3-Day Cultural and Scenic Exploration of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Temples Tour

Kyoto, Japan on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a classic Japanese-style breakfast and coffee at Inoda Coffee, a beloved local chain known for its relaxing atmosphere.
JPY1500, 1h0m

9:15am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple famous for its gold-leaf-covered exterior and beautiful surrounding gardens. Open 9am-5pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

11:00am

Tour Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

Walk through the tranquil rock garden and temple grounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its minimalist rock arrangement.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:15pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy traditional udon noodles with seasonal vegetables in a stylish setting near the historic district.
JPY2000, 1h0m

1:45pm

Stroll in Gion District

Wander Gion’s traditional streets and keep an eye out for geisha, soaking in the historic architecture and shops.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore this vibrant Shinto shrine known for its festivals and beautiful lanterns, open until sunset.
Free, 0h45m

5:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Savor traditional Kyoto kaiseki or other local specialties at one of the many restaurants in the atmospheric Pontocho Alley.
JPY4000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Arashiyama Nature

Kyoto, Japan on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Start with a Japanese tea-inspired breakfast and fresh pastries at this cozy café near Arashiyama.
JPY1200, 1h0m

8:45am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Experience a peaceful morning walk through the iconic and serene bamboo groves of Arashiyama.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Discover this important Zen temple with beautiful landscaped gardens and mountain views. Open 8:30am-5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h15m

11:30am

Boat Ride on Katsura River

Enjoy a scenic and relaxing boat ride down Katsura River, admiring the natural beauty of Arashiyama.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine on tofu specialties with views over the river, offering a unique culinary experience in Arashiyama.
JPY3000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Iwatayama Monkey Park

Hike up to see wild Japanese macaques with panoramic views of Kyoto. Open 9am-4:30pm.
JPY550, 1h30m

4:30pm

Tea at Arashiyama Benkei

Relax with matcha and sweets at this charming tea house near the river.
JPY800, 0h45m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine back towards central Kyoto in the elegant Gion district.
JPY6000, 1h30m
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Day 3: Gardens & Shrines

Kyoto, Japan on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Coffee

Enjoy specialty coffee and light breakfast at this popular spot known for its excellent beans and atmosphere.
JPY1000, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk through thousands of iconic red torii gates at this famous shrine open 24/7 for a mystical experience.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Admire one of Kyoto’s grandest Zen temples with beautiful gardens and impressive architecture. Open 9am-4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Hyotei

Savor refined traditional cuisine at this historic restaurant near Tofuku-ji, offering multi-course meals steeped in Kyoto culture.
JPY5000, 1h15m

2:15pm

Walk in Philosopher’s Path

Stroll this picturesque canal-side path lined with cherry trees and multiple small temples, a serene Kyoto highlight.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)

Explore this elegant temple with understated beauty and moss gardens, open 8:30am-5pm.
JPY500, 1h0m

5:15pm

Dinner at Giro Giro Hitoshina

End your Kyoto trip with innovative kaiseki in a modern, artistic setting in central Kyoto.
JPY7000, 1h30m
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