3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples and Markets

Kyoto, Japan on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Nishiki Market, sampling fresh Japanese street food and traditional sweets in this vibrant, centuries-old market. It opens around 9:00am but some stalls start earlier.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring beautiful gardens and historical architecture from the Edo period. It opens at 8:45am, so arriving early allows for a less crowded experience.
JPY1000, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Head to Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s iconic temples offering panoramic views of the city and famous for its wooden stage. Open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sannenzaka Street

Enjoy traditional Kyoto cuisine at a cozy restaurant on Sannenzaka Street, such as Omen Kodai-ji, known for its hand-made udon noodles in a scenic area.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Gion District

Stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, to glimpse historic wooden machiya houses and possibly spot a geisha or maiko. Best explored in the afternoon before dusk.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Tea Break at Gion Tsujiri

Relax with matcha tea and sweets at Gion Tsujiri, a renowned tea house serving high-quality green tea drinks in a traditional setting.
JPY800, 0h45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at Pontocho Alley, a picturesque dining street along the Kamogawa River, offering a range of restaurants from casual izakaya to upscale kaiseki meals.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Nature and Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arashiyama

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Arashiyama Station area cafes, such as % Arabica for excellent coffee and light pastries.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Experience the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene emerald stalks towering overhead. Open 24 hours and free admission.
Free, 0h45m

10:00am

Tenryu-ji Temple Visit

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a significant UNESCO site known for its exquisite gardens and historic buildings. Open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Have a scenic lunch at Shoraian, a riverside tofu restaurant specializing in traditional Kyoto tofu dishes with beautiful views.
JPY2500, 1h30m

2:00pm

Okochi Sanso Villa Gardens

Explore the beautiful gardens and villa of Okochi Sanso, a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Kyoto. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Riverboat Ride on Katsura River

Relax on a traditional boat ride along Katsura River, enjoying lush scenery and calm waters. Check weather and availability beforehand.
JPY3000, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Saga Tofu Ine

Savor authentic Kyoto-style tofu dishes at Saga Tofu Ine, a well-regarded local spot near Arashiyama.
JPY3000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Shrines and Shopping

Eastern Kyoto, Japan on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Begin with expertly brewed coffee and a light breakfast at the stylish % Arabica shop near Higashiyama area.
JPY1000, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine with thousands of iconic red torii gates. Open 24 hours and free admission.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk to Tofuku-ji Temple

Wander over to Tofuku-ji Temple, renowned for its zen gardens and beautiful autumn leaves. Open from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Tofukuji Kyomachi

Enjoy lunch at the nearby Tofukuji Kyomachi café specializing in seasonal, local flavors in a quaint setting.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu Gojo Shopping Street

Spend your afternoon browsing Kiyomizu Gojo Shopping Street, picking up souvenirs and traditional crafts.
Free (shopping cost varies), 2h0m

4:30pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

End your day relaxing at Maruyama Park, a lovely green space perfect for a leisurely stroll and people watching.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Conclude with an exquisite kaiseki dinner at Gion Karyo featuring seasonal Kyoto cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.
JPY6000, 1h30m
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