・[Kyoto Ancient Capital Tour] Visit the World Heritage site Nijo Castle, the famous Nanzen-ji Temple, and Sanzen-in Temple to experience traditional Japanese culture and history.
・[Lake Biwa Scenery] Visit Shirahige Shrine and admire the torii gate standing in Lake Biwa, a perfect spot for lakeside photos.
・[Gourmet Experience] Choose a Kobe beef sukiyaki lunch to savor classic Japanese cuisine.
・[Kyoto Matcha Experience] Enjoy a complimentary traditional matcha experience and feel the unique charm of Kyoto.
・[Easy Day Trip] Depart from Osaka or Kyoto to visit popular attractions in Kyoto and Lake Biwa. English and Chinese-speaking staff are provided for your convenience.
[Travel Conditions]
Departure/Destination: Osaka/Kyoto & Shiga
Duration: 1 day
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus Company: HEISEI ENTERPRISE Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 1, Dinner 0
Min. 10 people to depart
Tour leader: 1
[Travel Planning/Implementation]
Operator Name: HEISEI ENTERPRISE Co., Ltd.
Address: 5F HEG Bldg., 5-22-26 Honcho, Shiki-shi, Saitama
License Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 2095
Travel Agency Association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Full Member
A minimum of 10 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Please note that the duration and order of the itinerary may be adjusted based on the situation on the day.
Please note that the vehicle type for the day tour may vary depending on the number of participants or other conditions.
Please note that travelers from different language packages may be arranged on the same vehicle depending on the operation on the day.
If you need to change your pickup location, please contact Customer Support at least 2 days before departure.
Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical significance as the former residence of Tokugawa shoguns during the Edo period. It's famous for its magnificent architecture, particularly the Ninomaru Palace with its "Nightingale floors" designed to alert residents to intruders, and its beautiful traditional Japanese gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and samurai culture.
The Nijo Castle night cherry blossom event is a special seasonal illumination held primarily in spring, transforming the castle grounds into a magical landscape. Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of various cherry blossom varieties, including weeping cherries, illuminated after dark. This event offers a unique opportunity to appreciate Nijo Castle's historic setting and its gardens in a different, enchanting light.
Within Nijo Castle, visitors can explore the magnificent Ninomaru Palace, a designated National Treasure, famous for its elaborate decorations, sliding doors, and the "Nightingale floors." The opulent Kara-mon Gate also impresses with its intricate carvings. Outside, the picturesque Ninomaru Garden, designed in the Shoin-zukuri style, offers serene beauty. While Honmaru Palace is generally not open to the public, its impressive exterior, along with the castle's towering stone walls and wide moats, are significant features.
This Kyoto day tour typically includes a diverse range of attractions. You can visit the UNESCO World Heritage site Nijo Castle, renowned for its shogun history and architecture. The tour also explores prominent Buddhist temples like Nanzenji Temple and Sanzen-in Temple, showcasing traditional Japanese gardens and spiritual heritage. Additionally, it features natural landscapes such as Shirahige Shrine with its iconic torii gate standing in Lake Biwa, offering serene lake views and a unique cultural experience like a Kyoto matcha ceremony.
Sanzen-in Temple is particularly stunning during autumn (typically late October to mid-November) when its vast gardens are ablaze with vibrant fall foliage. Spring also offers beautiful fresh greenery and budding flowers. Lake Biwa and Shirahige Shrine can be appreciated year-round, with each season presenting a different charm, from clear skies in summer to tranquil winter scenes. The tour allows you to experience these diverse natural beauties throughout the year.
Shirahige Shrine is celebrated for its iconic Grand Torii Gate, which stands majestically in the waters of Lake Biwa, earning it the nickname "Omi no Itsukushima." This ancient shrine is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, a deity of guidance. The ethereal sight of the vermilion torii gate seemingly floating on the lake, especially at sunrise or sunset, creates a breathtaking and unforgettable photo opportunity, drawing visitors seeking both natural beauty and spiritual tranquility.
The Kyoto matcha experience included in this tour offers a hands-on opportunity to engage with traditional Japanese tea culture. Participants can learn about the history and rituals of matcha, observe a demonstration of its preparation, and then enjoy a freshly whisked bowl of authentic Kyoto matcha. This cultural activity provides a serene moment to appreciate Japanese customs and savor the unique flavor of ceremonial green tea.
Yes, this day tour provides accompanying guide services in both English and Chinese for the entire trip, including visits to historical sites like Nijo Castle and Nanzenji Temple. This ensures that visitors can fully understand the historical context, cultural significance, and interesting details of each attraction, making the exploration of Kyoto's rich heritage more accessible and enriching for international guests.