Deep Kyoto Local Cuisine, Tranquil Temples on Premium Bus

Kyoto , Japan

Deep Kyoto Local Cuisine, Tranquil Temples on Premium Bus

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About this experience

Explore the serene beauty of Kyoto's hidden gems on this immersive tour to Ohara. Departing from Kyoto in the morning, relax in a deluxe bus while enjoying complimentary drinks. Visit the tranquil Hosen-in Temple to savor matcha tea and sweets in a historical setting, and uncover the story behind the 'bloody ceiling.' You can also enjoy a tranquil stroll in the beautiful moss garden at Sanzen-in Temple. Experience a delightful lunch at Nomura Sanso, a Japanese restaurant surrounded by a stunning garden, where locally sourced ingredients come together in exquisite dishes. Return to Kyoto Station with your deluxe bus.

Deluxe bus transportation from Kyoto to Ohara
Enjoy matcha and sweets in Hosen-in Temple & admire Sanzen-in Temple moss garden
Eat lunch at a Japanese restaurant away from the tourist crowds
Return to Kyoto station by bus at the end of the tour

Available options

Deep Kyoto Local Cuisine, Tranquil Temples on Premium Bus

What's included

English-speaking service attendant

USB plugs on board

Sanzen-in Temple admission

Bottled water

WiFi on board

Lunch at Nomura Sanso, which is difficult to get a reservation for

Amenities

Air-conditioned vehicle

Transportation by deluxe bus from Kyoto Station to Ohara and back

Restroom on board

Hosen-in Temple admission, matcha and sweets

Complimentary soft drink and alcoholic beverage service on board

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

At Hosen-in Temple, you will enjoy the soothing view of a centuries-old tree from a tatami-matted, open room while being served matcha tea and sweets.
This temple is renowned for its stunning gardens and rich history. Founded in the early 11th century, it originally served as a lodging for monks. The temple grounds feature a magnificent 700-year-old pine tree and a "bloody ceiling" made from the floorboards of Fushimi Castle, commemorating the deaths of soldiers during a famous battle.

Sanzen-in Temple was originally founded as a hermitage by the famous Buddhist monk, Saicho (767-822). The temple is known as a 'Monzeki Temple', meaning a temple where members of the imperial family have served in the priesthood throughout its history. The main attraction here is the wonderful moss-covered garden. Visitors can walk through the moss garden and enjoy a tranquil atmosphere. There are many amusing stone statues that peek out from the moss.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Ohara called Nomura Sanso. The restaurant was completed in 1987, after approximately 10 years of work by the father of the current owner, who handled the architecture, and a landscape gardener. The building is surrounded by a Japanese garden, visible from every room of this structure. The restaurant has many selected art pieces and boasts a beautiful veranda overlooking the garden and golden folding screens; it is curated in every detail.
The food is also meticulously prepared, using locally sourced vegetables to create Japanese cuisine that blends modern elements. Among their specialties are the famous chicken hotpot and fresh vegetable dishes. It's worth noting that reservations for this local restaurant are often difficult to obtain.

What's not included

Hotel pick up and drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Only passengers who are able to walk up the bus stairs and to their seats autonomously can participate in the tour.

Please note that only one large piece of luggage (20-23 kg) per person can be stored in the bus trunk. You may carry your small bags with you to your seat.

Please note that if you are late for the tour start time or for an activity during the tour, you will not be able to join the tour midway.

Please note that the total duration of the trip includes the travel time.

The vehicle used is a deluxe bus designed by the famous industrial designer, Eiji Mitooka. The interior is made of wood materials to recreate the essence of Japanese harmony and aesthetics.

Selected skilled bus driver.

English-speaking service attendant on board.

Important note: we only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 20 years old and above. Minor travelers below 20 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.

Please be aware that the return time is an estimate and may vary depending on traffic conditions along the way.

Kindly note that this one-day tour will require significant walking and standing, with breaks along the way. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.

Please note: This tour has been specifically designed for our international visitors and focuses on aspects that cater to a foreign audience.

Meeting point

Exit the JR Lines (Hachijo East Side) ticket gates and leave the station. Cross the street and proceed straight towards KYOTO AVANTI. Turn left and cross the street again, heading towards the Tourist Bus Terminal. Our bus attendant will be waiting for you in front of our blue bus.

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.