kyoto tours 2016 - amazon s3 · kyoto tours 2016 - prices valid from 2nd january – 30th december...

KYOTO TOURS 2016

- Prices valid from 2nd January – 30th December 2016 - Prices are per person in Japanese Yen and include all prevailing taxes, are net and non-

commissionable

KYOTO HALF DAY TOURS

Kyoto Highlights Half Day Tour

Visit 2 of Kyoto’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites and a local market on this half day tour. Start the day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun. After his death it became a Buddhist Temple at his request, and is now one of Kyoto’s most famous temples. Next is Nijo Castle, an ornamental castle that was built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence and is surrounded by stunning surrounding gardens. The main building was completed in 1603, and is famous for its architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. Finish the day with a visit to Nishiki Market. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, Nishiki is a narrow shopping street lined more than 100 shops, selling fresh seafood and vegetables, pickles, Japanese sweets and sushi. Meal: None Transport: Public transport or private car as below Pick up: 09:30 or 13:30, hotel Drop off: 13:30 or 17:30, tour ends in Nishiki area (public transport) or hotel) Time: 4 hours Note: Nijo Castle is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August and December, and from December 26 to January 04. When it is closed Ryoanji temple will be visited. Public transport tour in low season will be carried out by bus and subway. In high season, the busses are extremely crowded and slow, so the public transport tour will be carried out by taxi.

Kyoto Highlights Half Day Tour

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 5 to 9 10+

Public transport - Low Season

(any date except the below) 26,830 14,950 10,990 9,010 7,830 5,450

Public transport - High Season

(3/20 to 5/8, 10/15 to 11/30) 32,970 17,170 14,630 11,320 12,600 N/A

Private car (All year round) 58,630 30,810 23,590 18,470 15,350 14,520

Higashiyama Half Day Walking Tour

The Higashiyama District along the lower slopes of Kyoto's eastern mountains is one of the city's best preserved historic districts, and a great place to experience traditional old Kyoto. The streets in Higashiyama are lined by small shops, cafes and restaurants which have been catering to tourists and pilgrims for centuries. These businesses retain their traditional design, and they continue to serve customers today, selling local specialties such as Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, sweets, pickles, crafts and other souvenirs. Start the day with a visit to Kodaiji Temple. It was constructed in 1605 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi by the great political leader's wife. It features temple halls, gravel and landscape gardens, teahouses and a bamboo grove. Yasaka Pagoda, the last remnant of Hokanji Temple, is one of the most visible and recognizable landmarks in the Higashiyama District. Visitors may climb up the inside of the five story pagoda, which is a rare opportunity as most pagoda can only be viewed from the outside. Yasaka Shrine, host to the Gion Matsuri, is one of Kyoto's most popular shrines and is located at the eastern end of Shijo-dori next to Maruyama Park. The shrine's hanging lanterns are lit every night after dark. Chionin is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism, which has millions of followers and is one the most popular Buddhist sects in Japan. The huge Sanmon Gate, Chionin's main entrance gate, stands 24 meters tall and 50 meters wide, and is the largest wooden gate in Japan. The gate was featured in the movie Last Samurai. Meal: None Transport: Included (Public transport) and walking Pick up: 09:30 or 13:30, hotel Drop off: 13:30 or 17:30, tour ends in Higashiyama area Time: 4 hours


Higashiyama Half Day Walking Tour 30,120 16,470 12,390 10,170 8,840 6,190

Arashiyama Half Day Tour

Arashiyama is a pleasant district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. Okochi Mountain Villa is the former villa of the popular samurai film star Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), and consists of several beautiful gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and a zen meditation hall. Here you will enjoy some matcha green tea with a snack. Next, take a walk through Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves, which are particularly attractive when there is a light wind and the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. The bamboo has been used to manufacture various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes and mats at local workshops for centuries. Nonomiya shrine is a Shinto shrine where in ancient times, unmarried imperial princesses stayed for a year or more to purify themselves. Ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples, Tenryuji is the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Founded in 1339 at the beginning of the Muromachi Period (1338-1573), the temple is one of Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to its temple buildings, there are attractive gardens with walking paths. Optional Lunch In a traditional building inside the temple grounds overlooking the beautifully landscaped garden, enjoy a beautiful vegetarian shojin-ryori (traditional Buddhist cuisine) lunch built around yuba, tofu and seasonal vegetables. Meal: None Transport: Included (public transport) and walking Pick up: 09:30, hotel Drop off: 13:30, tour ends in Kyoto station Time: 4 hours


Arashiyama Half Day Tour 31,510 19,660 14,480 11,900 10,350 7,290

Temple Buddhist Lunch 4,750 JPY per person

Philosophers Path Half Day Walking Tour

The Philosopher's Path is a pleasant stone path through the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district. The path follows a canal which is lined by hundreds of cherry trees. Approximately two kilometers long, the path begins around Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) and ends in the neighborhood of Nanzenji. The path gets its name due to Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan's most famous philosophers, who was said to practice meditation while walking this route on his daily commute to Kyoto University. There are many small temples and shrines to stop off along the walk. Meal: None Transport: Included (Public transport) and walking Pick up: 09:30 or 13:30, hotel Drop off: 13:30 or 17:30, tour ends in Nanzenji area Time: 4 hours Note: This tour involves a two-kilometre stroll so it is only suitable for people with excellent mobility. Nanzenji temple is closed on 28 to 31 December.


