Sightseeing

Kyoto Highlights Tour

Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital, is overflowing with historical charm, making it nearly impossible to see everything in just one day.
In this itinerary, we’ll guide you through must-see spots that capture the essence of Kyoto.

• 10：00

  Departure (approx. 1 hour)

  Start from a station or hotel in Osaka and head to Kyoto.

• 11：00

  Kyoto Tower (approx. 30 mins)

  Begin your journey with Kyoto Tower, a symbol of the city. Built to resemble a lighthouse illuminating Kyoto, the tower represents the fusion of industry, culture, and tourism. At 100 meters tall, it’s the tallest structure in Kyoto City and offers a panoramic view of the entire area from its observation deck.

  

• 11：30

  Transfer (approx. 30 mins)

  Next, head to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. You can have lunch near the temple or dine in Kyoto Tower, which has various eateries. We recommend sampling local treats along Kiyomizu-zaka Street.

• 12：00

  Kiyomizu-zaka Street (approx. 30 mins)

  Kiyomizu-zaka is a 700-meter slope leading to the temple, lined with traditional shops and street food vendors. Enjoy local specialties like yuba skewers, matcha ice cream, and tofu buns. Popular souvenirs include yatsuhashi sweets, shichimi spice mix, and oil blotting paper.

  

• 12：30

  Kiyomizu-dera Temple
  (approx. 1 hour)

  After walking up Kiyomizu-zaka, you’ll arrive at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
  At the entrance, guardian lion-dog statues welcome you before you pass through the vivid red Niomon Gate. Inside, you’ll see Japan’s tallest three-story pagoda and Zuigudo Hall, which enshrines the Daizuigu Bosatsu. Here, you can try the tainaimeguri, a symbolic rebirth experience where you walk through a completely dark corridor guided only by a set of prayer beads—representing a spiritual cleanse and a fresh start.
  Next, you’ll reach the temple’s highlight: the Main Hall, known for its iconic wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. Built in the yosemune-zukuri style with four sloped roof sides, it offers a breathtaking view that looks as though it’s floating in the air.
  Afterward, head down to the Otowa Waterfall area, where three streams represent longevity, love, and academic success. Choose one to drink from—just one—for blessings, as drinking more is believed to diminish your fortune.
  Other features include the thousand-stone Buddha statues and the peaceful Koyasu Pagoda.

  

• 13：30

  Transfer (approx. 40 mins)

  After enjoying the many highlights of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, head to the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji.

• 14：10

  Kinkaku-ji Temple (approx. 40 mins)

  Kinkaku-ji, officially named Rokuon-ji, is a golden pavilion built by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. Each of its three levels features a unique architectural style, all covered in gold leaf. Reflected in the mirror-like Kyoko-chi Pond, the "Upside-down Kinkaku" is a popular photo spot. The temple is also home to the Fudo Hall and its stone statue of Fudo Myoo.

  

• 14：50

  Transfer (approx. 25 mins)

  From the majestic Kinkaku-ji, move on to the bustling Nishiki Market to taste Kyoto’s food culture.

• 15：15

  Nishiki Market (approx. 1 hour)

  Known as "Kyoto’s Kitchen," Nishiki Market has a history of over 400 years. Though street-eating is not allowed, you can enjoy local delicacies such as Kyoto vegetables, yuba, and fresh fish at the shopfronts. The market is also home to artworks by Ito Jakuchu and vibrant arcades that are a feast for the eyes.

  

• 16：15

  Transfer (approx. 15 mins)

  Next, head to To-ji Temple, a historic site from Kyoto’s ancient capital days.

• 16：30

  To-ji Temple (approx. 40 mins)

  The only remaining original structure of the Heian capital, To-ji is a national temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its 5-story pagoda is Japan’s tallest wooden tower. Inside the Kondo Hall, you’ll find the Yakushi Nyorai surrounded by 12 protective deities. In spring and autumn, the Treasure Hall opens to reveal statues of Bishamonten and the Thousand-Armed Kannon.

• 17：10

  After your tour, we’ll drop you off at your preferred location. Please let us know your convenience.