Osaka, Japan

Ancient Kyoto

Japan’s Temple-Strewn Spiritual Center Delve into the cultural and religious center of Japan, home to 1,700 Buddhist temples and 300 Shinto shrines. Spared from the bombings of World War II, this fascinating city offers an authentic glimpse of a mysterious country. Drive with your guide to Kyoto, stopping to explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine, where 10,000 orange-hued torii gates form a 2½-mile tunnel up a forested mountainside. Each gate asks Inari, the god of rice, sake and prosperity, for a blessing. After time to take in this spectacular sight, continue to the world-famous bamboo forest, admiring the area’s traditional architecture. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at the Tenryū-ji Temple, then enjoy a guided visit of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After, board your motor coach for the return drive to your awaiting ship. * Demanding - Physically challenging activities, including extensive walks, hiking, riding, water sports, and high altitude activities. Activities by foot may contain difficult, unpaved surfaces and/or multiple stairs and steep inclines. Total time walking or standing may exceed 3 hours.