5-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey in Kyoto Itinerary

Begin with a visit to the historic Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho), the former ruling palace of the Emperor of Japan. Enjoy a royal breakfast at The Cellar Kyoto, known for its elegant ambiance.

Explore the serene Tenryu-ji Temple and its beautiful garden in the Arashiyama district. Then, indulge in an Kyoto Insider Sake Brewery Tour with Sake and Food Pairing to learn about the local sake-making process. For lunch, enjoy the riverside view at Arashiyama Park [188] with a bento box from a local vendor.

Dine at Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion) [12029], where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the temple's iconic silver pavilion. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the temple's tranquil grounds.

Start your day with a guided Nishiki Market tour with a local, where you'll get to taste a variety of Kyoto's famous foods. For breakfast, try the fresh seafood at the market.

After the market, take a walk to the historic Gion Corner and explore the traditional district. For lunch, enjoy a meal at Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka [25851], a restaurant with a view of the charming streets.

Experience the enchanting world of the geisha with a Kyoto Gion Night Walking Tour. After the tour, have a memorable dinner at Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine) [16040], where you can enjoy a traditional kaiseki meal in a serene setting.

Take a day trip to the nearby city of Nara, known for its ancient temples and friendly deer. Visit the majestic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Uji Bridge (Uji-bashi) [17429], where you can admire the picturesque bridge and river.

Explore the tranquil gardens of Isuien Garden and Yoshikien Garden, and then have a relaxing lunch at Man in the Moon Gion, offering a blend of local and international cuisine.

Return to Kyoto and unwind with a visit to the peaceful Sagano, also known as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. For dinner, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food at Macho Bar.

Begin with a visit to the serene Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden, known for its famous rock garden. Then, enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Highbury ～ザ ハイベリー～, a cozy spot with a European atmosphere.

Explore the hidden gem of Kyoto Zen Experience in private & hidden temple, where you can immerse yourself in a private Zen meditation session. Afterward, have a sumptuous lunch at Il Lago, offering a menu of Italian delicacies.

Conclude your trip with a visit to the tranquil Katsura Imperial Villa (Katsura Rikyu), one of the finest examples of Japanese garden design. For your final dinner, enjoy the fusion cuisine at Bar Shion, a stylish establishment with a wide selection of drinks.