4-Day Scenic and Cultural Tour of Kyoto, Japan

Day 1: Central Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto, Japan on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast and artisan coffee at Inoda Coffee, a historic Kyoto cafe known for its rich brews and cozy atmosphere.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and historical significance as the residence of Tokugawa shoguns.
JPY1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Enjoy diverse local foods at Nishiki Market, known as 'Kyoto’s Kitchen.' Sample fresh seafood, pickled vegetables, and traditional sweets while exploring vibrant shops.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace

Take a guided tour of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, once the residence of the Emperor of Japan, surrounded by serene gardens and historic parklands.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Pontocho Alley

Stroll through Pontocho Alley to experience a traditional Kyoto atmosphere with narrow lanes alongside the Kamogawa River, ideal for photos and light shopping.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappo Sakamoto

Dine on kaiseki cuisine, showcasing seasonal and local ingredients in an elegant, intimate setting in the historic Gion district, open until 9:00pm.
JPY8000, 2h
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Day 2: Eastern Kyoto Temples

Kyoto, Japan on June 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at % Arabica Kyoto Higashiyama

Enjoy specialty coffee at this scenic café overlooking the Kiyomizu slopes, paired with light pastries perfect to start an active day.
JPY900, 45m

8:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this famous temple with its wooden stage offering panoramic views of Kyoto, especially beautiful in the morning light; open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
JPY400, 2h

11:00am

Walk through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Explore these preserved traditional streets filled with artisan shops, tea houses, and cozy cafés – perfect for souvenirs and photos.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Omen Kodai-ji

Enjoy handmade udon noodles and fresh vegetables in a tranquil setting near Kodai-ji Temple, open 11:30am to 3:00pm.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Gion District

Walk through the historic geisha district, with opportunities to see traditional wooden machiya houses and maybe glimpse geiko or maiko on their way to appointments.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Experience this vibrant shrine which hosts many of Kyoto’s festivals, and enjoy the lush grounds open 24 hours.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Tempura Endo Yasaka

Savor exquisite tempura in an elegant setting close to Gion, open until 9:00pm with reservations recommended.
JPY7000, 2h
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Day 3: Arashiyama and Western Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles and matcha with a view of the Katsura River, starting your day near the famous bamboo grove.
JPY1200, 1h

8:30am

Bamboo Grove Walk

Stroll early to avoid crowds through Arashiyama’s iconic bamboo forest to immerse yourself in the serene natural beauty.
Free, 1h

9:45am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens reflecting the harmony of nature and Zen philosophy, open 8:30am to 5:30pm.
JPY500, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Togetsukyo Bridge & Riverside

Enjoy views and riverside walks around the famous bridge, a focal point of Arashiyama and a great spot for photos.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Shoraian

Dine beside the river on tofu specialties and Japanese cuisine in a tranquil setting. Lunch service from 11:30am to 2:00pm.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Okochi Sanso Villa

Tour this beautiful mountain villa and gardens of a famous actor, offering peaceful strolls and panoramic views, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1000, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to Central Kyoto

Leisurely travel back to city center to prepare for dinner and evening activities.
N/A, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Musashi Sushi

Enjoy freshly made conveyor belt sushi with a variety of affordable options, open till late.
JPY2000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Southern Kyoto and Departure

Kyoto, Japan on June 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Iyemon Salon

Enjoy Japanese tea and light breakfast in a modern tea salon, perfect for a calm start before sightseeing.
JPY1000, 45m

8:30am

Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the iconic thousands of vermilion torii gates that delve into the sacred Mount Inari, open 24 hours for early peaceful visit.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Discover this Zen Buddhist temple known for its beautiful gardens especially in the fall, open 9:00am to 4:30pm.
JPY400, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum Café

Enjoy light meals and sample sake in a museum café dedicated to the famous sake brewery, open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Kyoto Station

Explore the extensive shopping and architectural delights of Kyoto Station before heading to your departure point.
Free, 2h
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