First, while it is early enough, we will drive and hike a little bit on the ancient steps to one of the oldest temples in Kyoto and Shiga called Hyakusaiji. After that, we will explore a castle that has a tower that is one of the five originals remaining in Japan, Hikone Castle.
We will enjoy Oumi beef for lunch. Oumi beef is if not better, as good as Kobe beef known as one of the three best beefs in Japan.
We will enjoy the scenery in Oumihachiman from the mountain top and the old moat.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Oumihachiman station
- Will come and pick you up at the station by my car. * Oumihachiman is about 30 minutes by JR train from the Kyoto station.
Visit Hyakusaiji temple
Will visit Hyakusaiji which was established by the famed prince, Syotoku back in the early 7th century. We will hike up for about 15 mins through the woods on the ancient steps and get to the main hall of the temple.
Visit Hikone Castle and the town
Will visit Hikone Castle which is one of the only five original castle towers in Japan date back to the early 17th century.
Lunch
We will go to a restaurant that serves Oumi beef which is one of the three best beefs in Japan.
Oumihachiman old street and the shopping area
We will go through the photogenic streets with old style houses and visit an area where some charming/unique shops are.
Hachiman moat
We will walk along the moat and see the beautiful traditional scenery of Japan.
Himure Hachimangu Shrine
We will visit Himure Hachimangu Shrine.
Hachimanyama castle ruins
We will ride on the cable car to go up the mountain to the castle ruins area. Will trek a bit and see the beautiful view of Lake Biwa and rice paddies.
JR Oumihachiman station
I will take you back to the JR station where our tour started and
end the tour.
Ending Point
JR Oumihachiman station
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
- English translation / guide fee
- Private car
- Pick up and drop off by car (at JR train station)
- Transportation cost from Kyoto to Oumihachiman (JR train)
- Lunch has to be paid by yourself based on what you would like to have (avg. 15 to 30 USD per person).
- Lunch for the guide also has to be borne by your side
- Entrance fee to the castle, temples and etc
- Parking fee (if necessary)
- Cable car fee (up & down, cash only, 6 USD
- This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
- Need to allocate at least 45 - 60 mins for lunch time.
- The guide will not be liable for any injuries or loss incurred during the tour. It is recommended to have overseas travel insurance.
Also, please remember to carry enough cash in Japanese Yen since some small stores do not accept credit card. Thank you.
For some tours I can not guide everyday due to facility and store closings. Please send me a message and check my availability first before booking. Thank you!
I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to about 30 countries. Living abroad for such a long time made me realize Japan’s value and sparked my interest in working as a translator/guide for foreigners. I’m truly passionate about introducing people to historical sites, authentic Japanese culture, and stunning natural spots that may not be widely known to people outside of Japan. There are countless places that I believe people would love.
I am a certified English interpreter guide certified by Kyoto City, Uji City and Otsu City. Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the Kansai region including Kyoto, Shiga and Mie. I’m here to ensure your trip to Japan becomes an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to meeting you!
Deepak P.
“Incredible Kyoto”
Nori-San, Thank you for exposing use to your Kyoto. What an amazing place! Your 3-day of organization was spot-on Janet and I cannot stop talking about our experience in spending time with you Arigato
Nori I.
I am so glad to hear that you enjoyed the three days! As we talked, there is a lot more to see and the views change depending on the season too. Hope to see you guys again soon in Kyoto!
Cameron S.
“Amazing Tour of Kyoto”
Nori was an incredible guide and my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour of Kyoto. He is extremely passionate and my wife and I loved learning about the history of everywhere we went. We wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone interested in touring Kyoto!
Nori I.
Thank you so much for taking my tour and your kind comments. I am really happy to hear that you enjoyed all the places we went. It was a fun day for me as well. Hope you guys can come back in a different season and see the beauty of Kyoto once again!! Take care!
John K.
“Excellent tour of interesting sites”
We had a very enjoyable visit to Kyoto. Nori was knowledgeable and provided interesting information on the locations visited. Nori's English was excellent which made it easy to follow his explanations. The visits to the various temples and shrines were enhanced by the historical information Nori provided. When we visit Kyoto again, we will request Nori as our guide.
Nori I.
Thanks for your kind comments. Yes, four hours was definitely too short since there is so much to see and do in Kyoto. Hopefully you can come back someday! Take care!
$395/ per group