Top 6 Historical & Heritage Tours in Shiga Prefecture, Kinki

Discover and learn in detail about the beautiful Japanese roof architecture of temples and shrines. This is a unique opportunity to visit workshops and experience this form of craftsmanship. On this tour, you will visit some of the last craftsmen who dedicate their lifework to the preservation of renowned temples and shrines in Japan. Since ancient times, Japanese people have believed that the beauty of Japanese architecture starts from the roof. This tour is an amazing chance to learn and understand Japanese roof tiles, which are recognized internationally for their beauty and artistic details. In the intimate venue of their workshops and homes, the roof craftsmen will explain to you how roof materials such as tiles, cypress bark and rice straw are used for roofs and share in detail the differences between temple and shrine roofs. 

Inclusions: Local guide, Mini onigawara ornament, Local transportation fare (taxi fare from JR Hieizan-Sakamoto Station), A snack (SOBA buckwheat noodle), All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Gratuities, JR Kyoto Station Pickup charge, Round trip train fare between JR Kyoto and JR Hieizan-Sakamoto stations

Accompanied by a nationally-licensed and experienced multilingual guide, explore the area of Arashiyama and Sagano, where aristocrats once unwound in their villas more than 1,000 years ago. The highlights of this tour include the scenic countryside views from Togetsukyo bridge; Tenryu-ji temple with its beautiful traditional gardens; the enchanting world from within the Bamboo Grove; and Jojakko-ji Temple with its breathtaking green moss. During the tour you will also visit some secret spots unfamiliar to the usual tourists. Enjoy the walk and delicious food while learning about Japanese culture and history. Our guides are looking forward to arranging a tour that’s best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The Nationally-licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Inclusions: Free Photos, Hotel Pick up and Drop-off, Licensed Local Guide

Exclusions: Other personal expenses, Lunch - Lunch (for yourself and your guide), Entrance fee (for yourself), Transportation fee (for yourself and your guide)

Kinomoto is a charming old brewery town blessed by an abundant source of fresh water. As a former post station town of Edo era kaido routes, the town has retained much of its historical charm, without heavily catering to tourism, but rather sustaining its natural community and identity of local family businesses that have thrived here for centuries. After meeting up at JR Maibara Station (shinkansen stops here), our guide will lead you on the 24-minute train ride north to JR Kinomoto Station. Here we will give a walking tour including 2 sake breweries, both among the 10 oldest operating in Japan, as well as a traditional soy sauce brewery. We can meet the staff of these family-owned businesses, taste samples, and aside the winter brewing season, if not busy, they'll often show us around the actual brewing area behind the storefront. We'll also visit the large local Buddhist temple, a central presence in local culture, and local shops such as traditional confectioneries and bakeries.

Inclusions: Insurance, Professional Guide

Exclusions: Local train fare between Maibara and Kinomoto, Complementary tasting often provided, but other drinks should be purchased., We don't provide snacks, but there are many spots to buy along the way.

Explore Kyoto, one of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, accompanied by one of our nationally-licensed, experienced multilingual guides, who will help you efficiently enjoy a four-hour tour, introducing both modern and traditional sides of this dynamic and ancient city. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel, or anywhere else at your convenience, and will take you to a number of Kyoto's famous spots. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will arrange a tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The Nationally-licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Inclusions: Licensed Local Guide, Free Photos, Hotel Pick up and Drop-off

Exclusions: Transportation fee (for yourself and your guide), Entrance fee (for yourself), Lunch - Lunch (for yourself and your guide), Other personal expenses

On this 6-hour walking tour, discover the eastern shores of Lake Biwa, also known as the 'Koto' area, the historical home of Nobunaga Oda, a warrior who is famous for starting what led to the unification of Japan during the 16th century. Gain deep insight from your local guide and learn how this area is also famous for being central to the development of Japan's commercial industries, playing a vital role in Japan's early modern period. Enjoy personalized attention in this small group tour, limited to a maximum of 12 people.

Inclusions: Professional guide, Train ticket, Tax

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from Hikone, Gratuities

In 1600, the battle of Sekigahara, known to all Japanese, occurred in Sekigahara-Cho, Gifu Prefecture today. This battle marks the end of the Sengoku era, and the winner, Ieyasu Tokugawa, will unify the whole country, creating a peaceful era without war. Therefore, it was a very important battle, called "World Battle". This plan traces the battlefield around Sekigahara. First, at the Sekigahara History and Museum, you can learn about the history of the battle through exhibits and commentary. Then rent an armor and go to the place where General Mitsunari Ishida and General Ieyasu Tokugawa have set up! Also, visit the post town where the cityscape after the battle of Sekigahara remains.

Inclusions: Tour Guide, Private Tour, Necessary expenses for the tour guide

Exclusions: Travel expenses and entrance fees for your own, Money for food/drinks, souvenirs and extra activities for your own, Hotel pick-up and drop-off, The use of private van