Begin your 5.5-hour guided tour near a bridge by Ginkaku-ji. After a pleasant stroll along the path, your first temple stop is Hōnen-in, a quiet and spiritual place named after a prominent Buddhist monk from medieval Japan. Known for its moss-covered grounds, thatched gate, and tranquil atmosphere, Hōnen-in invites you to step away from the world and into serenity.

Continuing south, arrive at Eikan-dō, a temple famous for its graceful wooden architecture nestled among tall trees. Its wide grounds are home to multiple halls and pagodas, each resting in the shade of maples and pines. Here, it feels as if the buildings themselves are contemplating the nature around them.

Your final destination is Nanzen-ji, one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples. This is also where the water you’ve walked alongside comes from — a canal flowing all the way from Lake Biwa, brought through a striking red-brick aqueduct that runs through the temple grounds. Knowing this, you’ll feel a deeper connection to the path you’ve just walked.

This immersive experience is led by an expert local guide, who will bring the temples, nature, and philosophy of the area to life. Discover the spiritual heart of Kyoto at a thoughtful pace, where every step invites reflection.