Osaka/Kyoto: Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari & Nara Park Day Trip

There are around 30,000 Inari shrines in Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head shrine, to worship the Shinto god of rice, Inari. The shrine is renowned for Senbon Torii, thousands of vermilion red torii gates, which create a stunning and immersive tunnel-like pathway up the sacred Mount Inari. In the 1300 years since its establishment in 711AD, people have gathered here to pray for bountiful harvests, business prosperity, the safety of their home and family, and the fulfillment of all other wishes.

Nara Park is one of the must-see areas in Nara City and is one of the oldest parks in Japan. The vast area covers 660 hectares and is renowned for its free-roaming deer and world-famous temples. These tame creatures are believed to be sacred messengers of the Shinto gods and walk freely in Nara. Over time, these cute deers have learned to bow to visitors-a sign for a treat. For over 1,300 years, humans and deer have peacefully coexisted in Nara. Today, they are protected as Natural Monuments, and revered as holy animals in Nara.

This is a representative sightseeing spot of Arashiyama. The promenade has a solemn atmosphere with its rows of overgrown bamboos covering the sky. Take a leisurely stroll through this area, which was once a villa for aristocrats in the Heian period, and enjoy a special moment to feel the beauty of nature through the sunlight filtering through the trees and the sound of leaves rustling in the air. For an added touch of adventure, consider a rickshaw ride through this shaded sanctuary, where every turn reveals a new perspective of its tranquil beauty.

Nonomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine in the Arashiyama district on the west side of the city of Kyoto. Unlike most shrines that feature iconic vermilion torii gates, Nonomiya Shrine has a distinctive black torii gate known as a kuroki torii. Despite its small size, the shrine has a lengthy history, founded in antiquity as a purification shrine for imperial princesses who were appointed as priestesses for Ise Shrine. Nonomiya Shrine has a reputation for helping and interceding on behalf of women, and many parishioners are women who want to find love or wish for children and a safe childbirth. Many of the omamori on sale at the shrine reflect the theme of women’s happiness, and you can find a variety of amulets available at the shrine office.

Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a true gem of the Arashiyama district in Kyoto and is ranked as the top among the city's five great Zen temples. While visiting Tenryu-ji, be sure to experience the stunning Sogenchi Garden. Designed by the renowned Zen master Muso Soseki, this garden has maintained its timeless beauty over the years. The picturesque landscape features a central pond surrounded by rocks, pine trees, and the forested mountains of Arashiyama.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, known for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn colors. Situated on the serene island of Nakanoshima along the Katsura River, this enchanting destination provides a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots of Arashiyama. It has stone-covered riverbanks where you can get pretty close to the river and some nice shots of Togetsukyō Bridge and the Katsura River. Step into a postcard-perfect scene at the Togetsu Bridge, a timeless symbol of Arashiyama. As you stroll across its wooden parapet, let the breathtaking views of the Katsura River and surrounding mountains envelop you in tranquility, making it a perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the essence of Kyoto.

The Kimono Forest is a distinctive textile art installation made up of 600 clear acrylic cylinders, each standing 2 meters tall. These pillars are adorned with vibrant kimono fabrics featuring a range of designs, from elegant floral patterns to geometric shapes and traditional Japanese symbols. The installation showcases 32 traditional Kyo-yuzen designs. The Kimono Forest is a must-see attraction that provides a unique and enchanting perspective on traditional Japanese textiles and craftsmanship.