5-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: City Introduction

Kyoto, Japan on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-style coffee and fresh pastries at this historic Kyoto cafe famous for its mellow blend.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Explore the beautiful grounds and historic buildings of the former residence of the Imperial family, a calm escape in the city center.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample a variety of local street foods and delicacies at Kyoto’s famous market, known as 'Kyoto’s Kitchen'.
JPY1500, 1h30m

1:45pm

Stroll in Gion District

Discover the historic streets known for traditional tea houses and possibly spotting a Geisha or Maiko in the afternoon light.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Visit this vibrant and picturesque shrine located at the edge of Gion, ideal for photographs and cultural insight.
Free, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Enjoy a refined kaiseki dinner focusing on seasonal Kyoto ingredients in an intimate tatami setting within the Gion district.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nature and Culture

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Enjoy exquisite coffee at this iconic riverside shop known for excellent espresso and a relaxed atmosphere.
JPY700, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the serene and iconic bamboo forest, a must-see natural wonder with peaceful trails and stunning photo opportunities.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Discover this UNESCO World Heritage site noted for its zen garden and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Dine on exquisite vegetarian Buddhist cuisine inside Tenryu-ji Temple, experiencing the delicate and seasonal shojin ryori.
JPY3500, 1h30m

2:45pm

Sagano Scenic Railway Ride

Take a picturesque train ride offering stunning views of the Hozu River ravine and colorful landscapes.
JPY620, 1h0m

4:30pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Explore the traditional villa gardens and tea house with panoramic views across Kyoto’s western hills.
JPY1000, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy fresh soba noodles accompanied by river views at this well-regarded restaurant near Togetsukyo Bridge.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Iconic Shrines

Southern Kyoto, Japan on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kissa Sakaiki

Start early with hand-drip coffee and homemade toast in this cozy café in a historic setting.
JPY600, 1h0m

8:30am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Visit the famous shrine known for its thousands of vivid red torii gates forming scenic walking paths up Mt. Inari.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - Café

Enjoy light meals and beverages with views of the shrine area, perfect for a relaxing midday break.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto's great Zen temples well-known for its beautiful gardens and large Tsutenkyo Bridge.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Sake Tasting at Fushimi Sake District

Discover Kyoto’s sake brewing tradition visiting local breweries and sampling premium sake varieties.
JPY1000, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Torito

Savor grilled chicken and regional Kyoto cuisine at this local favorite yakitori restaurant near Fushimi area.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 4: Temples and Gardens

Northern Kyoto, Japan on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Enjoy a Japanese tea-centric breakfast with light dishes paired with premium teas in a stylish modern café.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

See the iconic gold-leaf covered pavilion surrounded by stunning traditional gardens, an essential Kyoto sight.
JPY400, 1h0m

11:00am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Experience the world-famous rock garden, a masterpiece of Japanese Zen culture and minimalist art.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kinkakuji

Indulge in traditional yudofu tofu hot pot near Kinkaku-ji, appreciated for its delicate flavors and historic ambiance.
JPY2500, 1h30m

2:30pm

Ninna-ji Temple

Explore a large temple complex with beautiful gardens and historic architecture, especially charming in spring and autumn.
JPY500, 1h0m

4:30pm

Visit Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Wander the lush botanical gardens with a wide array of native and exotic plants, ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
JPY200, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Goshiki

Dine on authentic Kyoto cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and elegant presentation in a refined setting.
JPY7000, 2h0m
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Day 5: Philosophy and Tradition

Eastern Kyoto, Japan on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a western-style breakfast with Japanese touches within a cozy bookstore cafe ambiance.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk the Philosopher’s Path

Take a scenic stroll along this famous canal-side route lined with cherry trees and dotted with temples and shrines.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore the refined gardens and elegant architecture of this historic zen temple, a perfect contrast to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Nanzenji

Try traditional Kyoto-style tofu dishes in a quiet setting close to Nanzenji temple.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:45pm

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Discover one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples famous for its massive Sanmon gate and aqueduct.
JPY500, 1h15m

4:15pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Unwind in Kyoto’s oldest park, popular for its weeping cherry trees and serene atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Hyotei

Experience exquisite kaiseki dining at this century-old establishment renowned for its seasonal dishes and refined hospitality.
JPY12000, 2h0m
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