Philosophers Path Half Day Walking Tour 30,120 16,470 11,920 9,640 8,280 5,660

Market Visit, Sake Brewery and Cooking Lesson

Together with a local guide you will walk the mile-long Nishiki covered food markets, where there are many interesting food stores to explore as you help your guide buy the ingredients for your Japanese cooking class. This is a great opportunity to learn about local Japanese produce. After visiting the markets, you'll travel through the back streets and lanes of Kyoto, and visit a former sake brewery for a tour and sake tasting. Finish the walk at a traditional wooden townhouse for your Japanese cooking class. Learn how to make rolled sushi, miso soup and cooked salad with seasonal fruit for dessert, and enjoy the results for dinner. Meal: Dinner Transport: Public transport Time: 4 hours Pick up / Drop off: Unavailable (make your own way to the meeting spot and back to your hotel) Start: 14:30, in front of Daimaru department store, central Kyoto Finish: 18:30, townhouse in Central Kyoto Note: The shared tour is only available on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. The private tour is available every day. Both are unavailable January 1-5, April 29-May 6, December 25-31. Please advise at the time of booking if you have any dietary restriction. Net JPY per person 1 2 to 5

Market Visit, Sake Brewery Visit and cooking lesson – Shared tour 21,380 13,780

Market Visit, Sake Brewery Visit and cooking lesson – Private tour 24,950 17,350

Kyoto Back Street Bike Ride With your local guide, cycle through the Miyagawacho and Gion geisha districts, hoping to see a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) as they dash between appointments. Continue along the Shirakawa canal lined with weeping willow trees, past traditional Kyoto style tea houses. Next stop is the Imperial Palace Park with its beautiful gardens. Cycle back to Kyoto station along the Kamogawa River, whose riverbanks are popular with locals for strolling. Cherry blossoms bloom along the banks of the river in spring, and in summer restaurants open balconies looking out to the river. If you wish to continue sightseeing in Kyoto on your bike after the tour has finished, we can arrange for you to keep the bike until 19:00 at no charge. Meal: None Transport: Bike Time: 3 hours Pick up / Drop off: Unavailable (make your own way to the meeting spot and back to your hotel) Start: 9:30 or 13:30, Kyoto Cycling Tour Project Terminal (near Kyoto Station) Finish: 12:30 or 16:30, Kyoto Cycling Tour Project Terminal (near Kyoto Station) Note: Children are allowed only if below 3 (a child seat will be attached to a parent’s bike) or above 12 (with their own bike). In case children between 4 and 11 are present, or shorter than 155cm, the tour will be carried out as a walking tour. Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 to 10

Kyoto Back Street Bike Ride 14,790 8,670 6,500 5,500

Central Kyoto hotel pick up option

An assistant will pick you up and escort you to the Bike Terminal.

(No hotel drop off available)

+ 10,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

Home Visit with Cultural Experiences Lineup This afternoon you will have the opportunity to visit the home of an instructor of one of Japan’s Traditional Arts. One or our assistants will meet at your hotel and escort you to the instructor’s house. Please notice the entire group has to choose the same activity. Tea Ceremony You will learn all about the various types of tea and the instruments used to prepare it with the support/advice from the professional instructor and interpretation from our assistant. You will see how every movement has a meaning and what serving tea to guests means in Japan. Option – Kimono Wearing Enhance the above experience by getting dressed in a Japanese festive kimono. You will learn about the different kinds of kimono, and which kimono should be worn on each different occasion. Please tell us your height and size at the time of booking so the instructor can prepare the right kimono for you. Flower Arrangement The instructor will first explain about the difference between Japanese and Western style flower arrangements, and the meaning of the seasonal flowers used. The instructor then will give an example of flower arrangement, and you will try your hand at it, too, with the advice/support of the instructor. Calligraphy You will first receive an explanation of how Kanji (Chinese characters) came to Japan, and the three kinds of characters (Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana) that Japanese people use. Then you can try writing some characters by yourself with advice and support of the calligraphy instructor. You can take your best work home with you. Origami “Origami” means paper-folding. Sheets of square paper can be folded into various shapes such as animals, flowers, furniture, toys, etc., without the use of scissors. The instructor will advise you on how to fold some basic shapes such as crane, box, samurai warrior’s helmet, and you can take your work home with you. Meal: None Transport: Included (taxi) Time: 2. 5 hours Pick up: Hotel Finish: Hotel Note: The tour has limited availability on January 1-5, April 29-May 6, December 25-31, and surcharges apply on these days. Please inquire. Children below 4 years of age cannot take part in any of these tours.

Net JPY per person 1 2 to 5

Tea Ceremony 29,700 17,820

Tea Ceremony with Kimono wearing 35,400 29,110

Origami 29,700 17,820

Calligraphy 29,700 17,820

Flower Arrangement 30,890 19,010

Japanese Cooking in Machiya Townhouse Japanese cuisine has such high reputation that it was declared UNESCO Intangible World Heritage. In this tour you will try your hand at making some of the dishes that made this cuisine so popular in the world. Choose your favourite class according to your interests and time needs. Morning class: Bento Style (9:30 – 13:00) Bento is a boxed meal, common in Japanese cuisine. In this class you will cook and eat your own Shokado bento, a style of bento that originated in Kyoto, including familiar dishes such as tempura, miso soup, sushi. Afternoon class: Kappo Style (14:00 – 17:30) In Japanese, “kappo” means to cut ingredients with a knife and cook them over a fire. At a kappo style restaurant, fine seasonal cuisine is served over a counter where you sit face to face with a chef. In this class you will be the chef! Meal: One meal (food cooked during the lesson) Transport: None Time: 3.5 hours Pick up / Drop off: Unavailable (make your own way to the meeting spot and back to your hotel) Start: 9:30 or 14:00, at the cooking venue Finish: 13:00 or 17:30, Townhouse in central Kyoto Note: The tour is not available on January 1 and December 31. Please advise at the time of booking if you have any dietary restriction: Halal, vegetarian or gluten free ingredients and recipes are available if requested in advance. Shared classes: up to 8 people

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 5 6

Japanese Cooking in a Machiya Townhouse: shared classes

7,800 7,800 7,800 7,800 7,800 7,800

Japanese Cooking in a Machiya Townhouse: private classes

n/a 15,000 13,470 12,350 11,220 11,000

Japanese Cooking in Machiya Townhouse with Professional Chef Japanese cuisine has such high reputation that it was declared UNESCO Intangible World Heritage. In this tour Mr. Hirokazu Nagano, a professional chef, will introduce you to this intricate yet simple cuisine while teaching you how to prepare some of Japan’s most renowned specialties. Choose one of the following lessons at the time of booking: Sushi Lesson or Soba Lesson or Tempura Lesson. Please note the entire group must choose the same course. Meal: Dinner (food cooked during the lesson) Transport: None Time: 3.5 hours Pick up / Drop off: Unavailable (make your own way to the meeting spot and back to your hotel) Start: 18:00, in front of Karasuma hotel in central Kyoto Finish: 21:30, Townhouse in central Kyoto Note: The tour is not available on January 1 and December 31. Subject to the chef’s availability. Please advise at the time of booking if you have any dietary restriction: Halal, vegetarian or gluten free ingredients and recipes are available if requested in advance.

