3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Northern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Begin your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast and aromatic coffee at Inoda Coffee, a classic Kyoto café known for its rich blends. It's open from 7:30am, perfect for an early start.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the iconic Golden Pavilion, famous for its stunning gold leaf exterior set against beautiful garden landscapes. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, this Zen temple is a must-see for its cultural and architectural beauty.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Ryoan-ji Temple

Explore the famous rock garden of Ryoan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site representing Japanese Zen culture. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm, its meditative grounds are perfect for a peaceful stroll.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Okakita

Enjoy a traditional Kyoto-style obanzai lunch at Okakita near Ryoan-ji, serving seasonal vegetable dishes and soba noodles. Open 11:30am to 3:00pm, renowned for its local flavors.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Philosopher’s Path Walk

Take a serene walk along the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic canal-side walkway lined with cherry trees, ideal for reflection and capturing beautiful photos. Accessible anytime.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappo Sakamoto

Dine at this elegant restaurant specializing in kaiseki cuisine offering seasonal Kyoto delicacies in Gion. Open for dinner from 5:00pm, require reservation.
JPY9000, 2h
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Day 2: Southern Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee

Start with hand-crafted coffee and pastries at Arabica in Higashiyama, known for its excellent beans and scenic location near Yasaka Shrine. Opens at 7:00am.
JPY800, 1h

8:30am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Explore the famous torii gate pathways at Fushimi Inari Shrine, open 24 hours. Early morning visit helps avoid crowds and allows peaceful visits to the mountain trails.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Tofuku-ji Temple

Visit the extensive temple grounds at Tofuku-ji, renowned for its beautiful Zen gardens and autumn maple views. Open from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Torisei

Have lunch at Torisei, a highly regarded chicken yakitori restaurant located near Fushimi Inari. Open from 11:30am to 2:00pm.
JPY2000, 1h

3:00pm

Gion District Walk

Walk through the historic Gion district with its traditional architecture and chance to spot geiko and maiko. Shops and tea houses are open typically until early evening.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Enjoy dinner at one of the many atmospheric restaurants in Pontocho Alley, offering Japanese cuisine alongside Kamogawa river views. Reservations recommended.
JPY5000, 2h
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Day 3: Central Kyoto Markets & Palaces

Kyoto, Japan on June 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Sample a variety of Kyoto’s fresh street food and snacks at Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto's Kitchen.' Many stalls open from 9:00am, ideal for a casual breakfast stroll.
JPY1500, 1h30m

10:30am

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Tour the Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds, once the residence of the Imperial family. Palace tours start at 10:00am with prior reservation recommended.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Omen

Relish hearty bowls of udon noodles with fresh seasonal toppings at Omen near the palace, open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
JPY1800, 1h

3:00pm

Nijo Castle

Visit Nijo Castle with its historic architecture and beautiful gardens, open 8:45am to 5:00pm. A highlight of Kyoto’s feudal history.
JPY1000, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Giro Giro Hitoshina

Experience creative modern kaiseki cuisine at Giro Giro Hitoshina, an award-winning restaurant in central Kyoto. Open from 6:00pm, bookings advised.
JPY8500, 2h
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