3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Heart

Kyoto, Japan on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-Western style breakfast at the iconic Inoda Coffee, known for its rich coffee and tasty morning sets.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Kinkaku-ji, a Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf and set beautifully beside a reflective pond. It offers great photo opportunities and peaceful gardens.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Stroll through Ryoan-ji Garden

Visit the famous rock garden at Ryoan-ji, a spot of minimalist beauty and deep meditative significance in Japanese culture.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Onigiri Bongo

Enjoy a casual lunch specializing in a variety of freshly made onigiri (rice balls), perfect for a quick and authentic taste of local flavors.
JPY800, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour Nijo Castle, famous for its beautiful traditional architecture, wall paintings, and historical significance as the residence of Tokugawa shoguns.
JPY1000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Explore Gion District

Walk through the historic Gion area, known for traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, and possibly spotting a Geisha as evening approaches.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappo Sakamoto

Enjoy refined kaiseki dining, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal in an intimate setting in Gion, showcasing seasonal ingredients.
JPY10000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nature & Tradition

Kyoto, Japan on May 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama

Savor expertly brewed coffee and light pastries at this stylish coffee shop located in the Arashiyama district, setting a relaxed tone for the day.
JPY800, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic Bamboo Grove early to avoid crowds, enjoying the serene and otherworldly atmosphere of towering bamboo stalks.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple Visit

Tour Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful landscaped gardens and important Zen architecture.
JPY500, 1h15m

11:30am

Boat ride on Hozu River

Experience a scenic boat ride down the Hozu River, showcasing natural beauty and rugged river landscapes — operates 9:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY4200, 1h30m

1:15pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy a vegetarian Buddhist cuisine lunch at Shigetsu inside Tenryu-ji Temple, which offers seasonal and beautifully presented dishes.
JPY3500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kokedera (Moss Temple)

Pre-booked visit to Kokedera, known for its extensive moss garden and quiet temple grounds requiring an advanced reservation via phone or email.
JPY3000, 1h30m

4:30pm

Explore Sagano Scenic Railway

Take the nostalgic scenic train ride through the picturesque Hozu Gorge from Torokko Saga to Kameoka, offering stunning river views during the daylight hours.
JPY620, 0h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Dine on soba noodles with views of the river, sampling handmade traditional buckwheat noodles in a peaceful setting.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Markets & Paths

Kyoto, Japan on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Explore Nishiki Market stalls for fresh street food and quick bites, including grilled mochi and fresh seafood snacks as you wander through Kyoto’s vibrant food market.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates along the extensive trails at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a must-see spiritual site open 24/7.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion Cafe

Enjoy a light and healthy lunch at Vermillion Cafe near Fushimi Inari, offering sandwiches and excellent coffee, perfect for recharging.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk the Philosopher's Path

Stroll the scenic Philosopher’s Path, a peaceful riverside walk lined with cherry trees and small temples, ideal for reflection and relaxation.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore the understated beauty of Ginkaku-ji with its refined gardens and elegant architecture, offering a contrast to the Golden Pavilion visited on day one.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Okutan Kiyomizu

Experience traditional Buddhist shojin ryori cuisine for dinner at Okutan, near Kiyomizu Temple, finishing your trip with a taste of Kyoto’s spiritual culinary heritage.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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