3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Central Kyoto Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Coffee Kyoto Higashiyama

Enjoy high-quality coffee and light pastries at this modern, popular café known for its excellent beans and serene atmosphere to start your day.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Nishiki Market

Stroll through this famous food market, sampling local delicacies and discovering traditional crafts, an ideal way to experience Kyoto's culinary culture.
Free entry; food purchases vary, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Savor traditional Kyoto-style udon noodles in a peaceful setting near Kodai-ji temple, offering a light yet satisfying meal.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Gion District

Wander through the historic streets of Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, and soak in the traditional wooden machiya architecture.
Free entry, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Explore this vibrant Shinto shrine that connects Shijo Avenue to Gion, renowned for its lively festivals and colorful architecture.
Free entry, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience kaiseki dining with artfully prepared seasonal dishes in a traditional Kyoto setting, perfect for a memorable dinner.
JPY12,000, 2h0m

Day 2: Eastern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee Main Shop

Enjoy a Western-style breakfast alongside aromatic Japanese coffee in this classic Kyoto coffee house established in 1940.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Tour one of Kyoto’s most celebrated temples famous for its wooden stage that offers breathtaking views over the cherry and maple trees below.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk Philosopher's Path

Enjoy a peaceful walk along this scenic canal lined with hundreds of cherry trees, connecting several key temples and shrines.
Free entry, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Dine on traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot) near Kiyomizu-dera, reflecting the local Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.
JPY2,000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Honen-in Temple

Discover this tranquil temple with beautiful moss gardens and a serene atmosphere located along Philosopher's Path.
JPY500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Nanzen-ji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s most important Zen temples, featuring impressive gates and meditation gardens.
JPY500, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

Enjoy traditional Japanese home-style cooking in a cozy, casual setting in the heart of Gion.
JPY3500, 1h30m

Day 3: Northern Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon Sanjo

Relax with Japanese-style breakfast featuring green tea specialties and light dishes in a peaceful modern café.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Marvel at the stunning gold-leaf covered pavilion surrounded by beautiful gardens, one of Kyoto’s iconic sights.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit Ryoan-ji Temple

Contemplate the famous Zen rock garden that exemplifies simplicity and profound design in Japanese culture.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Savor exquisite Buddhist vegetarian cuisine (shojin ryori) inside the Tenryu-ji temple complex in nearby Arashiyama.
JPY3000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the serene bamboo forest paths that create an otherworldly atmosphere, a must-see Kyoto attraction.
Free entry, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit the head temple of the Rinzai Zen sect with impressive gardens and historic architecture near Arashiyama.
JPY500, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles with a view overlooking the Katsura River, rounding out your Kyoto culinary experience.
JPY2500, 1h30m