Serene Temples with enchanting Gardens Tour
Joined 2023
Are you tired of the crowds at all the popular tourist sites in Kyoto? Join me on an excursion to my favorite region, Ohara, located in the northeastern part of the city, where you can experience the tranquil countryside ambiance. In Ohara, I will introduce you to three of the most charming temples, each offering a serene atmosphere and enchanting gardens in every season. Upon request, I can also take you to a local restaurant where you can savor traditional cuisine.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
- I will pick you up at your hotel if it is located in Kyoto city. Otherwise, please meet me in front of JR Yamashina station, the next station east of JR Kyoto station.
Rengeji Temple
Renge-ji Temple is a Tendai sect temple located at the foot of Mt. Seimyoji in Kamitakano, Sakyo Ward. The exact date of its founding is unclear, but it was originally a Ji sect temple in the central part of Kyoto. After being left in ruins following the Onin and Bunmei Wars (1467-1477), it was rebuilt at its current location by Imaeda Chikayoshi, a retainer of the Kaga Domain, to honor the memory of his grandfather, Shigenaga. He spent his remaining years as a cultured man of leisure who enjoyed the tea ceremony.
The temple was reconstructed at its current location in 1662. In 1666, a stone monument commemorating Imaeda Shigenaga's achievements was erected on the temple grounds, and records indicate that by 1681, this monument had been placed in the garden's pond. Therefore, it is believed that the garden was created around the same time as the temple's reconstruction.
Sanzen-In Temple
Sanzen-in Temple traces its origins back to the Enryaku period (782-806), when the Great Teacher Dengyo Daishi Saicho established a small temple under a large yew tree in the Minamidani area of the East Pagoda on Mount Hiei-in in Ohara, Kyoto. It is known as a ”monzeki“ temple where imperial princes and royalty have served as head priests for generations. You can experience the richness of the four seasons in the Shuhekien and Yuseien gardens, appreciate the high prestige of the Shinden and Kyakuden halls, and enjoy the beauty unique to Kyoto in the Ojo Gokuraku-in Hall, which houses a national treasure and other important cultural properties.
Housen-in Temple
Originally built between 1235 and 1238, it is considered the birthplace of 'Shomyo,' the origin of Japanese music. The garden features a five-needle pine over 500 years old, shaped like Mount Fuji, and recognized as a natural monument. The garden includes the Crane and Turtle Garden, with a pond shaped like a crane, a hill representing a turtle, and ancient sasanqua trees symbolizing Mount Horai. Additionally, the Pangyuan framed garden, where the pillars and spaces between the pillars of the guest hall are used to frame the garden's view, surrounds the study.
Ending Point
At your hotel or a place of your preference
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee, Transportation (Car service by Honda Vezel 4 seaters), Parking, Gas.
Meals (breakfast and lunch), admission fees for temples, insurance
*If you would like to have lunch there, please let me know in advance so that I can make a reservation. The price varies depending on the restaurant you choose, ranging from around 1500 yen (approximately 10 USD) to 5000 yen (approximately 35 USD).
Tour Important Information
* If you wish to have a party of more than four, please message me before booking the tour.
* If your hotel has insufficient parking space, I may ask you to wait in front of your hotel for pick-up.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2023
About Tour Guide Kanae O.
Hello! I am Kanae, a nationally licensed guide. While working full-time as a lecturer at a local university in Kyoto, I have also been guiding for two years.
Born and raised in Kyoto, I am excited to share the beauty and culture of my hometown with my customers. Kyoto is an enchanting city, and even as a local, I am continually fascinated by its many charming spots. Whether it's the serene temples, vibrant markets, or hidden gems, there is always something new to explore and appreciate in this wonderful city.
Also, since my home is close to Shiga Prefecture, I am very familiar with the area. While Shiga may not be as popular as Kyoto, it offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. From historical sites such as temples and shrines to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, there is much to see and do. I am passionate about promoting Shiga and sharing its unique charm with visitors.
Reviews
Bridget G.
“Incredible Sites and Perfect Guide!”
I cannot say enough good things about Kanae. From the moment she picked us up from the hotel, her warmth and professionalism was evident. The temples she took us to were all some of the most stunning temples we visited during our time in Japan, and all off the beaten path so no crowds. In fact, we were the only ones there at the first! Kanae is also incredibly knowledgable about the history and traditions at each temple. Afterwards, she took us to her favorite ramen spot in Kyoto and it did not disappoint... I'm still dreaming of the food I had there. Thank you so much, Kanae!
Karen O.
“Wonderful tour guide!”
We booked Kanae during the peak of cherry blossom season. Everything was extremely crowded but Kanae got us to all of the stops we wanted to make. She gave us just the right amount of information about our locations and even took us to some stores off the beaten path. She was extremely helpful and her English was very good so we had no issues with communication. If we are ever back in the Kyoto area we will certainly book with her again.
Arati S.
“The best day!!”
We got to know the "real" countryside with Kanae. The hike through the tea fields was gorgeous! She also took us to a mom & pop restaurant for a delicious lunch. The two temples we visited were breathtaking in different ways. We also enjoyed shopping, and of course, Starbucks! The added bonus was having the convenience of her car to take us around. Thank you, Kanae!! We will not forget our wonderful day with you!
$207/ per group
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