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 5 6-8

Japanese Cooking in a Machiya Townhouse with professional chef

58,000 29,000 19,400 14,500 13,200 13,200

Kyoto Cycling Golden Route

This is a cycling tour which travel along the 'Kinukake no michi', which is a connecting road between Golden pavilion and Saga-Arashiyama. This cycling tour starts from the Golden pavilion, one of the most famous tourist spots, then to Ryoan temple, where the most famous rock garden is, and then to Arashiyama, where you can enjoy the tranquil country side of Kyoto and the bamboo forest. Meal: None Transport: Bike Time: 3.5 hours Pick up / Drop off: Unavailable (make your own way to the meeting spot and back to your hotel) Start: 9:30 or 13:30, Kyoto Cycling Tour Project Terminal (near Kinkakuji) Finish: 13:00 or 17:00, Kyoto Cycling Tour Project Terminal (near Kinkakuji) Note: Children are allowed only if below 3 (a child seat will be attached to a parent’s bike) or above 12 (with their own bike). In case children between 4 and 11 are present, or shorter than 155cm, the tour will be carried out as a walking tour. Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 to 8

Kyoto Cycling Golden Route 18,500 12,800 9,900 8,900

Central Kyoto hotel pick up option

An assistant will pick you up and take you to the Bike Terminal. (No

hotel drop off available)

+ 10,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

Kyoto Half Day Manga Museum Tour

The Kyoto International Manga Museum was opened in November of 2006. It consists of three floors and a basement, and most of its walls are lined with shelves of manga. Browsing this massive collection of manga is one of the museum's main attractions. A small section of the books is dedicated to foreign and translated manga, but the vast majority is in Japanese. In addition to its massive collection of indigenous manga, the museum also focuses on both the adoption and development of manga internationally. Works of international manga artists are featured, and manga related events at the museum often involve foreign artists. In addition to its permanent collection, the Manga Museum also features temporary exhibitions on various themes. The building, which now acts as the Manga Museum, was previously an elementary school. Some relics of the former school are on display for visitors. Please note that this tour you will have a private guide, but rather than travelling by private vehicle, you will make use of Kyoto's efficient local transit system. Meal: None Transport: Public transport Time: 4 hours Pick up: 9:30, Hotel Drop off: 13:30, Hotel Note: The museum is closed on Wednesday.

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 5 6+

Kyoto Half Day Manga Museum Tour 28,640 16,000 11,110 8,920 7,600 6,730

Afternoon Tea With A Geisha

Explore the back streets of Kyoto`s geisha districts with the leading foreign geisha culture expert, Peter MacIntosh who has spent half his life living in Kyoto. He was married to an ex-geisha, studies Japanese arts and is a lecturer on Geisha Studies at a Kansai University. On a private walk through the geisha districts he will discuss the history as well as the present situation of the flower and willow world of Kyoto before stopping at a private, members only ochaya (geisha teahouse) where you will have matcha green tea and Japanese sweets in the company of a maiko or geiko. No other customers will be present. There will be traditional song, dance and games along with great photo opportunities. Please note this is just drinking tea and sweets with the maiko or geiko, not a tea ceremony, which is a traditional art geisha do not practice. Meal: Tea and sweets Transport: Taxi from hotel to geisha district (one way only). Peter will be happy to arrange a taxi to take you back to your hotel, payable on the spot. Time: 2 hours Pick up: 15:00, Hotel End tour: 17:20, Tea House


Afternoon Tea With A Geisha N/A 27,000 24,000 22,500 21,600 20,000

Private Tea House Experience

Explore the back streets of Kyoto`s geisha districts with the leading foreign geisha culture expert, Peter MacIntosh who has spent half his life living in Kyoto. He was married to an ex-geisha, studies Japanese arts and is a lecturer on Geisha Studies at a Kansai University He will discuss the history as well as the present situation of the flower and willow world of Kyoto. All this will be preparing you for entertainment in a traditional geisha teahouse, or ochaya, which is a private, members only establishment. The maiko/geiko will answer any questions you have as well as perform a dance accompanied by the shamisen. Afterwards some traditional games will be played, followed by photo opportunities. All drinks and snacks are included. Meal: Drinks and snacks Transport: Taxi from hotel to geisha district (one way only). Peter will be happy to arrange a taxi to take you back to your hotel, payable on the spot. Time: 2 hours Pick up: 19:30, Hotel End tour: 21:30, Tea House


Private Tea House Experience 96,000 48,000 32,000 28,500 22,800 22,800

Private Dinner with a Geisha

Your host of this evening will be Peter Macintosh. Peter has lived in Kyoto almost 20 years, and is considered to be the foremost Western expert on geisha. He was married to an ex-geisha, studies Japanese arts and is a lecturer on Geisha Studies at a Kansai University. The evening will begin with a Walking Lecture through some of Kyoto’s geisha districts. Peter will explain about the geisha’s world - past, present and future.If you are lucky you will have the chance to see a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) as they head to the first appointment of the evening. After the walk, you will enjoy a sumptuous Japanese dinner in the private room of a traditional restaurant with free flow drinks. Enjoy dinner and drinks with an hour of private maiko or geisha entertainment consisting of conversation and dancing accompanied by the shamisen (Japanese stringed instrument). You will also have a chance to ask questions about the geisha and their world (translated into English by Peter), as well as play traditional drinking games. This is a special night of food, drink, traditional entertainment, and great photo opportunities. Meal: Dinner and drinks Transport: Taxi from hotel to geisha district (one way only). Peter will be happy to arrange a taxi to take you back to your hotel, payable on the spot. Time: 2 hours Pick up: 19:15, Hotel End tour: 21:00, Restaurant


