Tofukuji Temple

Discover and learn the art of making ramen at the Ramen Factory, a ramen school established by Menbakaichidai, one of the most popular ramen houses in Kyoto. The ramen school will guide you as you prepare your own during the 90-minute immersive experience. Understand the meticulous process from folding your noodle dough over 100 times to choosing the right soup base and oils that will complete your special ramen. This class is perfect for those who are looking for a short side trip from visiting nearby tourist hotspots, the activity is a relaxing, fun, and filling experience for every guest. Once you're done, treat your taste buds by enjoying the ramen you've made while looking back at the experience during preparation. Aside from photos, souvenirs will be handed to the participants of the activity. During your cooking course, here are the activities you will complete: wear the Ramen apron and headscarf, watch an overview video about the process, flavor the chicken with seasonings, mix, punch, knead, drain, shake to make noodles from flour to dough to finish noodles, choose a soup and sauce combination for your own bowl, display your Ramen bowl with topping, egg, and condiments according to your taste, and choose from 4 different types of souvenirs to take home. 

Take the only tour at Fushimi Inari that goes off paved paths and onto actual forest trails. Avoid the crowds of tourists trying to get a good photo and enjoy a personal hiking experience in a small group. Discover hidden bamboo groves, secluded trails that lead to old and hidden altars, and the beautiful evergreens around Fushimi Inari Shrine and its thousands of red torii gates. The tour begins at Tofukuji Station. From there, wander into a quiet neighborhood and visit small shrines on the way to the mountain. Then, take a trail to see a wonderful bamboo grove, and connect to the main path filled with the famous vermilion torii gates. Reach the summit of the mountain, which is covered in the shrine altars, then venture back down the mountain on a forested trail, visiting smaller shrines on the way to another bamboo grove. This will lead you to the most famous area of Fushimi Inari, perfect for a memorable photo. Finally, finish at the main shrine at the base of the mountain, where you can enjoy some local street food before you continue your adventure in the wonderful city of Kyoto. Half of the tour is walking in the forest, so you don't get sunlight directly.

What comes to mind when you think of Zen? Before engaging in Zen meditation, a local guide will lead you to a garden where you can immerse yourself in the essence of Zen. "Zen" is an inherently esoteric Buddhist concept, even for the Japanese. While the word "Zen" may conjure thoughts of Zen meditation, this tour will initially guide you to a garden imbued with Zen principles. Amidst the tranquil setting of the Zen garden, a local guide will provide you with fundamental information on how to appreciate both the garden and the practice of Zen meditation." Visit Tofukuji Zen Temple, one of the five Great Zen Temples in Kyoto, and partake in a Zen meditation experience. After admiring the Zen garden, we will proceed to Tofukuji Temple, one of the five great Zen temples in Kyoto. Tofukuji boasts a rich history, serving as a residence and Zen practice site for monks since the 13th century. During the visit, you'll have the opportunity to witness the impressive San-mon gate, intricate dragon ceiling paintings, and the oldest surviving toji (toilet). Following this exploration, we will make our way to a smaller temple within Tofuku-ji dedicated to zazen practice. As our guide will maintain silence during the zazen session, you will be provided with special silent reading materials for the tour. In the serene surroundings of Kyoto, enveloped by nature and quietude, you will engage in a one-hour session to experience and learn the posture, breathing techniques, methods, and ideas associated with zazen. After meditation, let's visit Japanese garden and temple to feel more about zen! Following the zazen session, we will engage in a brief discussion with the monks, sharing our thoughts and experiences. Afterward, we will embark on a short walk to partake in a vegetarian meal – a vegan diet that has been embraced by Japanese monks since the 13th century, known as Shojin Ryori. This traditional cuisine emphasizes the use of vegetables, mushrooms, and seaweed, eschewing meat and fish. The adjacent temple to the restaurant was once home to as many as 1,200 Buddhist monks for training, providing us with the opportunity to savor traditional and authentic vegetarian cuisine. The tour will conclude with a conversation about the Zen insights we have gained today, set against the backdrop of a serene Japanese atmosphere as we enjoy a traditional Buddhist lunch.

Transform the way you travel and make it as much about the people you meet as the places you see. Get a welcome to Kyoto from a local host eager to share all the tips and tricks to help you make the most of your stay. Meet at your hotel or accommodation and get familiar with your local neighborhood. Learn about the best places to eat, buy groceries and the easiest ways to get around. Alternatively, arrange to meet at a central landmark or intersection to start your walking tour. Hear about the top things to do, customized to your interests. By the end of the tour, you will feel more comfortable navigating the city on your own with all the information you need.

