3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Sites & Gion

Kyoto, Japan on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica

Enjoy a fresh coffee and light pastries at this popular specialty coffee shop near the Kiyomizu-Gojo area, perfect to start your day energized.
JPY700, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning wooden stage overlooking Kyoto. The temple opens at 6:00am and closes at 6:00pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

11:00am

Stroll through Higashiyama District

Walk this iconic preserved historic district featuring traditional shops and teahouses, giving a glimpse into old Kyoto life.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Taste traditional handmade udon noodles near Kodai-ji Temple, known for its comforting flavors and charming garden setting.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kodai-ji Temple

A serene temple with beautiful gardens and bamboo groves, perfect for leisurely exploration. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY600, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Gion District

Wander the famous geisha district streets, spotting traditional machiya houses and possibly geiko in the afternoon light.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Savor a kaiseki (multi-course) dinner highlighting seasonal Kyoto ingredients in an elegant traditional setting.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Nature & City

Kyoto, Japan on June 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Start your day with traditional Japanese breakfast and green tea at this stylish cafe in downtown Kyoto.
JPY1200, 1h

8:45am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Visit

Wander through the iconic bamboo forest early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 1h

10:00am

Tenryu-ji Temple and Garden

Visit this major Zen temple with beautiful landscaped gardens that change with the seasons; open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Enjoy a serene riverside tofu specialty lunch experience with traditional Japanese cuisine in Arashiyama.
JPY3000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Nijo Castle, famous for its ornate interiors and historic significance, open 8:45am -4:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk around Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Relax in the spacious park surrounding the Imperial Palace, enjoying natural beauty and gardens.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Choose among various traditional restaurants and bars nestled in the atmospheric Pontocho Alley along the Kamo River.
JPY3500, 2h
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Day 3: Shrines & Markets

Kyoto, Japan on June 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Nishiki Market

Try diverse traditional Kyoto street foods and fresh produce for breakfast while wandering this lively market, open from 9:00am but some stalls open earlier.
JPY1500, 1h

8:30am

Explore Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit the famous thousand Torii gates of Fushimi Inari. It's open 24 hours, making early morning ideal to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore a large Zen temple known for its beautiful gardens and impressive architecture; open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kura Sushi Kyoto

Try casual and fun conveyor belt sushi in downtown Kyoto, a quick and tasty meal option.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Kyoto Tower

Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto city from the observation deck of Kyoto Tower, open 9:00am to 9:00pm.
JPY770, 1h

3:30pm

Shopping in Shijo Street

Explore Kyoto’s main shopping street for souvenirs, local crafts, and snacks.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Nanba

Indulge in a refined kaiseki dinner with seasonal ingredients in the heart of Gion to conclude your Kyoto experience.
JPY9000, 2h
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