Half Day Visit of the Top 3 Temples in Kyoto
Kyoto's three most famous temples Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, and Kiyomizu-dera temples is a uniquely enriching experience, offering a deep dive into Kyoto's cultural and spiritual heritage. Each temple showcases distinct architectural splendor and historical significance, from Kinkaku-ji's dazzling golden pavilion to Ginkaku-ji's serene gardens and Kiyomizu-dera's impressive wooden stage. This tour allows visitors to engage with Japan's rich traditions, such as drinking from the wish-granting waters of Kiyomizu-dera's Otowa Waterfall and exploring the symbolic wabi-sabi aesthetics of Ginkaku-ji. Seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage, enhances the experience, providing stunning photographic opportunities. This journey through Kyoto's iconic temples encapsulates the essence of Japan's timeless elegance and spiritual depth, making it a memorable and captivating adventure.
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Half Day Visit of the Top 3 Temples in Kyoto
What's included in Half Day Visit of the Top 3 Temples in Kyoto
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Japan's most iconic and picturesque temples, located in Kyoto. Officially named Rokuon-ji, this Zen Buddhist temple is renowned for its top two floors, which are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting brilliantly in the pond that surrounds it. The temple was originally built in the late 14th century as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu and was later converted into a temple by his son. Despite being burned down several times throughout its history, most notably in 1950 by a mentally ill monk, it was meticulously reconstructed to its former glory. The surrounding gardens, designed in a classical Muromachi period style, provide a serene and reflective atmosphere, making Kinkaku-ji a symbol of Kyoto's cultural heritage and a must-visit destination for tourists from around the world.
Ginkakuji Temple
Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a Zen temple located in the eastern part of Kyoto, Japan. Despite its name, the pavilion was never covered in silver; instead, it was intended to reflect the understated beauty and simplicity characteristic of Japanese aesthetics. Constructed in the late 15th century by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa as his retirement villa, Ginkaku-ji was converted into a Zen temple after his death. The temple is renowned for its refined and tranquil garden, which includes the meticulously raked sand garden known as the "Sea of Silver Sand" and the "Moon Viewing Platform." The temple and its surroundings exemplify the Higashiyama Culture of the Muromachi period, emphasizing harmony between architecture and nature. Today, Ginkaku-ji remains a testament to the elegance of wabi-sabi, the Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection and impermanence, attracting numerous visitors seeking peace and inspiration
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera, officially known as Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, is a historic and celebrated Buddhist temple located in eastern Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 778 AD, the temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site. Kiyomizu-dera is renowned for its impressive wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering breathtaking views of the cherry and maple trees below, which bloom spectacularly in spring and display vibrant colors in autumn. The name "Kiyomizu" means "pure water," derived from the Otowa Waterfall that runs through the temple grounds. Visitors often partake in drinking the waterfall's water, believed to have wish-granting properties. Another highlight of Kiyomizu-dera is the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking, where visitors seek blessings for successful relationships. The temple is also famous for its traditional architecture, featuring a large veranda supported by hundreds of wooden pillars.
Inclusions
- On-board audio guide (English,Chinese, Korean)
- Entrance fee (Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera)
- Other Personal Expenses
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Total tour duration includes transportation.
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Meet at JR Kyoto Station Karasuma Exit Kyoto Sightseeing Bus Terminal. Please arrive at least 20 minutes before departure.
Redeem
Ticket Redemption
We will send an E-voucher one day before travel via email.
