4-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Higashiyama Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast with freshly brewed coffee at Inoda Coffee, a classic Kyoto café known for its rich blends. It opens at 7:00am, perfect for an early start.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:15am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wooden stage with panoramic views over Kyoto, including cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Opens at 6:00am and closes at 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:30am

Stroll through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Walk these preserved historical streets full of traditional shops and teahouses, offering authentic Kyoto souvenirs and cultural experiences.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Dine on classic Kyoto udon at Omen, known for homemade noodles served with seasonal vegetables in a cozy setting near Kodai-ji Temple.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple and Zen Garden

Visit this serene temple featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, bamboo groves, and teahouses. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h30m

4:00pm

Nanzen-ji Temple Complex Walk

Explore Nanzen-ji, one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, known for its striking Sanmon gate and aqueduct. Grounds are free; temple buildings open 8:40am - 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience kaiseki cuisine highlighting seasonal Kyoto ingredients, located in historic Gion district. Reservation recommended. Opens 5:30pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Arashiyama Scenic Day

Kyoto, Japan on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Start with excellent specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular coffee shop set near the famous bamboo grove. Opens at 7:00am.
JPY800, 0h45m

8:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walk

Walk through the iconic bamboo forest early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Open 24 hours, no cost.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage temple with beautiful gardens and a stunning mountain backdrop. Opens at 8:30am, closes at 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h15m

11:15am

Okochi Sanso Villa Tour

Tour this exquisite villa with landscaped gardens offering spectacular views over Kyoto. Opens at 9:00am, closes 4:30pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles served with mountain and river views, a local favorite for traditional flavors and scenic dining.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

River Boat Cruise on Katsura River

Take a relaxing boat cruise down the Katsura River to experience Arashiyama from the water and view the lush landscape. Operating hours: 9:00am - 4:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Sagano Scenic Railway Ride

Ride the nostalgic Sagano Romantic Train along the Hozugawa River gorge, open from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY620, 0h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Shoraian

Dine on tofu cuisine at this picturesque restaurant nestled in the mountainside near the Togetsukyo Bridge. Opens 5:30pm, reservation recommended.
JPY5000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Central Kyoto and Gion Charm

Kyoto, Japan on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Enjoy traditional matcha tea and light sweets at this stylish café promoting Kyoto tea culture. Opens at 8:00am.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour this historic castle noted for its beautiful gardens and nightingale floors. Opens at 8:45am and closes at 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

11:45am

Shopping at Nishiki Market

Experience a vibrant food market with over 100 shops selling local specialties, fresh seafood, and unique souvenirs. Open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Free entry, cost varies by purchase, 1h15m

1:15pm

Lunch at Daiyasu

Savor a traditional Kyoto-style set lunch focusing on seasonal vegetables and tofu near Nishiki Market. Opens 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk through the spacious park surrounding the Imperial Palace with gardens and walking paths. The park is open daily, free entrance.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Gion District Walk and Maiko Spotting

Stroll through Kyoto’s famous Gion geisha district, and if lucky, spot a maiko on their way to appointments. Evening is the best time for the ambiance.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Suetomo

Taste exquisite kaiseki-style dishes in a traditional setting with possible geisha entertainment. Reservations are essential. Opens 6:00pm.
JPY12000, 2h0m
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Day 4: Fushimi and Eastern Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Komeda’s Coffee

Simple Western-style breakfast featuring toast and coffee at Komeda’s near Fushimi for an easy start. Typically opens 7:00am.
JPY800, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Early morning visit to the famed shrine known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. It is open 24 hours free of charge.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Sake Tasting Tour in Fushimi

Explore local sake breweries with guided tours and tastings in Kyoto’s sake district, booking required in advance. Tours run typically 10:00am - 4:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Izakaya Yukari

Enjoy casual Japanese pub food with fresh sashimi and small plates in an authentic atmosphere popular with locals.
JPY1800, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk at Philosopher’s Path

Stroll this scenic, cherry tree-lined canal path connecting several temples. Ideal for a peaceful afternoon walk. Open all day, free.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

See the elegant Silver Pavilion and its exquisite gardens famous for their classic beauty. Open 8:30am - 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h15m

6:30pm

Dinner at Okutan Kiyomizu

Cap off your trip with traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) in a historic setting near Kiyomizu Temple. Open from 11:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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