Taste seasonal Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in the historic Gion district, perfect for sampling refined local flavors.
JPY4000, 2h0m

Day 3: Spiritual Sites

Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Kyoto

Enjoy breakfast featuring matcha tea and light Japanese-style dishes at this stylish café, open from 8:00am.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:30am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous torii gate tunnel path leading up Mount Inari; start early to beat the crowds.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Grab a light lunch and coffee near Fushimi Inari to recharge before the afternoon activities.
JPY1000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit this large Zen temple noted for its autumn colors and elegant temple grounds, open until 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Sanjusangen-do Hall

See the 1001 life-size statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, an impressive cultural heritage site.
JPY600, 1h0m

5:00pm

Early Dinner at Musashi Sushi

Enjoy conveyor belt sushi with fresh, affordable options before concluding your Kyoto experience.
JPY2000, 1h0m