Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji Autumn Private Tour in Kyoto

Exploring the spiritual and architectural wonders of Kyoto’s autumn landscapes is a must-do experience. This private tour takes visitors on a journey through the serene Nanzenji Zen Temple, the vibrant Eikando, and the elegant Ginkakuji. With hassle-free transportation, included meals, and admission fees, travelers can enjoy the beauty of these historical sites without the stress of planning. What awaits at each stop promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• This private tour covers visits to the renowned Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji temples in Kyoto, offering an immersive experience of the city’s Zen Buddhist heritage.
• The tour includes transportation, meal costs, and admission fees, with the estimated cost per person being 4,060 JPY.
• The meeting point is at Keage Station, and the tour ends at Kyoto Station, with public transport costing 460 JPY per person.
• Eikando Zenrinji Temple is a highlight of the tour, known for its stunning autumn foliage and historic significance.
• Ginkakuji Temple, or the Silver Pavilion, showcases elegant Zen architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens, making it a must-see destination.

Overview of the Tour

The "Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji Autumn Private Tour in Kyoto" offers a comprehensive exploration of three renowned historical and cultural landmarks in Kyoto, Japan.

This private tour accommodates only your group, providing a personalized experience. The estimated cost per person is 4,060 JPY, which covers transportation, meal costs, and admission fees.

The tour starts at Keage Station and ends at Kyoto Station. Participants should wear comfortable clothing as the tour involves walking.

While tour spots may change due to closures or weather, the experience is confirmed upon booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Transportation and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Keage Station, in front of the ticket gate located at Higashikomonozacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0044, Japan.

Participants will be transported by public transportation, costing 460 JPY per person.

The tour ends at Kyoto Station, Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan.

Cash is required for some locations, as credit cards may not be accepted.

Comfortable clothing is recommended due to the walking involved.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour will proceed as scheduled.

Nanzenji Zen Temple

First, the private tour visits the serene Nanzenji Zen Temple, one of Kyoto’s most renowned sites. Established in the 13th century, Nanzenji’s expansive temple complex features impressive stone bridges, tranquil gardens, and historic subtemples.

Visitors can admire the impressive Sanmon gate, the largest wooden gate in Kyoto. The tour explores the peaceful Hojo garden, known for its Zen rock garden and picturesque views of the Higashiyama mountains.

Guests can also see Nanzenji’s aqueduct, a remnant of an ambitious 17th-century engineering project. This temple offers an immersive experience of Kyoto’s rich Zen Buddhist heritage.

Eikando Zenrinji Temple

After exploring the serene Nanzenji Zen Temple, the private tour continues to the picturesque Eikando Zenrinji Temple.

Founded in 863 AD, Eikando is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage. Visitors can admire the temple’s beautiful architecture, including the Hojo and Amida-do halls.

The tour includes admission fees, allowing guests to freely explore the grounds. During the fall season, the temple’s maple trees create a vibrant display of red and orange hues, making it a popular destination for leaf-peeping.

With its historic significance and scenic beauty, Eikando Zenrinji is a highlight of the private tour.

Ginkakuji Temple

Ginkakuji Temple, also known as the Silver Pavilion, stands as a renowned landmark in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district.

Originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa in the 15th century, the temple now showcases stunning Zen architecture and gardens.

Visitors can stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens, which feature a moss garden, a sand garden, and a striking two-story silver-plated pavilion.

While the pavilion itself isn’t actually made of silver, its elegant design and serene setting make it a must-see destination for those exploring Kyoto’s cultural treasures.

Meal and Admission Fees

What does the tour cost breakdown cover?

The tour includes 460 JPY for transportation and 2,100 JPY for admission fees.

Meal costs are estimated at 1,500 JPY per person.

Additional expenses incurred at visited sites are the responsibility of the customer.

Cash is required at some locations, as credit cards may not be accepted.

The overall tour cost per person is 4,060 JPY.

Customers should be prepared to pay for any extras beyond the included transportation, meals, and admission fees during the private tour of Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji in Kyoto.

Additional Considerations

Customers should keep in mind that this private tour may not be wheelchair accessible, though it is located near public transportation. Comfortable clothing is recommended due to the walking involved. Plus, tour spots may change due to temporary closures or bad weather. Cash is required for some locations, as credit cards may not be accepted.

Cancellation Policy and Reviews

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins. This gives customers the option to change their plans if needed without incurring any penalties.

The tour has received excellent reviews, with a perfect 5.0 rating based on one review. Customers note the high quality of the experience, with no negative ratings. This suggests the tour provides a reliable and enjoyable outing for those looking to explore Kyoto’s autumn sights.

The combination of a flexible cancellation policy and positive customer feedback makes this tour an appealing option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Gratuities Included in the Tour Cost?

The tour cost does not include gratuities. Customers are responsible for any additional tips or gratuities they wish to provide to the tour guide or driver at their discretion.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children can participate in the tour. The tour isn’t explicitly labeled as child-friendly, but there’s no indication that children are excluded. Parents should consider the walking requirements and ensure their children can comfortably participate.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for students or seniors. The cost is a flat rate of 4,060 JPY per person, regardless of age or student status. Customers will need to pay the full price for the private tour.

What Type of Transportation Is Provided?

The tour provides transportation by public transit, such as trains or buses. The cost of 460 JPY per person for transportation is included in the overall tour price, but customers must pay for their own fares.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

The tour can be customized to the customer’s preferences, though additional costs may apply. The tour itinerary and schedule can be adjusted based on the customer’s interests and requirements, within the tour provider’s policies and constraints.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a chance to take in the beauty of Kyoto’s autumn foliage and historical sites. With transportation, meals, and admission fees included, it’s a hassle-free way to explore Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji. Visitors can expect a guided experience that showcases the impressive architecture, serene gardens, and vibrant maple trees of these renowned temples and pavilions.