How to Plan Your Local Style Day Trip in Kyoto

Are you planning a visit to Kyoto and looking for a memorable day trip experience? Look no further than the Local Style Day Trip An, offered by Viator. This small group guided walking tour will take you to some of the most historic and sacred places in Kyoto, where you will immerse yourself in rituals and traditions of the shrines. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a unique cultural experience, this day trip is perfect for you. In this blog post, we will guide you through how to plan your Local Style Day Trip An in Kyoto.

Overview of the Tour

The Local Style Day Trip An begins with a visit to Nanzen-ji Temple, which was established in 1291 and is one of the most prestigious Zen temples in Japan. Your guide will show you how to respectfully cleanse yourself and offer prayers before entering the sacred place. You will learn about the history and significance of this temple, which has stood for over 700 years.

Next, you will visit Kiyomizudera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous landmarks in Kyoto. The temple offers stunning views of the city and is known for its unique architecture. Your guide will share the history of the temple, which dates back to the 8th century.

After Kiyomizudera Temple, you’ll head to Yasaka Shrine, home to several festivals throughout the year. Here, your guide will explain how to make offerings and share the history of the shrine. You will learn about the significance of the shrine, which has been standing since the 7th century.

The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine. After lunch, you will visit a Japanese market and shopping district, where you can find souvenirs and local treats.

The tour ends with sake tasting in the Gion district, where you may see Geisha and Maiko (apprentice Geishas). Your guide will introduce you to the local sake culture and history, as well as offer tips on how to distinguish different types of sake.

What’s Included

The Local Style Day Trip An includes the following:

– Professional guide
– Hotel pickup and drop-off
– Private tour
– All Fees and Taxes
– Lunch
– Alcoholic beverages

Meeting and Pickup Information

The Local Style Day Trip An starts at 9:00 AM and runs until approximately 4:00 PM. The tour is available daily, except on Tuesdays and during the New Year holidays (December 28 to January 4).

Hotel pickup is available from Kyoto Station or any nearby hotel in Kyoto. After the tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel or the station.

Booking Information

Ready to book your Local Style Day Trip An in Kyoto? Visit Viator’s website to book the tour: book the tour here. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of Kyoto.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Local Style Day Trip An is an excellent option for anyone visiting Kyoto who wants to learn more about the city’s history and culture. The tour includes visits to three historic and sacred places, lunch at a local restaurant, and sake tasting in the Gion district. With a professional guide at your side, you can discover the secrets of Kyoto and create long-lasting memories. Book your Local Style Day Trip An today and discover the wonders of Kyoto.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kyoto: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Kyoto is not just another Japanese city; it is a city that has preserved its cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history. It is a city that blends traditional with modern, where you can witness ancient temples alongside modern skyscrapers. As a result, Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan, attracting millions of visitors every year. However, as a first-time visitor to Kyoto, you might have some questions. To help you out, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Kyoto. Let’s dive in!

1. When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These are the times when the weather is mild, and the crowds are relatively thin. The cherry blossoms bloom during the spring, and the autumn season offers a beautiful display of fall foliage. Summer (June to August) in Kyoto is hot and humid, while winter (December to February) can be cold and rainy.

2. How do I get around Kyoto?

Kyoto has an excellent transportation system that makes it easy for visitors to get around the city. You can take the city buses, which operate on a flat fare system of ¥230 per ride. Alternatively, you can take the subway, which has two lines that run north-south and east-west. A one-day bus pass costs ¥600, while a one-day subway pass costs ¥600 for one line and ¥1200 for both lines. Additionally, you can rent a bicycle or take a taxi.

3. What are the top attractions to see in Kyoto?

Kyoto has a wealth of attractions to see, from historic temples, shrines, and gardens to modern museums and art galleries. The must-see attractions include:

i. Fushimi Inari-Taisha

Fushimi Inari-Taisha is a shrine located at the base of Mt. Inari in southern Kyoto. It is famous for its thousands of torii gates that form a path up to the summit of the mountain.

ii. Kinkaku-Ji (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-Ji is a Zen temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, located in northern Kyoto. The temple is famous for its stunning golden facade that reflects on the surrounding pond.

iii. Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a district in western Kyoto famous for its bamboo groves, Togetsukyo Bridge, and Tenryu-Ji Temple.

iv. Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in central Kyoto. It was built in the 17th century and is famous for its ornate decorations and beautiful gardens.

4. What is the best way to experience Kyoto’s traditional culture?

Kyoto is known for its rich traditional culture, and the best way to experience it is through one of the many cultural activities offered in the city. Some of the top cultural experiences include:

i. Tea ceremony

The Japanese tea ceremony is a traditional ritual that involves the preparation and serving of matcha (green tea). There are many places in Kyoto where you can experience the tea ceremony.

ii. Kimono rental

Kyoto is one of the best places in Japan to dress up in a traditional kimono. You can rent a kimono for a day and walk around the city, visiting temples and shrines.

iii. Calligraphy

Calligraphy is another traditional Japanese art form that you can experience in Kyoto. There are many calligraphy classes and workshops available in the city.

5. What are some traditional Kyoto foods to try?

Kyoto has a unique cuisine that reflects its rich history and culture. Some of the traditional Kyoto foods to try include:

i. Kaiseki

Kaiseki is a traditional multi-course meal that usually consists of a soup, sashimi, grilled fish, tempura, and rice.

ii. Yudofu

Yudofu is a dish made of boiled tofu served with dipping sauce. It is a popular dish in Kyoto during the winter months.

iii. Matcha

Matcha is a high-quality green tea that is commonly used in the Japanese tea ceremony. You can also try matcha-flavored sweets and desserts in Kyoto.

Conclusion

Kyoto is a city that offers something for everyone, from historic temples and shrines to modern museums and art galleries. As a first-time visitor, you might have some questions, but with the information provided in this guide, you should be able to plan your trip to Kyoto with ease. Remember to visit during the spring or autumn seasons, try traditional Kyoto cuisine, take part in cultural activities, and see the must-see attractions. Kyoto is truly a city that will leave a lasting impression on you.