Discover a quiet side of Kyoto surrounded by nature and beloved by locals, reachable only by private vehicle. With an expert guide as a companion, discover ancient traditions and stunning scenery on this charming half day excursion.
Begin with a drive to Daigoji, a stunning temple complex situated in the eastern outskirts of Kyoto City. The removed location of this temple ensures a tranquil atmosphere enhanced by the nearby forested mountain slopes. There are a number of cultural spots to see here, starting with the garden at Sanboin. This carefully designed landscape was created in 1598 by the warlord Hideyoshi Toyotomi, and the garden and temple are considered the pinnacle of the lavish Momoyama Era style that was celebrated during his lifetime.
Deeper into the temple grounds are other treasures, including the famous Bentendo island shrine and Kyoto’s oldest structure: a five storied pagoda built in the year 951. Finish the time at Daigoji with a visit to the Reihokan Museum to marvel at the temple’s collection of fine antiquities and statues.
Continue deeper into the hills of Kyoto to arrive at a trio of isolated Buddhist retreats overlooking the city.
At Unryu-in, walk the silent prayer halls and learn of the rituals that priests still conduct here. Savor a bowl of warm matcha tea in a room overlooking a rustic garden as the guide explains the intricacies of Japanese tea culture. Should the urge to meditate arise, this temple is an excellent location to do so.
Stroll to Sennyuji, a temple that is home to the graves of countless Japanese emperors. Peer into a lovely collection of Buddhist halls with architecture on a grand scale. Stop at an ancient spring where pilgrims sip chilled holy water direct from the earth, an activity that all are invited to partake in.
Continue on foot to nearby Imakumano Kannonji, a stop on a famous 33-temple pilgrimage route throughout the region. Explore the grounds and then ascend a short path to the hillside pagoda overlooking the temple. A lovely view of Kyoto city awaits, the perfect finale for today’s visit to this quiet corner of Kyoto.
Return to the city to keep exploring or retire to the hotel for some rest and relaxation.
Notes:
- This tour is unavailable on weekends during peak season (19th Mar-17th Apr, 1st Nov-11th Dec)
- This tour is private, with a maximum of 6 people per group.
- Please inform your travel agent of any special dietary requirements that you might have.
- We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance (covering emergency medical evacuation).
- Please note that all of the above services and tours have yet to be booked. They are proposed for your information only and we will not make any reservations before we receive your confirmation.
- If one or some proposed service(s) is (are) not available at the time of booking, we will try to find other possibilities/options or other similar service(s) in order to avoid changes in the program.
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