3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Kyoto Sights

Kyoto, Japan on June 3, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-style coffee and a light breakfast at this beloved Kyoto café, known for its nostalgic atmosphere and excellent coffee.
JPY800, 1h

9:45am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its gold-leafed exterior and beautiful surrounding gardens.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

Admire the minimalist rock garden at Ryoan-ji Temple, a masterpiece of Japanese Zen landscaping that invites quiet contemplation.
JPY500, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy soba noodles and seasonal vegetables at this popular Kyoto restaurant near Kodai-ji Temple, known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Stroll through Gion District

Explore Gion’s historic streets lined with traditional machiya houses and keep an eye out for geisha and maiko walking to appointments.
Free, 1h30m

3:45pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Visit this vibrant Shinto shrine at the edge of Gion, known for its beautiful lanterns and as a center of local festivities.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Take a leisurely walk or rest in Kyoto’s oldest park, located near Yasaka Shrine, famed for cherry blossoms and peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Savor traditional Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine at this well-regarded restaurant, offering seasonal dishes with artistic presentation in a refined setting.
JPY7000, 2h
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Day 2: Nature and Temples

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy a specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular local coffee shop known for excellent beans and beautiful views of Katsura River.
JPY800, 1h

9:00am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Walk through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early to avoid crowds and soak in the tranquil, towering stalks of bamboo.
Free, 1h

10:15am

Tenryu-ji Temple Visit

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage temple with a stunning landscaped garden that offers serene mountain views and historical significance.
JPY500, 1h

11:30am

River Boat Ride on Hozu River

Take a scenic 2-hour traditional boat ride down the Hozu River to see lush nature and dramatic landscapes around Arashiyama.
JPY4500, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Experience shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, at the temple restaurant in Tenryu-ji, offering a tranquil dining experience.
JPY4000, 1h30m

3:45pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour the beautifully landscaped estate of a famous Japanese actor, featuring gardens and spectacular views over Kyoto.
JPY1000, 1h

5:00pm

Stroll Togetsukyo Bridge

Enjoy the scenic views of the Katsura River from this iconic bridge, especially beautiful at sunset.
Free, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Dine on soba noodles with views over the river, combining delicious food with a serene atmosphere in a traditional setting.
JPY3500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Shrines and Sake

Fushimi, Kyoto, Japan on June 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Start your day with a relaxed breakfast and freshly brewed coffee in this stylish, book-themed café in Fushimi.
JPY900, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore the world-famous shrine known for thousands of vermilion torii gates forming magical hiking paths up the mountain.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Inari Sushi Koji

Try local specialties including inari sushi, a sweet fried tofu pocket filled with sushi rice, in a friendly, casual setting.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Sake Brewery Tour at Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Learn about traditional sake brewing with a tour and tasting session at this historic brewery museum operating for centuries.
JPY500, 1h30m

3:15pm

Explore Fushimi Castle Ruins Park

Walk through the park surrounding the historical site of Fushimi Castle, enjoying the peaceful garden and pond views.
Free, 45m

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto city center

Head back to central Kyoto to rest or continue exploring as you wish, preparing for departure or evening plans.
Transport fare approx. JPY300, 30m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Nishiki Warai

Enjoy a final meal featuring Kyoto-style okonomiyaki, a savory pancake with a variety of fillings, in a welcoming atmosphere near Nishiki Market.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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