City of Culture Kyoto

Experience the temples, shrines and gardens that make Kyoto Japan’s cultural capital on this unique tour of the city. Founded as a capital more than 1,200 years ago, Kyoto developed as a centre of aristocratic culture, famous for its Zen gardens and geisha traditions.
Discover some of this magic by exploring the Fushimi Inari Shrine on the outskirts of the city. Home to a seemingly endless stretch of red torii gates spread across a thickly wooded mountain, this shrine is a world unto itself. Walk through snaking corridors of red gates, made famous in the film "Memoirs of Geisha", stopping to admire the shrines and many fox statues.
After a morning spent on the mountain, head to another of Kyoto’s must-see sights, the Tofukuji Temple. Originally built in the 13th century, and famous for its traditional and at the same time modern Zen style garden, this is a great place to soak up the relaxed atmosphere of the city. Learn about the origin and inspiration for the garden, and what it means to the Monks who continue to live and study here.
As the sun begins to set, leave the tranquil gardens behind and head to Gion, famously known as Kyoto’s Geisha district. This area was the model for Memoirs of Geisha, and it comes alive with people and lights in the evening. Stroll past the 17th-century traditional restaurants and teahouses, many of which are still exclusive establishments for geisha entertainment, see the theatres and traditional shops, and soak up the atmosphere of this historic quarter.
This is the ideal end to the tour in Kyoto and is sure to leave you completely enthralled with this dynamic city.