Welcome to the enchanting city of Kyoto, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern vibrancy. This self-guided audio tour is your key to unlocking the rich tapestry of Kyoto's history, culture, and timeless beauty at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories that echo through the narrow streets, centuries-old temples, and serene gardens of this historic city. Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, holds a unique place in the country's cultural heritage. This self-guided audio tour will take you on a journey through its iconic landmarks, revealing the secrets and tales that have shaped the city into the cultural gem it is today. As you stroll through the picturesque districts, listen to the carefully curated narration that unveils the history behind each site, providing context to the stunning architecture and serene landscapes. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Whether you're an avid history enthusiast, a culture buff, or simply someone seeking a peaceful escape, this audio tour caters to all interests. Engage with the stories of samurai legends, the intricate rituals of tea ceremonies, and the spiritual significance of ancient shrines. This immersive experience is made possible through a user-friendly audio guide that seamlessly blends with your surroundings. Simply click and play, and let the narration guide you through Kyoto's timeless beauty. The carefully crafted commentary not only provides historical context but also offers insights into the local way of life, ensuring a holistic understanding of this city's allure. Venture beyond the well-trodden paths and discover hidden gems tucked away in the historic streets, allowing you to forge your own connection with this captivating city. Learn more about the top 23 tourist attractions in Kyoto. Its history, culture, myths, architecture, and other important facts are in this audio commentary which starts from the city's central station then the itinerary gradually moves one by one. 1. Kyoto Station Building 2. Higashi Honganji Temple 3. Senbon Torii (Thousands Torii Gate) 4. Tofukuji Temple 5. Sanjusangen-do Temple 6. Kiyomizu-dera Temple 7. Ninenzaka 8. Kōdaiji Temple 9. Kennin-ji Temple 10. Nanzen-ji Temple 11. Eikan-do Temple (Zenrin-ji Temple) 12. Heian Shrine 13. Higashiyama Jisho-ji (Ginkaku-ji) (Silver Pavilion) 14. Shimogamo Shrine 15. Kyoto Imperial Palace 16. Nijō Castle 17. Kitano Tenmangu 18. Kamigamo-jinja (Kamowakeikazuchi-jinja) 19. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) 20. Ryōan-ji 21. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest 22. Tenryu-ji 23. To-ji Temple Kyoto's self-guided audio tour is not just a journey through time; it's an invitation to be a part of the living history that defines this cultural treasure. So, lace up your walking shoes, hit play, and let the tales of Kyoto unfold as you embark on a personalized exploration of a city where tradition meets modernity in perfect harmony.

Explore the many gardens of Kyoto on this customizable tour with a private guide. Let the guide know what special requests you have for the day and they will tailor your itinerary accordingly.  Visit various styled gardens and experience traditional Japanese spirits which are represented in plants, rocks, and the entire design. Relax at both, artistic landscape gardens with seasonal plants and dry landscape gardens at Zen temples. Learn about the meaning and the history of the gardens from your knowledgeable guide. Most popular places to visit for this tour: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Kinkakuji Temple Ginkakuji Temple Ryoanji Temple Honen-in Nanzenji Temple Tofuku-ji Temple Kyoto Imperial Palace Shugakuin Imperial Villa Daitoku-ji Temple Kokedera Suzumusidera Katsura Imperial Villa Kyoto Botanical Garden

Unleash your adventurous spirit and ride into the heart of Kyoto's timeless beauty. Starting at Nishi Hongan-ji, breathe in the spiritual serenity of ancient temples. Feel the breeze as you glide beneath the iconic golden eaves of Kinkaku-ji and navigate the vibrant corridors of Senbon Torii. Every turn brings new discoveries: the elegance of the Imperial Palace, the seasonal spectacles of Tōfuku-ji, or the enchanting streets of Gion. This isn't just a bike tour—it's your personal epic, where you, the hero, weave through tales of emperors, monks, and geishas, all while feeling the pulse of Kyoto beneath your wheels. Join us, pedal forward, and become a part of Kyoto's living tapestry.

Explore the historic city of Kyoto and its temples and shrines. This private tour allows you to choose your own itinerary like this sample. Follow your guide to Kinkakuji Temple, Golden Pavilion or Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. After that, head to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a famous spot due to the thousands of Torii gates. Take a photo of the god of agriculture enshrined in Fushimi Inari Shine. Stop for lunch before visiting Kiyomizu temple, and experience the atmosphere of Kyoto's most famous district as you meander through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. Afterwards, if you have time, visit the Gion district, the famous geisha area. The tour ends at your hotel, or a location of your choosing.

Finding a travel tour that truly matches your preferences can be challenging. Are you looking to explore hidden gems away from the usual tourist spots during your Kyoto sightseeing tour? Look no further! OTOMO offers private customizable tours where skilled guides work with you to design the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests. Whether you want to delve into Kyoto's rich history, admire stunning architecture, or experience local culture, our expert guides will ensure you have an unforgettable experience. With thousands of guided tours under our belt, OTOMO delivers high-quality Kyoto sightseeing experiences you won't find elsewhere! Imagine strolling through the serene pathways of Kinkakuji Temple, exploring the historic Nijo Castle, or wandering the charming Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Slopes. Discover the spiritual beauty of Kiyomizudera Temple and its breathtaking views, or visit the serene Kodaiji Temple. Experience the unique atmosphere of Gion Hanamikoji, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha. For a more spiritual journey, explore the thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, or visit the awe-inspiring Rengeoin Sanjusangendo. Our customizable tours also offer the flexibility to include additional attractions based on your interests, ensuring you get the most out of your Kyoto visit. Book your custom Kyoto tour with OTOMO today and embark on a journey tailored just for you. Discover the hidden gems and major attractions of this beautiful city, guided by our knowledgeable and friendly experts. Create lasting memories and experience Kyoto like never before.

Join a captivating tour that begins at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates that wind up Mount Inari. You'll explore the main shrine and then venture to the Okusha Back Shrine where you find Omokaruishi, the "heavy and light stones". Try to lift a stone to test your fortune! After soaking in the spiritual aura of Fushimi Inari, head to Komyoin Temple, a hidden gem known for its tranquil garden, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. The tour concludes at Tofukuji Temple, celebrated for its stunning Zen garden, tranquil atmosphere, and beautiful autumn foliage. This tour offers a unique blend of Kyoto's famous sights and hidden treasures, providing an unforgettable cultural and spiritual journey.