Exclusive tour of Kyoto

After your breakfast at the hotel, you will meet your guide.

Kyoto is Japan's ancient imperial capital and one of the oldest cities in the country, the entire historical part of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kyoto was founded in the 8th century and served as the Imperial residence for almost twelve centuries. Among its numerous temples and sacred sites in Kyoto, one can highlight the Sanjusan-Gendo temple, built back in 1164. Even today, it is the longest wooden structure in the world. In the long central hall, in the twilight, there are 1001 statues of the goddess Kannon the Merciful. You will have a lunch break then at a traditional Japanese restaurant.

Another Kyoto gem is the Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, an elegant three-level temple, its roof covered with thin sheets of gold. The building is also topped with a traditional bronze phoenix. The temple is located in a magnificent garden from the Muromachi period. Nearby is the world-famous Zen rock garden of Ryoanji: fifteen stones seem to be randomly scattered on the white gravel, but, from any point you stand, only fourteen can be seen...

The Silver Pavilion, Ginkaku-ji, is another Kyoto's architectural masterpiece. The temple is gracefully reflected in the adjacent lake, making it a classic Kyoto view... Finally, you will walk down the open veranda of Kiyomizudera, or the Temple of Pure Water.

After this, you will take a trip to Arashiyama, a picturesque area on the outskirts of Kyoto. On the way there you can admire the scenery of the Hojukyo Valley. In the Arashiyama area, there is the famous Sagano bamboo forest and the beautiful Togetsu-kyō bridge for you to enjoy. Then, it would be your lunch-time. We humbly recommend dining at Togetsutei Shofukaku, a fine Japanese restaurant serving seasonal dishes presented in traditional bamboo o-bento style.

Your final part of the trip will be a walk through the historical geisha district of Kamishichi-ken. The spot is the smallest and oldest Geisha district, if you compare it, for example, with the Gion district in Kyoto. Only 25 Geishas and their students, Maiko-san, live and work here, residing at eleven elegant tea houses. Arashiyama also houses Japan’s most famous Geisha school.

After the end of your day trip, you will transfer to your hotel in Kyoto.