Private Dinner with a Geisha N/A 72,000 60,000 50,400 43,200 Please Ask

Kyoto by Night Kyoto charms visitors with its temples and history, but have you ever wondered what Kyotoites do when they’re on a night out? Enjoy an evening with a local guide who is a long term Kyoto resident. They will take you to their favourite bars and restaurants for a night to remember, including out of the way backstreet establishments full of colorful local characters where you can even try your hand at cooking your own food! You are sure to enjoy a unique perspective on the ancient capital. Meal: Casual dinner and drinks Transport: Taxi Time: 2.5 hours Pick up: 19:00, Hotel Drop off: 21:30, Central Kyoto (the guide can assist you with getting back to your hotel, or point you in the right direction for more food and drink!

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4

Kyoto by Night 30,600 18,360 14,280 12,240

Samurai Sword Dance Experience

Learn more about the legendary samurai warriors in this exciting program. You will wear a samurai costume, learn about the lifestyle and etiquette of samurai classes and finally take the sword and learn the basics of kenbu, a highly stylized sword dance that samurai used to perform as training and to find concentration. This is a unique experience to learn in-depth about this cultural heritage of Japan. The instructors are skilled Kenbu master and are also fluent in English, and they will be happy to answer your questions. Photo time and a souvenir of your time in the kenbu dojo (training hall) are included in the tour. Meal: None Transport: None Time: 3 hours (Shared) or 2 hours (Private) Pick up/Drop off: Unavailable (make your own way to the dojo in central Kyoto and back to your hotel) Start: Shared: 11:00 on Mon, Wed and Fri and 17:00 every day Monday to Saturday – Private: anytime upon availability Finish: Shared: 14:00 on Mon, Wed and Fri and 21:00 every day Monday to Saturday – Private: anytime upon availability Note: Not available on Sundays and public holidays. This is a shared experience: you may be with other customers during the experience.


Samurai Sword Dance Experience - Shared 11,000 11,000 11,000 11,000 11,000 11,000

Samurai Sword Dance Experience - Private 30,800 30,800 30,800 30,800 30,800 30,800

Taiko Drums Experience

Today you will head to a taiko dojo (practice hall) and enjoy an exciting close encounter with the impressive Japanese drums. Your teacher will first give you a brief outline of taiko drums, how they are made, and their history and significance in Japanese music. Then he will teach you some simple, but impressive rhythm patterns and you will join them together to create a performance, including the poses and vigorous yells that accompany the drumming. Photo time is also included (with your own camera) for an amazing memory of your time in Japan! Meal: None Transport: None Time: 1 hour Note: No hotel pick up or drop off available. Time and date depend on availability: please enquire. For the shared experience: you may be with other customers during the experience.


Taiko Drums Experience (Shared)

6,200 6,200 6,200 6,200 6,200 6,200

Taiko Drums Experience (Private)

36,000 18,000 12,000 9,000 7,500 6,500

Private Tea Ceremony in Exclusive Temple

Korin-in Temple was founded in 1613 and its garden was believed to have been designed by the master craftsman, Kentei. The teahouse was built in the early Meiji period (1868 to 1912) and has a reputation of being a magnificent teahouse. However, Korin-in Temple is not usually open to the public. The doors of the temple will open just for you to give you an authentic tea ceremony experience in all its detail. The best quality tea powder is used and seasonal sweets from a traditional sweet maker will be provided. The tea ceremony teacher will instruct you on how to eat the sweets and how to drink the tea, after that, the teacher will show you how to make tea yourself. Inside the tea room you will be seated directly on the Tatami mat but available at your request are small chairs and tables. Meal: Tea and sweets Transport: Taxi transfers between the hotel and the venue Time: 2 hours Note: Guided hotel pick up and drop off are included. Time and date depend on availability: please enquire. Maximum 4 pax. Unavailable 23 to 31 December.


Private Tea Ceremony in Exclusive Temple 67,000 33,500 25,700 19,250 N/A N/A

Uji Half Day Tour with Tea Making Experience

Enjoy a half day tour to Uji, a traditional town near Kyoto that is famous for its superior quality green tea. Famous for its green tea, while Kozanji Temple in Kyoto is believed to be the original site of tea cultivation in Japan, Uji's tea became better known for its superior quality in the 1100s.

After a brief 20 minute train taking you directly from Kyoto into Uji, you will first head to your tea making experience.

In a group of no more than 5 people, your guide shall translate so you can learn from local Uji residents about the kneading and drying of the tea leaves in this 1.5 hour experience. Afterwards, stroll through the picturesque town sampling tea from local store sellers. You need not feel under any pressure to purchase, but if you like Green Tea, this is a great place to purchase while you are in Japan.

Meal: None Transport: Included (Local Train) Pick up: 10,00, hotel in Kyoto Drop off: 14:00, hotel in Kyoto Time: 4 hours Availability: Not available on Mondays (and Tuesday if Monday is a National Holiday) Note: Pick-Up and Drop-Off times may vary depending on the availability of the Tea

Making Experience.

