Day 1: Kyoto City Tour
All day
Today is the first day of our trip. We will start our journey from Kyoto this morning. Please go to the meeting point on your own in the morning.
This itinerary is for a Kyoto stopover and requires you to arrive in Kansai, Japan at least one day before. It is recommended to combine this with your Japan independent travel itinerary.
Visa Information:
This product requires you to apply for a Japanese visa yourself. It's recommended to apply 10-15 working days in advance, and the visa period must cover your travel dates. China-TravelNote can assist you with this process. Search for "Japanese visa" for details.
丨Pre-trip instructions:
After payment for the activity, you can check the Japan pre-trip guide in the order to help you prepare for the trip; 5-7 days before the departure of the activity, we will send a travel text message (including the specific meeting place, how to join the group, and the tour guide), so please pay attention to the text messages and station notifications; 1-3 days before the activity, the itinerary will be sent in the order, and the travel group will be notified again of the meeting time and place, license plate information, etc.
Meeting time & location
9:00 Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit (other meeting points may be adjusted depending on circumstances, subject to notification within the travel group)
Today, we'll spend the entire day exploring Kyoto. Led by a Chinese-speaking guide, we'll explore this ancient capital through a unique citywalk. (There will be no chartered vehicles on this day. The citywalk and public transportation will be guided by our guide. When using public transportation, please follow the guide's instructions to avoid getting lost. Public transportation costs are at your own expense.)
The beauty of Kyoto lies not only in its scenic spots, but also in the corners of ancient streets, the voices of people in the market, the autumn breeze in Zen temples, and the sweet aftertaste of a cup of matcha.
Autumn is Kyoto's prime citywalk season! Especially during the autumn foliage season, the ancient capital is draped in a vibrant red and gold riot of color, as if time has slowed down to allow visitors to immerse themselves in this vibrant spectacle.
We'll take you to Kiyomizu-dera Temple in the morning, where you'll enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto. Experience the vibrant art scene at the Kyocera Museum of Art. Inside this retro building, built in 1933, you'll savor the beauty of art and time. Savor matcha desserts amidst the elegant Japanese gardens of Kodai-ji Temple, and stroll along the Philosophical Path, beloved by Taisho writers, at dusk.
Citywalk Route
Kiyomizudera Temple, Ninnizaka Ninnizaka area
Our first stop was Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a landmark in Kyoto. In the morning, before the crowds gathered, we ascended to the observatory for a panoramic view of the city. This area is a Specially Preserved Historic Area, strictly protected by Japanese law. The slope leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple is lined with century-old shops, traditional craft shops (Kiyomizu-yaki, Kyoto fans), and even Starbucks coffee shops where you can sit on the tatami mats and enjoy a cup of coffee. Every photo you take is a reflection of the Edo period.
Kodaiji Matcha Jade Box
After reaching Kodai-ji Temple, we can take a short break and check out the unique matcha "Tamatebako." This cleverly borrows the fantasy of the Japanese folk tale "Urashima Taro," allowing guests to experience a dreamlike "white smoke" the moment they open the box. Once the smoke dissipates, the exquisite set of matcha ice cream and Japanese sweets is revealed. The elegant and tranquil Japanese garden setting makes this a visual and culinary delight. (The Matcha Tamatebako costs 1,500-1,800 yen, at your own expense.)
Yasaka Shrine
On the way down, you'll pass by Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto's most famous shrines. With a history of over 1,300 years, it's a sacred place for praying for peace and good marriage. Don't miss the various amulets!
