Kyoto, the Ancient Capital
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Port
Kobe, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$209.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 9 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
A city of profound history and rich tradition, Kyoto represents the soul of Japan. This must-see tour begins with a ride from Kobe to the ancient capital of Kyoto, then sets out to discover some of Japan's best-known sights.
An impressive starting point for the tour is the Kinkaku-ji Temple, originally built in 1397 as a retirement dwelling for Shogun Yoshimitsu, then reconstructed in 1955, faithful to the 14th-century design. Elaborate gold foil lends the structure an almost-gaudy appearance and is appropriate for its name -- the Golden Pavilion.
Next is the ostentatious 1603 Nijo Castle, complete with "nightingale" floors designed to squeak to warn the inhabitants of intruders.
Kyoto's 1,100th birthday was celebrated with the construction of the Heian Shrine. Surrounded by gardens, this two-thirds-scale model of the Heian Imperial Palace features a Chinese-style bridge. Finish up your visit to Kyoto with a stop, time permitting, at the Handicraft Center for some souvenir shopping.
Notes:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shoes must be removed for visiting Nijo Castle visits; socks must be worn. Building maintenance is ongoing at Heian Shrine. Due to size, group may be split between multiple venues for lunch.