Wander the royal gardens and majestic interiors of some of Kyoto’s castles and palaces. Glimpse the historic lifestyles of imperial Kyoto on a guided morning tour.

Commence your tour at Nijo Castle. Built in 1603, this fortified palace was the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shogun during the time of feudal military dictatorship in Japan. The castle is known for the contrast between its solemn appearance and gorgeous interiors. You’ll pass through two concentric rings of fortification at the castle site, both including a moat and stone wall—one surrounding the entire complex, and a smaller wall surrounding the inner palace. Outside, enjoy the beautiful gardens noted for the careful planning that ensures colorful plants bring vibrant color all year long. Inside, learn of the many secret rooms and passageways, as well as the “nightingale floors” designed to creak and “sing” whenever walked upon to alert the household of intruders.

Your next stop is Golden Pavilion, renowned as home to the most authentic and exquisite Japanese-style garden in the world. Be dazzled by the Japanese architecture and gold-leaf gilding that adorn the top two levels of this elegant structure. Founded in 1397 as a home for the retired shogun, the Golden Pavilion was later converted to a Zen temple. Ramble through the grounds of this spectacular oasis.

The ancient Kyoto Imperial Palace is a testament to the Japanese fondness for purity, simplicity, and calm. Since its installation in 794, the palace has been destroyed and rebuilt eight times and was the residence of Japan’s imperial family for over 1,000 years until the emperor and capital were moved to Tokyo. Take time to admire this stately royal palace.

Discover demonstrations of traditional Japanese arts and crafts as well as a paradise for shopping at the last stop on your morning tour, the Kyoto Handicraft center. Explore five floors that contain artisan demonstrations and everything Japanese imaginable—including kimonos, pearls, silk and textiles, painted screens, and antiques. At Handicraft Center, you’ll watch the intricate art behind making the many beautiful pieces of merchandise, and you’ll be sure to find unique and extraordinary keepsakes, mementos, and souvenirs.

Inclusions :

• Roundtrip transport from select hotels in Kyoto (see redemption instructions)
• Kyoto city tour

Duration:
Approx. 3 1/2 hours

Available:
Daily

Departure time and location:
Approx. 8:45 AM; from the New Miyako Hotel (pick-up service available at select Kyoto hotels, see redemption instructions)

Return time and location:
Approx. 12:30 PM; tour ends at last stop on tour (drop-off service available at select Kyoto hotels, see redemption instructions)

Note:
Children under 5 participate for free, but may not occupy their own seat. The above itinerary is subject to changes and substitutions due to closures.

After you book your activity, follow these 3 easy steps:
1. Print your voucher; locate the voucher in your travel confirmation e-mail or in the My Trips/My Itineraries link on the site.
2. Follow the redemption instructions on your voucher; it is critical to do this before you depart.
3. Take all vouchers with you; you must redeem one voucher per person.

Exchange your voucher for activity:
Reservation confirmation is required Please contact JTB Global Marketing & Travel Inc by no later than 12:00 PM (GMT +9:00) 2 days prior to your tour date to ensure reservation and to arrange hotel pick-up, if available. When calling to confirm booking, inform the call center that you booked via Expedia and provide them with the itinerary number listed on your voucher(s). Please note that only the Japan office listed on your voucher will have access to your reservation. Additionally, the JTB Global Marketing and Travel office will be closed on Sundays and national holidays including: Jan 1-3, Jan 8, Feb 12, Mar 21, Apr 30, May 3-5, Jul 16, Sep 17, Sep 24, Oct 8, Nov 3, Nov 23, Dec 24, Dec 29-31. Upon arrival at the departure point listed on your voucher, please present your voucher(s) in exchange for service.