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 5

MAX 5 PAX

Uji Half Day Tour 29,060 18,350 14,760 12,900 11,850 N/A

https://www.google.co.jp/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRxqFQoTCMrf1Y6fnscCFYG0lAod1KcBww&url=https://twitter.com/asahien&ei=YXTIVYqrIYHp0gTUz4aYDA&bvm=bv.99804247,d.dGo&psig=AFQjCNHlboQxTO2TlumrHjpndSiUcHQt-Q&ust=1439286732226378

Geisha Makeover Experience

Celebrate your time in Kyoto with an unforgettable experience: dress up as a maiko (young geisha) or geisha in a historical townhouse in central Kyoto! You will have your makeup and hair done and don the beautiful, intricate kimono that geisha wear. A professional photographer will take pictures of you and you can then take a stroll nearby (you have one hour, after which you must return your kimono). The shop provides cleansers and shampoo so that you can take the geisha make up and the hair oils off after the experience. You will have 6 photos printed out for you, as well as a CD-R containing all the shots, and you are of course free to take pictures with your own camera during the free time. Meal: None Transport: None (make your own way to the venue in central Kyoto) Time: 2 hour Note: No hotel pick up or drop off available. Time and date depend on availability: please enquire. If you wear contact lenses, please bring liquid and containers or a spare set as you will be required to take them off for make up application.

Net JPY per person 1 to 4 pax

Geisha Makeover Experience 18,150 JPY per person

Fushimi and Sake Brewery Half Day Tour

Transfer from your hotel to Fushimi by train (15min) with a local guide. Fushimi is technically a part of Kyoto, and it is an area rich in history and charm. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, which was used in the movie “Memoirs of a Geisha”. It is home to over 10,000 red tori gates, which form a path up the mountain behind the temple. After visiting the shrine, quench your thirst at a sake brewery. During a tour of the brewery you will learn about the traditional brewing process, and then sample the different types of their sake. Meal: None (sake tasting included) Transport: Included (local train) Time: 4 hours Pick up: 9:00, Hotel Drop off: 13:00, Hotel


Fushimi & Sake Brewery Half Day Tour 28,170 14,880 10,450 8,250 6,900 4,250

Osaka Gourmet Evening Tour

Osaka is one of Japan’s most vibrant cities, and especially known for its lively people - and its food. Your guide will introduce you to the splendors of Osaka’s casual cuisine, venturing into the epicenter of street food culture in Osaka: Dotonbori. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Kyoto and take you to Osaka by local train (30 min). Dotonbori is a famous pedestrian-only restaurant street in Osaka’s boisterous Namba district. Famous for its vast array of culinary options, Dotonbori is known as a food paradise throughout Japan. This is where Kansai people come to celebrate! Colorful eateries and bars line the neon-filled streets: hole-in-the-wall takoyaki stands and streetside ramen bars rub shoulders with upscale eateries serving the finest wagyu beef – and everywhere, people – young and old – out to enjoy the culinary pleasures of the nation’s most famous restaurant district. You’ll have the chance to sample a variety of local foods, including the famous and ubiquitous takoyaki (commonly known as “octopus balls”) and kushikatsu (skewered meats and vegetables). The cost of these - and one drink a piece - is included. Your guide can also take you to a huge variety of other establishments, from ramen noodles to izakaya bars. The cost for your orders here will be on you. Afterwards your guide will take you back to Osaka station where you will make your way back to Kyoto, or direct you to elsewhere nearby if you prefer to keep eating and drinking! Meal: One serving of takoyaki and 4 kushikatsu skewers + 1 drink per person Transport: Public transport (local train w/no reserved seats, underground) Start: 17:30 at Kyoto hotel End: 21:00 at Osaka station (no drop off available) Notes: As this is street food, we regret the tour cannot cater to people with food allergies or

strict dietary requirements.

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 5 to 6

Osaka Gourmet Evening Tour 33,830 19,750 15,050 12,710 11,300

KYOTO FULL DAY TOURS

Kyoto Highlights Day Tour Today you explore the former imperial capital with a knowledgeable local guide, utilizing Kyoto’s comprehensive bus system to visit some of Kyoto’s World Heritage Sites. You will start your day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun. After his death it became a Buddhist Temple at his request, and is now one of Kyoto’s most famous temples. Nijo Castle is an ornamental castle built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence and is surrounded by stunning surrounding gardens. The main building was completed in 1603, and is famous for its architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. Take a walk down Nishiki Market, a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi. To end the day you can decide what to visit. You may want to go to Kiyomizu (Pure Water) Temple. From the 13m high veranda jutting out from the Main Hall you can enjoy amazing views of the whole of Kyoto, whilst pondering the fact that both the Main Hall and Veranda were built without the use of nails or any kind of joiners; however, it is a steep walk uphill, and the temple is now under repair work, although it is still enjoyable and a Kyoto landmark. You may decide, instead, to visit Sanjusangendo, a temple which is Japan's longest wooden structure (120m). It is famous for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. In the center of the main hall sits a large, wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon that is flanked on each side by 500 statues of human sized 1000-armed Kannon standing in ten rows. Together they make for an awesome sight. Meal: None Transport: Public transport or private car as below Time: 8 hours Pick up: 09:00, hotel Drop off: 17:00, hotel Note: Nijo Castle is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August and December, and from December 25 to January 03. When it is closed Ryoanji temple will be visited. Public transport tour in low season will be carried out by bus and subway. In high season, the busses are extremely crowded and slow, so the public transport tour will be carried out by taxi.


