3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Nature and Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Start your day with traditional Japanese breakfast dishes, including matcha and seasonal side dishes at this popular café known for green tea.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest, a peaceful natural setting offering fantastic photo opportunities and a serene atmosphere.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple

Tour this UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture dating back to the 14th century.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Enjoy exquisite tofu-based kaiseki cuisine with views over the river, offering a tranquil and authentic dining experience.
JPY4000, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the stunning gold-leaf covered temple reflected in a large pond, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks.
JPY400, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Ryoan-ji Temple

Discover the world-famous rock garden, a zen masterpiece perfect for quiet contemplation.
JPY500, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Savor traditional Kyoto kaiseki meals in an intimate setting, offering seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Market and Historic District

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a classic Japanese breakfast set with excellent coffee at this historic café established over 70 years ago.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Browse Nishiki Market

Walk through the bustling market known as Kyoto’s kitchen, sampling fresh local delicacies and unique handmade products.
Free entry, pay for food, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Warai

Try Okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake and other delightfully casual local dishes in a lively atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Explore the historic residence of Japan’s Imperial family with beautiful gardens and well-preserved architecture (advance reservation required for guided tour).
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Gion District

Walk the charming streets of Kyoto’s famous geisha district, spotting traditional tea houses and historic buildings.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Yasaka Endo

Enjoy refined tempura dishes with fresh seasonal ingredients in a traditional setting located near Yasaka Shrine.
JPY7000, 2h
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Day 3: Shrines and Tranquility

Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Get light pastries and specialty coffee from this famous coffee shop, perfect for an early start before exploring.
JPY800, 45m

8:30am

Hike Fushimi Inari Taisha

Experience the iconic torii gate pathway leading up the sacred mountain shrine. Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful walks.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Visit Tofukuji Temple

Admire the temple’s famous zen gardens and seasonal foliage, a quiet retreat in the south of Kyoto.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ramen Sen no Kaze

Enjoy some of Kyoto’s best ramen noodles with rich broth and fresh toppings at this highly rated spot.
JPY1000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tofukuji Hanatouro (Seasonal Evening Illumination if available)

During certain times, enjoy beautiful evening illuminations in Tofukuji’s gardens. Check availability as this is seasonal.
JPY500, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

End your trip with refined kaiseki cuisine where traditional flavors meet creative modern presentation in Gion.
JPY9000, 2h
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