• Gio-ji Temple - 1. “Giou”-ji Temple
  Constructed in the 12th century during the Heian period, “Giou” refers to a woman’s name. This quaint temple is renowned as a stage for women’s sorrows.

2. “Giou”
   The central figure is “Giou,” a dancer from this era. She was favored by “Taira no Kiyomori,” a former Shogun of the Heian Period.

3. “Taira no Kiyomori” and “Butsugozen”
   “Taira no Kiyomori” (1118-1181) was the shogun at that time. Initially, he was deeply in love with “Giou,” but his affections shifted to another woman, “Butsugozen.” Consequently, “Giou” was cast aside and eventually became a nun, living with her sister and mother at the temple for the remainder of her life.

4. Tale of the Heike
   This is a tragic love story. The book Heike-Monogatari narrates the sorrowful tale of the dancer.

5. Moss Garden
   The temple features a stunning moss garden that extends throughout the grounds, offering a serene and verdant harmony that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

• Saga Toriimoto Traditional Buildings Preservation Area - Saga Toriimoto Town
  Along the street leading to another temple, the old town is well-preserved. Farmhouses and machiya houses are beautifully integrated, forming a historical landscape in the suburbs of Kyoto Rakugai.

• Adashino Nenbutsuji - 1. Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple
  Built in the 13th century during the Kamakura period, “Adashino” translates to “vain field” or “heartless field.” This temple also holds a tragic story.

2. History Timeline

3. Honen Monk
   The temple’s founder was Honen (1133-1212), who taught nenbutsu, a practice of chanting the sutra.

4. Muen Botoke
   This term refers to the deceased and their spirits who have no relatives to pray for them. The temple gathered these souls and enshrined them. This area was once a place where unclaimed bodies were discarded, earning it the name “heartless field.” The temple houses nearly 8,000 stone Buddha statues that were excavated and collected.

5. Sentou Kuyo
   This means “enshrined forever.” Every August, thousands of candles are lit, and flowers are offered.

• Bamboo Forest Street - The “Bamboo Grove”
  The bamboo forest path is a recommended tourist attraction in Kyoto. It stretches like a tunnel along a 400-meter road. Once a villa area for aristocrats during the Heian period, it has no special entrance, allowing anyone to wander through. Admission is free, but it is open only from 9:00 to 17:00. The lush bamboo forest exudes a slightly mystical atmosphere year-round, offering a sense of stepping into another world.

• Tenryuji Temple - Tenryuji Temple
  Tenryuji Temple is the head temple of the Rinzai sect, representing Zen temples in Arashiyama, Kyoto. It is celebrated for its exquisite gardens and ceiling paintings. In 1994, it was designated a World Heritage Site alongside Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, To-ji, and Nijo Castle. The world-renowned Sogenchi Garden is a highlight, featuring a stroll-style design with a central pond and incorporating the borrowed scenery of Arashiyama. These mountains form a backdrop to the garden, which was created about 700 years ago by the founder, Muso Kokushi, and still maintains its original appearance. Additionally, the garden is the first nationally designated historic site and special place of scenic beauty, akin to a national treasure of scenery, with only 36 such sites in the country.

• Tour Guide in English
• Entrance fee for 3 temples(Tenryu-ji ,Giou-ji,Adashino-nenbutsu-ji)

• Gratuities
• No hotel pickup or drop off

This tour is crafted to help participants avoid crowds and fully immerse themselves in the tranquil, nature-rich surroundings of Arashiyama. Beyond simply enjoying its natural beauty, the tour is designed to enable participants to experience the essence of history through their own senses. As they explore the unique atmosphere and stories of each temple, participants will feel like travelers connecting the past with the present. Through the guide’s engaging narrative and interactive experiences, the tour highlights the “serenity,” “inspiration,” and “wisdom” that each temple offers.

Sagano and Arashiyama are more than just tourist spots. They are remarkable places where the lives, beliefs, and culture of past inhabitants are deeply embedded. By joining this tour, participants will not only gain a comprehensive appreciation of the area’s historical charm but also find an opportunity to reflect on their own lives in the present. Come and enjoy a truly special moment in a truly special place.

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