The Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine and Ukimido Day Tour from Osaka Kyoto promises a captivating experience for travelers. With an English-speaking guide, guests can explore stunning attractions like the Sanzen-in Temple and the Lake Biwa Observation Deck. Priced at $82 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention. While transportation and admission fees are included, visitors should budget for meals and personal expenses. This accessible tour offers a chance to take in the scenic beauty of Lake Biwa.
Good To Know
- This day tour from Osaka or Kyoto takes visitors to Lake Biwa, Shirahige Shrine, and Ukimido Hall, with transportation and admission fees included.
- The tour is led by an English-speaking guide and can accommodate up to 15 travelers, including those with mobility needs.
- Highlights of the tour include the Lake Biwa Observation Deck Cable Car, Sanzen-in Temple, and Mangetsu-ji Temple and Ukimido Hall.
- Meals and personal expenses are not included, and participants must budget for these accordingly.
- The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, and the itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or safety concerns.
Tour Overview
The Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine and Ukimido Day Tour from Osaka Kyoto provides a comprehensive exploration of the scenic Lake Biwa region, covering key attractions like the Lake Biwa Observation Deck and the historic Sanzen-in and Mangetsu-ji temples.
The total tour duration includes transportation, and the price is $82 per person. The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and includes an English-speaking guide as well as admission fees for the listed sights.
Meals and personal expenses aren’t included. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and children aged 0-2 can join for free.
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Inclusions
This tour includes an English-speaking guide to accompany travelers throughout the experience. The tour also covers admission fees to several key attractions:
Attraction | Cost |
---|---|
Lake Biwa Observation Deck Cable Car | ~$6 |
Sanzen-in Temple | ~$5 |
Mangetsu-ji Temple and Ukimido Hall | ~$10 |
However, meals, beverages, and other personal expenses are not included in the tour price. Travelers should budget accordingly for these additional costs.
Accessibility and Requirements
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and the transportation provided is also wheelchair-friendly.
Children aged 0-2 can join the tour for free without needing a separate seat. However, a minimum of two adults is required to book the tour. This ensures a comfortable and safe experience for all participants.
The tour caters to a wide range of travelers, making it accessible to those with mobility needs or accompanied by young children.
Whether you’re exploring with a wheelchair or a stroller, this tour is designed to accommodate your needs.
Meeting and Pickup Information
Participants can select a meeting point for the start of the tour. The tour departs from central locations in Osaka or Kyoto.
Once the meeting point is chosen, the English-speaking guide will be there to greet the group and get the day underway. The tour ends at a different location, so you will need to arrange their own transportation from the final stop.
The guide provides clear instructions on the meeting and end points, as well as any necessary directions throughout the day. Prompt arrival at the designated meeting spot ensures the tour stays on schedule.
Cancellation and Adjustment Policy
Travelers can cancel their tour for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, in local time.
The itinerary may adjust due to weather or other force majeure factors. In such cases:
- Staff may suspend outdoor activities for safety and make alternative arrangements.
- Confirmation is received at booking.
- Most travelers can participate in the modified tour.
Refunds aren’t available for no-shows or late cancellations.
The tour provider reserves the right to alter the itinerary as needed to ensure guest safety and satisfaction.
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Exploring Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine
As visitors approach the serene Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine, they’ll be captivated by its iconic floating torii gate, which appears to be suspended over the tranquil waters.
This legendary shrine dates back to the 7th century and is dedicated to the Shinto water deity, Suijin.
Visitors can explore the shrine’s scenic grounds, admire the reflection of the torii gate on the lake’s surface, and learn about the significance of this sacred site.
The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful natural setting make Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine a must-visit destination on the day tour.
Visiting Sanzen-in Temple
After exploring the serene Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine, the tour heads to the historic Sanzen-in Temple. This Buddhist temple is renowned for its beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere.
Some key highlights of visiting Sanzen-in Temple include:
- Strolling through the picturesque moss garden, known for its lush greenery and serene ponds.
- Admiring the impressive 1,200-year-old Buddhist statues inside the main hall.
- Experiencing the calming ambiance of the temple, perfect for meditation and reflection.
The temple’s admission fee of approximately $5 is included in the tour price, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the temple’s rich history and spiritual significance.
Discovering Mangetsu-ji Temple and Ukimido Hall
From Sanzen-in Temple, the tour continues its journey to the next destination – Mangetsu-ji Temple and the iconic Ukimido Hall.
Here, visitors can explore the temple’s tranquil grounds and marvel at the unique, floating Ukimido Hall, which sits atop the waters of Lake Biwa.
The temple’s main hall and other structures blend traditional Japanese architecture with the serene natural surroundings.
Visitors can wander through the temple, taking in the peaceful atmosphere, before heading to the observation deck to enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the floating Ukimido Hall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for this tour. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes, as the tour involves some outdoor activities. The tour is suitable for casual attire.
Are Food and Drinks Provided During the Tour?
No, meals and beverages are not included in the tour price. Travelers are responsible for their own food and drink during the tour. The tour only covers admission fees and transportation.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
The tour can’t be customized to individual preferences. It follows a fixed itinerary, and meals and personal expenses aren’t included. However, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, and children under 2 can join for free.
How Much Free Time Is Allocated at Each Site?
The tour provides approximately 30-45 minutes of free time at each site, allowing travelers to explore the attractions at their own pace. The duration may vary depending on the itinerary and group size.
Are There Any Options for a Private or Smaller Group Tour?
Private or smaller group tours aren’t explicitly mentioned, though the tour has a maximum of 15 travelers. Guests should inquire with the tour provider about any private or small group options that may be available.
The Sum Up
This captivating day tour from Osaka or Kyoto offers an immersive experience exploring the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage around Lake Biwa. Visitors can marvel at the iconic Shirahige Shrine, discover the serene Sanzen-in Temple, and admire the picturesque Ukimido Hall. With an English-speaking guide, included transportation, and admission fees, this tour provides a seamless and memorable way to experience the highlights of this scenic region.
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