Public Transport - Low Season (All dates except the below)

45,840 24,620 17,540 14,000 11,880 7,650

Public Transport - High Season (3/20 to 5/8, 10/15 to 11/30) 58,590 30,140 26,290 20,140 19,830 N/A

Private Car – Year round 99,900 51,650 37,940 29,300 24,120 22,950

Kyoto Full Day Bike Ride (East Course) Kyoto is a perfect city for cycling, as it is laid out in a grid system with no hills and numerous back streets and lane ways to explore. Tour the city with a local guide to explore some of what the city has to offer. Start off with Nishi Honganji Temple. Ornamental Nijo castle is famous for its Momoyama architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. You will then visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace’s gardens. After lunch (included), bike to Ginkakuji temple, the Silver Pavillion, and then Kiyomizu (Pure Water) Temple. From the 13m high veranda jutting out from the Main Hall you can enjoy amazing views of the whole of Kyoto, whilst pondering the fact that both the Main Hall and Veranda were built without the use of nails or any kind of joiners. Meal: Lunch Transport: Bike Time: 8 hours Pick up / Drop off: Unavailable (make your own way to the meeting spot and back to your hotel) Start: 9:15, Kyoto Cycling Tour Project Terminal (near Kyoto Station) Finish: 17:30, Kyoto Cycling Tour Project Terminal (near Kyoto Station) Note: Children are allowed only if below 3 (a child seat will be attached to a parent’s bike) or above 12 (with their own bike). In case children between 4 and 11 are present, or shorter than 155cm, the tour will be carried out as a walking tour. On days when Nijo Castle is closed the tour will visit another location.

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 to 10

Kyoto Full Day Bike Ride 34,280 20,810 16,530 14,690

Central Kyoto hotel pick up option An assistant will pick you up and take you to the Bike Terminal. (No hotel drop off

available)

+10,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

+5,000 per pax

Spiritual Kyoto This morning experience the quintessential Japanese enlightenment experience – Zazen (Zen meditation). Your guide will meet you in the morning and take you to a Zen temple, where you can learn the basics of the same sitting meditation that led the Buddha to Enlightenment: folded legs, erect posture, half-closed eyes and a focus on measured breathing that leads to awareness of the way the mind works. After Zazen, head to Chion-in temple. Chion-in is the head temple of the Jodo (Pure Land) sect of Japanese Buddhism, which has millions of followers and is one the most popular Buddhist sects in Japan. The Sanmon Gate, Chionin's main entrance gate, stands 24 meters tall and 50 meters wide, making it the largest wooden gate in Japan and dates back to the early 1600s. From Chion-in walk through Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most popular Shinto Shrines. Your spiritual day finishes with a Tea Ceremony in a Gion tea house. Your Tea Master will give you a full explanation of Japanese tea as well as the tea ceremony itself, its long history and relationship with Zen Buddhism. The Master will also tell you the meaning behind each movement involved in the making and serving of the tea, as well as the equipment involved. Meal: None Transport: Included (public transport) Time: 8 hours Pick up: 08:00, hotel Drop off: 16:00, hotel Note: The tour is not available on January 1-3, August 13-17 and December 25-31


Spiritual Kyoto 52,470 31,250 24,170 20,630 18,510 N/A

Arashiyama Full Day Tour Head to the Arashiyama district, a pleasant district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. Okochi Mountain Villa is the former villa of the popular samurai film star Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), and consists of several beautiful gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and a zen meditation hall. Here you will enjoy some matcha green tea with a snack. Next, take a walk through Arashiyama’s famous bamboo groves, which are particularly attractive when there is a light wind and the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. The bamboo has been used to manufacture various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes and mats at local workshops for centuries. Nonomiya shrine is a Shinto shrine where in ancient times, unmarried imperial princesses stayed for a year or more to purify themselves. Ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples, Tenryuji is the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Founded in 1339 at the beginning of the Muromachi Period (1338-1573), the temple is one of Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to its temple buildings, there are attractive gardens with walking paths. In a traditional building inside the temple grounds overlooking the beautifully landscaped garden, enjoy a beautiful vegetarian shojin-ryori (traditional Buddhist cuisine) lunch built around yuba, tofu and seasonal vegetables. After lunch you will head to Arashiyama Monkey Park. After hiking uphill for about ten minutes, you will find an open area with over a hundred monkeys roaming freely. There are also nice views down onto the city. End your day with a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway, also known as the Romantic Train. It is a sightseeing train line that runs along the Hozugawa River between Arashiyama and Kameoka. Its charming, old fashioned trains wind their way through the mountains at a relatively slow pace, taking about 25 minutes to make the seven kilometer journey and giving passengers a pleasant view of the scenery as they travel from rural Kameoka through the forested ravine and into Arashiyama. You will then go back into Kyoto. Meal: Lunch Transport: Included (public transport) Time: 8 hours Pick up: 09:00, hotel Drop off: 17:00, hotel Note: The Romantic Train does not operate on Wednesdays and from December 30 to February 28. Arashiyama Monkey Park is closed on Mondays. In this case the ride will be substituted with a longer stroll in the area.


Arashiyama Full Day Tour 53,040 31,500 24,290 20,690 18,530 14,180

Classic Kyoto Day Tour

Ryoanji Zen Temple is the site of Japan's most famous rock garden, which attracts hundreds of visitors every day. Originally an aristocrat's villa during the Heian Period, the site was converted into a Zen temple in 1450. The garden consists of a rectangular plot of pebbles surrounded by low earthen walls, with 15 rocks laid out in small groups on patches of moss. An interesting feature of the garden's design is that from any vantage point at least one of the rocks is always hidden from the viewer. The Kyoto Imperial Palace used to be the residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, when the emperor and capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is located in the spacious Kyoto Imperial Garden, an attractive park in the center of the city that also encompasses the Sento Imperial Palace and a few other attractions. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Philosopher's Path, a pleasant stone path through the northern part of Kyoto's Higashiyama district. The path follows a canal which is lined by hundreds of cherry trees. Approximately two kilometers long, the path begins around Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) and ends in the neighborhood of Nanzenji. The path gets its name due to Nishida Kitaro, one of Japan's most famous philosophers, who was said to practice meditation while walking this route on his daily commute to Kyoto University. Meal: None Transport: Included (public transport) Time: 8 hours Pick up: 09:00, hotel Drop off: 17:00, hotel


