Tokyo, Japan

If you want to see the highlights of beautiful Kyoto but have limited time, zip there and back by bullet train (Shinkansen) on this full-day tour from Tokyo. See Mt Fuji from the train, then visit Kyoto highlights including Sanjusangen-do Hall, Heian Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple on an afternoon city tour with an expert guide. Enjoy lunch upon arrival in Kyoto and transport by comfortable coach during the tour. Return to Tokyo on the evening bullet train to complete your excursion.

After early morning pickup at selected Tokyo hotels or the Hamamatsucho Bus Terminal, transfer to Tokyo Station where you catch the bullet train (Shinkansen) to Kyoto. As you look out of the train window on a clear day, catch sight of revered Mt Fuji. After a 2-hour journey, arrive at mid-day to Kyoto Station where your local guide welcomes you.

Enjoy a Western-style lunch at the New Miyako Hotel before beginning your afternoon city tour in Kyoto. After your meal, travel by comfortable coach to the spectacular Heian-jingu Shrine, a Shinto structure built in 1895 to
commemorate the 1,100 year anniversary of the founding of Kyoto. The
shrine’s design reproduced the architecture of an Emperor’s palace from
an earlier era. Outside, walk through the lush gardens next to a large
pond.

Next, travel to Sanjusangen-do Temple and marvel at its long wooden structure. Walk
inside and be amazed by the main deity of the temple, the Thousand Armed
Kannon, who is flanked by 1,000 life-size Buddhist statues that date to
the 12th and 13th centuries. Listen as your guide explains the history
and significance of the stunning temple.

Afterward, head to the hills for great views over Kyoto and a visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a temple with several magnificent buildings, situated on a hilltop. Hear from your guide about the amazing construction of the temple, which doesn’t use any nails. Note the Otowa spring that flows under the temple’s main hall; legend says that anyone who sips its waters will be granted a wish.

After a full afternoon of sightseeing in Kyoto, your guide brings you to the train station in the evening for your return to Tokyo on the bullet train.