From Kyoto/Osaka: Kinkakuji, Kiyomizu Temple Area, & Fushimi-Inari Shrine Guided Day Tour

A journey through Kyoto’s cultural splendor

Choose your preferred starting point in Kyoto or Osaka and set out to discover the former city’s historical and architectural treasures. A comfortable, air-conditioned conveyance takes you to Kinkakuji or Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple whose top 2 floors are adorned in gold leaf. The beautiful temple has been burned down several times in history, and stands proud as a symbol of resilience.

After noon, you'll find yourself in Kiyomizu-dera precinct. One of the temple’s highlights is the wooden stage that offers captivating views of the city. At your own expense, you can don a traditional Kimono for an authentic feel of Japanese culture and partake of local delicacies for lunch. Wander through traditional pedestrian alleyways like Nineizaka and Sanneizaka that connect the temple neighborhood, and check out the souvenir shops lined along them.

A walk through torii gates

Your final destination is the Fushimi Inari Shrine dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice and agriculture. It is well-known for Senbon Torii ("thousands of torii gates"). The gates are donations from individuals and companies, a custom that dates as far back as the Edo period starting in 1603. You will find several fox statues on the shrine grounds, as they are considered to be Inari’s messengers. Take a moment to pray for the well-being of family and friends before starting the return journey to your chosen departure point.

Itinerary

• 8:30am / 9:50am - Pick-up from Nipponbashi / Kyoto Station

• 10:30am - Kinkakuji (price excluded), ~40 mins

• 12pm - Kiyomizu Temple Area, ~3 hours including lunch time, free time

• 3:30pm - Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, ~70 mins, free time

• 5pm - Start return journey