Living Buddhism
Kyoto, JP
Non-refundable - Your booking can not be cancelled, modified or refunded.
Guaranteed Lowest Prices - Find a lower price? We'll match it!
Highlights
- Visit a major yet quiet, uncrowded Buddhist temple complex
- Experience the largest wooden building in the world
- Learn about the fascinating history of the temple
- Discover the doctrines and iconography of True Pure Land sect of Buddhism
- Explore a traditional Japanese garden with beautiful ponds and tea houses
-
Private Tour
-
Expert Guide
-
Duration 3 hours
-
Entrance fee not included
-
Visit Higashi Honganji Temple
-
Explore Shosei-en Garden
Experience the tranquility and rich history of Kyoto with the Living Buddhism tour. Step away from the crowded tourist attractions and delve into the peaceful atmosphere of Higashi Honganji, a major Buddhist temple complex known for its serene beauty and the largest wooden building in the world. Led by the knowledgeable Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria, an American-born Buddhist priest and scholar, you will gain insight into the fascinating history, doctrines, and iconography of the True Pure Land sect of Buddhism. After immersing yourself in the temple's spiritual ambiance, the tour continues to the enchanting Shosei-en, a traditional Japanese garden filled with ponds and tea houses. Dr. Victoria will share the history of Japanese gardens and tea houses, as well as answer any questions you have about Buddhist beliefs and practices. Uncover the hidden gems of Kyoto and embark on a transformative journey with the Living Buddhism tour.
At a Glance
-
3 hours
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in English
-
Mobile voucher
-
Private Tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Discover the tranquility of Kyoto's Buddhist temples with this unique private tour featuring expert insights from an American-born Buddhist priest.
Included
-
OtherTour Guide
Excluded
-
Admission feesEntrance fee for Temple Garden (Shosei-en)
Meeting Point
The lobby of the Hotel Granvia is located on the second floor of Kyoto Station (up the escalator from the ground floor on the northern end of the station).
JR京都駅 Central Entrance, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216 , Japan
End Point
The lobby of the Hotel Granvia is located on the second floor of Kyoto Station (up the escalator from the ground floor on the northern end of the station).
JR京都駅 Central Entrance, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216 , Japan
What to expect
Higashi Hongan-ji Temple
This tour offers a unique opportunity to visit a quiet, uncrowded, major Buddhist temple complex, popularly known as Higashi Honganji, located within easy walking distance of Kyoto Station. Your guide, a twenty-five year resident of Japan, is American-born Buddhist priest and scholar Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Dr. Victoria will introduce you to the fascinating history of this temple together with the doctrines and iconography of the True Pure Land sect of Buddhism with which it is affiliated. Higashi Honganji has no entrance fee since it remains what it has been for more than four centuries, a place of pilgrimage for practicing Buddhists from throughout Japan.
Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, an architectural masterpiece in Kyoto, invites tourists to immerse themselves in centuries of history, culture, and spirituality. This serene Buddhist temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts stunning wooden structures, exquisite gardens, and a peaceful ambiance that captivates visitors. Experience its rich heritage and tranquil surroundings as you explore the temple grounds.
Shosei-en Garden
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller -
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
-
Visit Higashi Honganji first, it's free. -
Shosei-en Garden has a 500 yen fee.
-
Try local matcha tea in the garden.
-
Public transport is easily accessible.
-
Dress comfortably for walking.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Welcome to Living Buddhism, a unique tour in Kyoto that takes you to a major yet peaceful Buddhist temple complex, offering an escape from the crowded tourist spots. Led by Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria, an American-born Buddhist priest and scholar with a deep understanding of Japanese culture and Buddhism, this tour provides a fascinating insight into the history, doctrines, and iconography of the True Pure Land sect of Buddhism.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect to explore Higashi Honganji, a remarkable temple complex within walking distance of Kyoto Station. This hidden gem is known for its tranquility and the largest wooden building in the world. As you navigate the halls and gardens, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist beliefs and practices. Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria will guide you through the temple's intriguing history, giving you an exclusive opportunity to learn from his extensive knowledge and experience.Who is this for?
Living Buddhism caters to all types of travelers, whether you're a seasoned Buddhist practitioner seeking a deeper connection with the faith or simply curious about Japanese culture and spirituality. This tour welcomes individuals from all walks of life who are eager to delve into the rich heritage of Buddhism and witness the beauty of a serene temple complex away from the bustling crowds.Why book this?
Embarking on the Living Buddhism tour means immersing yourself in a truly authentic experience. By joining Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria, you'll gain insights that go beyond what guidebooks can offer. The chance to visit Higashi Honganji's serene halls, accompanied by an expert who has dedicated years to studying Buddhism, is an opportunity not to be missed. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment or wish to broaden your horizons, this tour promises a unique and unforgettable journey into the heart of Japanese Buddhism.Good to know
The Living Buddhism tour entails a duration of 180 minutes, ensuring ample time to explore Higashi Honganji and appreciate its splendor. The meeting point is the inviting Hotel Granvia lobby, conveniently located on the second floor of Kyoto Station. Please note that Higashi Honganji has no entrance fee, as it remains a sacred place of pilgrimage for practicing Buddhists from across Japan. Prepare to be captivated by the serenity of Japanese gardens and tea houses in the nearby Shosei-en, where you can immerse yourself in the art of ancient traditions.Reviews
Visitors who have embarked on the Living Buddhism tour rave about the profound knowledge and engaging storytelling of Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Travelers greatly appreciate the chance to explore Higashi Honganji without the usual crowds, allowing for a more intimate and serene experience. The tour's thoughtful combination of historical information, spiritual insights, and visits to traditional Japanese gardens creates an enriching adventure that leaves participants feeling enlightened and inspired. Join the Living Buddhism tour and discover a hidden world of Buddhism in Kyoto.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is
