4-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 23, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and light pastries in a classic Kyoto café setting.
JPY800, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the iconic golden temple surrounded by stunning gardens and a tranquil pond, a must-see symbol of Kyoto’s heritage.
JPY400, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor delicious udon noodles and seasonal vegetables in a cozy traditional restaurant near the temple area.
JPY2300, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and nightingale floors.
JPY1030, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk through Nishiki Market

Experience Kyoto’s kitchen by sampling fresh street foods and shopping for local specialties.
Free entry, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

Taste authentic kaiseki cuisine featuring seasonal Kyoto ingredients in the historic Gion district.
JPY4500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Nature and Tradition

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries near the scenic Arashiyama district to start the day energized.
JPY700, 0h45m

9:30am

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Stroll through the famous bamboo forest for a unique and serene nature experience.
Free entry, 1h0m

10:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit the major Zen temple known for its beautiful garden and historic architecture.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy exquisite vegetarian shojin ryori meal inside Tenryu-ji temple grounds.
JPY4000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Walk along the Katsura River

Relax with a scenic river walk or opt for a boat ride to take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Boat ride approx. JPY2000, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Monkey Park Iwatayama

See wild Japanese macaques in their natural habitat with a rewarding panoramic view of Kyoto.
JPY550, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Sample yudofu (tofu hot pot), a local specialty in a peaceful setting close to Tenryu-ji temple.
JPY2800, 1h0m
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Day 3: Culture and Temples

Eastern Kyoto, Japan on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Kick off the day with premium coffee and fresh pastries in a minimalist Kyoto neighborhood shop.
JPY700, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates that wind up the mountain in this famous Shinto shrine.
Free entry, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Enjoy light meals and great coffee near Fushimi Inari, perfect for a break before more sightseeing.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its wooden stage and panoramic city views.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Stroll through Higashiyama District

Walk along charming streets full of traditional shops, cafes, and pottery studios.
Free entry, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience elegant Kyoto kaiseki in a refined setting within the historic Gion area.
JPY5500, 1h30m
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Day 4: Scenic Walks and Gardens

Northern Kyoto, Japan on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a fusion of Western and Japanese breakfast options in a stylish book café.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk the Philosopher’s Path

Take a peaceful morning walk along the cherry-tree-lined canal popular with locals and visitors alike.
Free entry, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Tour this tranquil Zen temple known for its beautiful gardens and simple elegance.
JPY500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Nanzenji

Enjoy traditional yudofu and seasonal dishes near Nanzen-ji temple, a beloved local spot.
JPY3500, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples featuring beautiful gates and gardens.
JPY500, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Unwind in Kyoto’s oldest public park famous for its seasonal beauty and lively atmosphere.
Free entry, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tempura Endo Yasaka

Indulge in gourmet tempura dishes crafted with seasonal Kyoto ingredients in an intimate setting.
JPY7000, 1h30m
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