3-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Kyoto Exploration

Kyoto, Japan on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Coffee

Enjoy specialty coffee with light pastries at this popular Kyoto café known for its rich brews and minimalistic design, located near Kiyomizu-dera. Open from 7:00am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage temple famous for its wooden stage with panoramic views of Kyoto. Opens 6:00am to 6:00pm, perfect for morning tranquility.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Higashiyama District

Stroll the preserved historic streets lined with traditional shops and tea houses, capturing the atmosphere of old Kyoto.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample fresh regional delicacies such as sashimi, pickles, and takoyaki at the famous market market open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Tour the historic shogun palace with beautiful gardens and the famous nightingale floors that chirp when walked upon. Open 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1030, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Maruyama Park

Enjoy an evening stroll through Kyoto’s oldest public park next to Yasaka Shrine, particularly beautiful during summer evenings.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Dine on kaiseki-style dishes featuring seasonal Kyoto ingredients in the historic Gion district. Reservations recommended. Open until 10:00pm.
JPY5000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Arashiyama Nature and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Arabica Arashiyama

Start the day with a fresh cup of coffee and light bites at Arabica’s famous Arashiyama branch amidst scenic surroundings, open from 8:00am.
JPY800, 1h0m

9:30am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Take a morning walk through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a must-see natural landmark with soft light filtering through tall bamboo stalks. Open all day.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage temple with its stunning gardens and traditional architecture. Open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian Restaurant

Enjoy exquisite tofu specialties at this well-regarded restaurant by the river, open from 11:00am to 4:00pm.
JPY3500, 1h30m

1:30pm

River Boat Cruise on Hozugawa River

Experience a scenic boat ride through lush valleys offering spectacular views, operating seasonally from 9:00am to 4:00pm; confirm availability.
JPY4100, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour the beautiful villa and gardens of film star Okochi Denjiro, with tea served in the garden. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

6:00pm

Return to Kyoto City Center

Travel back to the city by train or taxi for dinner.
JPY400, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo

Taste unique burnt miso ramen, a local specialty, in a stylish setting. Open from 6:00pm to 11:00pm.
JPY1200, 1h0m
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Day 3: Southern Kyoto & Fushimi

Kyoto, Japan on June 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy traditional Japanese-style coffee and a hearty breakfast at this iconic Kyoto chain, open from 7:00am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Walk the famous Torii gate pathway at this iconic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of rice. Open 24 hours and free entry.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Explore Fushimi Sake District

Tour sake breweries like Gekkeikan, sample sakes, and visit the museum to learn about traditional brewing methods. Breweries generally open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY500 for tastings, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Izakaya Toriya

Enjoy grilled yakitori and traditional Japanese pub dishes in a cozy local izakaya in Fushimi. Open from 11:30am to 2:30pm and evenings.
JPY1800, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore one of Kyoto’s five great Zen temples with its beautiful gardens and historic architecture. Open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

4:30pm

Return to Kyoto City Center and Shopping

Spend late afternoon exploring Nishiki Market or downtown shopping areas for souvenirs and local crafts.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Savor an authentic Kaiseki meal, representing Kyoto haute cuisine at this Michelin-starred restaurant, with required reservations. Open until 9:00pm.
JPY15000, 2h0m
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