Explore the Rich Culture and Scenic Beauty of Kyoto, Japan – 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Historic Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Inoda Coffee

Start your day with a traditional Japanese-style breakfast and freshly brewed coffee at Inoda Coffee, a historic cafe in Kyoto known for its ambiance and classic menu.
JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its wooden stage that overlooks the stunning cityscape during spring and autumn seasons.
JPY400, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Izuju Sushi

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style sushi at Izuju located near the Gion district, offering authentic flavors in a historic setting.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Walk through Gion District

Wander the atmospheric streets of Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district, to glimpse traditional tea houses and wooden machiya houses.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Located at the end of Shijo Avenue, this vibrant shrine offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to learn about local religious practices.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gion Karyo

Experience exquisite kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course Japanese meal, in an elegant setting in Gion.
JPY8000, 2h

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan on June 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Saga Tofu Ine

Sample fresh tofu dishes that are specialties of the Arashiyama area, enjoyed for their light taste and health benefits.
JPY1500, 1h

9:00am

Explore Bamboo Grove

Walk through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove at an early hour for a calm and scenic experience avoiding crowds.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers beautiful Zen gardens and stunning views of Arashiyama's mountains.
JPY500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Shigetsu

Enjoy shojin ryori, traditional Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, at this temple restaurant within Tenryu-ji grounds.
JPY3000, 1.5h

2:00pm

Visit Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike up to the park where you can encounter wild macaques and see panoramic views of Kyoto city.
JPY550, 1.5h

4:30pm

Stroll by Oi River

Relax with a peaceful stroll along the beautiful Oi River and consider a short boat ride if time permits.
Boat ride JPY2000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles with a view of the river in a restaurant well known for its Japanese cuisine.
JPY3000, 1.5h

Day 3: Southern Kyoto Exploration

Fushimi, Kyoto, Japan on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kura Café

Start the day with a light breakfast including matcha and pastries in a cozy café in Fushimi.
JPY800, 1h

9:00am

Explore Fushimi Inari Taisha

Visit the iconic shrine known for its thousands of red torii gates forming beautiful pathways up the mountain. Best to start early to avoid crowds.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Fushimi Sake District

Tour sake breweries, sample different sake varieties, and learn about traditional brewing processes in this historic district.
Free entry, tastings from JPY300, 1.5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Izakaya Toyo

Enjoy a lively lunch atmosphere with classic Japanese pub foods and fresh sake in Fushimi.
JPY2500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Tofuku-ji Temple

Known for its stunning gardens and peaceful atmosphere, this temple is a great place to appreciate traditional Japanese landscaping.
JPY400, 1.5h

5:00pm

Return to central Kyoto

Travel back to central Kyoto to prepare for departure or further city exploration.
Train fare JPY300, 30m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Isshisoden Nakamura

Experience high-end Kyoto kaiseki cuisine, celebrating traditional seasonal flavors in an intimate setting.
JPY15000, 2h