Kyoto Countryside Tour

The Kyoto Countryside Tour offers travelers a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of a UNESCO World Heritage site, embark on a tranquil countryside hike, and discover a picturesque thatched village. The tour also includes a delightful lunch featuring local cuisine, allowing participants to savor the authentic flavors of the area. With opportunities to capture scenic photographs and gain a deeper appreciation for Kyoto’s traditions, this tour promises an enriching experience. Those seeking to venture beyond the bustling city and enjoy Kyoto’s countryside idyll would find this tour particularly enticing.

Key Points

1. A full-day private tour exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kōzan-ji Temple and the charming thatched-roof village of Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato.

2. Opportunity to immerse in the cultural heritage and scenic beauty of the Kyoto countryside, including a 45-minute hike in the tranquil countryside.

3. Guided visit to Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato with time for shopping and a local cuisine tasting at a rustic inn.

4. Inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, entry admission, bottled water, lunch, and snacks for a seamless tour experience.

5. Chance to capture scenic photographs and engage in cultural activities for a deeper appreciation of the Kyoto countryside.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Kyoto Countryside Tour is a full-day private tour that lasts 8 hours.

This immersive experience allows visitors to explore the serene UNESCO World Heritage site of Kōzan-ji Temple and embark on a 45-minute hike.

The tour also includes a guided visit to Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato, where guests can savor the local cuisine at a charming, rustic inn and enjoy 25 minutes of shopping.

The tour’s highlights include the opportunity to take in the cultural heritage of Miyama’s thatched village and capture scenic photos.

The tour package includes a guide fee, hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation, entry admission, bottled water, lunch, and snacks.

Itinerary

After an early morning hotel pickup, the tour begins with a visit to the serene Kōzan-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors can then embark on a 45-minute hike to further enjoy the tranquil countryside surroundings.

Next, the group will explore Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato, a charming thatched village, with a guided tour lasting 1.5 hours. Guests will have the opportunity to wander through the village and do some shopping for 25 minutes.

The tour then includes a 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant, allowing participants to savor the delicious cuisine of the Miyama region.

Kōzan-ji Temple Visit

Kicking off the Kyoto Countryside Tour, visitors explore the serene Kōzan-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This Buddhist temple dates back to the 8th century and offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. During the 45-minute hike, guests can admire the temple’s impressive architecture, including the exquisite main hall and pagoda.

The beautiful gardens, with their serene ponds and well-maintained pathways, provide a perfect setting for contemplation and spiritual reflection. As they wander the grounds, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the temple’s rich history and the important role it plays in Japan’s cultural heritage.

This immersive experience sets the tone for the rest of the engaging countryside tour.

Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato

Next, visitors make their way to the charming rural village of Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato, where they embark on a guided tour lasting approximately 1.5 hours.

This idyllic settlement is renowned for its well-preserved thatched-roof houses, offering a glimpse into Japan’s traditional countryside architecture and way of life.

During the tour, guests learn about the history and construction techniques of these unique buildings, which have been meticulously maintained over generations.

They also have the opportunity to explore the quaint streets, browse local shops, and enjoy the serene ambiance of this picturesque village.

The visit to Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato provides a delightful cultural experience and scenic photographic opportunities for travelers.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Local Restaurant Lunch

Completing the immersive cultural experience, visitors savor a lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of traditional Kyoto cuisine.

The restaurant’s rustic decor and welcoming atmosphere create an authentic dining experience.

On the menu, guests may find:

• Beautifully plated seasonal dishes highlighting local produce
• Warm, comforting dishes like kamameshi, a hearty rice pot
• Delicate wagashi sweets, a perfect end to the meal

Attentive service and genuine hospitality ensure visitors feel like honored guests, fully immersed in the cultural richness of the Kyoto countryside.

This lunch provides a satisfying conclusion to a day of exploring the region’s natural beauty and traditional ways of life.

Highlights

The Kyoto Countryside Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and traditional culture, with several highlights that showcase the essence of this captivating excursion.

Explore the serene Kōzan-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the mountainous countryside.

Savor the charming culinary delights of Miyama’s rustic inn, where you’ll enjoy a taste of authentic local cuisine.

Venture into Miyama’s thatched village, a picturesque destination that provides ample opportunities for culture and breathtaking photographs.

From sacred temples to quaint rural scenes, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience that allows travelers to connect with Kyoto’s timeless allure.

Inclusions

The Kyoto Countryside Tour package includes a comprehensive lineup of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.

The tour includes:

• A knowledgeable guide who’ll provide insights and facilitate the day’s activities
• Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as all necessary transportation throughout the tour
• Entry admission fees, bottled water, a delicious local lunch, and tasty snacks

These inclusions eliminate the need for participants to worry about logistics, allowing them to fully enjoy the cultural exploration and natural beauty of the Kyoto countryside.

The tour’s comprehensive offerings provide excellent value and a hassle-free way to discover the hidden gems of this picturesque region.

Important Information

While the Kyoto Countryside Tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience, there are also important considerations potential participants should be aware of before booking.

The tour may not be suitable for everyone, as it involves hiking for 45 minutes and may be challenging for those with certain medical conditions. Pregnant women, people with heart problems, wheelchair users, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are advised not to join the tour.

Plus, the tour will continue rain or shine, so participants should come prepared for the weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are generally not allowed on guided tours for safety and comfort reasons. The tour operator may need to restrict participation for those with medical conditions or mobility issues as well.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounted rates for group bookings. Group size and pricing details can be discussed with the tour operator prior to booking to ensure the best value for your party.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

The tour provider generally allows customization of the itinerary to suit the client’s preferences. Guests can discuss their interests and requests with the tour guide to tailor the experience to their needs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Guests can customize the itinerary and duration to suit their preferences, depending on availability and guide scheduling.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled 24-48 hours prior to the tour start time. Partial or no refunds may apply for cancellations within 24 hours of the tour.

Recap

The Kyoto Countryside Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage.

From the serene beauty of Kōzan-ji Temple to the picturesque Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto’s countryside idyll.

Coupled with a delightful local lunch, this experience allows guests to capture scenic photographs and gain a deeper appreciation for the area’s enduring traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: