Japan: Kyoto & Nara Heritage Tour 

Step into the heart of traditional Japan on this immersive 6-day journey through Kyoto and Nara. Experience the timeless beauty of ancient temples, serene gardens, and sacred shrines. Walk through bamboo forests, meet friendly deer, and discover the cultural treasures that make this region one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. This tour is perfect for those seeking a deep dive into Japan’s heritage, with a blend of history, nature, and authentic local experiences.

Price: from $2,100 | Best time: Spring, Autumn | Group: 2-8 people | Duration: 6 days

Japan
Japan

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Kyoto City Walk

Arrive in Kyoto and check into your accommodation.
Take a relaxed stroll through Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district.
Visit Yasaka Shrine, illuminated beautifully at night.
Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner (optional).

Day 2: Temples & Fushimi Inari Shrine

Start the day at Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO-listed temple with panoramic city views.
Walk the historic streets of Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka, lined with teahouses and souvenir shops.
Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.
Explore Tofuku-ji Temple, known for its Zen gardens.

Day 3: Arashiyama & Bamboo Forest

Travel to Arashiyama, a scenic district on Kyoto’s western edge.
Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a breathtaking natural wonder.
Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning gardens.
Cross the Togetsukyo Bridge, offering beautiful views of the river and mountains.
Enjoy a traditional boat ride on the Hozugawa River (optional).

Day 4: Northern Kyoto & Hidden Gems

Explore Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf.
Visit Ryoan-ji, home to Japan’s most famous rock garden.
Discover Ninna-ji, an elegant temple with beautiful seasonal gardens.
Experience a tea ceremony in a traditional machiya house (optional).

Day 5: Day Trip to Nara

Take a short trip to Nara, Japan’s first capital.
Visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha – one of the largest bronze statues in the world.
Wander through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely.
Explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its lantern-lined paths.
Return to Kyoto for a farewell dinner.

Day 6: Departure or Optional Activities

Free time for last-minute shopping at Nishiki Market or Kyoto Handicraft Center.
Optional visit to a ryokan (traditional inn) for a final relaxation experience.
Transfer to the airport for departure.

Tour Highlights

✔ Walk through the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine and its red torii gates
✔ Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, one of Japan’s most photogenic spots
✔ See the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, one of the largest bronze statues in the world
✔ Meet the friendly deer at Nara Park
✔ Visit Kyoto’s most iconic temples, including Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

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