Discover the Beauty of Sakura in Kyoto

Kyoto, rich in history and tradition, reveals the deeper spirit of sakura. Explore how samurai and scholars revered these fleeting flowers, visit ancient temples adorned with blossoms, and uncover Japan’s timeless connection to nature. Experience sakura’s profound cultural significance in a way only Kyoto can offer.

Special Private Tour of Kyoto’s Myokakuji, A Temple Closed to the Public for Most of the Year

Kyoto | schedule120mins | from ￥25,000 /person

• Learn about the long and fascinating history of Myokakuji as a monk guides you around the grounds of this temple that is closed off to visitors for most of the year
• Visit Okushoin and Soshido Halls, two nationally designated Important Cultural Properties that the general public normally cannot enter
• Be mesmerized by the chanting of sutras and the beating of taiko drums, and receive a special amulet from the temple as the tour ends

Enjoy Seasonal Delights and Japanese Spirituality through a Private After-hours Visit to a Zen Temple in Kyoto

Kyoto | schedule120mins | from ￥250,000 /group

・Admire an illuminated night view of the temple's gorgeous gardens and sumptuous natural scenery.
・Dive deep into the world of Zen with instruction from Deputy Head Priest Matsuyama, a globally active figure who has met with the former Catholic Pope.
・Learn the art of traditional seasonal Japanese confectionery from a visiting professional confectioner at the temple, and delight in the sweets you make alongside matcha green tea.

Private Before & After Hours Access to Myoshin-ji Taizo-in for Special Tour and Zazen Meditation (Matcha Included)

Kyoto | schedule90mins | from ￥150,000 /group

・Dive deep into the world of Zen with instruction from Deputy Head Priest Matsuyama, a globally active figure who has met with the former Catholic Pope
・Practice zazen meditation in the august and invigorating air of early morning or evening
・After the experience, enjoy matcha and traditional confections while taking in the garden

Private Tour of a Rock Garden in a Historic Kyoto Temple—Includes Gyoza Meditation

Kyoto | schedule100mins | from ￥210,100 /group

・Enjoy two private gardens: the karesansui (dry rock garden) and sansui (scenic landscape garden), and try raking patterns in the gravel (weather permitting)
・Experience Gyoza meditation in the usually restricted shoin room, followed by a serene matcha tea and seasonal sweets session
・Explore the temple's treasures, such as priceless fusuma-e (sliding door paintings), with insights from the temple steward

An Evening of Tranquility: Private Zazen and Unique Plant-Based Buddhist Cuisine

Kyoto | schedule120mins | from ￥28,000 /person

・Experience a nighttime zazen session at a hidden gem, Hozenin Temple, under the guidance of its deputy head priest, also the lead chef of its head temple
・Savor a unique shojin ryori meal incorporating elements of its Chinese equivalent, freshly prepared with healthy ingredients
・Chat with the deputy head priest over tea and a stunning kanten jelly dessert

Make Japanese Sweets with Demonstration at Wagashi Issho, Kyoto

Kyoto | schedule70mins | from ￥14,000 /person

• Make elaborate traditional sweets at a wagashi-making studio that holds classes in small groups, making it difficult even for Japanese locals to secure a reservation
• A Wabunka-exclusive plan that includes preparation of an original dessert right in front of you — your instructor is an expert at coming up with dessert ideas
• Learn about the tableware, the high-quality Uji tea served with your wagashi and dessert, and other details that further add a touch of elegance to this refined experience

Dye a Silk Scarf or Handkerchief with Seasonal Plants at Atelier Shimura Kyoto

Kyoto | schedule120mins | from ￥40,000 /person

・Dye a silk scarf or handkerchief by hand with seasonal plant dyes. Each month brings a new and unique color palette.
・Under the guidance of Atelier Shimura's instructors, delve into the world of eco-friendly traditional Japanese dyeing techniques and color culture.
・Incorporate the soft, delicate hues characteristic of plant dyes into your everyday life, and experience the natural beauty gracing your skin.

The Art of Making Japanese Traditional Confections, Taught by a Kyoto Artisanal Confectioner

Kyoto | schedule70mins | from ￥29,000 /person

・Learn the art of crafting delicate, elegant Japanese confections from a master at Kyoto confectioner Tokiya
・Enjoy a top-class wagashi demonstration and delight in fresh-made sweets with tea
・Take home your handmade fresh and dried confections, plus Tokiya's original seasonal wagashi

Tour World Heritage Site Ninna-ji Temple with Exclusive Access to Private Areas and Ikebana Lesson

Kyoto | schedule150mins | from ￥296,000 /group

・Take a tour of Ninna-ji with a monk, including areas generally closed to the public
・Experience the spirit of Japanese ikebana at a private teahouse previously belonging to iconic potter Kenzan Ogata
・Savor delicious matcha and wagashi sweets

Tour World Heritage Site Ninna-ji Temple with Exclusive Access to Private Areas and Tea Ceremony

Kyoto | schedule150mins | from ￥296,000 /group

・Take a tour of Ninna-ji with a monk, including areas generally closed to the public
・Experience the spirit of Japanese tea through a ceremony at a private teahouse previously belonging to iconic potter Kenzan Ogata
・Savor matcha and wagashi served by a tea master of over 40 years