Scholar-led Kyoto Walking Tour: Shintoism and Buddhism in Japan

3 Hours

Mobile Ticket

Hotel Pickup Offered

Language Offered

Overview

Investigate the fascinating Japanese religious traditions and monuments of Shintoism and Buddhism on this 3-hour, small-group walking tour of Kyoto led by a local scholar. Admire Kyoto's most important ceremonial sites, including Yasaka Shrine, Kennin-ji Temple and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Along the way you'll gain a newfound appreciation for Japanese religious rituals and practices, including Shintoism, a belief system indigenous to Japan, and Buddhism, which was imported from China and Central Asia. Best of all, this intimate tour, limited to just 6 guests, ensures a personalized experience.

Small-group tour with a maximum of 6 people ensures a personalized experience
Learn the meaning of the gates and halls at the Shinto Yasaka Shrine
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Buddhist temple of Kiyomizu-dera
See the Dharma Hall and Abott's Quarters at Kennin-ji
Discover daily rituals of Buddhist monks and spiritual seekers
3-hour Kyoto walking tour with a religious scholar
Stroll through the Gion district with your local guide to Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Take a deep dive into the history, culture and practices behind Japan's two primary religions, Shinto and Buddhism, on this small-group tour of Kyoto led by a local scholar. Gain new insight into how these two twin pillars of Japanese spirituality first started in Japan as you explore the most important religious monuments of Kyoto and hear how these two practices have evolved over time.Start your religious-themed exploration of Kyoto by meeting your guide in the afternoon at the Lawson General Store in front of the city's Yasaka Shrine. Head inside this impressive Shinto complex, encompassing a multitude of intricate gates and halls. You'll also have the chance to witness temizu, the ceremonial washing of the hands practiced by visitors before entering such sites.Listen as your guide explains the primary structure of Shinto, the indigenous Japanese spiritual practice, including an outline of its kami, or spiritual deities. You'll also hear about how the 19th-century Meiji regime used this religion's beliefs and Japanese folklore to promote its nationalist aims.Head back into the throughways of Gion as you proceed on to Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples. First built in 788 AD, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed temple is situated high above the city on the slopes of Otowa Mountain, providing fantastic views of the surrounding urban area. Begin a discussion about the origins of Buddhism with your scholar guide, covering the history of the religion and an explanation of the organizational principles for Buddhist temple complexes. You'll also discover the importance of amulets and charms, which practitioners use to help ward off bad luck and provide protection.Make your last stop of the day at Kennin-ji, a Zen Buddhist complex first constructed in 1202 AD. Spend some time here observing the typical rituals and practices of the site's resident Buddhist monks, who use a combination of meditation and work to help reach spiritual enlightenment. Visit the site's Abbott's Quarters, Dharma Hall (Hatto), its 16th-century teahouse and the Imperial Messenger Gate.Finish your tour back at Kyoto's Yasaka Shrine, leaving with newfound appreciation and insight for the typical religious practices of this diverse island nation.

Scholar-led Kyoto Walking Tour: Shintoism and Buddhism in Japan

Inclusions & Exclusions

Departure & Return

What To Expect

Additional Info

Cancellation Policy

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