Classical Kyoto Tour 44,130 23,650 16,810 13,410 11,360 7,250

Kyoto Garden Day Tour

Visit some of Kyoto’s best gardens with a guide by private car. Ryoanji is maybe the most famous rock zen garden of Japan. It was built on the grounds of a villa of the Fujiwara clan in the Heian period (794-1185). Kinkaku-ji (the more popular name for its actual name Rokuon-ji) is one of the most famous temples in Japan and a definite must-see on your Kyoto bucket list. The garden is an extraordinary example of a Japanese strolling garden of the Muromachi period. The Ninomaru gardens of the Nijo castle have been designed by garden master Kobori Enshu. There are numerous cherry and plum trees, which bloom between March and April. The garden has a large pond with three islands that symbolize Horai-San, and the crane and Turtle Mountains of the Taoist mythology. Lastly, you will visit the Outside Imperial Palace Gardens, whose style is based on the Heian shinden-zukuri style, with large gravel courtyards and a small pond garden. (Please note you will not enter the Imperial Palace itself. Meal: None Transport: Included (public transport or private car) Time: 8 hours Pick up: 09:00, hotel Drop off: 17:00, hotel


Kyoto Garden Day Tour - public transport 43,000 23,250 16,670 13,380 11,400 10,090

Kyoto Garden Day Tour - private car 93,000 47,500 34,670 26,500 21,600 18,340

Kyoto Traditional Craft Tour

On this fascinating one day tour in Kyoto, you will experience hands on a few of the crafts that make Kyoto famous. First off, journey to the eastern part of Kyoto, which is a famous pottery district. Here you will have the opportunity to make a pot by yourself. The pottery laboratory will then bake it and send it directly to your home in your country! Next, visit a Yuzen Gallery. Yuzen is the method of dying Kimono. At the Gallery, you will be able to try your hand at Yuzen dying as well, and keep your work of art as souvenir. After a traditional “bento box” lunch, you will visit Nijo Castle, the 17th century ornamental castle built for a shogun, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. To conclude the day, you will walk through Nishiki Food Market, which will mesmerize you with a lot of stands for traditional Japanese food ingredients. Finally, visit Gion, the famous geisha district, where if lucky you will be able to see Geisha as the hurry to the first appointment of the evening. Meal: Lunch Transport: Included (public transport) Time: 8 hours Pick up: 09:30, hotel Drop off: 17:30, hotel Note: During peak season (April/May, November) the course may be changed or shortened due to traffic conditions.


Kyoto Traditional Craft Tour N/A 34,600 27,310 23,670 21,480 N/A

PRIVATE EXCURSIONS FROM KYOTO

Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour Journey by Shinkansen (1.5hr) to Hiroshima. The journey is unaccompanied. On arrival you will be met by a local guide, and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park . The area where the park now lies was ground zero for the Atomic Bomb on 6th August 1945. After the bombing the Memorial Park was created and dedicated to those who lost their lives in the attack. Stroll through the park and discover the many memorials, monuments and statues in the park before heading into the Museum itself. From Hiroshima, a short ferry ride will take you to Miyajima Island. A small sacred island located in the Inland Sea, it has been a holy place of Shintoism since the earliest times. Here you will find perhaps the most photographed site in Japan - The Floating Torii Gate. Designated as one of Japan's '3 Most Beautiful Views', the shrine it belongs to dates back to the 6th century with the present structure dating back to the 12th century. The harmoniously arranged buildings reveal great artistic and technical skill, and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mere 'commoners' were not allowed to set foot on this holy place, and even now it is forbidden to give birth or die on the island! You will have time to explore the island and its many shrines and temples, sample local goodies like maple leaf shaped cakes before heading back to Kyoto. Meal: None Transport: Included (Bullet Train in class of choice, reserved seats, Ferry boat to Miyajima &

Tram Ticket) Time: 10 hours Start: 08:30 Kyoto station Finish: 18:30 Hiroshima station Pick up/drop off: Unavailable – make own way to and from Kyoto station Note: Shinkansen ride is unaccompanied, guide will meet at Hiroshima station platform.


Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour (Ordinary class)

71,390 50,040 42,930 39,370 37,230 32,950

Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Tour (Green class)

87,470 62,100 53,650 49,420 46,880 41,800

Nara Half Day Tour Transfer from your hotel to Nara (45min) with a local guide. For 74 years during the 8th century Nara was Japan’s capital and many of the temples and shrines built at that time still remain. Visit Todaiji temple, the world’s largest wooden building and home to Japan’s largest Buddha. Next stop is Nara’s most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha, established in 768 AD and famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns which have been donated by worshipers. End the day with a wander through Nara Park, called Deer park by locals due to the large population of more than 1,000 tame deer living there. Meal: None Transport: Public transport or private car Time: 5 hours Pick up: 8:00, Hotel Drop off: 13:00, Kyoto station (public transport) or hotel (private car)


Nara Half Day Tour Public transport 35,100 19,960 14,910 12,390 10,870 7,840

Nara Half Day Tour Private car 75,120 38,490 31,380 24,010 19,580 19,280

Ohara Half Day tour

Ohara is an area located about one hour north of Kyoto; although it is still a part of Kyoto city, its quiet and rural atmosphere make it seem like you’re in a completely different city than the bustling centre of Kyoto.

You will start by walking along the main street, lined with local, small shops serving locals and tourists alike since generations. You may try, if you wish, an “ice kyuuri”, a Japanese cucumber pickled and iced; it is a local specialty and very refreshing, especially in the summer.

The street will take you to Sanzenin, a Buddhist temple boasting more than 1000 years of history. You will enjoy its buildings, gardens, and beautiful statues.

Afterwards you can keep walking in the mountains until you reach a small but pretty waterfall (Otonashi no taki), or you can explore the town and main street a little more instead if you so wish.

Your guide will then take you back into Kyoto.

