Kiyomizu-dera Temple has been a center of faith for over 1,200 years. The view of the city from the wooden veranda of the main shrine, which was built without nails, is magnificent. Then take a visit to Heian-jingu Shrine, with its symbolic massive torii gate, which was built to mark the 1,100th anniversary of the transfer of the capital to Heian-kyo (Kyoto). Come experience the history of Kyoto.

Accommodations (in Kyoto City/around Kyoto Station)

Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine, well known for its talismanic uses, stands at the top of Mt. Otokoyama. You can take a tour of the main hall (a national treasure) and many other cultural heritages. After worshipping, you'll move to Shokado Garden Art Museum, renowned for its beautiful garden. You'll have a chance to enjoy your surroundings after you've tried the Shokado lunch box, a typical Japanese lunch box at the celebrated Kitcho restaurant.

Accommodations (in Uji/around Uji Station)

Uji, where you'll find Byodoin Temple and Ujigami-jinja Shrine (both world heritages), is the home of Japan's famous Uji tea. There are many fun things to do that you'll only find in Uji, such as enjoying sweets made from tea and a chance to try tea ceremony at tea shops. We recommend watching cormorant fishing along the bridges and sandbanks of the graceful Ujigawa River from July 1 through September 30.

Numerous massive and strangely shaped rocks on Mt. Kasagi are religious objects that have been worshipped since antiquity. Japan's oldest and largest stone image of Buddha rests in Kasagi-ji Temple near the peak of the mountain.

Accommodations (in Wazuka or Kasagi)

Wazuka, where tea fields stretch as far as the eye can see, is a tranquil town that produces around 40% of all Uji tea. Start your tour around at the Wazuka Tea Café.

Tono no Sato, in which sits the mysterious Joruri-ji Temple, the home to a row of nine seated Amida Nyorai statues. It is the holy ground for Pure Land Buddhism and home to stone images of Buddha everywhere along its paths and forest. Next, stop by the Fukujuen CHA Experience Park and try your hand at making matcha green tea made with milled tea leaves.

Accommodations (in Nara/around Nara Station)

Pay a visit to Todai-ji Temple and the great image of Buddha that presents Japan's unique view on religion, take a stroll around Nara Park, where you'll run into wild deer, and then head straight to Kansai International Airport.