Discover Kyoto and Nara
- A Secret Retreats journey -
This journey has been personally designed by Emi
is the CEO of The Junei Hotel awarded as the most beautiful hotel in Kyoto by Japan Brand Collection and 3 Pavilions by Michelin. “Our motivation is to pursue to deliver the authentic beauty of Kyoto through unique activities. We hope to deliver unforgettable and memorable stay to our guests.”
We can of course adjust according to your request.
Former imperial capital of Japan until 1869, Kyoto is located in the South of Honshu Island, and part of the large metropolis Osaka-Kobe-Kyoto. A rebellion in 1864 burnt over 28,000 houses around the city, forcing the Emperor to move to Tokyo. The reconstruction started years later, with the Lake Biwa Canal as the main engine to revive the economy.
Despite fires, earthquakes, wars, massive destruction during WWII, Kyoto still remains today the Cultural Capital of Japan, with over 1,600 Buddhist Temples and 400 Shinto Shrines. Among the many architectural treasures, we propose in this itinerary a visit of the Katsura Imperial Villa. Kyoto Historic Monuments are listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Located only 1hour away, Nara was the former Capital of Japan during the VIII Century, before moving to Kyoto. The city’s monuments are also listed by UNECO as World Heritage Sites. The legend says that the god Takemikazuchi arrived in Nara on a white deer to guard the new capital of Japan, and since then, the deer are the believed to protect the city. Spotted deer roam through the parks of the city.
Highlights of the Journey:
An exploration of Kyoto historic sites, tea ceremony and possible extension to Nara.Early reservation is required as the number of tickets to visit Katsura Villa is limited.
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Your Journey Day by Day
based on 2 person sharing the same room
You can decide to rest for the afternoon in the peaceful atmosphere of the hotel, or go for a walk in the streets of Kyoto on your own.
For dinner, according to Kyoto tradition “Shidashi” is the refined traditional way to experience a dinner in Kyoto. There are various forms of Shidashi-Ryori. Your dietrary restrictions will be asked before your start the journey.
Lunch on your own.
Back to the hotel in the afternoon for a rest, a spa or walks around the town
We continue the day with the visit of a museum and a brewery of Sake built in 1909. The history of Sake will have no more secret for you, and of course end the visit with a degustation of sake, before heading bac to the hotel.
Or option extension:
After breakfast, a driver will pick you up and drive you to Nara in less than an hour and guide you around the former capital of Japan and its famous park where deer roam free. The visit will lead you to several iconic and historic monuments such as the Tōdai-ji Temple, the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) houses the world's largest wooden building or the Five-story pagoda and Tōkondō at Kōfuku-ji Lunch on your own in one of the many restaurants in town and drive back to Kyoto after lunch,
Hotel: The Junei (Premium Double)
After breakfast, the check-out time is 11am. The hotel can assist you with transportation to the Train Station or your next stop.
Discover Kyoto and Nara
based on 2 person sharing the same room
The total price includes:
Accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis at The Junei Premium Double.
All transportation from the hotel for the excursions mentioned in the program (private car)
Dinner on the first night
Tea Ceremony on 3rd day
The total price does not include:
Flights to Japan and transfers to the hotel
Other meals that are not included in the program.
Drinks, personal expenses.
Options and other activities not included in the program.
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Conservation of the environment, culture and traditions of Asia is of paramount importance to all in Secret Retreats.
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