KyotoSightseeingDay tripsCulture and history

    Kyoto Hidden Local Cherry Blossom Spot and Zen Garden

    By Mandala Japan ExperienceProduct code 129756P4
    Early-blooming Kawazu Zakura
    View all photos
    Shimogamo Torii GateKyoto Hidden Local Cherry Blossom Spot and Zen Garden gallery 7Plum BlossomJizo StatuesSpring Maples at TofukujiKyoto Hidden Local Cherry Blossom Spot and Zen Garden gallery 11Kyoto Hidden Local Cherry Blossom Spot and Zen Garden gallery 12Our guides with guestsCherry Blossom spotTofukuji National Treasure gateFamous viewing spot of Tofukuji

    Duration

    4 hours

    Ticket type

    Mobile Only

    Languages

    English, Japanese

    Confirmation

    Instant

    Meeting point

    Meeting point provided

    Time zone

    Asia/Tokyo

    Why Travelers Love This

    4 hoursMobile tickets

    Overview

    Did you know that there are so many cherry blossom varieties? From the early-blooming Kawazu Zakura, the mainstream Somei Yoshino, until the late-blooming Yae Zakura, etc. Joining us, You won't miss viewing Japan's Cherry Blossom. This limited time exclusive half day tour takes you away from the mainstream crowds and into the heart of Kyoto's "early spring" secrets: locals have a longer period to enjoy the cherry blossom. By combining this knowledge, with the magical UNESCO World Heritage Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto's oldest Shinto Shrine and the serene, moss-covered Zen garden, a sub-temples of Tofukuji, you will experience a side of the city most tourists miss. Note that we will change the Cherry Blossom viewing spot based on each flower blooming period.

    What's Included

    Included

    Other

    Local guide with good command of English

    Other

    off the beaten path guided tour

    Other

    Entrance fee - Zen Garden Entrance Fee JPY 500 per person if option is selected

    Not included

    Other

    Transportation Fee

    Meeting and Pickup

    Meeting point

    In front of the Restaurant facing Kamogawa River. Detailed picture will be send on D-1.

    End point

    Yodo Station Keihan Line, easy to go back to city center or to go to Fushimi Inari Shrine.

    Itinerary

    Standard4 hours
    1

    Stop 1

    1 hour 30 minutes

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines. Walk through the Tadasu no Mori, a 1,000-year-old primeval forest. While the main shrine is famous, seek out the Mitarai River area. In spring, delicate plum and cherry blossoms frame the vermillion bridges, offering a mystical atmosphere.

    2

    Stop 2

    1 hour

    This major Zen temple is home to the Sanmon Gate, the oldest Zen gate of its kind in Japan. It is globally famous for its stunning autumn foliage, particularly the view from the Tsutenkyo Bridge ("Bridge to Heaven"), which overlooks a valley of maple trees. Even outside of peak season, its massive scale and historic Zen architecture offer a sense of timeless awe.

    3

    Stop 3

    45 minutesAdmission not included

    A quiet sub-temple of Tofukuji, Komyoin is a true "hidden gem" often called the "Rainbow Moss Temple". It features the Hashintei Zen Garden, a modern dry landscape masterpiece designed by Mirei Shigemori, where stones represent rays of light radiating through a sea of moss and white sand. It is the perfect place for silent reflection away from the main tourist paths.

    4

    Stop 4

    45 minutes

    This is the ultimate "off the beaten path" spot. Located south of the city center, the Yodo area features a stunning row of Kawazu Zakura. These trees bloom in February and early March, featuring a much deeper, more vibrant pink than the standard Somei Yoshino. Walking along the canal here feels like discovering a private spring paradise.

    Additional Info

    Stroller Accessible

    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

    Public Transportation Nearby

    Public transportation options are available nearby

    No Heart Problems

    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

    Physical Easy

    Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Health Other

    Not recommended for people with weak legs and joints

    Health Other

    Not recommended for pregnant traveler entering their late tri-semester

    Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    Policy type

    Standard

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    Experience may be cancelled for bad weather.

    Refund eligibility

    100% refundable 1+ days before

    Refund eligibility

    0% refundable 0-1 days before

    Similar Experiences

    Private 3 Hours Waterfalls Sightseeing TourViator

    Sri Lanka

    Private 3 Hours Waterfalls Sightseeing Tour

    The two waterfalls we visit are spectacular. The first, Hira Falls, is just a quarter mile (400 meter) hike from the car park. From there we hike to the even more dramatic Yobai Falls, feeling the splash of cool water. The round trip hike is only one mile (1.5 km) but the trail is rocky and steep, so a reasonable degree of fitness of required. From there we go to the shore of Lake Biwa where we ride kayaks, swim, or hang out on the beach. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds and heat of Kyoto and Osaka and enjoy nature.

    3 hours

    From JPY 19,500

    Lake Biwa Tour: Shirahige Shrine, Ukimido ,La Collina OmihachimanViator

    Sri Lanka

    Lake Biwa Tour: Shirahige Shrine, Ukimido ,La Collina Omihachiman

    Experience the essence of Japan in one unforgettable day! Discover sacred Shirahige Shrine’s floating torii, ride Japan’s fastest ropeway to breathtaking Lake Biwa views, explore the hidden Zen beauty of Sanzen-in Temple, and visit the floating Ukimido Hall at sunrise. Indulge in local sweets at La Collina, a fairytale village designed by famed architect Terunobu Fujimori. Perfect for families, friends, and culture lovers seeking stunning scenery, tradition, and local flavors — this tour is a journey through Japan’s heart and soul.

    4.5 / 5 (65 reviews)

    10 hours 30 minutes

    From JPY 9,900

    Shiga Private Custom Tour with Local GuideViator

    Kyoto

    Shiga Private Custom Tour with Local Guide

    Explore the hidden gems of Shiga with an expert-guided tour. Start at the iconic Hikone Castle, a national treasure offering stunning views of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake. Stroll through the castle’s beautiful gardens and learn about its rich samurai history. Next, visit the ancient Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled on Mount Hiei, where you can immerse yourself in centuries of Buddhist culture. Enjoy a peaceful walk along Lake Biwa’s shoreline or take a boat ride to discover its scenic beauty. Your guide will share local history and insights, providing an enriching experience of Shiga’s natural and cultural wonders. Public transportation will be used, with private vehicle options available upon request.

    10 hours

    From JPY 50,000

    Himeji Castle and Tatsuno to Japan’s Little Kyoto Private TourViator

    Sri Lanka

    Himeji Castle and Tatsuno to Japan’s Little Kyoto Private Tour

    Your Full-day tour experience ensures a seasoned guide accompanies you throughout your journey. You can choose between an English, Chinese, or Japanese-speaking guide. First, your guide will lead you through Himeji Castle, offering insightful commentary. Afterward, at the adjacent Koko-en Garden, those interested can participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Lunch will be at your preferred dining spot, with options like sushi, Japanese cuisine, or tsukemen. In the afternoon, we'll head to Tatsuno City, known as "Little Kyoto," where you'll explore the historic castle town and enjoy various experiences tailored to your interests. All activities will be selected and customized through prior email communication.

    From JPY 25,000

    Similar Attractions

    From

    From JPY 15,000

    Check availability