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Miho Museum: Architectural Masterpiece by I.M. Pei
1.5
2 Ratings
Kyoto
Discover Miho Lake Biwa’s Water Torii, Mixiu Art Museum, and Mount Hiei’s Bamboo Forest. Experience Japan’s natural beauty and ancient heritage in one day.
Duration:
10 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Miho Museum - The Miho Museum, designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, is inspired by the concept of “Peach Blossom Spring.” Nestled away from the city, an impressive 80% of its structure is hidden within the mountains. In summer, the lush trees and winding mountain paths create a serene atmosphere, while in winter, heavy snowfall often leads to the museum’s closure. The collection features artworks from ancient civilizations including Japan, China, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Visiting the Miho Museum feels like stepping into another world, with a journey full of twists and turns and breathtaking scenery at every corner. “Walking along the stream, forgetting the distance of the road, I suddenly came across a peach blossom forest, hundreds of steps along the bank. There were no trees in the middle, the grass was delicious, and the fallen flowers were colorful.” Note: Tickets for permanent exhibitions are 1100 Yen; admission to special exhibitions is 1300 JPY.
- Former Chikurin-in Temple - This nationally designated scenic garden offers stunning views that change with each season. Once a secluded retreat for eminent monks on Mount Hiei, it is highly recommended by Japanese photographers. Inside, the loft layout and Liuliguangyuan are similar, allowing for beautiful mirror reflection photography without disturbances. There is no time limit, so visitors can take their time finding the perfect angle. The moss-covered courtyard has unique characteristics year-round. Enjoy the perfect taste of matcha while admiring the garden’s landscaping, or take a walk through the exquisitely arranged mountain and stream stone steps to experience the Zen spirit of the Japanese garden.
- Lake Biwa - Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, is located in Shiga Prefecture near Kyoto and is one of the world’s oldest lakes, with a history spanning over 4 million years. Known for its biodiversity, the lake is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals, including several endemic species. Popular attractions include the historic Lake Biwa Canal, offering scenic boat rides, Omi-Maiko Beach, known for its swimming and picnicking spots, and Chikubu Island, which hosts Hogonji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine. The Biwako Valley resort provides seasonal activities like skiing in winter and hiking in summer, along with a ropeway offering stunning lake views. Additionally, Lake Biwa is a hotspot for birdwatching and water sports such as kayaking, sailing, and fishing, making it a diverse destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Shirahige Shrine Torii - Built around 1900 years ago, Shirahige Shrine is the oldest shrine in Omi and has been selected as part of the Japanese Heritage story. The scenery here is captivating, with Okishima floating above the horizon and fishing boats passing between the torii gates in the lake. The water torii gate of Shirahige Shrine stands quietly in Lake Biwa, remaining unchanged amidst the ever-changing surroundings. Whether in the morning light or evening glow, the blue sky, changing clouds, and moving stars present different scenes, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts.
What's Included
- Round-trip transfers to and from the meet up location
What's Not Included
- Admission to Meixiu Art Museum (Around 8 $)
- Admission to Former Bamboo Grove Garden (Matcha & Japanese Sweets) Around $2.
- Other personal expenses
Additional Information
Start your adventure with a trip to the Miho Museum, an architectural gem designed by the celebrated architect I.M. Pei, inspired by the “Tale of the Peach Blossom Spring.” Nestled in the mountains, the museum provides a tranquil escape from urban life, featuring lush forests in summer and snow-covered scenery in winter.
If the museum is closed, discover Hachimanbori, a historic canal district in Hikone City, celebrated for its traditional Japanese architecture and peaceful boat rides along the canal. In the afternoon, visit Kyu-Chikurin-in, a serene former hermitage for monks, renowned for its moss-covered garden and mirror-like reflections, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Conclude your day at Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake and a national park. Explore the ancient Shirahige Shrine, famous for its iconic torii gate standing in the water, with the ever-changing beauty of the lake as its backdrop.
- Total Tour duration includes transportation.
- Minors under the age of 1 must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger throughout the trip
- This trip requires a minimum 4 participants to run. If this number is not reached, an alternate travel date will be suggested or the provider maybe cancel the booking .
- Kindly understand that the itinerary schedule may be adjusted according to weather, road conditions and other reasons.
- During the closure of the art museum we are going to visit the Hachimanbori.
Location
Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Tourist Bus Parking
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
1.5
(2 Ratings)
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1 star
Anita_n
Aug 2, 2024
Not worth the effort. - Long bus ride to a Tori gate in a lake. Can’t take clear pictures of except with a fancy camera. The museum is lovely but India is missing and it’s a big omission given the character of the exhibits (not just because I am Indian but it actually is relevant in the context of the museum). And the last Zen garden was tiny. Not a day trip worth taking for sure.
Review provided by Viator
