• Nijo Castle - Constructed in 1603, Nijo-jo Castle served as the Kyoto residence for Tokugawa Ieyasu, the inaugural shogun of the Edo Period (1603-1868). It stands as one of Japan’s most renowned castles, with its palace buildings being prime examples of feudal-era castle palace architecture. In 1994, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nijo-jo Castle is divided into three sections: the Honmaru (main defense circle), the Ninomaru (secondary defense circle), and surrounding gardens. The entire castle grounds, including the Honmaru, are encircled by stone walls and moats. Adjacent to the Ninomaru Palace is the Ninomaru Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden featuring a large pond, decorative stones, and well-maintained pine trees. This garden was designed by the landscape architect and tea master Kobori Enshū.

• Arashiyama - Situated in Kyoto’s western region, Arashiyama is a popular tourist spot celebrated for its natural beauty, historical sites, and scenic views. This area has been a favored destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would visit to admire its picturesque landscapes.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - The bamboo forests of Arashiyama are a must-visit in Kyoto, symbolizing the city. This breathtaking and tranquil natural attraction is renowned for its towering bamboo stalks and peaceful atmosphere.

Strolling along the serene paths surrounded by lush greenery offers a calming experience. Visitors can feel time slow down as they appreciate the beauty of nature. The groves are particularly enchanting when a gentle breeze causes the tall bamboo stalks to sway gracefully.

• Nonomiya Shrine - Nonomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Arashiyama district on Kyoto’s west side. Unlike most shrines with iconic vermilion torii gates, Nonomiya Shrine features a unique black torii gate known as a kuroki torii. Despite its modest size, the shrine boasts a long history, originally established as a purification shrine for imperial princesses appointed as priestesses for Ise Shrine.

Nonomiya Shrine is known for assisting and interceding on behalf of women, attracting many female visitors seeking love, children, or safe childbirth. The shrine offers a variety of omamori, or amulets, themed around women’s happiness, available at the shrine office.

• Arashiyama Kimono Forest - The Kimono Forest is a unique textile art installation consisting of 600 clear acrylic cylinders, each standing 2 meters tall. These pillars are adorned with vibrant kimono fabrics showcasing a variety of designs, from elegant floral patterns to geometric shapes and traditional Japanese symbols. The installation highlights 32 traditional Kyo-yuzen designs.

The Kimono Forest is a must-see attraction that offers a distinctive and enchanting perspective on traditional Japanese textiles and craftsmanship.

• Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House - “Rilakkuma” translates to “Bear in a relaxed mood.” Rilakkuma is a character beloved by all.

This charming location invites visitors to explore and enjoy the Rilakkuma cafe & shop, which seamlessly blend into the surroundings. Guests are drawn into Rilakkuma’s world, embracing a leisurely and relaxed lifestyle while enjoying all things Rilakkuma.

The first floor features a variety of exclusive Rilakkuma items available only in Japan. The second floor houses a café offering lunch, drinks, and snacks, accompanied by adorable Rilakkuma characters. Rilakkuma plushies are also available on the tables for photo opportunities.

• Togetsukyo Bridge - The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama’s most iconic landmark. Originally constructed during the Heian Period (794-1185), it was last rebuilt in the 1930s. This renowned bridge spans the Katsura River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and riverscape.
• Kinkaku-ji - Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. This breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its striking golden exterior and tranquil gardens. The name Golden Pavilion is derived from the gold leaf that covers the pavilion. The gold was intended to alleviate and purify any pollution or negative thoughts and feelings about death.

The Golden Pavilion is a three-story structure within the Rokuon-ji temple complex. Each floor showcases a different architectural style, successfully integrating three distinct styles: shinden, samurai, and zen.

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Kyoto, formerly the capital of Japan, is located on the island of Honshu. Embark on a journey through time in Kyoto, where tradition seamlessly merges with modernity.

Explore Nijo-jo Castle, renowned for its palace buildings that are considered the finest surviving examples of castle palace architecture from Japan’s feudal era. This castle was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994 and has been a witness to significant events in Japanese history over the past 400 years.

Admire the golden temple of Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, which epitomizes the timeless beauty of this Japanese city.

Discover the Arashiyama area, featuring the tranquil Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House, and the stunning Kimono Forest.

Depart from Osaka or Kyoto and enjoy a magical blend of nature and history with the guidance of our friendly and professional guide.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.