You will begin the day at Kyoto Station, where you will take the train to Uji, a nearby town known for its natural surroundings and its deep connection to tea culture. Throughout this first part of the journey, you will discover a destination especially linked to matcha, considered one of the area's most representative products and an essential part of Japanese tradition.
In Uji, you will visit Byodo-In Temple, one of the region’s most emblematic landmarks and famous for appearing on the 10-yen coin and former 10,000-yen banknotes. During the visit, you will appreciate the beauty of the complex, its historical significance, and the surrounding scenery, understanding why this temple has become one of Uji’s most important symbols.
Afterwards, you will return to Kyoto Station and continue to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of the city’s greatest icons. There, you will walk along paths surrounded by nature until reaching its renowned wooden stage, from which you can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto and admire the temple’s historic architecture. You will also have the opportunity to see the sacred waters of the site, traditionally associated with beneficial properties.
Later, you will explore Higashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most picturesque districts, passing through the charming areas of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. As you stroll along its traditional streets, you will arrive in the Gion district, famous for its tea houses and its connection to geisha culture, where you can experience an atmosphere that preserves much of the city’s classic character.
To conclude, you will visit Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most important Shinto shrines, recognized for its vibrant red colors and its association with the famous Gion Matsuri festival. During your walk through the shrine grounds, you will learn about several Shinto traditions and finish the experience with a comprehensive view of Kyoto and its surroundings, combining nature, historic temples, tea culture, and traditional districts.