3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 21, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with traditional Japanese coffee and a hearty breakfast set in this beloved Kyoto cafe, open from 7:30am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:45am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple famous for its beautiful gold leaf exterior and serene garden setting. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Ryoan-ji Garden

Enjoy the iconic rock garden at Ryoan-ji, a short walk from Kinkaku-ji, for a peaceful reflection on Zen aesthetics. Open 8:00am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Taste traditional Kyoto-style udon noodles in a charming setting close to the temple district. Open 11:30am-2:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Discover the historical shogunate residence with beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. Open 8:45am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h

5:30pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience refined kaiseki cuisine in the famous Gion district, reserving ahead to enjoy seasonal Kyoto dishes.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Nature and Bamboo Grove

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Enjoy world-renowned coffee made with local roasted beans, perfect before exploring the area. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
JPY800, 45m

9:00am

Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk a scenic and iconic bamboo forest trail that's atmospheric and perfect for photography.
Free, 1h

10:15am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its traditional gardens and temple buildings, open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

A serene riverside tofu specialty restaurant offering authentic Kyoto-style tofu cuisine, open 11:00am-3:00pm.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Boat ride on Hozu River

Enjoy a 2-hour scenic river boat tour revealing beautiful natural landscapes and seasonal views. Tours generally run from 9:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY4500, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto city center

Travel back to central Kyoto to relax and prepare for dinner.
JPY500, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nishiki Warai

Enjoy fun, casual Osaka-style okonomiyaki and takoyaki near Nishiki Market, open until 10:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Cultural Highlights

Eastern Kyoto and Gion, Japan on May 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start the day with premium specialty coffee in a beautiful setting in Higashiyama, open 8:00am-6:00pm.
JPY800, 45m

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic temple with panoramic views of Kyoto city. The temple grounds are open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Walk around Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Browse these charming pedestrian streets lined with traditional shops, crafts, and cafes.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Savor traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine near Kiyomizu-dera Temple, open 11:30am-2:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Gion District and Yasaka Shrine

Explore the historic geisha district and the vibrant Yasaka Shrine, open 24 hours.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Tea ceremony experience at Camellia Garden

Participate in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony to end your cultural journey. Reservations recommended, sessions available until 5:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Suetomo

Enjoy elegant seasonal Kyoto cuisine in a refined atmosphere to close your trip.
JPY7000, 2h
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