❖ Pick-up at your hotel

Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Kyoto city and escort you to Ohara by local bus.

❖ Ohara Sanzen-in Temple

1:00 h

Built 1,200 years ago by Saicho, an ambassador of Buddhism, Sanzen-in Temple has been presided over by princes and members of the imperial family for generations. Many valuable temple treasures and cultural assets can be seen here, including the Sanzonzo statue, designated a National Treasure. On the grounds, two celebrated gardens called Shuheki-en and Yusei-en were once described by a famous novelist as “jewels of the Orient.” Enjoy tranquil scenery through every season: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and a blanket of snow in winter. The small, charming Jizo (stone statues) dotted throughout the moss-covered gardens add a soothing touch.

❖ Shorin-in Temple

30 min

Shorin-in Temple was built 1,000 years ago and is famous for the Ohara Mondo, where Honen, founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, discussed and answered questions on the doctrine of the Pure Land Nembutsu with learned priests. It is also known as the birthplace of Buddhist music Shomyo. Shomyo is ceremonial chant that adds rhythm and intonation to Buddhist scriptures to convey teachings, and is said to be the origin of Japanese songs of later generations. As you enter the main hall, Shomyo echoes around you, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the Buddhist world.

❖ Hosen-in Temple

45 min

The main attraction of Hosen-in is its framed garden, viewed through pillars and a kamoi gate that frame the scenery like a picture. The 700-year-old pine trees and bamboo grove seen from inside the room are as beautiful as a painting, and the elegant sound of the suikinkutsu (water harp) draws many visitors. Admire the garden while savouring a matcha green tea and traditional sweets.

❖ Lunch Time

1:00 h

Several inviting restaurants are tucked away among the mountains. Enjoy a variety of handmade rice balls and buffet-style obanzai made from a wide range of local organic vegetables. The fresh vegetables from Ohara are increasingly popular among renowned chefs in Kyoto. The cafe also offers a wonderful view of the town’s nature, and some restaurants are suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

After lunch, head towards Jakko-in Temple with a view of the peaceful countryside of Ohara.

❖ Jakko-in Temple

45 min

Jakko-in Temple was built by Prince Shotoku 1,500 years ago and is known as a nunnery where women have served as chief priests for generations. The temple grounds have a quiet, serene atmosphere, and the cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall are so beautiful that they were even included in a waka poem in the Tale of the Heike. Noblemen and ascetic practitioners once came to Jakko-in for retreat, as it is said to be remarkably tranquil and relaxing.

❖ Tour ends at your hotel

The tour concludes with a local bus ride back to your hotel in Kyoto city.