Japan

Kyoto
Tokyo

Kyoto

Sightseeing	Sedan 1‑2 pax		Minivan 1‑4 pax
Half Day Traditional The city of Kyoto hosted the Imperial Japanese Household for more than a millennium, and boasts the fascinating monuments to prove it. On this 4 hour tour, experience this historical majesty firsthand. The first major stop is Nijo Castle, built by the Shoguns in the 17th century. Although most of the palace buildings are more recent, they are nonetheless mystifying. The double moat and stone walls date from the original structure. Next, visit one of the best examples of the Shinto shrines that populate the city, the Heian Shrine. A 19th century reproduction, its brilliant red arches and sweeping green roof evoke a notion of ancient Japan. Conclude with a visit to Gion, the city’s best preserved traditional area. Some of the best examples of classic, yet not monumental, Japanese architecture are found here, as well as geisha shows, tea houses, and other forms of traditional Japanese entertainment. 4 hrs	$1020	—	$1340
Half Day Buddhist Temples Kyoto holds a central place in Japanese history, especially when it comes to the country’s Buddhist tradition. A variety of temples showcasing a range of interesting and exquisite architecture can be found. Experience the best of the best on this 4 hour tour. First, visit the Ryoan-ji Temple. Home to a number of spectacular gardens, its true masterpiece is the Dry Zen Garden. Next is the Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, one of the most impressive Buddhist shrines in the city. Named for its two upper floors covered in pure gold leaf, it also features serene Zen gardens. Finally, drive across town to Kiyomizu-Dera. Built from wooden beams without the use of nails, its veranda extends out from the mountainside over an immense wooden framework, and affords panoramic views of Kyoto below. The temple grounds also feature a pagoda and sacred waterfall. 4 hrs	$1020	—	$1340
Half Day Nara Once a capital of medieval Japan, and today a bustling modern city, Nara is one of Japan’s cultural treasures. Visit its stunning temples with this 6 hour day trip from Kyoto. Just a short drive through the countryside south of Kyoto leads to Nara Park, an expansive green space set aside at the city’s eastern edge. Most of the major monuments are found here, as well as herds of wild deer that roam the park as a protected species. Traditionally considered sacred by the local population, The deer will often bow to visitors. The most spectacular of Nara’s Temples is the Todai-ji Bhuddist shrine, the largest of its kind in Japan. The 18th century building was once one of the largest wooden structures in the world, and houses a 50 foot tall statue of Buddha. The last stop is the Kagusa Shrine. Dedicated to traditional Japanese Shinto deities, its secluded forest location is marked by pathways featuring hundreds of carved stone lanterns. 6 hrs	$1020	—	$1340
Full Day City Explore Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan and its former capital of over a thousand years on this 8 hour sightseeing tour. With over 2,000 temples and shrines, picturesque Japanese architecture is inescapable. The first major stop is Nijo Castle, built by the Shoguns in the 17th century. Although most of the palace buildings are more recent they are nonetheless mystifying. The double moat and stone walls date from the original structure. The city also features many shrines dedicated to Shinto, Japan’s traditional religion, of which the Heian Shrine is the most spectacular. A 19th century reproduction, its brilliant red arches and sweeping green roof evoke a notion of ancient Japan. Buddhist heritage is next, with the Zen gardens of Ryoan-ji and the golden pavilion Kinkaku-ji. Afterward, a trip through Gion, the city’s best preserved traditional area will transport visitors back in time. Finally, ascend to Kiyomizu-Dera. Built from wooden beams without the use of nails, its veranda extends out from the mountainside over an immense wooden framework, and affords panoramic views of Kyoto below. The temple grounds also feature a pagoda and sacred waterfall. 8 hrs	$1400	—	$1815

Transfers	Sedan 1‑2 pax		Minivan 1‑4 pax
Rail Station - Hotels	$255	—	$565
Osaka Airport - Hotels	$735	—	$955

Prices are US$ and per car unless otherwise noted. Coaches for groups available on request. See our Terms & Conditions.