3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Kyoto Introduction

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast with freshly brewed coffee at this iconic Kyoto coffeehouse, open daily from 7:00am.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful gardens and historic palace halls, open from 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Dine on local street foods and fresh seasonal ingredients at Kyoto’s famous food market, open until 6:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Stroll through Gion District

Walk the historic streets of Gion to spot traditional teahouses and possibly a Geisha, leisurely exploring until dusk.
Free, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Savor authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere, open for dinner from 5:30pm to 9:00pm.
JPY5000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Natural Beauty and Bamboo Groves

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Start your day with artisan coffee and light pastries at this popular café located near the bamboo grove, open from 8:00am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

8:30am

Walk through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Explore the breathtaking bamboo forest early to avoid crowds; this outdoor site is open 24/7 and free to enter.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this Zen temple with serene gardens and a UNESCO World Heritage Site status, open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h15m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Enjoy exquisite tofu cuisine overlooking the river, offering a peaceful dining experience, open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour the beautiful villa and gardens of a famous actor, open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with a small admission included in the garden tea set price.
JPY1200, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto city center

Head back to central Kyoto by train to prepare for dinner and evening activities.
JPY500, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Try traditional Kyoto dishes at one of the many charming restaurants in this atmospheric riverside alley, open well into the evening.
JPY4000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Eastern Kyoto and Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kissa Sakaiki

Have a cozy breakfast with homemade cakes and coffee in this popular café in eastern Kyoto, open from 8:00am.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk the Philosopher’s Path

Enjoy a tranquil stroll along this cherry-tree-lined canal path linking several temples; the path is free and open anytime.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Tour this beautiful Zen temple and gardens, open from 8:30am to 5:00pm with an entrance fee.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy udon noodles and seasonal dishes near Kodai-ji Temple, open from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s most famous temples offering panoramic city views, open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

4:30pm

Explore Higashiyama District

Wander this preserved historic district filled with shops, cafes, and traditional architecture. The area is open all day and free to explore.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Suetomo

End your trip with an elegant kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal Kyoto ingredients, reservation recommended as it closes at 9:30pm.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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