Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years, and is home to some of Japan's most famous temples, shrines, and historical monuments. Hop aboard a comfortable coach and ride to Japan's ancient capital to see the brilliant torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the UNESCO-listed sites of Kiyomizu-dera temple and Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, before finally visiting the bamboo-shrouded Arashiyama area.

You'll start the day at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the guardian deity of agriculture, Fushimi-Inari. After you admire the traditional hand-painted architecture, you will walk a path through the seemingly endless vermillion torii gates.

The Japanese proverb “jumping off the stage at Kiyomizu” means “to take a risk,” and the temple's iconic wooden stage, dramatically extending over the hillside, brings this saying to life. As you gaze out onto the sprawling Kyoto cityscape from the stage, you can enjoy the scent of incense, or purchase a lucky charm for youself or a loved one. You can also drink from one of the three rejuvenating streams of Otowa Waterfall, said to bring success, love, and longevity.

Next, stop at Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, whose gold-leaf-covered exterior glimmers in the sunlight. Wander through the immaculate gardens surrounding the temple, admiring the original Japanese designs that have been preserved since the time of the Ashikaga shogunate.

Finish the day in Arashiyama, which has been a popular nature-viewing destination since the Heian Period. Take a stroll through the cool Sagano Bamboo Forest and listen to the distinct rustle of bamboo leaves as you walk. You can enjoy the sunset as you wander along the Katsura river, or enjoy a snack and souvenirs on your walk back to the bus. In the late afternoon, hop on the bus back to your starting point.