4-Day Iconic Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Eastern Kyoto Discovery

Kyoto, Japan on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your morning with a traditional Japanese-Western style breakfast and famous house blend coffee at this historic Kyoto coffee shop, open from 7:00am.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site known for its wooden stage and panoramic views of Kyoto; opens at 6:00am and closes at 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h

11:45am

Stroll through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Wander these preserved historic streets with traditional shops and teahouses, perfect for souvenir shopping and cultural immersion.
Free, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Gion Tanto

Enjoy home-style Kyoto cuisine including tofu and seasonal vegetables in the atmospheric Gion district; open 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Yasaka Shrine

Visit this vibrant shrine at the heart of Gion, known for its festivals and beautiful architecture; open 24 hours.
Free, 45m

3:00pm

Gion District Walk and Maiko Spotting

Take a leisurely walk in the historic Gion district, keeping an eye out for traditional geisha and maiko on their way to appointments.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley - Pontocho Kappa Zushi

Dine in this atmospheric alley along the Kamo River with views and excellent sushi, open till 10:00pm.
JPY3000, 1.5h
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Day 2: Northern Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on May 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Floresta Nature Doughnuts

Try their delightful organic and animal-friendly doughnuts for a light and tasty start; shop opens at 8:00am.
JPY600, 45m

8:30am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Experience the serene bamboo forest before the crowds arrive; open 24 hours and free to enter.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple and Garden

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens reflecting the seasons; opens at 8:30am, closes at 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1.5h

11:30am

Walk over Togetsukyo Bridge

Enjoy iconic views of the Katsura River and surrounding mountains from this picturesque wooden bridge.
Free, 30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine on exquisite yudofu (tofu hot pot) with views over the river; reservations recommended, open 11:00am to 3:30pm.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at this famous golden temple surrounded by a reflective pond; opens 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h

3:30pm

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Contemplate the zen rock garden of Ryoan-ji Temple, a symbol of simplicity and balance; open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Central Kyoto & Dinner at Izuju Sushi

Sample traditional Kyoto-style sushi near Yasaka Shrine, open until 8:30pm.
JPY3500, 1.5h
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Day 3: Central Kyoto Culture

Kyoto, Japan on May 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee

Enjoy specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular café; opens at 8:00am.
JPY800, 45m

9:00am

Nijo Castle

Tour this historic shogun residence with beautiful gardens and ornate interiors; opens 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1030, 2h

11:30am

Nishiki Market Exploration

Browse Kyoto’s foodie market for local delicacies, fresh produce, and souvenirs; generally open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Free entry; expenses depend on purchases, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Warai

Try local okonomiyaki (savory pancake) and other street foods within Nishiki Market; open 11:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Relax with a stroll through the spacious grounds of the former imperial residence; open 9:00am to 5:00pm, closed on Mondays.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Shopping and Tea at Isetan Kyoto

Enjoy upscale shopping and a traditional tea experience at Isetan department store in downtown Kyoto.
Free entry; tea approx JPY800, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience kaiseki multi-course dining showcasing seasonal Kyoto ingredients; reservation required, dinner from 6:00pm.
JPY15000, 2h
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Day 4: Southern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on May 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Komeda’s Coffee

Enjoy hearty Japanese-style morning sets with coffee; opens at 7:00am.
JPY900, 45m

8:30am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Hike through thousands of vermillion torii gates leading up Mount Inari; open 24 hours and free entry.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover Kyoto’s largest Zen temple complex, renowned for its gardens and architecture; opens 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Nara Tonton Fushimi

Relish delicious pork cutlet and grilled cuisine in a casual setting near Fushimi station; open 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Sake Brewery Tour - Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Learn about sake brewing history and sample varieties at this historic brewery; open 9:30am to 5:00pm, last entry 4:30pm.
JPY300, 1h

3:30pm

Return to central Kyoto - Relax or last minute shopping

Use remaining time for shopping or relaxing in your hotel area before departure.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Savor Kyoto’s famous burnt miso ramen in a cozy setting; open 5:30pm to 10:30pm.
JPY1500, 1.5h
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