3-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Central Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Katsukura

Enjoy a delightful Japanese breakfast featuring their renowned tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) served with rice and miso soup. Katsukura opens at 8:00 am, perfect for a hearty start.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore the historical Nijo Castle, famous for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved architecture from the Edo period. Open from 8:45 am to 5:00 pm, it's a great spot to learn about feudal Japan.
JPY1000, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample various local delicacies at Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto's kitchen. Open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, try fresh seafood, sweets, and traditional snacks in this vibrant food street.
Varies, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Take a guided tour through the Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds, which showcases stunning Japanese gardens and royal architecture. Open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee break at Arabica Kyoto

Relax with a cup of world-famous Arabica coffee in a stylish café known for its unique brewing methods and picturesque setting.
JPY600, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Experience traditional Kyoto kaiseki dining in Gion, enjoying seasonal dishes in an intimate atmosphere. Reservations recommended as it opens until 10:00 pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Eastern Kyoto Temples and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start the day with classic Japanese-style coffee and a light breakfast at this iconic Kyoto café, open from 7:00 am.
JPY900, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the historic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, famous for its wooden stage overlooking the city. Open 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, it's best visited early to avoid crowds.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:00am

Walk along Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka

Stroll these charming preserved streets filled with traditional shops, tea houses, and artisan boutiques, perfect for photography and souvenir hunting.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy a wholesome udon noodle lunch at Omen Kodai-ji, known for its fresh ingredients and savory broth. Open 11:30 am to 9:00 pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple

Discover the tranquil gardens and bamboo groves of Kodai-ji Temple, open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. A peaceful spot to appreciate Zen aesthetics.
JPY600, 1h30m

4:00pm

Tea Ceremony at Camellia Garden

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony hosted within a beautiful garden setting, typically lasting around 45 minutes. Book in advance.
JPY3000, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine along Pontocho Alley, famous for its mix of traditional and modern restaurants with riverside views. Try Kyoto-style sushi or tempura. Most restaurants open from 5:00 pm onward.
JPY4000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Arashiyama Nature and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries in this picturesque café near the bamboo grove, open from 8:00 am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous bamboo grove early in the day to avoid crowds and absorb the serene atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Zen temple with its stunning gardens and mountain views, open 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Experience shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, at Shigetsu inside Tenryu-ji Temple. Reservation recommended, open for lunch 11:30 am to 2:00 pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:30pm

Boat Ride on the Hozu River

Enjoy a scenic boat ride down the Hozu River surrounded by lush nature. Boat rides typically operate from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, weather permitting.
JPY4100, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Togetsukyo Bridge

Take a leisurely walk to the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge with views of the surrounding mountains and river at sunset.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Savor a traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) dinner, a specialty of the Arashiyama area, in a cozy setting open until 8:30 pm.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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