3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Temples and Traditions

Kyoto, Japan on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast with excellent coffee at this historic café that has been a Kyoto staple since 1947.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this iconic Zen Buddhist temple, famed for its top two floors covered completely in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Ryoan-ji Zen Rock Garden

Experience the tranquility of Japan’s most famous rock garden, an excellent spot for meditation and reflection.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Savor a traditional tofu cuisine lunch near Kiyomizu Temple, highlighting local Kyoto culinary traditions.
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this historic temple known for its wooden stage offering magnificent views over Kyoto, open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

5:00pm

Stroll in Higashiyama District

Wander through this preserved historic district with traditional shops, tea houses, and quaint streets ideal for souvenir shopping.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Enjoy kaiseki dining – a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner – in the atmospheric Gion district.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Historic Districts and Museums

Kyoto, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start your day with specialty coffee and light pastries at this modern café renowned for its quality brews.
JPY800, 1h0m

10:00am

Explore Nishiki Market

Discover Kyoto’s famous food market featuring local specialties, fresh seafood, and unique street snacks.
Free to explore, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Yuba-kan

Try delicate yuba (tofu skin) dishes, a Kyoto specialty, at this cozy restaurant in the Nishiki area.
JPY2000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Kyoto National Museum

View an impressive collection of traditional Japanese art and artifacts, with exhibits that showcase Kyoto’s rich heritage. Open 9:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY1200, 2h0m

4:00pm

Walk around Philosopher’s Path

Stroll along this scenic canal-side path lined with cherry trees and temples, perfect for a reflective afternoon.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience exquisite kaiseki cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients in an intimate setting.
JPY9000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Artisan Markets and Modern Attractions

Kyoto, Japan on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee with views of the peaceful Arashiyama bamboo groves – a perfect start for a nature-filled day.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through this iconic bamboo forest early to avoid crowds and savor the calm atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Tenryu-ji Temple and Garden

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning Zen gardens representing the harmony of nature and art. Open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Dine on Zen Buddhist vegetarian cuisine located within Tenryu-ji Temple grounds.
JPY3000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto Handicraft Center

Browse and purchase traditional Kyoto crafts such as pottery, textiles, and fans, with demonstrations available.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Kamogawa Riverbanks

Take a leisurely walk along the Kamogawa River, a favorite local spot for relaxation and people watching.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nishiki Warai

Enjoy okonomiyaki, a savory Japanese pancake, in a lively and casual atmosphere near Nishiki Market.
JPY1500, 1h0m
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