Kyoto  (8 Hours)

Kyoto has no less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, more than any other city in the world. There is no doubt that navigating these sites can be a challenge, especially if you are time poor.

This day tour focuses on the Eastern area of Kyoto, visiting 2 Unesco World Heritage sites, as well as taking a leisurely stroll down the peaceful Philosopher’s path and exploring the popular Gion geisha district.

Starting with a visit to the World Heritage registered Ginkakuji Temple, built by a shogun paying homage to one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto (the Golden Pavilion) which his grandfather had earlier commissioned. Although Ginkakuji means “Temple of the Silver Pavilion”,  unlike the Golden Temple it was never plated with silver.   Having said that, it’s style and look embody the idea of “Wabi-Sabi” which has influenced Japanese aesthetics for many centuries.  After experiencing the world of “Wabi-Sabi”, we take a pleasant stroll down the “Philosopher’s Path”,  named after a philosophy professor who walked this route as part of his daily meditation routine.  Dotted with small temples and shrines in a rural Kyoto neighbourhood, by the end of the stroll you will feel your worries just melt away.  At the end of this path is the magnificent Nanzenji Temple,  quite rightly ranked the highest among all Zen temples in Japan.  Although this grand temple may not be on every foreign visitor’s itinerary, it is well worth a visit for its impressive “Sanmon” gate, brick aqueduct, and stunning zen garden.

Further to the South, we make our way to another Unesco World Heritage site, the awe-inspiring Kiyomizudera Temple.  This temple is famous for its impressive wooden veranda perched on a cliff,  offering panoramic views of Kyoto city and the surrounding mountains.  From here we will explore the old cobblestone streets of the ancient Higashiyama area lined with historic Japanese-style buildings and old temples.  Here you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the real Kyoto. The neighbouring area of Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, where you may even spot Geisha or Maiko-san on their way to appointments in one of the centuries old tea houses dotted along the way.

Please Note:  This private tour can be customized to suit your personal interests.