The Kyoto West full-day tour takes in several World Heritage and iconic sights of Kyoto, including Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji (Golden Temple), the Zen rock garden of Ryoanji, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Lunch and all admission fees are included.
For the big sights of the Higashiyama area, such as Ginkakuji (Silver Temple) and Kiyomizu-dera, see our Kyoto East full-day tour.
Kyoto Station Cycle Terminal
Meeting and departure point.
The Nishi Honganji complex is the main temple of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Buddhism, drawing worshipers from around Japan. The elaborately carved Karamon gate, the Amidado and Geido halls, and the Drum Tower are among the many highlights.
Dating from 1603, Nijo Castle (Nijo-jo) is one of the symbols of Kyoto. The castle grounds contain culturally significant buildings such as Ninomaru Palace, all surrounded by a moat and heavy stone walls.
* Nijo Castle is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August and December, and occasionally over the New Year period. At these times, the tour will visit a different sight or a cafe.
Break for lunch at a place recommended by your knowledgeable guide. Please let us know in advance if you have food allergies, special diets, or a particular lunch request.
World-renowned Kinkakuji (Golden Temple) was first established as a villa in 1397, and was later converted into a Zen Buddhist temple. Today its gold-leaf-covered pavilion, reflected in the surrounding pond, is one of Japan's most beautiful sights.
Ryoanji is most famous for its Zen rock garden, considered one of the finest examples of the kare-sansui (dry landscape) style. With a history dating from 1450, the temple is one of Kyoto's most visited sights.
The Hirosawa Pond area is the scenic gateway to Sagano-Arashiyama. The pond is especially pretty when cherry blossoms scatter on the water. Here also is Kannon Island, where an eleven-faced Kannon statue is enshrined.
Passing through Sagano, once a resort town for Heian-era nobles, you'll arrive at the bamboo forest of Arashiyama. This atmospheric grove is one of Kyoto's most popular and photogenic spots.
Togetsukyo, the 'moon crossing' bridge, stretches 155 meters across the Katsura River. The nearby tree-covered hills come alive with red maple leaves in autumn and cherry blossoms in spring, and create a picturesque scene year-round.
Return to the Kyoto Station cycle terminal, where the tour ends.