Kyoto-Sanzenin Temple-Arashiyama

One Day Tour

Group size: 2/4/6/8  people

(if the number is insufficient, we will make other vehicle arrangements or cancel the trip based on the actual number of applicants)

### 10:30 Kyoto - Sanzen-in Temple (Approx. 120 minutes, free time, includes lunch time, at own expense)

Sanzen-in Temple, located in Ohara, north of Kyoto, is one of the Tendai sect's three Monzeki temples. The expansive temple grounds are filled with ancient trees, moss-covered paths, and flowing streams. The natural beauty of the temple changes with the seasons: cherry blossoms in April, azaleas in May, hydrangeas in July, and autumn leaves in fall. The two pond gardens, Shuheki-en and Yusei-en, designed by Soami Kanamori, are the best spots to enjoy the seasonal scenery of Sanzen-in. The wooden statues of the Amitabha Buddha and accompanying deities are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. (Entrance fee: Adults 700 yen, Middle/High school students 400 yen, Elementary school students 150 yen)

Nearby dining options:

- **Kyomi Chaya**: Specializes in soba noodles, tofu dishes, and creative cuisine.

- **Ichifuku Chaya**: Specializes in udon noodles, soba noodles, and rice bowls.

- **Rokawa Chaya**: Specializes in udon noodles and yuba dishes.

- **Shino Matsumon**: Specializes in Kyoto cuisine, tofu dishes, and yuba dishes.

### 13:30 Kyoto - Arashiyama (Approx. 3 hours, free time)

The Arashiyama area, which includes both Arashiyama and Sagano, offers a blend of rich cultural sites and changing natural beauty with the seasons, as well as a retro scenic railway. The area is home to numerous temples and shrines, with Tenryu-ji Temple being a World Heritage site. The famous Bamboo Grove Path runs between Nonomiya Shrine and Okochi Sanso Villa. Arashiyama is a popular spot for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, attracting many visitors in spring and autumn. In contrast, it is serene and quiet during winter and summer, perfect for those who prefer a peaceful travel experience. The area also features many traditional eateries, wagashi (Japanese confectionery) shops, and charming boutiques. You can also rent kimonos and take a rickshaw ride, making it a great place to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.

Recommended activities (at own expense, choose one):

1. **Sagano Scenic Railway**: (Recommended route: Sagano to Kameoka Station and back to Sagano)

   - Operating dates: March 1 to December 29 (closed in January and February for winter maintenance)

   - Closed on Wednesdays

   - (Tickets for the scenic railway are not included and must be purchased separately)

   - In peak cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons, seats on the Sagano Scenic Railway can be reserved (dates to be confirmed).

2. **Sagano Bamboo Grove**: The Sagano Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama is about 500 meters long. Walk from Nonomiya Shrine to Okochi Sanso Villa to reach the bamboo grove. You can hear the natural sound of the wind rustling through the bamboo leaves, which is one of Japan's 100 Soundscapes. The bamboo grove is also a filming location for Ang Lee's "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." The gardens of Tenryu-ji Temple along the path offer stunning Japanese garden views. In December, during the Arashiyama Hanatouro Festival, the bamboo grove and Togetsu-kyo Bridge are illuminated, creating a magical winter scene.

3. **Arashiyama Station Foot Bath**: Located in the HANNARI-HOKKORI Plaza within the Randen Arashiyama Station, this foot bath was inspired by the JR Kyushu Yufuin Station. You can enjoy a seasonal dessert from a nearby shop while soaking your feet. The hot spring water from Arashiyama is said to relieve fatigue from walking.

   - Address: 20-2 Sagatenryuji Tsukurimichicho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City

   - Usage fee: 200 yen (includes a towel)

   - The foot bath is self-service. Purchase a ticket at the station information center, which includes a towel for drying your feet afterward. Wash your feet before entering the foot bath area.

### 16:30 Return

Enjoy a pleasant end to the day's activities and begin the return journey. The return time is for reference only and may be earlier depending on the smoothness of the day's activities and good road conditions.

### 16:50 Kyoto - Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit

Board the sightseeing bus at the parking lot in front of Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit.

### 17:50 Osaka - Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori Area (Approx. 1 hour, free time)

Guests can enjoy about an hour of free time in the Shinsaibashi area of Osaka. Guests who choose the hotel drop-off package will end the tour here (considered forfeiting the hotel drop-off service and no refund for the transfer fee). Guests who chose the drop-off at the meeting point package will end the tour in the Shinsaibashi area. Guests who do not wish to explore Shinsaibashi and require a hotel/guesthouse drop-off, please wait for the shuttle bus to arrive for a unified transfer back to the hotel/guesthouse.

- **Shinsaibashi**: The most famous shopping street in Osaka, featuring large department stores, chain drugstores, brand-name shops, and small boutiques. A variety of products for all tastes and budgets can be found here, including Hello Kitty and Disney specialty stores. Many shops have Chinese-speaking staff and accept UnionPay cards for easy shopping.

- **Dotonbori**: Known as the epitome of Osaka cuisine, Dotonbori is lively day and night. It is the birthplace of Osaka's "eat till you drop" food culture and is home to many famous foods such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and Kinryu Ramen. Traditional izakayas and various popular restaurants like Kani Doraku can also be found here.

*Note: The above itinerary and times may be adjusted due to weather, traffic, and other conditions. Thank you for your understanding.

### Included

1. Vehicle service fees as listed in the itinerary

2. Fuel, tolls, and highway fees

3. Vehicle service time: within 10 hours (as per Japanese law)

4. Guide service fees (1-13 people for a small group; 14-45 people for a bus tour; actual vehicle will be adjusted according to the number of participants on the day)

5. Reference vehicle types: 5-8 seat car: Toyota Alphard; 9-14 seat car: Toyota Hiace or equivalent; 18-22 seat car: Small bus; 22 seats or more: Large bus. The above vehicles are for reference only, and the actual vehicle will be adjusted according to the number of participants on the day.

6. Children aged 0-2 years held in arms are free of charge without a seat; 3 years and older are charged as adults.

### Not Included

1. Accommodation fees, meal expenses, attraction tickets, local self-paid projects, and other personal consumption expenses.

2. It is not recommended to bring luggage for a one-day tour. If you need to bring luggage, please note it when booking.

3. Any other items not mentioned in the "Included" section above.