Kyoto Cherry Blossom With Miyako Odori 1 Day Walking Tour

Kyoto’s cherry blossoms are a breathtaking sight to behold, and the "Cherry Blossom With Miyako Odori 1 Day Walking Tour" promises to immerse visitors in the city’s enchanting culture. This tour offers a chance to explore iconic temples, experience a traditional tea ceremony, and witness the mesmerizing Miyako Odori performance. With an expert guide and a small group, the tour’s participants are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for Kyoto’s timeless beauty.

Key Points

• A 1-day walking tour in Kyoto that showcases the city’s cherry blossoms and includes visits to significant landmarks like Nanzenji Temple and Eikando Temple.
• Opportunity to participate in a traditional tea ceremony with Geiko and Maiko, and attend the Miyako Odori performance.
• Tour cost is $159.70 per person, with a maximum group size of 12 travelers.
• Includes an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and a local cuisine lunch.
• Tour starts at Kyoto Station and ends in the Gion district, providing convenient access to explore Kyoto’s cherry blossom season.

Tour Overview

The Kyoto Cherry Blossom with Miyako Odori 1 Day Walking Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the cultural highlights of Kyoto during the city’s famous cherry blossom season.

The one-day tour costs $159.70 per person and accommodates up to 12 travelers. Highlights include visits to Nanzenji Temple, Eikando Temple, a tea ceremony with geiko and maiko, and the Miyako Odori performance.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and lunch. The tour starts at 7:45 am at Kyoto Station and ends in the Gion district, the heart of Kyoto’s geisha culture.

Inclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking guide to lead the way and provide insightful commentary throughout the day.

Travelers will enjoy entrance fees to several Kyoto landmarks, including the serene Nanzenji Temple and the stunning Eikando Temple.

A highlight is the traditional tea ceremony with Geiko and Maiko, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour also includes tickets to the renowned Miyako Odori performance, showcasing the graceful dances of Kyoto’s geisha.

A delicious lunch is provided, allowing guests to savor local cuisine and refuel for the rest of the day’s activities.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for this Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour is at the Kyoto Station – Hachijo Exit Tourist Bus Parking Area, in front of the KYOTO AVANTI building.

From there, the tour will take guests to the following locations:

1. Nanzenji Temple
2. Eikando Temple
3. Tea Ceremony with Geiko and Maiko
4. Miyako Odori performance

The tour ends at the Gion Kōbu Kaburenjō in the Gion district.

This convenient meeting and end point arrangement allows participants to easily access the tour and explore the highlights of Kyoto’s cherry blossom season.

Tour Participation Details

What details are important to know about participating in this Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour?

The tour is a group experience, limited to a maximum of 12 travelers. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

It isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. The tour requires a minimum of 8 participants, which must be met 14 days prior to the scheduled date.

Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed in the restaurant. Guests should inform the tour of any allergies or dietary restrictions during booking.

This tour is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.

Additional Information

Two important additional details to note about this Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour.

First, no outside food or drinks are allowed in the restaurant.

Second, guests must inform the tour operator of any allergies or dietary restrictions during booking.

The tour is also non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.

The tour experience includes the following:

1. Entrance fees for Nanzenji Temple, Eikando Temple, Tea Ceremony with Geiko and Maiko, and Miyako Odori performance.
2. Lunch provided.
3. English-speaking guide.
4. Maximum group size of 12 travelers.

Exploring Nanzenji Temple

One of the first stops on the Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour is Nanzenji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple known for its impressive architecture and connection to Japan’s imperial history.

Visitors can explore the grand sanmon gate, which leads to the temple’s expansive grounds. The centerpiece is the massive Hojo, or abbot’s quarters, featuring striking wooden beams and beautiful garden views.

Tour you will also see the famous Suishaku-tei tea house and the Aqueduct, an imposing brick structure from the 1800s.

Throughout the tranquil temple complex, travelers can admire the harmonious blend of nature and human craftsmanship.

Experiencing the Miyako Odori Performance

After exploring the tranquil grounds of Nanzenji Temple, tour participants venture to the Gion district, the heart of Kyoto’s geisha culture.

They gather at the Gion Kōbu Kaburenjō to witness the renowned Miyako Odori performance. This elegant dance showcases the artistry and traditions of the geisha.

Participants can:

1. Admire the elaborate costumes and graceful movements of the geisha and maiko.
2. Gain insight into the history and significance of this iconic performance.
3. Experience the captivating atmosphere as the stage comes to life.
4. Appreciate the dedication and skill of the performers.

The Miyako Odori performance provides a mesmerizing glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

Savoring the Kyoto Culinary Delights

As the tour progresses, participants savor the culinary delights that Kyoto has to offer.

The tour includes a delightful lunch, allowing travelers to experience authentic Japanese cuisine. Guests are treated to a sumptuous meal featuring local specialties, showcasing the region’s renowned culinary heritage.

The lunch is served in a traditional setting, further immersing the group in Kyoto’s cultural traditions. Dietary restrictions are accommodated, ensuring all participants can fully enjoy the gastronomic experience.

From the fresh ingredients to the careful preparation, the lunch provides a flavorful respite during the day’s activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Miyako Odori Performance?

There is no specific dress code mentioned for the Miyako Odori performance. Travelers should dress comfortably and appropriately for the occasion, as they would for any cultural event or activity during their tour.

Can We Stop for Additional Sightseeing During the Tour?

The tour itinerary is pre-set, so there’s no opportunity for additional sightseeing during the day. Participants will be guided through the scheduled activities without deviation to ensure the full tour experience is provided.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tea Ceremony?

Photography is generally not allowed during the tea ceremony, as it can disrupt the traditional and serene atmosphere. Guests are expected to respectfully observe and experience the ceremony without the use of cameras or other devices.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks on the Tour?

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed on the tour. The tour inclusions cover lunch, and the tour provider requests participants refrain from bringing their own snacks to the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, the tour duration cannot be extended. According to the tour details, it’s a 1-day walking tour and the duration is fixed. There’s no option to add extra time or extend the tour length.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Kyoto’s cherry blossom splendor on this captivating one-day tour. Discover iconic temples, savor a traditional tea ceremony, and witness the exquisite Miyako Odori performance. With an expert guide and small group, you’ll enjoy an enriching cultural experience amidst the city’s breathtaking floral backdrop. This tour offers an unforgettable introduction to Kyoto’s enchanting heritage and traditions.