Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Kyoto, a city that embodies the spirit of traditional Japan. Once the imperial capital for over a thousand years, Kyoto remains a living tapestry of heritage, where ancient customs, sacred architecture, and refined aesthetics continue to shape daily life. This land program invites you to journey through Kyoto’s soul—where vermilion torii gates wind through forested hills, Zen gardens offer moments of quiet reflection, and culinary artistry transforms each meal into a cultural ritual.

From the spiritual serenity of Fushimi Inari Shrine to the golden brilliance of Kinkakuji, from the meditative stillness of Tenryuji Temple to the graceful presence of Geisha in Gion, every experience is curated to connect you with the essence of Japan’s cultural legacy. Whether walking the Philosopher’s Path or sipping matcha in a traditional tea ceremony, you’ll experience Kyoto not just as a destination—but as a profound encounter with history, beauty, and serenity.

DAY 1

After disembarking from the cruise ship, you will be met by your English-speaking guide and transfer to Kyoto and commence sightseeing. Drive to Fushimi Inari, the most significant of many shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. At the main hall present a small offering to the resident deity then make your way to the rear of the shrine to find the first of over 5,000 vermilion torii gates.

Enjoy lunch at a tempura restaurant.

Following lunch, take a walk at the Tetsugaku-no-michi or “Philosopher’s Path,” a two-kilometre (1.2 miles) long walkway that runs beside a canal between the Ginkaku-ji and Nanzen-ji. In the early 20th century, two eminent professors from Kyoto University would walk the path each day while discussing different issues.

Visit Gojozaka and the nearby lanes that retain the charm of a bygone era. Gojozaka is known for its many Kiyomizu pottery studios. Typical Kyoto souvenirs such as sweets and pickles are also available. Take part in a tea ceremony with a tea master.

Take a stroll uphill to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the superb Kiyomizu Temple. According to legend, the priest Enchin erected a hermitage and small chapel here in 788. From the temple's lofty platform, enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto. Note that both the main hall and the platform were built without the use of nails or joiners.

Following your sightseeing, transfer to hotel and check-in.

At 7:00pm, you will be transferred to a Kaiseki restaurant with Geisha performance in Gion District

DAY 2

Check-out before departure. At 8:30am, please meet your English-speaking guide in the hotel lobby and commence sightseeing by private vehicle. Travel to Kinkakuji, a magnificent Zen temple overlooking Kyokochi Pond. Originally conceived as a warlord's retirement villa, Kinkakuji is also known as the Golden Pavilion, as much of it is adorned with gold leaf.

Travel to Arashiyama, wander amid the soaring stalks of bamboo and experience the sense of otherworldliness that makes this place so enchanting. If there is a breeze, listen for the inimitable creak as the bamboo sways in the grove, now listed among Japan's 100 soundscapes. Pair your walk with a visit to nearby Tenryuji, ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples. Erected in 1339 and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tenryuji is best appreciated from its charming gardens. You will be met by an English-speaking monk and take you through a Zen meditation session (Zen meditation subject to availability)

Following your meditation, return to Kobe port.

Land Program Step by Step

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details including timings indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Final itineraries with the most up-to-date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

8:00am meet & greet by English-speaking guide at port and transfer to Kyoto

9:30am arrive Fushimi Inari Taisha & tour

11:30am transfer to lunch

12:00pm lunch at a tempura restaurant

1:15pm transfer to Philosopher's Path & walking tour

2:15pm transfer to Gojozaka

2:30pm walking tour in Gojozaka with tea ceremony

4:00pm visit Kiyomizu Temple

5:30pm transfer to the hotel

5:45pm check-in at the hotel

7:00pm transfer to Gion

7:30pm dinner at a Kaiseki restaurant with Geisha performance in Gion District

Overnight at The Thousand Kyoto hotel or similar hotel

DAY 2

8:30am meet English-speaking guide at hotel, check-out and transfer to Kinkakuji

9:00am tour Kinkakuji

9:45am travel to Arashiyama

10:05am arrive Arashiyama, bamboo forest walking tour

10:50am special visit to Tenryuji temple with Zen meditation session

11:30am travel to Kobe port

1:00pm embark Ship

General Information

Expected Weather:

14–25°C / 57–77°F

What to Bring:

Good walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, sweater or jacket for cooler temperatures, camera, chargers

Local Currency:

Japanese Yen

USD are not accepted

Electricity:

The voltage used throughout Japan is uniformly 100 volts, A.C. We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for electric devices as the hotels may not provide one

Luggage Information:

Luggage will be stored in the coach luggage compartment

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required

Please check with your local embassy for any visa requirements for your nationality

Hotel Address:

Name: The Thousand Kyoto

Address: 570 Higashishiokojicho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216, Japan

Phone: +81 75 354 1000

We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required they will be of equal ratings and standards and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.

Program Includes:

1 night at The Thousand Kyoto hotel or similar – Superior Room

2 lunches and 1 dinner

Transfers and sightseeing as specified in the itinerary

Entrance fees while sightseeing

Program Excludes:

Any accommodations, meals, flights, sightseeing, transfers other than specified

Early check-in or late check-out at hotel unless specified

Individual arrival or departure transfers

Early or late arrival/departure surcharge

Porterage at pier and hotel

Gratuities for drivers and guides

Hotel incidentals including minibar and room service

Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. This program is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. Guests who choose to use independent transportation or wheelchair services provided by third-party companies may do so at their own risk and responsibility. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

Booking, Pricing & Cancelation:

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. No refunds or partial refunds will be issued for any unused portion of the program. This includes, but is not limited to, missed transfers, accommodations, guided tours, meals, or activities. All venues, hotel stays, tour guides, and logistical services are secured and pre-paid well in advance to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.