3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Heart

Kyoto, Japan on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Shijo

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring matcha tea and seasonal dishes in a cozy, modern setting. Iyemon Salon opens from 7:30am to 10:30am, perfect to start your day.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens and stunning historical interiors that showcase Edo period architecture.
JPY1030, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various local street foods and fresh seafood at this vibrant market open from 9:00am to 6:00pm, offering a true taste of Kyoto culture.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

This iconic temple offers panoramic views over Kyoto and beautiful wooden stage architecture, open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

4:00pm

Stroll through Gion District

Explore the historic geisha district with preserved traditional wooden machiya houses and enjoy a peaceful walk along Shirakawa Canal.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Dine on kaiseki ryori – a multi-course Japanese dinner – in an authentic setting known for using local seasonal ingredients.
JPY6000, 2h0m

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy expertly brewed coffee with a view of the Arashiyama area before starting your day, open from 7:30am to 6:00pm.
JPY800, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest early morning to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its exquisite gardens and historical significance.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:30am

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Experience a traditional boat ride enjoying the scenic river views of western Kyoto; service usually available 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Enjoy exquisite tofu cuisine at this serene riverside restaurant located near the bamboo grove, reservations recommended.
JPY3500, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour the beautiful gardens and traditional villa of a famous actor, with spectacular views of Kyoto and well-maintained grounds.
JPY1000, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto Central

Travel back to central Kyoto to prepare for dinner and evening activities.
JPY400, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Izuju Sushi

Relish authentic Kyoto-style sushi, a local specialty, in this well-known sushi spot open until 8:30pm.
JPY3000, 1h30m

Day 3: Temples and Modernity

Kyoto, Japan on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a classic Kyoto-style coffee and light breakfast in this historic coffee shop operating since 1947, open from 7:30am.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous thousand torii gates on the sacred mountain trails, open 24/7 with no admission fee.
Free, 2h0m

11:45am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Admire the temple’s zen gardens and impressive wooden structures, open 9:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ramen Sen no Kaze

Savor a hearty bowl of Kyoto-style ramen at this popular spot near Tofuku-ji Temple, open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Kyoto Station Area

Visit the modern Kyoto Station building with its rooftop garden and department stores; enjoy shopping or a casual stroll.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Higashiyama District

Wander through preserved streets that blend history with modern cafés and shops, ideal for late afternoon exploration.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Experience unique burnt miso ramen and other inventive dishes in a stylish setting, open until 10:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h30m