Southern Japan Cultural and Culinary Adventure Itinerary

Begin with a visit to the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. Enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding gardens. For breakfast, indulge in the serene atmosphere of Tenryu-ji Temple [12027], where a traditional Japanese breakfast will be served.

Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the Sagano bamboo forest, and then head to the Ryoan-ji Temple & Garden to experience the simplicity and beauty of its famous rock garden. For lunch, enjoy the vegetarian cuisine at the temple's restaurant.

As the day winds down, immerse yourself in the historic Gion Corner, where you can witness traditional Japanese arts performances. For dinner, experience the elegance of Il Lago, offering a blend of Italian and Japanese cuisine in a sophisticated setting.

Spend your morning in the picturesque district of Arashiyama. Begin with a visit to the Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its beautiful garden. Then, take a stroll through the Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka preserved streets, lined with traditional buildings and shops. Enjoy breakfast at The Terrace and Bar, which offers a serene setting with a view of the river.

Afterward, visit the famous Arashiyama Park and the iconic Togetsu-kyo Bridge. For lunch, head to Field, a restaurant known for its use of local, seasonal ingredients and its connection to the surrounding nature.

Conclude your day with a relaxing boat ride on the Katsura River (Katsura-gawa), where you can enjoy the serene natural beauty of Arashiyama. For dinner, experience the unique atmosphere of Bungalow, a restaurant and bar with a tropical-inspired setting and a menu featuring a fusion of international flavors.

Take a short trip to the nearby city of Uji, known for its rich history of tea production. Begin your morning with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Byodo-in Temple, and then cross the Uji Bridge (Uji-bashi) to explore the charming riverside area. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kyoto Tower Sandoval, which offers a view of the Uji River and the surrounding greenery.

Afterward, visit the Tale of Genji Museum to learn about the famous literary work and its connection to Uji. For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Uji's renowned matcha at MR. MAURICE’S ITALIAN Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, which offers a unique blend of Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist.

Return to Kyoto and spend the rest of your day at the mystical Fushimi Inari Shrine (Fushimi Inari Taisha). Explore the thousands of vermillion torii gates that lead to the sacred Mount Inari. For dinner, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Pontocho Alley [25874] and dine at Macho Bar, known for its creative cocktails and international menu.

Begin your day with a visit to the Sanjusangen-do Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Experience a traditional Japanese breakfast at Daitoku-ji Temple [25589], where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the temple complex.

Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Nishiki Market, also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen." Explore the narrow streets and sample a variety of local delicacies for lunch. Then, visit the nearby Kyoto International Manga Museum to learn about the history and culture of Japanese manga.

For a memorable dining experience, head to Paris 21 Arrondissement, a French restaurant with a Kyoto twist, located in the heart of the city. Enjoy a sophisticated dinner with a selection of fine wines. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the Kamogawa River (Kamo River), where you can enjoy the serene ambiance of the waterfront.

Take a day trip to the nearby city of Nara, the first permanent capital of Japan. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Todai-ji Temple (Eastern Great Temple), home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze statues in the world. Enjoy breakfast at Man in the Moon - Kyoto Station Pub, and then take a leisurely walk through the tranquil Nara Park (Nara Koen) where you can encounter the friendly, free-roaming deer, considered to be the messengers of the gods in Shinto.

Explore the historical and cultural sites of Nara, including the Kofuku-ji Temple, with its five-story pagoda, and the serene Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its many lanterns. For lunch, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of HUB - Kyoto-Yodobashi, which offers a variety of pub-style dishes and drinks.

As the day comes to an end, visit the Nara National Museum to learn more about the history and art of Nara. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Naramachi (Nara Machi), the old merchant district, and explore the traditional shops and cafes. For dinner, head to ZAZA Pub Kyoto, a stylish and modern pub with a diverse menu of international and local cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to the Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion), known for its stunning architecture and the surrounding meticulously designed gardens. Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at HUB British Pub Sanjokiyamachi, where you can start your day with a hearty meal and a selection of beverages.

Afterward, take a short walk to the Philosopher's Walk (Tetsugaku no Michi), a scenic path that follows a canal and is lined with hundreds of cherry trees. For lunch, visit SPRING VALLEY BREWERY Kyoto, a craft brewery and restaurant that offers a range of beers and a menu of delicious dishes.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Honen-in Temple, a hidden gem with a tranquil atmosphere. Then, head to the Nanzen-ji Temple and explore its expansive grounds and impressive architecture. For dinner, experience the unique fusion cuisine at Restaurant & Bar Eau de Vie, which combines French and Japanese flavors in a sophisticated setting.

Explore the historic Higashiyama District, known for its narrow streets, wooden buildings, and traditional atmosphere. Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. For breakfast, indulge in the elegant setting of The Terrace and Bar, which offers a selection of morning delights.

