10 hours
Daily Tour
Unlimited
English/Other language upon request
Tour Route: Maizuru Port → Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Togetsukyo Bridge → Kinkakuji Temple → Nijo Castle → Maizuru Port
This carefully crafted 10-hour Maizuru shore excursion offers a tranquil journey into the cultural and natural wonders of Kyoto. Departing from Maizuru Port, the tour gently unfolds through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the golden splendor of Kinkakuji Temple, and the historical depth of Nijo Castle. Designed to provide an unhurried, immersive experience, this tour is perfect for cruise travelers seeking elegance, relaxation, and cultural insight.
This tour is crafted for:
Senior travelers and middle-aged guests preferring a soft-paced itinerary
Culture lovers and nature enthusiasts
First-time visitors to Kyoto wanting a curated highlight experience
Cruise passengers with one-day port time who value comfort and private guidance
Special Instructions:
Comfortable walking shoes recommended (paved paths)
Seasonal attire advised (Arashiyama can be chilly or humid depending on the season)
All venues have rest areas and gentle access paths
Tour is fully customizable – contact us for special arrangements
Begin your journey in the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks of green sway in harmony with the wind. A walk through these ethereal paths feels like stepping into another world. The grove is quiet, shaded, and perfect for nature photography or a mindful stroll.
Just a few steps from the bamboo forest lies Togetsukyo Bridge, one of Arashiyama’s most photogenic spots. The bridge offers lovely views of the Oi River and surrounding hills — especially stunning during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons. Benches and shaded areas make it ideal for a restful pause.
Next, visit the iconic Golden Pavilion, officially known as Kinkakuji Temple. Covered in gold leaf and reflected in a mirror-like pond, it is a breathtaking sight. Though entry into the building isn’t permitted, the external beauty and surrounding Zen gardens offer serene enjoyment.
The final stop is Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This former residence of the Tokugawa shoguns features ornate sliding doors, tranquil gardens, and the famous "nightingale floors" that chirp to alert of intruders. The spacious castle grounds allow for exploration at your own pace, with plenty of seating areas for rest.
We understand that cruise travelers often have a limited window to explore, so we’ve designed the route to maximize enjoyment while ensuring timely return to your ship.
Our private transportation and expert guide service help you avoid unnecessary delays. We also monitor your ship’s schedule in real-time to make any needed adjustments, offering you peace of mind throughout the experience.
No, this tour has been curated specifically for those who prefer a gentle pace and easy walking. Most sites have paved paths, ramps, and resting benches along the way.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove involves a peaceful, mostly flat walk through shaded paths.
Kinkakuji Temple features compact, well-maintained garden paths with no steps required for viewing the pavilion.
Nijo Castle, while larger, allows flexible exploration — you can choose how far you walk, and rest areas are provided throughout.
This tour is ideal for seniors, travelers with limited mobility, or those looking for a relaxing, stress-free cultural day.
Absolutely! This tour is fully customizable, and we encourage you to share any special preferences, physical limitations, or personal interests.
We recommend bringing:
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for garden paths
Seasonal clothing: A hat and sunglasses in warmer months, or a light jacket in spring/autumn
A small bottle of water, though complimentary water is available in our vehicle
Your camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning views
Cash or credit card if you’d like to buy souvenirs or snacks at stops like Arashiyama
We also provide hand sanitizer, tissues, and umbrellas (if there’s rain in the forecast), so you’ll feel prepared and at ease throughout the journey.
Yes, we’ve included optional time for snack breaks, light meals, and browsing local shops.
In Arashiyama, there are charming cafés along the river and small vendors selling matcha ice cream, yatsuhashi (Kyoto’s famous cinnamon sweets), and other local treats.
Kinkakuji Temple has a gift shop with traditional items like incense, calligraphy brushes, and lucky charms.
If you’d like, we can include a stop for a set lunch at a local restaurant — either Japanese-style (kaiseki or soba) or something more familiar. Just let us know your dietary preferences in advance.
Member Since 2025
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