Shimogamo Shrine, Sagano Train and Uzumasa Samurai Theme Park
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Travel through thousands of years of history and culture in a single day on this bus tour. Ride the scenic Sagano Train and visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, slip into the Edo Period and interact with ninja and samurai at Uzumasa Eigamura Theme Park, enjoy the UNESCO Site Shimogamo Shrine, and walk along the aqueduct and waterway of Nanzenji.
Board the Sagano Romantic Train and take in the beautiful scenery of the Hozugawa River Valley. After arriving in Arashiyama, stop for a quick photo op in the Sagano Bamboo Forest.
Be transported through history at Kyoto Uzumasa Eigamura, a town modeled after Edo period Japan. Encounter wandering ninja and samurai and be transported to the Edo period.
Enter the ancient grounds of UNESCO-listed Shimogamo Shrine, dating back to the 6th century, before Kyoto became the capital.
Wander the temple grounds of Nanzenji and pass the roaring waters of the Lake Biwa Dam before heading down the Keage Incline.
Available options
No Lunch
Ideal for those with dietary restrictions, or who would prefer to explore the restaurants at Eigamura Theme Park on their own<br/>Tour Guide can speak Japanese: Although the tour will be conducted in English, the guide can speak Japanese if you have a question.<br/>Theme Park Tickets + Train : Includes tickets to Uzumasa Eigamura and the Sagano Romantic Train, and a visit to Shimogamo Shrine and Nanzenji Temple.
Sukiyaki Lunch
Tour Guide can speak Japanese: Although the tour will be conducted in English, the tour guide can speak Japanese if you have a question.<br/>Full Admission: Admission to Shimogamo Shrine, Uzumasa Eigamura, and Nanzenji are included. Sagano Train ticket included.<br/>Sukiyaki Rice Bowl: Enjoy a flavorful sukiyaki rice bowl in Uzumasa Eigamura.
What's included
Entrance to Uzumasa Movie Village (Samurai setting)
Admission to Shimogamo Shrine, Nanzenji Temple
Sagano Train Ticket
Sukiyaki Rice Bowl (not vegan or halal) If option selected
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Board the Sagano Romantic Train and take in the beautiful scenery of the Hozugawa River Valley. Pass through lush greenery in the summer, vibrant oranges and reds in the fall, and flowering trees in the spring.
2
Stop for a quick photo op in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Listen to the rustling of the tall bamboo chutes and leaves and enjoy the cool, quiet atmosphere.
3
Stop 3
Be transported through history at Kyoto Uzumasa Eigamura, a town modeled after Edo period Japan. Eigamura also functions as a film set for period dramas in Japan, and you will encounter wandering ninja and samurai, allowing you to feel transported to the Edo period. If selected, enjoy lunch here (sukiyaki rice bowl).
4
Stop 4
Enter the ancient grounds of UNESCO-listed Shimogamo Shrine, dating back to the 6th century, before Kyoto became the capital. Approach the shrine through the surrounding Tadasu no Mori, a forest containing trees that are over 600 years old.
5
Stop 5
The temple grounds of Nanzenji will show you two phases of Japanese history – the Entrance Gate and Main Hall, built in the mid 13th century, and a large brick aqueduct and waterway, built during the Meiji period to transport water and goods between Lake Biwa and Kyoto. Pass the roaring waters of Lake Biwa at the Keage hydroelectric dam before heading down the Keage Incline, lined with trees that bloom pink in the spring and show vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows in the fall.
What's not included
Hotel Pickup
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note this tour requires walking.
Meeting point
Meet at Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit Tourist Bus Parking (in front of AVANTI) at 8:15 AM for an 8:30 departure.
Important notes
Please arrive at the meeting point (Kyoto Hachijo Exit Tourist Bus Parking) at least 10 minutes before departure. Look for the LIMON staff member wearing yellow LIMON branded clothing.
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.
Top Attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.
Religious
2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike)
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.
Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)
Gion
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).
Cultural
1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event)
Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaiseki Ryori
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
Dinner
Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.
Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Obanzai
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Cycling through the countryside
Rafting on the Hozu River
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic walks in gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional tea ceremonies
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.
15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn)
59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited/Rare
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train
Kyoto Station
By bus
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gion
Higashiyama
Arashiyama
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Day trips
Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th)
Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd
Aoi Matsuri • May 15th
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
- Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
- Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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