4-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Gion and Higashiyama

Kyoto, Japan on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with traditional Japanese-style coffee and delicious pastries in one of Kyoto’s most historic cafes, open from 7:00am.
JPY700, 1h0m

9:15am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its wooden stage overlooking the city and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Open daily 6:00am-6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Stroll along these preserved streets lined with traditional shops and teahouses, perfect for experiencing old Kyoto ambiance.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy handmade udon noodles with seasonal vegetables in a cozy setting. Open 11:00am-3:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Gion District and Yasaka Shrine

Experience the historic entertainment district known for geisha culture, visit Yasaka Shrine which is vibrant and open from dawn until late night.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Tea Ceremony at Camellia Garden

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony showcasing Kyoto’s culture and hospitality. Sessions available by reservation, usually 4:00pm and 5:30pm.
JPY3000, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Indulge in kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner renowned in Kyoto, serving fresh seasonal ingredients. Reservations recommended, open from 6:00pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Arashiyama and Kinkaku-ji

Kyoto, Japan on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles alongside a serene view of the Katsura River, a perfect start to your day. Open from 7:30am on weekdays.
JPY1200, 1h0m

8:45am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk early through this breathtaking bamboo forest to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos in the morning light. Open 24/7, but best early morning.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this important Zen temple with beautiful gardens and mountain views, open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

11:30am

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the river surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. Available 9:00am-4:00pm, weather permitting.
JPY2200, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Saga Tofu Ine

Dine on tofu specialty dishes, a local delicacy of Kyoto, near Arashiyama, open 11:00am-3:00pm.
JPY1600, 1h0m

2:30pm

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the iconic golden-covered temple and its stunning gardens. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

4:00pm

Ryoan-ji Zen Rock Garden

Contemplate the world-famous minimalist rock garden, open 8:00am-5:00pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Tempura Endo Arashiyama

Savor exquisite seasonal tempura dishes in an elegant setting. Open for dinner from 5:30pm. Reservation advised.
JPY7000, 2h0m
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Day 3: Central Kyoto History

Kyoto, Japan on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Higashiyama

Enjoy freshly brewed specialty coffee and light pastries in a stylish setting, open from 8:00am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:00am

Nijo Castle

Tour the historic castle including its famous nightingale floors, open 8:45am-5:00pm.
JPY1000, 2h0m

11:30am

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Stroll through spacious gardens and the surrounding park that hosts the former Emperor’s residence. Open 9:00am-5:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Isshisoden Nakamura

Try traditional kaiseki cuisine in a refined atmosphere, located near the Imperial Palace. Open from 11:30am to 2:30pm.
JPY7500, 1h15m

2:30pm

Nishiki Market

Explore Kyoto’s vibrant food market known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” for unique snacks and souvenirs. Open 9:00am-6:00pm.
Free (shopping costs extra), 1h30m

4:15pm

Museum of Kyoto

Discover Kyoto’s art and history through rotating exhibits. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Experience an intimate kaiseki dinner made with seasonal ingredients in a traditional Kyoto townhouse. Reservations required, 5:30pm-10:00pm.
JPY12000, 2h0m
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Day 4: Southern Kyoto Spiritual

Kyoto, Japan on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bakery & Table Takaragaike

Enjoy French-style breads and coffee with views of the nearby pond. Open from 7:30am.
JPY900, 1h0m

8:45am

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Hike through thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates at this famous Shinto shrine. Open 24/7, best early morning to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Tofukuji Temple

Visit this large Zen temple complex renowned for its architecture and gardens. Open 9:00am-4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Izusen Tofukuji

Enjoy Buddhist vegetarian cuisine in a temple setting, a unique Kyoto experience. Open 11:30am-2:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Sake Tasting in Fushimi

Discover Fushimi’s famous sake breweries with guided tastings and tours. Varies by brewery, generally open 10:00am-4:00pm.
JPY1500, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Kyoto Station

Prepare for departure or evening relaxation after an immersive cultural experience.
Covered by transport pass, 30m

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Kyoto Station Isetan Sky Lounge

Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto with western and Japanese fusion dishes to conclude your trip. Open until 10:00pm.
JPY3500, 2h0m
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