4-Day Cultural and Culinary Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Historic Higashiyama

Kyoto, Japan on June 23, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-Western style breakfast at Inoda Coffee, known for its rich coffee and hearty dishes, located near Sanjo-Keihan Station.
JPY1000, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site Kiyomizu-dera, famous for its wooden stage overlooking the cherry and maple trees, offering stunning city views.
JPY400, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Okutan

Enjoy a Buddhist vegetarian meal (shojin ryori) at Okutan, a historic tofu restaurant near Kiyomizu-dera, highlighting healthy, traditional Japanese flavors.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

Stroll along these preserved historic streets filled with traditional shops and teahouses, ideal for souvenir shopping and experiencing old Kyoto atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

See Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant Shinto shrine at the eastern end of Shijo Avenue, significant for its festivals and cultural events.
Free, 0h45m

4:30pm

Explore Gion District

Explore Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, with opportunities to spot geisha and visit traditional tea houses.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Have an exquisite kaiseki dinner at Gion Karyo, where seasonal Kyoto cuisine is presented in a refined setting, reserving in advance is recommended.
JPY8000, 2h0m
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Day 2: Arashiyama Nature and Culture

Kyoto, Japan on June 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy high-quality specialty coffee and light pastries at this popular Arashiyama cafe before starting your day.
JPY800, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, an ethereal natural setting that is a must-see for visitors.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning gardens that offer a peaceful escape.
JPY500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Taste impressive traditional Buddhist shojin cuisine at Shigetsu, located within Tenryu-ji Temple grounds (closed Tuesdays).
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Okochi Sanso Villa

Visit the elegant gardens and villa of Okochi Denjiro, offering panoramic views of Kyoto and peaceful surroundings.
JPY1000, 1h0m

4:00pm

Sagano Scenic Railway

Optional picturesque train ride through the Hozugawa Ravine for nature lovers; check schedules as it runs seasonally.
JPY620, 0h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles with views of the Togetsukyo Bridge at this well-regarded local restaurant.
JPY1500, 1h0m
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Day 3: Central Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Voguebike Kyoto Cafe

Start with a Western-style breakfast in a cozy cafe perfect for cycling enthusiasts and travelers.
JPY900, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore the historic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO site famous for its nightingale floors and beautiful gardens.
JPY1030, 1h30m

11:30am

Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Walk through the expansive gardens of the former Imperial Palace, now open to the public as Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Kyoto Gogyo

Savor unique burnt miso ramen, a specialty dish of Kyoto Gogyo, offering a smoky flavor unlike typical ramen.
JPY1000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

See Kyoto’s iconic Golden Pavilion, a stunning gold-leaf covered temple surrounded by reflective ponds.
JPY400, 1h0m

3:30pm

Ryoan-ji Zen Garden

Experience tranquility at Ryoan-ji, famous for its rock garden, an excellent place for contemplation.
JPY500, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit Kyoto National Museum

Explore this museum featuring traditional Japanese arts and relics (closed Mondays), perfect for cultural insight.
JPY520, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Misoguigawa

Enjoy French-Japanese fusion cuisine in a charming Pontocho alley restaurant with river views.
JPY6000, 2h0m
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Day 4: Southern Kyoto and Fushimi

Kyoto, Japan on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at USAGIYA CAFÉ

Relax with traditional Japanese sweets and matcha alongside a light breakfast to fuel the day.
JPY900, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore the famous shrine known for its thousands of red torii gates that create scenic walking paths.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Fushimi Sake District Tour

Tour sake breweries to learn about and sample Kyoto sake, an immersive cultural experience (tours vary by brewery).
Free to JPY1500 depending on tasting, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Torisei Fushimi

Indulge in grilled chicken dishes at Torisei, a local favorite near Fushimi Inari, perfect for casual dining.
JPY1500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Explore Tofuku-ji, famous for its autumn foliage and impressive Zen gardens, open daily from 9am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk along the Kamo River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, a popular local spot for relaxing and people watching.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Tanto

Conclude your Kyoto visit with a cozy meal featuring Kyoto-style home cooking in the Gion district.
JPY2500, 1h30m
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