3-Day Cultural and Scenic Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historical Downtown

Kyoto, Japan on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style Western breakfast with freshly brewed coffee at this iconic Kyoto cafe, open from 7:00am to 8:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto’s famous food market, tasting local delicacies and shopping for souvenirs in the vibrant historic streets open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
Free entry, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Gion District

Stroll the scenic historic streets of the Geisha district visiting traditional teahouses and spotting Geiko and Maiko, best explored during daylight hours.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen

Dine on handmade udon noodles and seasonal vegetables at this charming restaurant, open 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Kyoto National Museum

Explore exquisite collections of Japanese art and artifacts; open 9:30am to 5:00pm, closed Mondays.
JPY1500, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Kyoto’s oldest park, ideal for a leisurely walk during sunset.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Savor Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in a cozy setting, with reservations recommended; open until 10:00pm.
JPY6000, 2h
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Day 2: Nature and Temples

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee Arashiyama

Start your day with excellent coffee and pastries at this popular riverside cafe, open from 7:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

8:30am

Visit Bamboo Grove

Experience the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before the crowds arrive for peaceful walks through towering stalks; open all day.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Tour this UNESCO World Heritage site and beautiful gardens open from 8:30am to 5:30pm, entrance fee applies.
JPY500, 1h15m

11:15am

River Boat Ride on Hozu River

Enjoy a scenic 2-hour boat ride for nature views and small waterfalls; operation starts at 9:30am, depending on weather.
JPY4200, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Experience exquisite vegetarian Shojin Ryori meals served at Tenryu-ji Temple’s restaurant, open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Visit this beautiful villa and gardens with panoramic views of Kyoto, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

5:00pm

Evening Stroll by Katsura River

Relax and unwind with a peaceful walk along the riverside pathways.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Randen Arashiyama Station Area

Enjoy casual Japanese dining options near the station, open until 9:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Temples and Gardens

Northern Kyoto, Japan on June 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or local bakery

A quick light breakfast to prepare for a day of temple visits.
JPY800, 30m

8:45am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Tour the stunning golden temple and its serene gardens, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h15m

10:15am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Explore the famous Zen rock garden and peaceful grounds, open from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

11:30am

Ninna-ji Temple

Visit this historic temple complex with stunning architecture and gardens, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h15m

12:45pm

Lunch at a nearby traditional cafe

Enjoy local Kyoto cuisine such as tofu dishes and light sweets, open 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Walk the Philosopher's Path

Take a serene 2-hour walk along the canal lined with cherry trees and visit nearby smaller temples; accessible all day.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

End your day at this elegant temple surrounded by exquisite gardens, open 8:30am to 5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Izakaya in Central Kyoto

Celebrate your Kyoto visit with a lively evening meal at a traditional Izakaya, open until 11:00pm.
JPY3500, 2h
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