Highlights of Kyoto – Golden Temple, Bamboo Forest and Markets
Revel in the traditional sights, smells and sounds of feudal Japan’s best preserved city, in the company of your local guide. Visit the many UNESCO World Heritage sites dotting Kyoto, beginning with the Kinkakuji Temple, originally built for the Shogun. At his request, the Shogun’s villa was converted into a Buddhist Temple after his death. Discover the magnificent 15th century Nijo Castle with its splendidly preserved medieval gardens from Japan’s Edo period. Admire the many details and typical architectural features of the old monument, before walking down to the bustling Nishiki Market. Eat your heart out at this food street payable on spot, also known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, lined with innumerable restaurants and traditional eating houses! Try out typical local delicacies such as pickles, dried fish and sushi. Also visit the beautiful Arashiyama bamboo grove. (Full Day; Private activity & Public transport; Duration: 8 hrs. Please wear comfortable walking shoes; Fitness level- Moderate; Food tasting to be paid by the guests on spot).
Tea Ceremony at a Traditional Home in Kyoto
Make the most of a personal invitation from an instructor of Japanese traditional arts and visit his home for a lively conversation over tea. Accompanied by a local expert who will be your translator for the experience, you will learn the fascinating art of brewing tea in traditional Japanese style. Discover the varied aspects of a tea ceremony, including brewing and serving wares as well as the cultural significance behind each movement and act. Absorb the rich symbolism of the ceremony as you appreciate a perfectly brewed cup served by your host. Fortified by the aromatic brew, discuss the cultural significance of this timeless tradition at length before you return. (Time of Day: Morning or Afternoon; Duration: 2.5 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Meals included: Tea; Fitness level: Easy; Don’t forget your cameras; Note: Please inform us in advance about food allergies, if any; Children below 4 not allowed).
Japanese Cooking Class
Japanese cuisine has been declared a UNESCO Intangible World Heritage for good reason, cooked as it is with the freshest ingredients and masterful techniques. Get an overall idea about Japanese cooking styles from your chef in this cooking class designed for a small, intimate group. Learn how to prepare Bento style boxed meals under the expert guidance of your host chef. Cook Kyoto’s signature Shokado bento, a delicious spread that includes delectable bites of tempura, miso soup, egg roll, chicken teriyaki, sesame spinach salad and sushi. The greatest treat awaits you at the end of the class, when you get to taste your own Bento box! (Half Day, Shared Activity & No Transfers; Meal included: Lunch; Fitness Level: Easy; Please inform about any dietary restrictions in advance).
