Kyoto:Secret Hidden Gems Tour with Forest Walk & River Lunch

For a less crowded, peaceful yet adventurous day discovering a different side of Kyoto, this tour is perfect—forest walks, hidden temples, moss gardens, a serene villa, and riverside dining.
If you are looking for a less crowded, peaceful, and relaxing day tour, this experience is perfectly suited for you—designed to take you away from busy tourist spots and into Kyoto’s most serene and scenic locations.

Begin your day with a comfortable hotel pickup, followed by a scenic drive to Kurama, a quiet mountain village north of Kyoto. At Kurama Station, take a memorable photo with the iconic Tengu mask, a symbol of the mystical guardian spirits of the mountain.

From here, enjoy a short walk to the Niomon Gate, the entrance to Kurama-dera Temple. To make the journey easier and more enjoyable, your guide will assist you in boarding the charming cable car for a brief ride up the mountain.

Kurama-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s most spiritual and atmospheric temples, surrounded by ancient cedar forests. Known as a place of energy and healing, it is deeply connected to Reiki spiritual practices. The temple complex offers breathtaking mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere far from the crowds.

After exploring the temple, begin a relaxing downhill forest walk toward Kibune. This scenic 40-minute trail passes through towering trees and quiet mountain paths, offering a refreshing and immersive nature experience.

At Kibune Shrine, your guide will be waiting to welcome you again. This beautiful shrine, dedicated to the god of water, is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, lantern-lined pathways, and seasonal beauty.

Enjoy a unique and unforgettable lunch at a traditional riverside restaurant in Kibune. Dine on platforms built above the flowing river, where you can relax to the soothing sounds of water while enjoying fresh local cuisine—an authentic Kyoto summer tradition known as “Kawadoko.”

Continue your journey to the tranquil countryside of Ohara, known for its rural charm and spiritual heritage. Visit Sanzen-in Temple, a stunning temple famous for its moss gardens, small Jizo statues, and serene landscape that changes beautifully with the seasons.

Continue to Enkō-ji Temple, a hidden gem known for its beautifully raked Zen garden, vibrant seasonal foliage, and tranquil atmosphere. The temple offers stunning views from its elevated position, especially during autumn, making it a perfect place to relax and reflect in a peaceful setting.

Finally, visit Sanjusangendo Temple, one of Kyoto’s most remarkable cultural treasures. Famous for its impressive hall housing 1,001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, this historic temple showcases extraordinary craftsmanship and centuries of Japanese Buddhist heritage. As you walk through the tranquil temple grounds, admire the breathtaking rows of golden statues and experience the peaceful atmosphere that makes this sacred site one of Kyoto’s most unforgettable landmarks.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.