Afterward, visit the Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka preserved streets and explore the many shops and boutiques. For lunch, head to craft dining upit, a restaurant that celebrates the local craft and culinary traditions with a menu of seasonal dishes and drinks.

Spend your evening learning about traditional Japanese crafts at the Kyoto Handicraft Center, where you can see demonstrations and shop for unique souvenirs. Then, enjoy a cultural performance at Gion Corner, showcasing various traditional arts. For dinner, experience the cozy ambiance of The Cellar Kyoto, which offers a selection of fine wines and European-inspired cuisine.

Take a day trip to the vibrant city of Osaka, known for its modern architecture, street food, and lively atmosphere. Begin your day with a visit to the Osaka Castle (Osakajo), a symbol of the city's power and history. Enjoy breakfast at HUB Shijo Karasuma, which offers a variety of morning options in a stylish setting.

Explore the bustling Dotonbori area, known for its neon lights, entertainment, and a wide variety of local cuisine. Try some of the famous Osaka street food, such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki, from the many food stalls and restaurants. Afterward, visit the Shinsaibashi shopping district for some retail therapy and to experience the local fashion and trends.

As the day turns to night, enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the Umeda Sky Building, a unique architectural landmark. For dinner, indulge in the sophisticated atmosphere of MR. MAURICE’S ITALIAN Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, which offers a blend of Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Tosabori River, where you can enjoy the city lights and the vibrant nightlife.

Begin your day with a visit to the Ninna-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at The Terrace and Bar, which offers a serene setting with a view of the river.

Afterward, explore the Koto-in, a hidden gem with a tranquil atmosphere and a beautiful garden. Then, visit the Konchi-in, another quiet temple where you can relax and meditate. For lunch, head to CRAFT HOUSE KYOTO, a restaurant that celebrates the local craft and culinary traditions with a menu of seasonal dishes and drinks.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Kodai-ji Temple, where you can enjoy the illuminated garden in the evening. Experience the unique fusion cuisine at Paris 21 Arrondissement, a French restaurant with a Kyoto twist, located in the heart of the city.

Start your day with a visit to the To-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the Kyoto Gozan (Five Great Zen Temples). Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Kyoto Tower Sandoval, which offers a view of the Uji River and the surrounding greenery.

Afterward, explore the Kyoto Railway Museum, where you can learn about the history of railways in Japan and see a wide variety of trains. For lunch, head to MR. MAURICE’S ITALIAN Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, which offers a unique blend of Italian cuisine with a Japanese twist.

Conclude your day with a relaxing boat ride on the Katsura River (Katsura-gawa), where you can enjoy the serene natural beauty of Kyoto. For dinner, experience the vibrant atmosphere of Pontocho Alley [25874] and dine at Macho Bar, known for its creative cocktails and international menu.

Take a day trip to the city of Himeji and visit the magnificent Himeji Castle (Himeji-Jo), a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most beautiful castles. Enjoy breakfast at Man in the Moon - Kyoto Station Pub, and then take a leisurely walk through the nearby Koko-en Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with ponds, teahouses, and beautiful seasonal flowers.

After exploring the castle and its surroundings, visit the Himeji City Zoo to see a variety of animals from around the world. For lunch, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of HUB - Kyoto-Yodobashi, which offers a variety of pub-style dishes and drinks.

As the day comes to an end, take a stroll through the Himeji Central Park, a large park with open spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths. Then, head back to Kyoto and relax with dinner at ZAZA Pub Kyoto, a stylish and modern pub with a diverse menu of international and local cuisine.

Begin your day with a visit to the Kyoto Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Then, have breakfast at Kyoto Tower Sandoval, which offers a variety of morning options in a stylish setting.

Afterward, explore the Kyoto Aquarium, where you can see a wide variety of marine life, including penguins, otters, and jellyfish. For lunch, head to HUB British Pub Sanjokiyamachi, which offers a selection of pub-style dishes and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.

Conclude your day with a peaceful walk through the Kyoto Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the serenity of the evening. Then, have dinner at The Terrace and Bar, which offers a serene setting with a view of the river and a selection of delicious dishes and drinks.

Begin your final day with a visit to the Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its stunning autumn foliage. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Nishiki Market [197], where you can savor fresh local produce and delicacies one last time.

Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the Sanjo Bridge area, and then visit the Kyoto National Museum to immerse yourself in the art and history of Japan. For lunch, indulge in the serene atmosphere of The Terrace and Bar, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the river.

Conclude your journey with a memorable dinner at Field, a restaurant known for its use of local, seasonal ingredients and its connection to the surrounding nature. Reflect on your time in Kyoto and savor the flavors of the region one last time.