Kyoto: Exclusive World Heritage Tour with Monk Insights
Experience the contrast between two UNESCO World Heritage temples in Kyoto: the lavish Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), built by a samurai, and the peaceful Ninnaji Temple, steeped in imperial heritage. Delve into Japan's history and culture as your guide illuminates the significance of Buddhist temples, spanning themes of power, prestige, and devotion. Admire the gleaming golden façade of Kinkakuji and stroll through its picturesque gardens, learning about the historiy behind its creation. In Ninnaji Temple, step inside the rarely opened Main Hall for a sacred chanting session led by a monk. Engage with the monk during an enlightening Q&A and learn about Buddhism's spiritual traditions. Visit the Sutra Hall to see and interact with the rotating sutra shelf, a ritual imbued with profound meaning. Capture a memorable photo with the monk before visiting the elegant Imperial Residence. Conclude your journey in this tranquil space, soaking in the timeless beauty and imperial charm of Kyoto.
Options
World Heritage Tour with Guide
This option does not include the explanation by the monk or the exclusive access to private areas.
What's included in Kyoto: Exclusive World Heritage Tour with Monk Insights
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan. Originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a temple. The top floors are covered in gold leaf, creating a stunning reflection in the surrounding pond. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will visit Shariden, Karamon Gate, Rikushu-no-taki, Anmintaku, Hakujanotsuka, Yukatei Teahouse, and Fudo Hall.
Ninna-ji Temple
Ninna-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto, founded in 888 by Emperor Uda. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and known for its five-story pagoda, gardens, and Omuro cherry trees. The temple is the head of the Omuro school of Shingon Buddhism and has a long history as a spiritual center.
Inclusions
- Exclusive access to Golden Hall (National treasure) and Sutra Hall
- Admission Fee (Kinkaku-ji and Ninna-ji)
- Transportation fee from Kinkaku-ji to Ninna-ji (taxi)
- Chanting session by a monk
- Local Guide
- Q&A session and photo with a monk
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- *The details of the itinerary at Ninna-ji Temple may be subject to change due to the temple's circumstances.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Meet at a shop located in front of the Kinkaku-ji Temple gate. The guide has a green board of "Japan Wonder Travel"
