Private adventures into the hidden gems of greater Kyoto

In the 1300 years since its establishment in 711AD, people have gathered here to pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, the safety of their home and family and the fulfillment of all kinds of other wishes. Fushimi Inari Taisha is now known worldwide as one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto, and in Japan as a whole. t is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233 meters, thus offering a perfect nature trail for hiking lovers.

Kinkakuji temple was originally called Rokuonji, is the only remaining building from Yoshimitsu's former retirement villas and it is now an elegant Zen temple erected overlooking a big pond, according to the Ashikaga Yoshimitsu's wish upon his death in 1408. Its upper two floors are entirely coated with gold leaf, giving it a golden appearance, thus its AKA, Golden pavilion.

It is a former imperial villa, which is now recognized as World Heritage site. It witnessed the rise and fall of the Tokugawa clan and other significant political event in the Japanese history, including the announcement of Meiji restoration. It briefly served as imperial palace after the fall of Tokugawa shogunate and its palace buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, worth experiencing. One of the most striking features of the palace section are the "nightingale floors" (uguisubari) in the corridors that make a chirping sound when walked upon as a security measure against intruders.

Experience truly authentic ninja training with ninja clothes, ninja stars, ninja sword, other various ninja weapons and many ninja techniques on tatami in down town Kyoto.

A Perfect Stroll Through Kyoto’s Traditional Charm
Just imagine you would jump back in time to the 16th century and the street would be full of geisha and samurai.

i) Yasaka jinja
Famous for its vermilion gates and lanterns that light up the streets during festivals, creating a striking and lively atmosphere.

ii) Ninenzaka walkway
A well preserved gently sloping stone-paved street, with its iconic Yasaka Pagoda, that the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

iii) Shirakawa area
Scenic part of Gion, with its famous canal lined by willow trees.

iv) Hanami-koji
This cobblestone street captures the essence of Kyoto’s old-world charm. it offers a leisurely stroll into the picturesque scenery that transforms into a magical night scene illuminated by lanterns. You are likely to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko on their way to or from an engagement at an ochaya in the evenings or while running errands during the day. You can enjoy Geisha performance show at Gion Corner of Hanami-koji.

This ride down the Hozu-gawa River brings you to the Hozukyo Gorge, which stretches from the Hozu Bridge area in Kameoka City to Arashiyama's Togetsu-kyo Bridge, and is known as one of the most beautiful such gorges and major sightseeing experience to explore in Kyoto.

Arashiyama (嵐山) is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama's well known, central landmark.Notable attractions include the Arashiyama's famous bamboo groves, Tenryuji Temple and leisurely boat rides on the Hozugawa River, offering scenic views and a unique experience. Spare some time to interact with Japanese macaques at the Arashiyama monkey park, while at the same time having a panoramic view of Kyoto city.

North of central Arashiyama the atmosphere becomes less touristy and more rural, with several small temples scattered along the base of the wooded mountains. The area north of the Togetsukyo Bridge is also known as Sagano, while "Arashiyama" technically refers just to the mountains south of the river but is commonly used to name the entire district.