4-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Cultural landmarks

Kyoto, Japan on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast and renowned coffee at Inoda Coffee, a classic Kyoto coffeehouse open from 7:30am.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning golden temple surrounded by tranquil gardens, a must-see emblem of Kyoto's cultural heritage. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:15am

Ryoan-ji Zen Rock Garden

Contemplate the simplicity and beauty of the famous rock garden, an iconic symbol of Zen Buddhism. Open 8:00am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy delicious udon noodles and seasonal vegetables in a traditional setting near Kodai-ji Temple. Open 11:30am-3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Walk through Gion District

Stroll the historic streets of Gion to see traditional wooden machiya houses and spot geisha. The area buzzes with culture and photo ops all day.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore this vibrant Shinto shrine which is lively especially in the evening when lanterns light up the grounds. Open until 8:00pm.
Free, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappo Sakamoto

Savor exquisite kaiseki cuisine, Kyoto’s refined multi-course meal, in an elegant setting. Reservations recommended, open until 9:30pm.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Nature and tradition

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles with a beautiful riverside view in Arashiyama. Opens at 7:30am.
JPY1200, 1h

8:30am

Bamboo Grove walk

Experience the breathtaking bamboo forest early to avoid crowds and enjoy serene natural beauty.
Free, 1h

9:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple visit

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens blending with the surrounding mountains. Open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:15am

Boat ride on the Hozu River

Take a scenic boat trip down the Hozu River to admire picturesque landscapes. Operating hours depend on weather; generally 9:00am-4:00pm.
JPY4100, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy vegan shojin ryori cuisine inside Tenryu-ji Temple’s tranquil setting. Open 11:30am-2:00pm.
JPY3300, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Explore the beautiful gardens and charming villa of a famous actor, offering panoramic views of Kyoto. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h

5:00pm

Explore Sagano area and JR Saga-Arashiyama Station

Stroll through the charming Sagano neighborhood with shops and cafes near the station.
Free, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Kitcho

Dine on refined kaiseki meals featuring local ingredients. Reservations recommended. Open until 9:00pm.
JPY20000, 2h
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Day 3: Historical highlights

Fushimi and Southern Kyoto, Japan on June 7, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Kyo Suiran’s Seiryu Lounge

Relax with a refined breakfast overlooking the Hozu River. Open 7:00am-10:00am.
JPY2000, 1h

9:45am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates on the mountain trails at this famous shrine, open 24/7.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Light lunch and coffee at this cozy cafe near Fushimi Inari, ideal for a quick break. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Admire historic Zen temple architecture and beautiful gardens. Open 9:00am-4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:15pm

Sake tasting at Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Learn about sake production and enjoy tasting several varieties at this well-known sake brewery. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

5:00pm

Stroll along Fushimi Momoyama Castle Park

Enjoy views of the reconstructed castle and surrounding park. Open daylight hours.
JPY350, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Kura

A lively izakaya serving fresh seafood and Kyoto specialties near Fushimi. Open until 10:00pm.
JPY3500, 2h
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Day 4: Philosophical walk and temples

Higashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Vox Cafe

Cozy cafe serving coffee and pastries near Philosopher's Path. Opens at 7:00am.
JPY1000, 1h

8:30am

Walk Philosopher’s Path

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along this beautiful canal-side path filled with nature and small cafes. Best in the morning to avoid crowds.
Free, 1h30m

10:15am

Visit Honen-in Temple

Explore this peaceful temple with moss gardens and a quaint atmosphere. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 45m

11:15am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Famous for its unique architecture and exquisite gardens. Open 8:30am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Traditional tofu cuisine restaurant near Kiyomizu Temple. Open 11:30am-2:30pm.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Iconic temple with panoramic views of Kyoto; must-see cultural site. Open 6:00am-6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets

Walk charming historic shopping streets with artisans, tea shops, and souvenirs.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

Casual restaurant serving Kyoto comfort food in a cozy atmosphere. Open until 8:30pm.
JPY2500, 1.5h
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