Discover Kyoto - Via Public Transportation

Discover Kyoto Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

A day in Kyoto will have you wishing you were there for a week!

Don't be surprised if people tell you the one place not to miss in Japan is Kyoto. This former capital and one of the few major cities spared from bombs in World War II has an endless amount of temples, shrines, palaces and gardens that will capture your imagination. With the amazing ability to hold onto its past while adapting to the future, Kyoto's clear contrast from the current capital of Tokyo will be the zenith for anyone with a passion for traveling!

Your first stop will be at the gold standard of Momoyama architecture, the Nijo Castle. Built by the first Tokugawa shogun in 1603, the Nijo Castle is built of primarily Japanese cypress and transom woodcarvings. During the construction of this castle the Shogun feared enemies to the point of building a moat and stone walls to protect his living quarters. He even installed Nightingale floors which squeaked when walked upon to alert the bodyguards of any potential intruders.

Next up is a visit to the Fushimi Shrine. It is a favorite haunt of photographers, business people, and local residents who ask the gods to bless their homes, companies, and destinies. Founded in 711, it is difficult to explain the feeling of walking through one red torii arch after another, as they form a tunnel of stunning simplicity. You will note that those at the beginning of the route are larger than those following. Patrons dedicate new tori arches as they need replacing, allowing the patron's name or business name to be painted in black on the new gate. Ultimately, these form a path up the mountain behind the temple.

Our last stop is arguably the most visually stunning stop of your tour, the Sanjusangendo Temple. The impressive 1001 statues of the Kannon carved from Japanese Cypress will provide a spectacle that can't be matched anywhere else.

Tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant (included in tour cost).

- Lunch is included in tour cost. Beverages are additional.
- Please note that the walk from the cruise pier to the subway station is approximately 10-15 minutes. It is over one hour train ride to Kyoto, involving one transfer. The tour may involve use of the subway, train and bus systems. Itinerary may be adjusted depending on traffic.

- This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- Nijo Castle is closed on Tuesdays in January, July, August, and December, and from December 25-January 3. When it is closed, you will visit Tofuku-ji Temple.
- We will do our best to confirm the tour at the standard pricing, however there may be a surcharge on holidays and from the end of December to the New Year.
- The cancellation policy on this tour is outside of the normal ShoreTrips Terms of Service. The tour is non refundable 18 days prior to the tour date. If your ship does not make port, this tour will be non-refundable. Please take out travel insurance to cover this rare occurrence. This tour will NOT be refundable in cases in which conditions make it impossible for the ship to dock and disembark passengers in a timely manner. In case of extreme delay of ship’s arrival or immigration, the tour may have to be shortened.
- Due to the extreme costs of hospitalization and medical services in Japan, we strongly recommend purchasing independent travel insurance that will cover you for injuries or illness while in Japan.

Days offered: 7 days a week

Departures:

• 08:00 AM, duration: 8 hours