Kyocera Museum of Art
The Kyocera Museum of Art, a "living art museum," blends historical heritage with modern innovation. Its predecessor was the Kyoto City Art Museum, built in 1933 (Japan's second-oldest public art museum). Its philosophy is to create a "museum accessible to everyone," and visitors can freely explore public areas such as the lobby, café, shop, and courtyard without purchasing a ticket. The Showa-style entrance hall, with its eclectic Japanese and Western architectural style, featuring marble in the same color scheme as the facade, mosaic floors, and beautiful stained-glass skylights, is itself a work of art, and the exhibitions offer both an international perspective and Kyoto's true character. (Admission to the interior of the building and gardens is free, and each exhibition features both paid and free exhibitions. Special exhibitions featuring Yayoi Kusama and Hello Kitty are offered seasonally, and visitors are responsible for their own expenses.)
Stroll along the Philosophy Trail
This quiet path, winding for about two kilometers along the canal, was named after the modern Japanese philosopher Kitaro Nishida, who used to spend his daily strolls and reflections there. It serves as a "cultural corridor" connecting numerous important temples and cultural landmarks.
The Philosopher's Path begins and ends at Ginkaku-ji Temple, steeped in wabi-sabi beauty, and Nanzen-ji Temple, renowned for its profound Hojo Garden and dry landscape. It passes by the tranquil Honen-in Temple and Eikan-do Temple, one of Kyoto's most vibrant autumn destinations. Along the way, you'll stumble upon a cozy cat cafe, a long-established traditional Japanese dumpling shop, a small, unassuming Jizo-an temple, or even autumn persimmons peek out from a wall. These unexpected discoveries, combined with the grand temple landmarks, complete the Philosopher's Path's complete and vibrant walking experience. (Entrance to temples along the way is at your own expense.)
After finishing your city walk, head to your hotel in downtown Kyoto. If you're interested, you can explore the Gion Hanami-koji area at night, or explore the alleyways to check out one of Kyoto's unique monk bars...
Day 2 Kyoto → Ine Funaya → Yuhigaura Coast → Amanohashidate
All day
The next day, after breakfast at the hotel, we'll drive to the "Sea of Kyoto" sightseeing area on the Sea of Japan side, diving into the blue secrets that only immersive tourists can reach! (Days 2 and 3 are chartered trips)
9:00 ▼ Depart from hotel
We first came to the Ine Funaya complex, known as the "Venice of Japan".
Funaya is a unique Japanese architectural form. Its first floor, facing the sea, opens directly to the ocean, serving as a mooring for boats, storage for fishing gear, and a workshop. The second floor and above house the fishermen's families. This "living above, boat below" structure allows fishermen to embark and disembark directly from their homes, a testament to the wisdom of humankind's symbiosis with the sea.
Approximately 230 funayas stretch along Ine Bay for 5 kilometers, forming a vast "U"-shaped complex that encircles the bay. The quaint wooden buildings, the calm sea, and the moored fishing boats create a picturesque scene.
Unlike many heritage sites that are merely museums, approximately 90% of the Ine Funayas are still used and lived in by local residents. Here, you're not stepping into a theme park, but rather experiencing the true beauty of life untouched by modern society.
11:20-15:00 ▼ Free time at Ine Funaya + lunch at your own expense
丨Trendy Toy Recommendations
Sea Taxi (sea tour boat):
To fully experience the grandeur and tranquility of Ine Bay, we highly recommend taking a unique "sea taxi"! The captain will explain the history of Ine and the origins of the funaya architecture, then give passengers a pack of shrimp crackers and the opportunity to feed the seagulls. The smaller boat allows you to get closer to the funayas and Aoshima, a small island in the sea where numerous birds live, and experience the harmonious coexistence of man and nature. (Included in the price, the ride lasts approximately 25 minutes)
Yukiyomaru・Funaya study tour
Take a peek inside the funaya! Inside, you'll find displays of historical fishing gear, photos, and maps, offering a detailed glimpse into life in Ineura. Boats are moored on the first floor of the funaya, and you can take commemorative photos from the bow. (Adults: 200 yen, elementary school students: 100 yen. The tour lasts approximately 15 minutes.)
