3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour Through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic city center

Kyoto, Japan on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Start your morning with fresh Japanese street food and local delicacies at Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto’s Kitchen.' Enjoy specialties like yuba (tofu skin) and fresh mochi.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its beautiful gardens and nightingale floors that chirp as you walk. It's a great insight into Edo-period samurai culture.
JPY1000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy a traditional Kyoto noodle meal at Omen Kodai-ji, where handmade udon noodles are served with seasonal vegetables and dipping sauces.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Stroll through Gion District

Walk through the historic Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and chance encounters with geisha and maiko in the afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Discover Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most famous shrines, known for its vibrant red gates and lively atmosphere, especially during evening festivals.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese haute cuisine, at Gion Karyo, a sophisticated restaurant offering seasonal Kyoto flavors in an elegant setting.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nature and temples

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy a high-quality coffee and light pastries at the scenic % Arabica located near the Togetsukyo Bridge, perfect for a peaceful morning.
JPY800, 45m

8:30am

Explore the Bamboo Grove

Walk through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere amid towering bamboo stalks.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Tour Tenryu-ji, a World Heritage Zen temple known for its stunning landscaped gardens that reflect the changing seasons beautifully.
JPY500, 1h15m

11:15am

Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike to the Monkey Park where you can see wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat with panoramic views of Kyoto.
JPY550, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Savor tofu cuisine at Shoraian, a renowned restaurant specializing in yudofu (tofu hot pot), located riverside in Arashiyama.
JPY4000, 1h15m

3:00pm

Boat ride on the Katsura River

Enjoy a scenic traditional boat ride on the Katsura River, admiring the beauty of the surrounding mountains and forested scenery.
JPY2500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Have soba noodles for dinner at Yoshimura, offering excellent views of the river and seasonal dishes with fresh ingredients.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Temples and gardens

Eastern Kyoto, Japan on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start with a traditional Kyoto-style western breakfast at Inoda Coffee, a historic café known for its rich coffee and cozy atmosphere.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its wooden stage that offers panoramic views of Kyoto, especially beautiful in spring and autumn.
JPY400, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Enjoy traditional tofu cuisine at Okutan Kiyomizu, located close to the temple and perfect for experiencing simple, elegant tastes of Kyoto.
JPY3000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk the Philosopher’s Path

Take a leisurely stroll on the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic route lined with cherry trees and quaint temples, ideal for peaceful reflection.
Free, 1h30m

3:15pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Visit Ginkaku-ji, a Zen temple famous for its beautiful moss garden and the unique sand garden representing the sea and mountains.
JPY500, 1h15m

5:00pm

Tea ceremony at Camellia Garden

Experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony in a tranquil garden setting at Camellia Garden, deepening your appreciation of Japanese culture.
JPY2000, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Finish your trip with dinner at Kyoto Gogyo, known for its burnt miso ramen which offers a unique smoky flavor, highly recommended for food lovers.
JPY1500, 1h0m
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