3-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Central Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on June 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-style breakfast with excellent coffee at this beloved Kyoto coffeehouse, open from 7:00am daily.
JPY1200, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore the historic Nijo Castle, known for its beautiful gardens and the famous 'nightingale floors' that chirp when walked upon. Open from 8:45am to 5:00pm.
JPY1030, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Sample a diverse range of Kyoto street foods and fresh local produce at Nishiki Market, the bustling food alley known as Kyoto’s kitchen.
JPY1500, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Tour the beautiful Kyoto Imperial Palace grounds and gardens, a serene spot open from 9:00am to 5:00pm (last entry at 4:00pm).
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Coffee break at Café Bibliotic Hello!

Relax in this cozy café featuring books and artistic ambiance, a perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon coffee and light snacks.
JPY800, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Experience authentic Kyoto kaiseki cuisine in the historic Gion district, open from 5:00pm to 10:00pm, reservations recommended.
JPY6000, 2h0m

Day 2: Historic Eastern Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kamo Coffee

Start your day with a freshly brewed coffee and Japanese breakfast at this popular local café, open from 7:00am.
JPY1000, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic temple offers spectacular views over Kyoto and is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h0m

11:30am

Stroll the Higashiyama District

Walk through this preserved historic district, famous for traditional shops, teahouses, and Kyoto crafts.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Okutan Kiyomizu

Enjoy traditional yudofu (tofu hot pot), a specialty of Kyoto, at this long-established restaurant near Kiyomizu Temple, open from 11:00am.
JPY2500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Gion District for Geisha spotting

Explore Gion’s winding streets and potentially spot Geishas and Maikos in traditional attire.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Tea ceremony experience at Camellia Garden

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a peaceful garden setting, open until 6:00pm, reservations advised.
JPY3000, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Sushi Iwa

Indulge in premium sushi crafted with local ingredients, open from 5:30pm to 10:00pm.
JPY8000, 2h0m

Day 3: Arashiyama & Western Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at % Arabica Arashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee in a modern setting near the iconic bamboo grove, open from 7:00am.
JPY900, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous bamboo forest, a must-see natural landmark offering a serene atmosphere.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning gardens and traditional architecture, open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Yudofu Sagano

Savor the delicate flavors of yudofu in a tranquil garden setting close to Tenryu-ji, open from 11:00am.
JPY2000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Boat ride on Hozugawa River

Enjoy scenic views of western Kyoto on this traditional boat ride, which runs daily with multiple departures until mid-afternoon.
JPY4100, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour this beautiful villa and gardens offering panoramic views over Kyoto, open until 5:30pm.
JPY1000, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Shoraian

Dine on exquisite tofu cuisine at this serene riverside restaurant, open evenings, requiring advance booking.
JPY7000, 2h0m