Kyoto Bus Tour: Iconic Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, Kiyomizu Temple【AW】

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, beckons visitors to explore its iconic landmarks. The Kyoto Bus Tour offers an immersive journey through this historic city, showcasing the mesmerizing Golden Pavilion, the serene Silver Pavilion, and the breathtaking Kiyomizu Temple. With an experienced guide and audio support, travelers can explore the rich tapestry of Kyoto’s heritage, uncovering the stories that have captivated people for centuries. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and significance of these remarkable sites.

Key Points

• Daily tours starting at 9:30 am accommodate up to 35 people and include admission to Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, and Kiyomizu Temple.
• The tour provides on-board audio guides in multiple languages and the services of a Japanese-speaking guide.
• Highlights include visits to the iconic Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), the serene Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji), and the historic Kiyomizu Temple.
• Kinkakuji is a three-story structure with upper floors covered in gold leaf, offering breathtaking views reflected in the surrounding pond.
• Ginkakuji features a two-story pavilion surrounded by tranquil gardens with meticulously raked sand, while Kiyomizu Temple boasts a stunning wooden veranda overlooking Kyoto.

Tour Overview

The Kyoto Bus Tour offers travelers the chance to explore three of Kyoto’s iconic temples: Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, and Kiyomizu Temple.

The tour runs daily, starting at 9:30 am and accommodating up to 35 people. Travelers will enjoy admission to all temples visited, an on-board audio guide in several languages, and the services of a Japanese-speaking guide.

Transportation is provided via comfortable buses. The tour begins and ends at the Sky Hop Bus Kyoto Station, making it convenient for participants.

With its focus on Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, this tour provides an immersive experience in the cultural heart of Japan.

Highlights of the Tour

One of the highlights of the Kyoto Bus Tour is the visit to the iconic Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion.

Travelers will be mesmerized by the temple’s stunning golden-leaf exterior that reflects beautifully on the pond below.

Next, the tour explores the serene Ginkakuji Temple, or the Silver Pavilion, noted for its Zen gardens and spiritual atmosphere.

The final highlight is the Kiyomizu Temple, perched on a hillside and offering breathtaking views of Kyoto.

Visitors can walk through the historic wooden structure and experience the temple’s cultural significance.

Kinkakuji: The Golden Pavilion

Although the Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, its captivating beauty extends far beyond the gilded exterior. Originally constructed in 1397 as a shogun’s retirement villa, the three-story structure reflects in the tranquil waters of its surrounding pond, creating a breathtaking mirrored effect. The pavilion’s upper two floors are covered in pure gold leaf, which glistens in the sunlight, while the first floor is constructed of natural wood. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and the harmonious blend of architectural styles that make Kinkakuji a true gem of Japanese culture.

Kinkakuji at a Glance
Built in	1397	Original Purpose	Shogun’s retirement villa
Floors	3	Construction Materials	Gold leaf, natural wood
Architectural Styles	Blended	Reflection in Pond	Breathtaking mirrored effect

Ginkakuji: The Silver Pavilion

As visitors approach Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, they’re immediately struck by its serene and contemplative atmosphere.

The two-story pavilion, surrounded by a tranquil garden, exudes a refined elegance.

Three key features captivate the senses:

1. The meticulously raked sand gardens, designed to resemble the waves of the sea and the arc of the moon.
2. The Kannon-den hall, featuring a stunning silver-plated façade that glimmers in the sunlight.
3. The Togu-do, a wooden structure that exemplifies the Higashiyama culture of the 15th century.

Ginkakuji invites visitors to pause, reflect, and enjoy the beauty of Japanese aesthetics.

Kiyomizu Temple: A Masterpiece of Wooden Architecture

Towering over the bustling streets of Kyoto, Kiyomizu Temple stands as a masterpiece of wooden architecture.

This 17th-century Buddhist temple is known for its iconic veranda, which juts out over a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the city below.

The temple’s main hall, built entirely without the use of nails, is an engineering marvel that has withstood earthquakes and the test of time.

Visitors can explore the temple’s grounds, including the Otowa Waterfall, where they can sip the "water of longevity."

With its stunning scenery and historical significance, Kiyomizu Temple is a must-visit destination on any Kyoto tour.

Transportation and Logistics

To reach the Kyoto Bus Tour meeting point, travelers can easily access the Sky Hop Bus station located at Kyoto Station’s Higashishiokojicho area.

The tour provides convenient transportation, with:

1. Comfortable buses to transport participants to the iconic Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, and Kiyomizu Temple.
2. An on-board audio guide available in English, Chinese, and Korean, ensuring a seamless experience for international travelers.
3. A Japanese-speaking guide who accompanies the group, providing valuable insights and historical context throughout the journey.

The tour concludes at the starting point, making it easy for participants to continue their Kyoto adventures.

Inclusions and Pricing

The Kyoto Bus Tour offers a comprehensive package, including admission to all the temples visited during the excursion.

Travelers will enjoy on-board audio guides in English, Chinese, and Korean, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

Transportation by bus is provided, along with a Japanese-speaking guide to enhance the culture.

While food and drinks aren’t specified, the tour’s overall value is evident in the pricing, starting from £52.06 per person.

With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Kyoto Bus Tour caters to the needs of modern travelers.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can easily book the Kyoto Bus Tour through the tour supplier, Beauty of Japan.

The booking process is straightforward, with a few key details:

1. Customers can choose the "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option, allowing them to secure their spot without immediate payment.

2. Bookings are confirmed within 48 hours, subject to availability.

3. Flexible cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing peace of mind for travellers.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Available on Weekends?

The tour is available on weekends, as it does not specify any restrictions on the days of operation. The tour runs daily, allowing travelers to experience the iconic Kyoto temples at their convenience.

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children can participate in the tour. The tour is stroller accessible and infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can take part in the experience, making it suitable for families.

Is the Tour Suitable for Solo Travelers?

The tour appears suitable for solo travelers, as it has a maximum capacity of 35 participants. The included transportation and guided elements make it an accessible option for those exploring Kyoto independently.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees, as the tour includes visits to several religious temples. Casual, respectful attire is recommended.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

The tour supplier does not specify any group discounts for this bus tour. However, the total cost per person may be reduced for larger group bookings, so travelers are encouraged to inquire about group pricing when making their reservation.

The Sum Up

Experience the essence of Kyoto’s cultural heritage on the Kyoto Bus Tour. Marvel at the gilded splendor of Kinkakuji, the serene beauty of Ginkakuji, and the breathtaking vistas from Kiyomizu Temple’s iconic wooden veranda. With a knowledgeable guide and audio commentary, this immersive journey offers an enriching exploration of Kyoto’s iconic landmarks, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the city’s timeless allure.