The Best of Kyoto & Arashiyama
$185 – $285
- Duration: 8 hours
- Port: Kobe/Osaka, Japan
- Highlights: Arashiyama Area, Bamboo Forest, Togetsu-Kyo Bridge, Kinkakuji Temple (the Golden Pavillion), Fushimiinari-Taisha Shrine
- Activity Level: Easy
- Cruise: Spectrum of the Sea, Oceania Riviera, HAL Westerdam, Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Sun
- Tour Date: Jul 28 2025, Aug 27 2025, Sep 30 2025, Oct 10 2025, Oct 14 2025, Nov 06 2025
- Group Size: 12 – 16 pax
For other dates, please fill out the INQUIRY FORM BELOW to receive detailed information.
TOUR OVERVIEW
Experience the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Kyoto on this serene shore excursion. Carefully crafted for cruise passengers, this journey offers a peaceful immersion into Japan's ancient capital. From the ethereal bamboo groves of Arashiyama to the gleaming splendor of the Golden Pavilion, and the spiritual wonder of Fushimi Inari Shrine, this tour presents the perfect blend of natural elegance and cultural depth. With a gentle pace and curated landmarks, this Kyoto shore excursion is ideal for those seeking beauty, reflection, and unforgettable photo moments.
Who This Tour Is For:
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Cruise travelers seeking a calm yet fulfilling day trip.
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Mature guests or multi-generational groups preferring low-impact walking and scenic experiences.
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Visitors who appreciate historical sites, traditional architecture, and serene landscapes.
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First-time visitors to Kyoto who want to explore iconic highlights within a relaxed timeframe.
FULL INITERARY
Meet Your Guide & Depart from Port
Meet your friendly English-speaking guide at the port and begin your journey into Kyoto in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Explore Arashiyama Area
- Bamboo Forest: Step into a dreamlike world as you stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The towering bamboo stalks create a natural green tunnel that sways gently with the breeze — a place to breathe deeply and feel completely present.
- Togetsu-kyo Bridge: Cross the iconic “Moon Crossing Bridge,” offering sweeping views of the Katsura River. Framed by forested hills, this historic wooden bridge is a favorite in every season, whether cherry blossoms bloom or autumn leaves blaze.
Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Marvel at Kyoto’s most iconic temple, Kinkaku-ji. Covered in gold leaf, the temple shimmers against the backdrop of its tranquil reflecting pond and sculpted gardens. It’s a breathtaking blend of art, architecture, and spirituality.
Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha
End your cultural journey at this world-renowned shrine, famous for its seemingly endless path of vermilion torii gates. Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, it’s a place where tradition and nature intertwine.
Return to Port
Relax during the drive back to port. Arrive on time for your cruise departure, filled with memories of Kyoto’s timeless beauty.
Note:The order of visits may vary depending on traffic and opening hours to ensure the smoothest experience possible.
Book tour now with Japan Shore Excursions – Your local experts in unforgettable journeys!
| Service Included | – Round trip transfer from Port in private air-conditioned vehicle |
|---|---|
| Service Excluded | – Lunch |
| Cruise Name | HAL Westerdam, Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Sun, Oceania Riviera, Spectrum Of The Seas |
| Departure Date | Aug 27 2025, Jul 28 2025, Nov 06 2025 (12-14 pax), Nov 06 2025 (6-8 pax), Oct 10 2025, Oct 14 2025, Sep 30 2025 |
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François Bellamy –
Kyoto is elegance incarnate. We were drawn to this tour for its quiet pace and scenic charm, and it exceeded expectations. The view of Kinkakuji across the pond was like a painting, and Arashiyama’s light filtering through the bamboo was absolutely cinematic.
For couples looking to escape the crowds and simply enjoy Kyoto’s iconic beauty in peace, this is the way to do it. The pacing allowed us to take photos and breathe.
Dieter Schneider –
“Our guide, Ms. Emi, was graceful, knowledgeable, and incredibly attuned to the group’s needs. She shared history with heart, and even helped one of our friends find a quiet prayer moment at the shrine.
The van was clean, cool, and perfectly timed at every stop. I’ve taken dozens of shore excursions in my life, and this one stood out for its calm professionalism and warm delivery. A beautiful city, and an even more beautiful way to see it.
Solveig Johansen –
We’re both in our seventies and appreciate beauty without too much walking and this tour was perfect. The van was comfortable, the itinerary well-paced, and the stops were stunning.
The gardens, temples, and even the short walk through Arashiyama were manageable and soul-refreshing. We were especially grateful for the little breaks between each landmark. Kyoto is elegant, and this tour honored that grace with every detail.