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Explore the cultural treasures of Kyoto and Uji from Osaka or Kyoto with an English-speaking guide. Visit the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and stroll through the streets of Uji.
Highlights
- Visit the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore the Kiyomizu-dera Temple and its iconic Kiyomizu Stage
- Retrace your steps to the past and wander along the historic Ninenzaka
- Stroll by the Uji River and capture the Byodo-in Temple with a ten-yen coin
Full Description
Embark on a captivating cultural odyssey to Kyoto and Uji, where the essence of Japan’s spirit comes alive amidst stunning landscapes and enduring cultural treasures.
Departure Details:
8:00 AM from Osaka / 9:00 AM from Kyoto. Please ensure you arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to departure. Regardless of where you board, you have the option to disembark in either Osaka or Kyoto.
Journey Highlights:
- Kinkaku-ji Temple: Start your journey at the iconic Golden Pavilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994, known for its shimmering gold-leafed Shariden Hall.
- Kiyomizu-dera: One of Kyoto’s oldest temples, famed for panoramic views from the Kiyomizu Stage.
- Ninenzaka: A charming slope filled with traditional architecture, local snacks, and crafts.
- Yasaka Koshindo: A vibrant temple known for its colorful balls and cultural popularity.
Uji:
After Kyoto, travel to Uji, the birthplace of matcha. Walk along the Uji River, explore local shops, and visit ancient shrines that reveal the area’s spiritual heritage.
Byodo-in Temple:
Admire this World Heritage site, home to the Phoenix Hall featured on Japan’s 10-yen coin, and explore the lively Byodo-in Omotesando shopping street.
You can end the day either in Kyoto or return to Osaka.
Itinerary
Starting Location Options:
- Kyoto Station Hachijoguchi Ekimae Square Sankun Garden
- Harimaya Nippombashi 1-chome
Route:
- Bus/Coach (2 hours)
- Kinkaku-ji – Photo stop, sightseeing, self-guided tour (40 minutes)
- Kiyomizu-dera – Photo stop, self-guided tour (2 hours 40 minutes)
- Ninenzaka – Shopping, walk, self-guided
- Yasaka Koshindo Temple – Photo stop, self-guided
- Uji – Walk, sightseeing (100 minutes)
- Uji River – Sightseeing
- Uji Shrine – Optional visit
- Byodo-in Temple – Optional, entry fee required
- Drop-off: Kyoto or Osaka
Pricing
From ¥8,000 per person
Includes
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
- Round-trip transfers from the meet-up location
- All taxes, parking, toll, gas, and environmental fees
Meeting Point
From Osaka:
Near Exit 2 of Kintetsu Namba Station — arrive by 8:00 AM
From Kyoto:
Kyoto Station Hachijo East Exit — 9:00 AM at Hachijoguchi Ekimae Square (Sankun Garden)
Reviews
“We had such a great experience especially for the presence of our guide Steven who was really friendly, professional and helped us. He also gave us many suggestions.” – Teresa & Giacomo
“Our guide Charles was really good, he was very helpful and kind, thank you very much for everything.”
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