Mukai Brewery and Sake Tasting
A representative sake brewery in the Ine region with over 270 years of history, Mukai Shuzo's sake brewery is a female sake brewer, unlike most other sake breweries. This allows them to design their sakes with a unique female perspective. Their signature sake, "Ine Mankai," is brewed using traditional rice (aka rice). Interested tourists shouldn't miss this opportunity!
Funaya Hiyori
This popular Instagram spot in Ine is a modern building that cleverly adopts an exterior similar to the nearby Funaya. Inside, INE CAFE boasts spacious floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views of the blue sea and Ine while sipping coffee.
Roadside Rest Station Funaya-no-Sato Park
Located at the top of the hill, there are restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as an observation deck, from which you can clearly see the terrain of Ine Bay and the entire picture of the funaya complex.
4:10 PM - 5:30 PM ▼ Yuhigaura Beach
At dusk, we will head to Yuhigaura Beach, once selected as one of the top three sunset spots in Japan, and immerse ourselves in the magnificent sunset over the Sea of Japan on the Tango Peninsula, away from the hustle and bustle!
Yuhigaura Beach is one of the most iconic coastlines in the "Kyoto by the Sea" region. Every evening, the sun sets over the Sea of Japan, creating a breathtaking spectacle that paints the sky and sea a vibrant orange-red. It's known as a "must-see sunset."
In the center of the beach, there's a handmade wooden swing called Yurari. Enjoy the sunset and the ocean while swinging on it, or stroll along the wooden boardwalk, Sunset Road, for a relaxing moment...
Arrive at your hotel in the Amanohashidate area before 6:30 PM
After finishing the day’s tour, we arrived at Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic views in Japan, and checked into a hotel in the surrounding area.
For dinner, we'll enjoy a hot spring kaiseki meal or buffet dinner at the hotel, then drift off to sleep to the gentle waves of the Sea of Japan...
No. 3 Tentenhashidate → Tango Railway Sea Train → Nishi-Maizuru → Jingo-ji Temple → Kyoto
All day
After breakfast at the hotel, we headed to Amanohashidate View Land to unlock the unique fun of Japan's Three Scenic Spots!
9:20-11:50 ▼ Free time in Amanohashidate area
Amanohashidate is one of the "Three Scenic Spots of Japan" along with Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture and Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture for its remarkable landscape and stunning scenery. At its core is a 3.6-kilometer-long sandbar, home to approximately 8,000 ancient pine trees, spanning Miyazu Bay like a giant bridge.
At Amanohashidate View Land, a comprehensive viewing park on the side of Mount Monju, you can not only take in the classic panoramic view of Amanohashidate Sandbar, but also enjoy a variety of entertainment facilities, allowing you to enjoy the blue sea view while having fun!
丨Trendy Toy Recommendations
Cable car ride up and down the mountain (View Land admission fee and round-trip cable car fee are included, other paid attractions in the park are at your own expense):
There are two transportation options to and from Amanohashidate View Land: the open-top chairlift (lift) allows you to enjoy unobstructed views of the sandbar and ocean, with your feet dangling in the air, while feeling the breeze. The enclosed mini-cable car (monorel) ascends smoothly like a train. We recommend taking the mini-cable car uphill and the chairlift downhill, enjoying the gentle sea view and feeling the warmth of the breeze.
Crotch Observation Deck (Stock Observation Deck):
Amanohashidate's signature experience is the "Cross-leg View"! Bend over, facing away from the sandbar, and gaze upside down at Amanohashidate from between your legs. This way, the sea and sky reverse positions, and the long sandbar winds its way toward the sky like a giant dragon, bringing the name "Amanohashidate" (Bridge to Heaven) to life.
Skybike
Enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the bay, a must-do for those with a strong heart! You can also take photos of your life blending seamlessly with the sky and sea.
