Our Signature Full Day Kyoto Tour
We pick you up in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle, and our guide leads you to and around lovely Kyoto sights. As Japan’s cultural capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto is loaded with extravagant Temples, legendary Shrines, and stunning Zen gardens.
Tenryuji Zen Temple
We pick you up in a comfortable climate controlled vehicle then guide you to Arashiyama in West Kyoto. We begin by exploring the ancient 14th century Cloud Dragon Temple, established in 1339 by Takauji of the Ashikaga Shogunate, as one of the principal temples of the Rinzai Zen School. Take in the splendor of the temple’s beautiful garden, which survives until this day in its original design.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Exit Tenryuji Temple on foot for a short stroll into the most beautifully serene bamboo grove that Japan has to offer. While taking in the ambiance of soft breezes washing through the bamboo groves lushly leaved treetops, explore further and admire the fantastic views of nearby mountain peaks and the striking valleys of the Arashiyama area. The natural beauty mesmerizes all visitors.
Golden & Silver Pavilions
Off to Kinkaku-ji Temple, an elegant Golden structure, declared Kyoto’s most popular temple – also known as the “Golden Pavilion”. Then across to eastern Kyoto and Ginkakuji Temple, the "Silver Pavilion". The calm and beauty of the Zen gardens and ponds were enough to calm the Shogun even during times of war when Kyoto was eventually burned to the ground, around the mid-1400’s.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Continue into central Kyoto where the Emperor of Japan reigned for over 1000 years at Kyoto's Imperial Palace. Take pleasure in the sight of cultural wonders walking through the Palace gardens and indulge in the regal resplendence of the residence. Appreciate the accomplished yet simple Japanese architecture as you explore opulent chambers and learn of ancient ceremonies still performed today.
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
The shrine sits at the base of Mount Inari. Inari is the god of rice, but merchants and manufacturers have traditionally worshiped Inari as the patron of business. The highlight of the shrine is the rows of torii gates. The custom to donate a torii started with the idea to get a wish to become true or to give thanks for a wish that became true. Along the main path there are around 10,000 torii gates.
Higashi Honganji Temple
Known as Kyoto's Eastern Temple of the Original Vow, Higashi Honganji is an absolute bohemith - the largest wooden building in Kyoto. Step inside the massive high ceilinged space, hung with gold chandeliers and supported by 90 pillars, and admire the luminous sanctuary. Top off the tour by sitting on the worlds largest tatami matted floor, and feel the true eminence and wonder of Kyoto.
Full day Kyoto tours usually 8 hours
Deposits and payments for Kyoto tours accepted using major credit cards. For all tour reservations, please contact us in advance by email: info@toursinkyoto.com or by going to our contact page.
Special rates can be arranged for half day tours, group and private tours, as well as customized tours to match your travel plans and schedule.