About this experience
Explore three UNESCO World Heritage temples in Kyoto. Begin at Kinkaku-ji Temple, officially called Rokuon-ji, renowned for its gold-foil exterior that reflects in the surrounding waters. Continue to Ginkaku-ji Temple, or Jisho-ji, a Zen temple constructed in 1460 as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa. Conclude your tour at Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple famous for its main hall that seems to float 13 metres above the ground, providing a breathtaking view of Kyoto.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Meet at JR Kyoto Station
Arrive by 09:40 AMMake your own way to the Kyoto Sightseeing 'OKOSHI' Bus Terminal at the Karasuma Exit of JR Kyoto Station and exchange your voucher for a physical ticket.
Tour departs
10:00 AMBoard the bus and set off for the first temple as the guide introduces the day's itinerary.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
From 10:20 AMExplore the grounds of the Golden Pavilion, whose upper two storeys are covered entirely in gold leaf and reflect dramatically in the surrounding pond.
Ginkaku-ji Temple
Visit the Silver Pavilion and its meticulously raked sand garden, a serene example of the Higashiyama aesthetic that shaped Japanese culture in the 15th century.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Stroll through the hillside precinct and step out onto the iconic wooden stage for a panoramic view over Kyoto's eastern hills.
Return to JR Kyoto Station
2:35 PMThe bus returns to the OKOSHI Bus Terminal at Kyoto Station, where the tour concludes.
Meeting point
JR Kyoto Station, Karasuma Exit — Kyoto Sightseeing 'OKOSHI' Bus Terminal, Higashishiokōji Kamadonochō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto
- 1Arrive at the OKOSHI Bus Terminal by 09:40 AM. You must exchange your digital voucher for a physical ticket at the OKOSHI Bus counter before boarding. A location guide for the terminal is provided in your booking confirmation.
Know before you go
Good to know
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to print my ticket, or is a mobile voucher accepted?
Your voucher — whether printed or on your phone — must be exchanged for a physical ticket at the OKOSHI Bus counter before the tour departs. Make sure you arrive by 09:40 AM to allow time for this.
Where exactly is the meeting point?
Head to the Karasuma Exit of JR Kyoto Station and look for the Kyoto Sightseeing 'OKOSHI' Bus Terminal. A detailed location guide is included in your booking confirmation.
Is the tour suitable for young children?
Children under 6 travel free of charge, though no seat will be reserved for them. The tour involves walking around temple grounds, so comfortable footwear is recommended for little ones.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day?
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or traffic conditions, but the tour generally operates in light rain. The operator will advise if significant changes are necessary.
Is the tour conducted in English?
Language details are not specified by the operator — please check with the operator at the time of booking to confirm available languages.
How much walking is involved?
All three temple sites involve walking on uneven stone paths and, at Kiyomizu-dera, a hillside approach. Flat, supportive footwear is strongly recommended.