Ji Enji Temple
Chion-ji Temple, located at the entrance to the Amanohashidate Sandbar at the foot of the mountain, is one of Japan's three great Monjus. Enshrined here is the bodhisattva Manjushri, the embodiment of wisdom. Since ancient times, this sacred site has been a popular destination for pilgrims, especially students and scholars, who come to pray for academic success, passing exams, and increased wisdom. You can draw unique small fan-shaped fortune sticks and even have a chance to encounter the adorable cat "keeper."
Sandbar Cycling
Rent a bike and experience the slow pace of life in Kyoto by the Sea! Sunshine, shallow waters, ancient pine forests, the sea breeze, and the occasional long whistle of a fishing boat... (Own expense, 2 hours/500 yen)
12:00-1:00 ▼ Tango Railway Sea Tram Experience (40-minute ride, included in the price)
After finishing our tour of Amanohashidate, we will take a sightseeing tram from Amanohashidate to Nishi-Maizuru and experience the fairytale sea train that resembles a Hayao Miyazaki movie!
The "Aomatsu" sightseeing train, which only runs twice a day, features a retro, dark blue interior with rustic wood accents, large windows overlooking the Sea of Japan, and counter seating. Enjoy a cup of coffee as you journey along the azure coastline, historic towns, and idyllic Japanese countryside. When the train crosses the Yuragawa River Bridge, it appears to float above the water, reminiscent of a dreamlike scene from Spirited Away.
13:00-14:10 ▼ Foraging for food at the Toretore seafood market, similar to the one in "The Solitary Gourmet"
After arriving at the small port town of Maizuru on the Sea of Japan, we'll head to the Toretore Seafood Market near Maizuru Port and enjoy the unparalleled joy of seafood. This market, featured in the popular Japanese food drama "The Solitary Gourmet," is also worth checking out. With its proximity to the port and its relatively low tourist count, you can savor a wide variety of fresh and affordable seafood. Try the rock oysters in the summer and the Maizuru crab and snow crab in the winter.
15:50-17:30 ▼ Kaohsiung Sanwei Scenic Spot
After bidding farewell to Maizuru, we set off back to Kyoto, passing through "Takao" on the north side of Saga Arashiyama, which is a hidden gem in Kyoto. The so-called "Three Tail of Takao" refers to Takao-ji Temple on Mt. Takao, Saimyo-ji Temple on Mt. Takao, and Jingo-ji Temple on Mt. Takao. These three thousand-year-old temples each have their own characteristics and offer beautiful scenery throughout the year. In autumn, they are a favorite autumn viewing spot for local residents. The temples are home to the famous "Stone Garden" and "Bird and Beast Playing Paintings," which are filled with an atmosphere of simplicity and Zen. The clear Kiyotaki River flows through the mountains, and the scenery along the way is picturesque. The towering Kitayama cedars reach the sky, making it well worth a visit to savor in person. (Entrance fees to the temples are at your own expense.)
Afterwards, we will return to the Kyoto hotel and happily end our trip to Kyoto by the Sea.
Day 4 Kyoto ★ Dismissal
All day
Today is the return day. The latest check-out time for hotels is generally 10:00 noon. For international flights, please arrive at the airport 3 hours in advance.
You can also spend a few more days in Japan to experience its endless charm.
Our trip ends here, and we look forward to sharing your travel notes!
Autumn Special Recommendation: Kyoto Yokai Festival and the Night Parade of One Hundred Demons
The "Yaqi Yagyo" (One Hundred Demons Night Parade), a legend that appears in numerous Japanese anime, literature, and games, is considered a defining legend of Japan. From September 13th to November 30th, Kyoto's Uzumasa Studio Park will host a special "Yokai Matsuri" event. During the day, the park transforms into an Edo-style movie town, but at night, it transforms into a "Yokai Village" with performances, art exhibitions, and a "Yokai Market." The highlight of the event, "Yaqi Yagyo," takes place in the afternoons and evenings of weekends and holidays. Visitors can even dress up as a Yokai and join in the "Yokai Dance" (Yokai Kaikai) singing and dancing with the various demons.
