3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Eastern Temples & Gion

Kyoto, Japan on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Start your day with specialty coffee and fresh pastries at this popular coffee shop known for its quality beans and elegant atmosphere.
JPY700, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views over Kyoto from its wooden terrace, perfect for soaking in traditional Japanese architecture and spiritual ambiance.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka Streets

Stroll along these historic pedestrian streets lined with traditional shops and tea houses, offering an authentic glimpse into Kyoto's past.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Enjoy a traditional yudofu (hot tofu) set meal in a serene setting near Kiyomizu-dera, a perfect way to taste Kyoto's vegetarian Buddhist cuisine.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple and its Zen Garden

Discover this tranquil temple famous for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere, offering insight into Zen Buddhism.
JPY600, 1h

3:30pm

Explore the Gion District

Walk through Kyoto’s famous geisha district, spotting traditional wooden machiya houses and possibly seeing geiko or maiko on their way to engagements.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Savor local Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine in an intimate atmosphere, blending seasonal ingredients and beautiful presentation.
JPY6000, 2h

Day 2: Arashiyama & North Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arabica Arashiyama

Begin the day with exquisite coffee and fresh pastries overlooking the scenic Arashiyama area.
JPY700, 1h

8:30am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early to avoid crowds and experience its natural beauty.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Tenryu-ji Temple Visit

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning gardens and historical significance as one of Kyoto’s top Zen temples.
JPY500, 1h

11:00am

Explore Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour the beautiful gardens and traditional villa of a famous Japanese actor, offering panoramic views of Kyoto.
JPY1000, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Saga Tofu Ine

Taste authentic tofu dishes, highlighting simple, fresh ingredients in this local favorite in the Arashiyama area.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

See the famous golden temple reflected in the serene pond, a must-visit iconic landmark representing Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
JPY400, 1h

3:30pm

Ryoan-ji Rock Garden

Experience the zen rock garden, famous for its minimalist design and contemplative ambiance.
JPY500, 45m

5:00pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Dine on refined kaiseki dishes made from seasonal ingredients, showcasing Kyoto’s culinary traditions at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
JPY9000, 2h

Day 3: Southern & Central Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy classic Kyoto-style coffee and morning sets in a long-standing and beloved café in central Kyoto.
JPY800, 1h

9:15am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates up the mountain trails of this famous Shinto shrine, an unforgettable cultural experience.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s largest Zen temples, renowned for its large gardens and beautiful autumn foliage.
JPY400, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Tempura Endo Fushimi

Savor expertly prepared tempura using fresh, seasonal ingredients in a stylish setting near Fushimi Inari.
JPY3500, 1h

2:00pm

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk around the expansive gardens and grounds of the Imperial Palace area, rich with history and tranquil beauty.
Free, 1h30m

3:45pm

Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto’s famous food market filled with street food stalls, local specialties, and souvenirs, a great place for tasting and shopping.
Free to browse, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

Cap off the trip with authentic, home-style Kyoto cuisine in a cozy atmosphere within the Gion district.
JPY3000, 1.5h