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Offered languages
- Japanese
- English
This tour offers a rare chance to explore Higashi Honganji—an immense temple complex just a short walk from Kyoto Station. Discover its vast halls and corridors while learning the essentials of Jodo Shinshu and the craftsmanship behind one of Kyoto’s largest wooden buildings.
Choose to add Shosei-en Garden, a peaceful strolling garden with ponds and teahouses, or Kyoto Tower’s observation deck for panoramic city views and a new perspective on the temple area.
It’s an easy, culture-rich walk that fits perfectly before or after travel connections.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The meeting point is in front of the Seven-Eleven Heart-In located at the JR Kyoto Station Central Gate. Your guide will be waiting for you holding a yellow panel with the words “DeepExperience.” Please refer to the map for detailed directions.
Itinerary
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1Higashi Hongan-ji Temple
Higashi Honganji is one of the most important temples of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism and serves as the head temple of the Otani branch. Founded in the early 17th century by the Tokugawa shogunate, the temple complex stands just a short walk from Kyoto Station and is known for its enormous wooden structures. The Goeido Hall, dedicated to the founder Shinran, is among the largest wooden buildings in the world and reflects the architectural scale and spiritual importance of the temple. Visitors can walk through its vast halls, observe traditional Buddhist spaces, and experience the quiet atmosphere of one of Kyoto’s major religious centers.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Shosei-en Garden is a historic strolling garden located east of Higashi Honganji Temple. Originally created in the 17th century as a retreat garden for the temple, it features a large central pond, winding paths, and traditional tea pavilions. The garden’s design follows the style of a kaiyu-shiki strolling garden, allowing visitors to enjoy changing perspectives as they walk along the paths. Seasonal scenery—such as cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and autumn foliage—adds to the garden’s charm, making it a peaceful escape from the busy streets around Kyoto Station.
40 minutes • Admission ticket included -
3Nidec Kyoto Tower
Kyoto Tower is a modern landmark located directly across from Kyoto Station. Standing about 131 meters above ground, the tower’s observation deck offers wide views over the city of Kyoto. From the top, visitors can see the grid-like streets of the historic capital and identify nearby landmarks such as Higashi Honganji Temple. The view also highlights the contrast between Kyoto’s historic temples and its contemporary urban landscape, providing a unique perspective on how the city has developed while preserving its cultural heritage.
40 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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