3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Eastern Kyoto exploration

Kyoto, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Kyoto-style breakfast and freshly brewed coffee at this historic cafe, open from 7am, famous for its elegant atmosphere and local flavors.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its wooden stage that offers panoramic views of the city. It opens at 6am and closes at 6pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Walk through Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka Streets

Stroll these charming historic streets lined with traditional shops and teahouses, perfect for picking up souvenirs and experiencing old Kyoto ambiance.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy a delicious bowl of Kyoto-style udon noodles with fresh seasonal vegetables in a serene setting near Kodai-ji Temple. Open 11am-3pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple

Explore the tranquil Zen temple gardens and tea houses, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Open 9am-5pm.
JPY600, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Gion District

Wander through Kyoto’s famous geisha district with traditional wooden machiya houses. Best to visit in the afternoon and early evening for a chance to spot geiko and maiko.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience kaiseki dining with beautifully presented seasonal dishes in an intimate setting. Reservations recommended; open for dinner from 5:30pm.
JPY10000, 2h
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Day 2: Northern Kyoto and Arashiyama

Kyoto, Japan on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama

Enjoy expertly crafted coffee with views of the scenic Arashiyama area, perfect to energize your day. Opens at 8am, seating may open slightly earlier.
JPY800, 45m

8:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous towering bamboo groves early to avoid crowds, an ethereal experience and a top Kyoto highlight. Open 24 hours, best early morning.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple and Gardens

Visit this renowned Zen temple with stunning landscaped gardens designed in harmony with the surrounding mountains. Open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h

11:15am

Boat ride on Katsura River

Take a relaxing boat cruise along the Katsura River to enjoy beautiful views of Arashiyama’s natural scenery. Availability may vary seasonally, usually 9am-4pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura Soba

Taste handmade soba noodles served with river views, a local favorite open 11am-5pm.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning gold-leaf covered pavilion reflected in the pond, Kyoto’s iconic landmark. Open 9am-5pm.
JPY400, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Discover this famous Zen rock garden, known for its minimalist beauty and philosophical significance. Open 8am-5pm.
JPY500, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Indulge in traditional Kyoto cuisine with refined flavors in a historic setting. Reservations needed; dinner from 6pm.
JPY9000, 2h
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Day 3: Southern Kyoto and Departure

Kyoto, Japan on May 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Bibliotic Hello!

Relax with a cozy breakfast combining coffee, pastries, and an atmospheric library-themed setting. Open 8am-7pm.
JPY1000, 1h

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore thousands of vermilion torii gates winding up the mountain in this famous Shinto shrine. Open 24 hours, best visited early to beat crowds.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Tour Sake Breweries in Fushimi

Visit historic sake breweries in Fushimi district, famous for quality sake production. Some places offer tastings and tours; check individual brewery hours around 10am-4pm.
JPY1000-1500, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum café

Enjoy traditional dishes paired with sake in the museum café while learning about sake brewing history. Open 10am-4:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Head back to accommodation and prepare for departure

Return to your hotel, pack, and relax before your journey onward.
Free, 1h
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