4-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic City Start

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start your day with expertly crafted coffee and light pastries at this stylish café known for its quality beans and minimalist design.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this iconic Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, set beautifully beside a reflective pond. It’s a must-see cultural symbol of Kyoto.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Ryoan-ji Temple

Experience the famed rock garden famous for its minimalist zen design that inspires contemplation and calm.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy traditional udon noodles in a serene setting close to Gion. The udon here is handmade and well-loved for its authentic flavours.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Stroll through Gion District

Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s famous geisha district, with its preserved wooden machiya houses, quaint shops and tea houses, perfect for photography.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

This vibrant shrine marks the gateway between Gion and Higashiyama, offering a taste of local spiritual culture and beautiful lantern lighting towards evening.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Dine on seasonal kaiseki cuisine in an intimate setting, highlighting Kyoto’s elegant and refined culinary artistry.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nature and Tradition

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast with stunning views of the nearby river and mountains. Try their soba noodles for a local treat.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Walk early through the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, enjoying the serene and otherworldly atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, showcasing Zen Buddhist culture.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Indulge in shojin ryori, the traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, at this temple restaurant within Tenryu-ji grounds.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park

Hike up to this park to see wild Japanese macaques with panoramic views of Kyoto city, great for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts.
JPY550, 2h0m

5:00pm

Boat Cruise on Katsura River

Relax on a traditional boat as it gently cruises the river bordered by forested mountains, a perfect way to end the afternoon.
JPY2500, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Rilassa

Savour local Kyoto cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients with views of the riverside in a warm ambience.
JPY4000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Southern Kyoto Exploration

Fushimi & Southern Kyoto, Japan on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a Western-style breakfast with excellent coffee and fresh pastries in a charming setting near the Fushimi Inari Shrine.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain, a spiritual and photogenic highlight of Kyoto.
Free, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Izuju Sushi

Sample traditional Kyoto-style sushi including preserved mackerel in this historic restaurant close to the shrine.
JPY1800, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Fushimi Sake District

Tour sake breweries and sample premium sake in Kyoto’s famous brewing district. Most breweries open from 9am to 5pm.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Walk the Tofuku-ji Temple Grounds

Explore the vast temple gardens renowned for their autumn leaves and zen atmosphere, open until 5pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Suetomo

Enjoy authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in a refined traditional setting, perfect for a last evening of elegant dining.
JPY7000, 2h0m
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Day 4: Eastern Kyoto and Departure

Kyoto, Japan on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee Sanjo

Begin your day at this classic Kyoto coffee house with a cosy atmosphere and solid Japanese-Western breakfast options.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Discover one of the most significant temples in Kyoto with panoramic views of the city and springtime gardens, open from 6am to 6pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets

Stroll these charming historic streets with traditional shops selling souvenirs, sweets, and crafts.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Taste their famous yudofu (simmered tofu) in a tranquil traditional environment near Kiyomizu-dera.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Return to accommodation and prepare for departure

Rest and pack, with time to buy last minute souvenirs before heading to your onward travel.
Free, 2h0m
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