3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast paired with their signature coffee at this longtime Kyoto cafe, a perfect start to your day.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore this iconic Zen Buddhist temple famous for its stunning golden exterior and beautiful surrounding gardens, open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Stroll through Ryoan-ji Temple

Experience the peaceful rock garden here, recognized worldwide as a masterpiece of Japanese culture.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pontocho Alley

Dine at a traditional Kyoto kaiseki restaurant in Pontocho Alley, serving seasonal ingredients in exquisite multi-course meals.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful architecture and nightingale floors, open from 8:45 AM to 5 PM.
JPY1000, 2h0m

4:30pm

Explore Nishiki Market

Walk through this vibrant food market known as Kyoto's kitchen, sampling local delicacies and street snacks.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Savor refined Kyoto cuisine in a traditional setting in the Gion district, a wonderful way to end your day.
JPY4500, 2h0m

Day 2: Nature and Relaxation

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Maple Pancake

Start with fluffy Japanese-style pancakes with matcha syrup and local fruits in this cozy Arashiyama cafe.
JPY1500, 1h0m

8:30am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Take a serene stroll through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early to avoid crowds and enjoy the natural tranquility.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this major Zen temple with beautiful gardens reflecting traditional landscape design, open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:30am

Boat ride on Katsura River

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride offering scenic views of Arashiyama’s natural surroundings and historic sites.
JPY2000, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Dine on soba noodles with a river view, making for a refreshing meal amidst nature.
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour this beautiful villa and garden estate with panoramic views and traditional teahouses, open until 5 PM.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:30pm

Relax at Arashiyama Onsen

Experience a traditional Japanese hot spring bath to unwind after a full day of sightseeing.
JPY1500, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Saga Tofu Ine

Enjoy exquisite tofu-based dishes, a specialty of Kyoto, in a warm and authentic atmosphere.
JPY3500, 2h0m

Day 3: Shrines and Shopping

Eastern Kyoto, Japan on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee

Sip some of the best coffee in Kyoto paired with light pastries at this trendy cafe in Higashiyama.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the iconic thousands of red torii gates at the famous shrine, open 24 hours for visitors to enjoy early morning tranquility.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover this large Zen temple known for its beautiful autumn foliage and vast temple gardens, open 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Okutan Sanjo Honten

Try traditional yudofu (boiled tofu) set meals served near a peaceful temple area, perfect for a calming meal.
JPY2200, 1h15m

2:15pm

Shopping at Gion and Kawaramachi

Spend your afternoon browsing local shops, souvenirs, and traditional crafts in Kyoto’s most famous shopping districts.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

End your day at this vibrant shrine known for its festivals and beautiful lanterns, open until dusk.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Enjoy a sophisticated kaiseki dinner showcasing seasonal delicacies prepared with exquisite technique in beautiful Gion.
JPY6000, 2h0m