Charming 3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic city exploration

Kyoto, Japan on June 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day at Inoda Coffee, a historic Kyoto café known for its rich coffee blends and traditional Japanese-Western breakfast sets.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the famous UNESCO World Heritage site Kiyomizu-dera, renowned for its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto and stunning cherry blossoms or autumn leaves depending on the season. Open 6am-6pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Experience a variety of Kyoto street foods and delicacies at Nishiki Market, including fresh seafood, tofu, and pickled vegetables. Great for casual, authentic culinary exploration.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Walk through Gion District

Stroll the historic streets of Gion to spot traditional wooden machiya houses and perhaps glimpses of geisha culture. A perfect way to immerse in Kyoto's cultural heritage.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Visit Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant Shinto shrine at the eastern end of Shijo Avenue, well known for its lively festivals and picturesque lanterns.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Enjoy traditional kaiseki dinner at Gion Karyo, where multi-course meals are beautifully presented highlighting seasonal ingredients and refined culinary techniques.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Nature and culture combo

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on June 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Grab specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular local café known for its excellent beans and scenic surroundings.
JPY1000, 1h0m

8:30am

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous bamboo forest early to avoid crowds while enjoying the ethereal atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage temple with its stunning gardens and traditional architecture. Open 8am-5pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk along Togetsukyo Bridge and river

Enjoy scenic views of the river and surrounding mountains from the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.
Free, 30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Dine at Shigetsu, a renowned vegetarian Buddhist temple restaurant offering beautifully crafted shojin ryori cuisine.
JPY3000, 1h15m

1:45pm

Visit Sagano Scenic Railway Station & Train

Take the scenic train ride through the Hozugawa Ravine for picturesque landscapes. Runs typically 9am-3:30pm; last ride around 3pm.
JPY620, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax in Arashiyama Park

Spend a leisurely afternoon in Arashiyama Park, which offers quiet walking paths and river views.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Taste the local specialty yudofu (simmered tofu) in a serene setting near Tenryu-ji. The restaurant focuses on simple, seasonal ingredients.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Iconic shrine and local flavors

Fushimi, Kyoto, Japan on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Bibliotic Hello

Enjoy a cozy breakfast with a variety of Japanese and western-style dishes featuring fresh coffee and pastries.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore the iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates trails and main shrine grounds, open 24 hours, best early morning to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit one of the great Zen temples of Kyoto famous for its gardens and impressive main gate. Open 9am-4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Fushimi Sake District

Sample local cuisine in this famous sake brewing area, offering fresh sushi, grilled fish, and sake tasting opportunities.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Tour Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Learn about sake brewing history and process at one of Kyoto's leading sake manufacturers. Free entry, open 10am-5pm.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Fushimi Castle (Momoyama Castle)

Explore the reconstructed castle with views of the city and exhibits about the Azuchi-Momoyama period until sunset.
JPY600, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

End your tour with Kyoto Gogyo’s famous burnt miso ramen, a specialty ramen that offers a unique smoky flavor.
JPY1200, 1h0m
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