• Kinkaku-ji - Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its brilliant golden exterior and tranquil gardens. The name “Golden Pavilion” comes from the gold leaf that covers the pavilion. The use of gold was intended to reduce and purify any pollution or negative thoughts and feelings about death.

The Golden Pavilion is a three-story structure within the Rokuon-ji temple complex. Each floor showcases a different architectural style. The pavilion beautifully blends three distinct architectural styles: shinden, samurai, and zen.

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Kiyomizudera is one of Japan’s most esteemed temples, recognized as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 780 at the site of the Otowa Waterfall, it is situated in the wooded hills east of Kyoto, from which it gets its name.

The temple is particularly renowned for its wooden stage that extends from the main hall, standing 13 meters above the hillside. This stage provides breathtaking views of the numerous cherry and maple trees below, which burst into vibrant colors during spring and fall, as well as the city of Kyoto in the distance. The main hall, along with the stage, was built without the use of nails and houses the temple’s primary object of worship, a small statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon.

• Sannenzaka Ninenzaka - Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka have flourished since ancient times, allowing visitors to fully experience the ambiance of Kyoto. These sloping streets are lined with historic Japanese-style buildings that are characteristic of the city.

Along the way, visitors will find a variety of shops, including souvenir stores, shops selling various Japanese products, sweet shops, and restaurants.

• Yasaka Koshin-Do - Yasaka Koshindo, officially known as Daikokusan Kongoji Temple Koshindo, is an intriguing place to visit on the way to Ichinenzaka. The temple is adorned with colorful and eye-catching “monkeys”; the monkey is considered a divine messenger, and there are three types of monkeys – “see no evil, say no evil, hear no evil” – visible everywhere, including the main hall.

Visitors can write their wishes, along with the date and their name, on a “monkey” painted in their favorite color.

• Uji River - The Uji River is the only river that originates from Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. It has served as a vital waterway connecting Shiga and Osaka since ancient times.

The river flows through Uji, dividing the city into two parts and serving as a central focal point, with most shops and restaurants located along its banks. Uji Bridge, the main crossing over the river, is considered one of the three oldest bridges in the country.

• Uji Shrine - Uji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Uji, a city in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. The theme of the shrine revolves around rabbits, with the image of a white, red-eyed bunny featured on every lantern and ema (votive tablet).

In Japanese culture, rabbits symbolize safe and plentiful childbirth, and popular rabbit-themed omamori (lucky charms) are available for purchase at the shrine. As visitors exit, they will encounter a bronze rabbit fountain, green with patina except for a golden bald spot on its head after many years of ‘touching for luck.’

• Byodo-In Temple - Byodo-in Temple is one of Japan’s best-preserved national treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most iconic structure within the temple is the Phoenix Hall, which features wing-like corridors on either side of the central hall, resembling a phoenix spreading its wings, chosen for the design as the obverse of the 10 yen coin.
• Byodoin Omotesando - Uji is famous for its green tea production, and this charming street is lined with shops selling a variety of tea and tea-related products. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Uji, as it showcases Japan’s rich tea heritage and offers a glimpse into its fascinating history.

As visitors stroll down the cobblestone path, the air is filled with the enticing aroma of freshly roasted tea leaves. Here, they can try tea-flavored “dango” dumplings, noodles, ice creams, and donuts. Take time to explore the souvenir shops and eateries. At the end of the street, there is a Starbucks that serves its popular Matcha Frappé.

• In-vehicle air conditioning
• All fees and/or taxes

• Other personal expenses
• Lunch

Embark on a timeless journey through Kyoto and Uji, where tradition seamlessly merges with modernity, allowing you to fully experience the rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

Discover the eight most renowned scenic locations: Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, Yasaka Koshindo, Uji River, Uji Shrine, Byōdō-in Temple, and Byodo-in Omotesando.

Join this unforgettable adventure with our welcoming and expert guide.

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