5-Day Relaxed Kyoto Cherry Blossom & Cultural Exploration Itinerary for Couples

Day 1: Cherry Blossoms & Temples

Kyoto, Japan on April 1, 2025

10:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Start your day at this cozy tea house and café near Gion, offering traditional matcha-based breakfast sets and light pastries with a serene atmosphere.
JPY1200, 1h0m

11:15am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic temple famous for its wooden stage overlooking the city and stunning cherry blossom views in early April.
JPY400, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style udon noodles in a peaceful setting close to many temples.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Streets

Stroll these charming preserved streets full of photogenic wooden shops, tea houses, and artisan stores with light crowds in the afternoon.
Free, 1h0m

3:45pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

This vibrant shrine is next to Maruyama Park, an excellent spot for cherry blossom photography.
Free, 45m

4:30pm

Relax with matcha at Maruyama Park Tea House

Unwind here with traditional matcha and sweets surrounded by blooming sakura trees.
JPY800, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappo Sakamoto

Experience a cozy kappo-style restaurant with seasonal Kyoto dishes in the historic Gion district.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Arashiyama Day Trip

Kyoto, Japan on April 2, 2025

10:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Begin your day with quality coffee and light pastries near the Togetsukyo Bridge.
JPY1000, 1h0m

11:15am

Visit Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple

Enjoy the peaceful walk through the famous bamboo forest and explore the UNESCO World Heritage garden of Tenryu-ji.
JPY500, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Indulge in vegetarian shojin ryori temple cuisine at this serene restaurant inside Tenryu-ji temple grounds.
JPY3000, 1h30m

3:15pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Explore the exquisite gardens and tea house with panoramic views; perfect for photography and enjoying matcha tea.
JPY1000, 1h30m

5:00pm

Leisurely stroll at Togetsukyo Bridge & riverside

A scenic spot for sunset photography with cherry blossoms lining the river banks.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Savor soba noodles with a view of the river – a relaxing dinner spot to end your day trip.
JPY2000, 1h0m
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Day 3: Northern Temples & Philosopher's Path

Kyoto, Japan on April 3, 2025

10:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee Sanjo Main Store

Classic Kyoto coffee house serving delicious breakfast sets in a retro atmosphere.
JPY1200, 1h0m

11:15am

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore this beautiful temple renowned for its moss and sand gardens and cherry blossoms during spring.
JPY500, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Enjoy traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) in a historic setting near Philosopher's Path.
JPY2500, 1h15m

2:30pm

Walk Philosopher's Path

Leisurely stroll along the picturesque canal lined with cherry trees, ideal for photography and tranquil moments.
Free, 1h30m

4:15pm

Visit Honen-in Temple

A hidden gem temple with moss gardens and peaceful tea houses, perfect to relax after your walk.
Free (donations accepted), 45m

5:15pm

Tea and sweets at Chao Chao Sanjo

Enjoy handcrafted Japanese sweets along with a cup of green tea in an atmospheric café.
JPY900, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience elegant Kyoto kaiseki cuisine known for seasonal ingredients and beautiful plating.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 4: Central Kyoto & Market

Kyoto, Japan on April 4, 2025

10:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Higashiyama

Start with exquisite specialty coffee and a quiet ambiance near Yasaka Pagoda.
JPY1100, 1h0m

11:15am

Nijo Castle Visit

Discover this historic castle with beautiful gardens and impressive architecture, a UNESCO site.
JPY1000, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Taste a variety of traditional Kyoto street foods such as yuba, tamago yaki (Japanese omelet), and fresh tofu snacks.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:15pm

Explore Nishiki Market & nearby shops

Wander through the vibrant market and pick up local crafts, sake, and sweets.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Enjoy a peaceful walk in the spacious gardens where cherry blossoms bloom beautifully.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Kyoto Garden of Hojo

Visit the hojo garden for Zen-inspired landscapes and a calming atmosphere for photography.
JPY500, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Enjoy a refined multi-course kaiseki dinner showcasing Kyoto’s freshest seasonal ingredients.
JPY10000, 2h0m
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Day 5: Southern Temples & Departure

Kyoto, Japan on April 5, 2025

10:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama

Savor one last delicious coffee and light pastries in a beautiful setting before heading to southern Kyoto.
JPY1000, 1h0m

11:15am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous torii gates with fewer crowds in the late morning; excellent photo opportunities abound.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar & info

Casual café near Fushimi Inari offering light meals and good coffee, ideal for a relaxed late lunch.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Renowned for its large zen gardens and maple trees, Tofuku-ji also has lovely cherry blossoms and impressive architecture.
JPY400, 1h0m

4:00pm

Afternoon tea at a nearby Machiya Tea House

Relax in a traditional Kyoto townhouse-style tea house featuring matcha and seasonal sweets.
JPY1000, 45m

5:00pm

Return to hotel to collect luggage and prepare for departure

Head back by taxi or train to central Kyoto to collect your bags and leave for your onward travel.
Varies, Flexible
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