A must see destination in Japan, Kyoto is the nation’s former capital and the residence of the emperor from 794 until 1868. It is a city of culture that offers a plethora of temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures that still survive today.

Start your day with a visit to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), which was originally built as a retirement villa for the Shogun. After his death it became a Buddhist Temple at his request, and is now one of Kyoto’s most famous temples.

Time for a look into Kyoto’s everyday life with a visit to Nishiki Market. Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”, Nishiki is a narrow shopping street lined more than 100 shops, selling fresh seafood and vegetables, pickles, Japanese sweets and sushi, bustling with locals and tourists alike. You will have some time for lunch around here.

After lunch, enjoy a hands on experience touching deep into the heart of one of Japan’s traditional arts: Origami (paper-folding). Sheets of square paper can be folded into various shapes such as animals, flowers, furniture, toys, etc., without the use of scissors or glue. Your instructor, an experienced origami artist, will advise you on how to fold some basic shapes such as crane, box, samurai warrior’s helmet, and you can take your work home with you.

End your day with a stroll in the Gion District, whose streets are lined with traditional townhouses, where if lucky, you might see geisha heading to their first appointments of the evening.

Meals Included

Special Note