3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Landmarks

Kyoto, Japan on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with traditional Japanese-Western style breakfast at Inoda Coffee, known for its rich coffee and light meals. It's open from 7am, perfect for an early start.
JPY1200, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the iconic Golden Pavilion, a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by a beautiful pond and gardens reflecting classical Japanese architecture.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Ryoan-ji Temple

Discover the famous rock garden at Ryoan-ji, an enduring example of Zen landscaping that inspires tranquility and contemplation.
JPY500, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Ajihei

Enjoy authentic Kyoto-style yakitori skewers at Ajihei, a cozy local restaurant open from 11:30am to 2pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Tour Nijo Castle

Visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its beautiful gardens and historic architecture, including the 'nightingale floors' that chirp when walked upon.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Stroll through Maruyama Park, a lovely public park known for its seasonal cherry blossoms and serene atmosphere.
Free, 45m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Savor kaiseki cuisine, Kyoto’s traditional multi-course meal, at Gion Kappa, which is open for dinner from 6pm to 10pm. Reservations are recommended.
JPY6000, 2h
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Day 2: Markets and Tradition

Kyoto, Japan on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Enjoy a casual breakfast sampling fresh street food such as tamagoyaki (Japanese omelette) and mochi at Nishiki Market, open from 9am but some stalls open earlier.
JPY1000, 1h30m

9:30am

Shop and Explore Nishiki Market

Browse Kyoto’s famous food market, known as 'Kyoto’s Kitchen,' with vendors selling fresh seafood, sweets, and local crafts in a vibrant atmosphere.
Free to browse, shopping cost varies, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Have a wholesome noodle lunch featuring udon and vegetable dishes at Omen Kodai-ji, located near the market and open from 11:30am.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Visit Yasaka Shrine, a famous Shinto shrine with bright vermilion gates, often bustling with local worshippers and tourists.
Free, 45m

3:00pm

Walk through Gion District

Explore the historic Gion district, famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and as a geisha quarter. Ideal for an atmospheric afternoon stroll.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine at one of the many atmospheric restaurants in Pontocho Alley, a narrow street famous for its nightlife and Kyoto cuisine. Many restaurants open from 6pm.
JPY4000-8000, 2h
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Day 3: Shrines and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sizuya

Enjoy fresh pastries and traditional Japanese sweets at Sizuya, a bakery open from 7:30am offering light and flavorful breakfast options.
JPY800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through the famous torii gate tunnels at Fushimi Inari Shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, open 24 hours.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - cafe

Relax at Vermillion café near Fushimi Inari with light meals and coffee; it's a great spot to rest after the shrine visit, open from 10am.
JPY1200, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover Tofuku-ji, renowned for its large Zen garden and impressive autumn colors, the temple is a peaceful place open from 9am to 4pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

3:30pm

Coffee at % Arabica Kyoto

Enjoy expertly brewed specialty coffee at % Arabica, a popular Kyoto-based coffee shop, known for excellent beans and beautiful minimalist design.
JPY800, 45m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Kikunoi Honten

Experience a prestigious kaiseki dinner at Kikunoi Honten, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite seasonal dishes, open from 5:30pm with reservation recommended.
JPY12000, 2h
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