Kyoto Samurai Trail Through Temples and Nijyo Castle
9:00: Departure from your hotel or Kyoto Station.
Visit Syorenin Temple, which was the Emperor's residence 400 years ago. Historically and culturally, this is one of the finest temples in Kyoto. No matter how many times you visit, it never becomes boring. It captures the essence of Kyoto culture.
Continue to Nanzenji Zen Temple and its Water Bridge. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and dry garden. Walking around the water bridge is also fun, and you may forget how quickly time passes.
13:00: Lunch.
Explore Nijyo Castle, one of Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage sites. Japan once had many castles and palaces, but only a few original castle towers and palaces survive today. Nijyo Palace is Japan's only surviving palace and is well worth visiting. It stands as a living witness to the samurai age.
Visit Genkoan Temple, famous for its blood ceiling and two windows. The guide notes that this is a temple few guides in Kyoto include. Here, words are not necessary - all you have to do is sit quietly for meditation.
The tour ends at 17:00.