Meal: 1 pickled cucumber Transport: Public transport Time: 6 hours Pick up: 8:00, Hotel Drop off: 14:00, Kyoto station (public transport) or hotel (private car)

Net JPY per person 1 2 3 4 5 to 9

Ohara Half Day Tour 45,330 24,000 16,890 13,330 11,200

Discover Kyoto and Nara

Discover the two jewels of the Kansai region in this day tour by private car. Start the day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun. After his death it became a Buddhist Temple at his request, and is now one of Kyoto’s most famous temples. Next is Nijo Castle, an ornamental castle that was built by the founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence and is surrounded by stunning surrounding gardens. The main building was completed in 1603, and is famous for its architecture, decorated sliding doors and ‘chirping’ nightingale floors. Then, it’s time to transfer to Nara. For 74 years during the 8th century Nara was Japan’s capital and many of the temples and shrines built at that time still remain. Visit Todaiji temple, the world’s largest wooden building and home to Japan’s largest Buddha. Next stop is Nara’s most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha, established in 768 AD and famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns which have been donated by worshipers. Take a wander through Nara Park, called Deer park by locals due to the large population of more than 1,000 tame deer living there. Meal: None Transport: Private car Time: 8 hours Pick up: 9:00, Hotel Drop off: 17:00, Hotel


Discover Kyoto and Nara 114,380 65,660 47,930 37,390 31,050 30,400

Nara and Fushimi Day Tour

Transfer from your hotel to Nara by train (45min) with a local guide. For 74 years during the 8th century Nara was Japan’s capital and many of the temples and shrines built at that time still remain. Visit Todaiji temple, the world’s largest wooden building and home to Japan’s largest Buddha. Next stop is Nara’s most celebrated shrine, Kasuga Taisha, established in 768 AD and famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns which have been donated by worshipers. Take a wander through Nara Park, called Deer park by locals due to the large population of more than 1,000 tame deer living there. On the way back from Nara, visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, which was used in the movie “Memoirs of a Geisha”. It is home to over 10,000 red tori gates, which form a path up the mountain behind the temple. After visiting the shrine, quench your thirst at a sake brewery. During a tour of the brewery you will learn about the traditional brewing process, and then sample the different types of their sake. Meal: None Transport: Included (local train) Time: 8 hours Pick up: 9:00, Hotel Drop off: 17:00, Hotel


Nara and Fushimi Day Tour 52,260 28,990 21,240 17,370 15,040 10,390

Kobe Full Day Tour Today you will tour Kobe with a knowledgeable local guide by public transportation. Reach the port city by Shinkansen and take a leisurely stroll in the historical, hilly Kitano district, where the first houses of Western merchants and diplomats still stand, then head to Sakura-Masamune sake brewery, where you can see how Kobe’s famous sake is made and have a good Japanese lunch on the premises. In the afternoon, visit the Hyogo Museum of Art, one of Japan’s most prominent museums of modern and contemporary art. A completely different experience awaits you at the Hanshin-Awaji Disaster Centre, documenting the quake that nearly destroyed Kobe in 1995 and the difficult relationship between Japan and earthquakes. If there is time, the tour will end with a pleasant walk in the Kobe port district. Meal: Lunch Transport: Public transportation, Shinkansen (ordinary class, reserved seats) Start: 9:00, hotel Finish: 17:00, hotel Time: 8 hours Note: The Hyogo Museum of Art and Hanshin-Awaji Disaster Centre are closed on Mondays. On this days you will visit Kobe’s Chinatown instead of the closed facility. Please notice that according to weather and traffic conditions the course might be slightly changed.


Kobe Full Day Tour 56,660 33,030 25,160 21,220 18,860 14,130

Osaka Day Tour

Travel by train (30min) to Osaka with a local guide. First visit Osaka Castle, the largest castle in Japan when first built in 1583. This impressive castle is surrounded by impressive stone walls and moats, and sits in Osaka Castle Park, covering an area of two square kilometers. Take a walking tour of the Dotonbori, a popular shopping and entertainment district and is also known as a food destination. At night it is lit by hundreds of neon lights and mechanized signs, including the famous Glico Running Man sign and Kani Doraku crab sign. Here you will sample some of Osaka’s famous takoyaki (Octopus dumplings). The Umeda Sky Building is a spectacular high rise building in the Kita district of Osaka, near Osaka and Umeda Stations. The 173 meter tall building consists of two main towers which are connected with each other by the "Floating Garden Observatory" on the 39th floor, and offers a great view of the city. Meal: None Transport: Included (Public Transport) Start: 9:00, hotel Finish: 17:00, hotel Time: 8 hours


Osaka Day Tour 55,680 32,060 24,190 20,250 17,900 13,160

Himeji Day Tour

Travel by Shinkansen bullet train (55 min) to Himeji with a local guide. The guide will pick you up at your hotel and travel with you from Kyoto. First visit Himeji Castle, the newly renovated iconic castle. Nicknamed “Shirasagi-jo” (meaning “Castle of the white heron”), is arguably Japan's most spectacular castle for its imposing size. A UNESCO world heritage site, the castle was never destroyed by war, earthquake or fire and survives to this day as one of the country's twelve original castles. You will also visit neighbouring Kokoen garden, an exquisite example of Japanese landscape garden. You will then reach Mt. Shosha by bus and ropeway. The temple located on the mountain, surrounded by a dense forest, is a spacious complex consisting of wooden halls that still look like they did hundreds of years ago. Due to the beautiful scenery and absence of modern infrastructure on its temple grounds, Mount Shosha is frequently used as a filming location for domestic historical movies and TV dramas, but also for the Hollywood movie "The Last Samurai", which was partially shot on the mountain and in the temple halls. Meal: None Transport: Included (taxi between hotel and Kyoto station, Shinkansen reserved seats in class of

choice, public transport in Himeji) Start: 8:30, hotel Finish: 16:30, hotel Time: 8 hours


Himeji Day Tour (Shinkansen in Ordinary class)

81,710 51,280 41,140 36,070 33,030 26,940

Himeji Day Tour (Shinkansen in Green (first) class)

91,390 58,540 47,600 42,120 38,840 32,140

kyoto tours 2016 - amazon s3 · kyoto tours 2016 - prices valid from 2nd january – 30th december...

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