• Kinkakuji Temple - Also known as the Golden Pavilion, Kinkakuji Temple is a must-visit spot in Kyoto. Situated in the northern part of the city, it is easily reachable by car, although the public bus takes about an hour from central Kyoto.

The temple’s main highlight is the magnificent golden pavilion that glistens in the sunlight, surrounded by a serene pond and beautifully maintained gardens. The pavilion exemplifies the traditional Japanese Zen style, which focuses on simplicity and natural beauty, despite its striking color. Visitors will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who will share insights about Zen Buddhism and its impact on Japanese culture. (30 min. Transfer Time - 30 min. Walk Around)

• Gio-ji Temple - Located in Arashiyama, this small temple encapsulates authentic Japanese scenery in one location. The peaceful Japanese garden, covered in moss, and the modest thatched hut, surrounded by a bamboo grove and maple trees, make visitors want to linger here indefinitely. The guide will narrate the story of its origin, including the tragic love tale of a woman named “Gio” in Japanese history.

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - Walk through the iconic path of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and experience the sounds of Japan! The guide will explain the origins of Japanese bamboo and its connection to Edison’s invention of the light bulb.

• Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple - This small temple is situated in the best-preserved “old-Kyoto-view” area, in the northern part of the Arashiyama historical district. Despite its distance from the station, which makes it less crowded than the main area of Arashiyama, it offers a stunning view of countless Buddha statues. The guide will share its unique history and basic information about Japanese funeral traditions. (10 min Transfer Time + 30 min Walk Around)

• Arashiyama-Takao Parkway - The Arashiyama-Takao Parkway is a tourist toll road starting from north Arashiyama. In April, the road is adorned with 2,000 cherry blossom trees, and in November, with maple trees. The breathtaking mountains and the Hozu Gorge offer a glimpse into the nature that Japanese people have revered since ancient times.

• Nakagawa-hachimangū Shrine - “Nakagawa Hachiman Shrine” is a local shrine built as a guardian of the area, featuring the oldest Japanese Cedar tree in the region, revered as a lord. Touch the tree to feel the spirit’s power.

• Kitayama Big Daisugi - Secret spot! “Kitayama Giant Platform Cedar Trees” This area is located in the far northern part of Arashiyama, hidden by a narrow cliff road that few dare to traverse. However, visitors will soon notice the unusual view with uniquely shaped trees, featuring many slender and straight Japanese cedar trees emerging from single giant platforms. These 200-300-year-old bonsai cedars have been cultivated by local farmers for generations, showcasing the harmony of art and nature. This area is renowned for the world’s oldest timber factory, providing sacred wood for imperial buildings to this day. Although pictures of this area are often shared on Instagram and other media, few have actually seen it in person! A true adventure for explorers!

• Hanamikoji Street - Experience the 600-year-old street known for Geishas by car! Avoid the crowds and take photos from the car. (Taking pictures of Geishas requires their permission)

• Heian Jingu Shrine Otorii - The largest torii gate (red shrine gate) in Kyoto, built for the Heian Jingu Imperial Shrine. Standing at 24.4 meters (80 feet), it is one of the biggest torii gates in Japan.

• Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine - Fushimi-Inari Shrine is the most popular and iconic tourist attraction in Kyoto, famous for its “SenbonTorii” path (thousands of gates, though it actually has more than 10,000 gates dedicated now). It has been visited and cherished by Japanese people since 711 A.C. Starting from the giant gates, as the gates become smaller, it is believed that one’s ego diminishes, fostering a sense of unity with nature upon returning to the main shrine. Along the way, in the deeply spiritual atmosphere, visitors will encounter many unique objects and small shrines, introduced by the guide leading the way. (60 min Transfer Time + 70 min Walk Around)

• Fuel and Toll Fees
• Pick-up and Dropping off at anywhere in Kyoto City
• Knowledgeable Guide with Fluent English
• Parking fees
• Comfortable Private Van

• Admission fees

Discover the wonders of Kyoto with a local Japanese guide, traveling in comfort in a Japanese minivan!

• Explore the finest temples situated away from the bustling areas, including the Arashiyama bamboo forest, the Golden Pavilion, and the Fushimi Inari “Red Gates” Shrine.

• Enjoy meditation in secluded temples, free from the crowds.

• Traverse the entire city of Kyoto, taking in all the sights from the comfort of your vehicle.

• Journey to the mountains and countryside of Kyoto, renowned for its picturesque villages and shrines nestled among the mountains, and be awed by the sacred giant trees revered by local Shintoists.

• Benefit from the expertise of a local Japanese guide with in-depth knowledge of Buddhism and history, all communicated in English.

Reserve this tour today for an unforgettable adventure and enjoy a perfect day in Kyoto!

• Some temples need walks and walking up stairs to visit. Please ask the guide if you need to avoid those
• Parts of itinerary may change or update by the season or other circumstances

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.