Eizan Railway Maple Tunnel & Kifune Shrine Illumination Bus Tour from Osaka
- Kyoto Autumn Foliage Highlights: Eizan Railway Maple Tunnel, Illuminated Kifune Shrine, and Ohara Sanzen-in Temple
- Enjoy a lunch buffet at Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo, famous for its overwhelming variety and live kitchen!
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
Product Info
Purchase Notice
This tour is a Japanese tour. The tour conductor will provide language support using a translator (Pocket Talk).
This is not a private tour; you will enjoy the tour with other guests.
If the minimum number of participants (20) is not met by (14) days before the scheduled date, the tour on that date might be canceled.
There may be a 20-minute walk from the parking lot to Kifune Shrine. Please wear comfortable clothing.
This tour will operate regardless of the peak autumn foliage viewing period.
(Usually, the best viewing times are: Eizan Electric Railway: early to late November, Kifune Shrine: mid to late November, Ohara Sanzenin: mid to late November)
This tour does not require a designated Eizan Electric Railway "Kirara" sightseeing train. Also, please note that seats are unreserved, so you may not be able to sit down.
The Eizan Electric Railway's riding section is subject to change.
Reminders
Important Notes During Bus Tour
Please refrain from drinking alcohol on the bus.
Members of the odd-numbered group may need to share seats with other passengers on the bus.
As stipulated by Japanese law, please wear your seat belt on the tour bus.
Please remain seated and avoid walking while the tour bus is moving.
Seating on the bus is assigned by H.I.S staff. Please do not change your seat during the tour.
Please be punctual and arrive at the designated meeting place on time. The bus will depart on time and will not wait for latecomers.
Latecomers who wish to rejoin the group will be responsible for all transportation fees.
8.Please wear the sticker provided by the tour guide visibly.
Avoid sticking the sticker on leather goods, as it may leave marks.
Do not use the seat reclining function or adjust the seat settings.
Please set all electronic devices, including mobile phones and game consoles, to silent mode.
Talking on mobile phones and making video calls are prohibited on the tour bus.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the tour bus.
Arrival times at each sightseeing spot may vary depending on traffic conditions.
The use of drones for filming or other purposes is prohibited during the tour.
Please do not use perfume, sprays, or change baby diapers on the bus, as it may disturb other passengers.
Manage your valuable belongings yourself.
After the tour, please take all your trash with you and do not leave any on the bus.
Ensure you do not forget or leave any personal belongings on the bus after the tour.
For fruit-picking tours, please note that fruit is to be consumed only on the farm. Bringing it home in your own bag is strictly prohibited.
If you fail to follow these regulations and cause a disturbance on the bus, you may be asked to leave the bus, even during the tour.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 11 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 8 to 10 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
The Eizan Railway Maple Tunnel is famed for its natural archway of maple trees, particularly vibrant in autumn. During this season, the trees along the tracks create a breathtaking tunnel of fiery red and gold. Special nighttime illuminations enhance the viewing, making the foliage glow. The train often slows down through this section, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the stunning autumn scenery.
Visitors can expect a captivating journey through Kyoto's scenic northern mountains. The Eizan Railway offers trains with large panoramic windows and some even have special observation seats, providing unobstructed views of the autumn foliage. The highlight is passing through the Maple Tunnel, where the train's interior lights are dimmed and the train slows down, allowing for an immersive experience of the illuminated maple trees. It's a unique way to witness Kyoto's autumn beauty.
The optimal time to experience the Eizan Railway's maple tunnel in its full autumn glory is typically from mid-November to early December. During this period, the maple leaves are at their most vibrant, creating a spectacular display of reds, oranges, and yellows. Nighttime visits are particularly recommended for the special illuminations that highlight the autumn colors.
The Eizan Railway offers two main scenic lines: the Eizan Main Line and the Kurama Line. For autumn views, the section between Ichihara Station and Ninose Station on the Kurama Line is particularly famous, as it encompasses the "Maple Tunnel." This route provides stunning views of the changing leaves, leading passengers through a picturesque natural landscape towards popular destinations like Kibune and Kurama.
The Kifune Shrine illumination typically takes place during the peak autumn foliage season, usually from mid-November to late November. During this period, the shrine grounds, including the iconic stone steps lined with lanterns, are beautifully lit up after sunset. This creates a magical and serene atmosphere, offering a unique opportunity to experience the shrine and its autumn colors in a different light.
Ohara Sanzen-in Temple is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, especially during autumn. Key highlights include its beautiful moss gardens, such as Shuheki-en and Yusei-en, adorned with ancient cedar trees and vibrant maple leaves. Visitors can also explore the main Amida Hall and various sub-temples, enjoying the serene pond and gentle streams that contribute to its peaceful, contemplative setting amidst the mountains.
The tour includes a delightful lunch buffet experience at the Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo. This renowned hotel is known for its impressive culinary offerings, featuring an overwhelming variety of dishes. Guests can enjoy a wide selection of both Japanese and Western cuisine, often prepared freshly at live cooking stations. It's designed to provide a satisfying and diverse meal amidst a comfortable setting.
To maximize the viewing experience on the Eizan Railway Maple Tunnel, try to secure a seat on the window side that faces the most prominent foliage (often the right side when heading towards Kurama). Some trains offer observation cars with larger windows for enhanced views. Be prepared with your camera as the train slows down through the tunnel, allowing ample time to appreciate and photograph the illuminated autumn leaves.
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