Amanohashidate (which translates to bridge in heaven) is a natural stretch of pine covered sandbar that connects the two sides of Miyazu Bay in the Northern Kyoto. Together with Miyajima and Matsushima, they are famously referred as "the three views of Japan." Two of its observatories at “Kasamatsu Park ”in North and “Amanohashidate View Land ”in South are all beautiful sceneries worth exploring. You also stroll around Amanohashidate in the pine trees street and admire various kinds of pine trees. Amanohashidate View from Land’s Rear View Observatory (“Mata no zoki-dai”), gives a scene like a dragon flying in the sky. Thus, the name “Flying Dragon Observatory” (“Hiryu-kan”). Aerial lifts or cable cars to go up or down the mountain, also offer perfect option for tourists who do not plan to stay long at Amanohashidate but still wish to take in the breathtaking views.

A charming seaside fishing village famed for its unique "funaya," or boathouses, that line the bay. The town is home to Urashima shrine, tied to the classic Japanese folk tale of Urashima Taro. We'll also board the Ine Bay Sightseeing Boat for a serene look around the area. Aboard the cruise, enjoy beautiful views of the bay and its iconic funaya. If you're lucky, you might spot some dolphins swimming alongside the ship. The tranquil waters of the bay are shielded by Aoshima Island, an uninhabited island said to be the home of the gods. It calms the incoming wind and waves, allowing the bay to remain peaceful.

Arashiyama (嵐山) is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama's well known, central landmark.Notable attractions include the Arashiyama's famous bamboo groves, Tenryuji Temple and leisurely boat rides on the Hozugawa River, offering scenic views and a unique experience. Spare some time to interact with Japanese macaques at the Arashiyama monkey park, while at the same time having a panoramic view of Kyoto city. North of central Arashiyama the atmosphere becomes less touristy and more rural, with several small temples scattered along the base of the wooded mountains. The area north of the Togetsukyo Bridge is also known as Sagano, while "Arashiyama" technically refers just to the mountains south of the river but is commonly used to name the entire district.

Kinkakuji temple was originally called Rokuonji, is the only remaining building from Yoshimitsu's former retirement villas and it is now an elegant Zen temple erected overlooking a big pond, according to the Ashikaga Yoshimitsu's wish upon his death in 1408. Its upper two floors are entirely coated with gold leaf, giving it a golden apprearance, thus its AKA, Golden pavilion.

It is a former imperial villa, which is now recognized as World Heritage site. It witnessed the rise and fall of the Tokugawa clan and other significant political event in the Japanese history, including the announcement of Meiji restoration. It briefly served as imperial palace after the fall of Tokugawa shogunate and its palace buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, worth experiencing. One of the most striking features of the palace section are the "nightingale floors" (uguisubari) in the corridors that make a chirping sound when walked upon as a security measure against intruders.

The Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) used to be the residence of Japan's Imperial Family until 1868, when the emperor and capital were moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. It is located in the spacious Kyoto Imperial Park (Kyõto Gyoen), an attractive park in the center of the city that also encompasses the Sento Imperial Palace and a few other attractions. The current Imperial Palace was reconstructed in 1855 after it had burnt down and moved around town repeatedly over the centuries.

Nishiki Market, AKA " Kyoto kitchen" is a narrow, five block long shopping street lined by more than one hundred shops and restaurants. This lively retail market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood and sushi. Nishiki Market has a pleasant but busy atmosphere that is inviting to those who want to explore the variety of culinary delights that Kyoto is famous for.

Ginkakuji (銀閣寺, Silver Pavilion) is a Zen temple along Kyoto's eastern mountains (Higashiyama). In 1482, shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa built his retirement villa on the grounds of today's temple, modeled after Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), his grandfather's retirement villa at the base of Kyoto's northern mountains (Kitayama). The villa was converted into a Zen temple after Yoshimasa's death in 1490.

Surrounded by beautiful mountains, it is one of the most well-known Rinzai Zen temples in Japan. It was originally Emperor Kameyama’s retirement villa and it includes a temple hall and garden centered around a pond. One of the famous features is a large brick aqueduct that passes through the temple grounds, as part of a canal system that was constructed to carry water and goods between Kyoto and Lake Biwa in neighboring Shiga Prefecture.

Kyoto’s Geisha neighborhood. Just imagine you would jump back in time to the 16th century and the street would be full of geisha and samurai. Famous highlights such as; i) Yasaka jinja Famous for its vermilion gates and lanterns that light up the streets during festivals, creating a striking and lively atmosphere. ii) Ninenzaka walkway A well preserved gently sloping stone-paved street, with its iconic Yasaka Pagoda, that the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple. iii) Shirakawa area Scenic part of Gion, with its famous canal lined by willow trees. iv) Hanami-koji This cobblestone street captures the essence of Kyoto’s old-world charm. it offers a leisurely stroll into the picturesque scenery that transforms into a magical night scene illuminated by lanterns. You are likely to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko on their way to or from an engagement at an ochaya in the evenings or while running errands during the day. You can enjoy Geisha performance show at Gion Corner of Hanami-koji.

a sanctuary in eastern Kyoto which is celebrated for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of leniency. The sanctuary was established in 1164 and modified a century afterward after the first structure had been devastated in a fire. Measuring 120 meters, the sanctuary lobby is Japan s longest wooden structure. The title Sanjusangendo truly 33 interims determines from the number of interims between the building s back columns, a conventional strategy of measuring the size of a building.

In the 1300 years since its establishment in 711AD, people have gathered here to pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, the safety of their home and family and the fulfillment of all kinds of other wishes. Fushimi Inari Taisha is now known worldwide as one of the most iconic sights in Kyoto, and in Japan as a whole. t is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari, which stands at 233 meters, thus offering a perfect nature trail for hiking lovers.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Hozugawa River Rafting where nature, excitement, and scenic beauty come together! Unlike typical sightseeing tours, this hands-on experience lets you dive into Kyoto’s wild side—literally. Paddle through thrilling rapids, glide past serene mountain landscapes, and witness the stunning seasonal colors of the valley, from cherry blossoms in spring to fiery foliage in autumn.

Known for its long beaches, including Shotenkyo Beach, which is part of the longest beach in the Kansai region. Kotohiki-hama, also know as "singing sand beach", is a scenic white sand beach lined by green pine trees that stretches 1.8 km long. When you walk along the beach, you can hear the quartz in the sand rubbing together making a squeaking sound.

A hidden gem for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This charming chateau offers visitors a chance to experience the artistry behind winemaking while immersing themselves in the serene atmosphere of the surrounding tranquil Amanohashidate landscape. Explore the secrets of winemaking with a free guided tours into the wine fermentation, bottling room, the underground wine cellar, and the lush vineyard. At the restaurant on the second floor, you can eat dishes made from locally-produced ingredients while enjoying some of the winery’s finest wine.