Overview
Yoshino, famous for its cherry blossoms, is also the birthplace of a mystic religion called Shugen-do that draws elements from Buddhism, Shintoism, and animism. While walking through this temple town you might be able to see practitioners clad in their peculiar costumes and hear the sound of the giant conch being blown. The three fierce-looking main statues of Zao-do Hall are exhibited only for a limited period of time a year in spring and in fall. We can look at them really closely and in peace and quiet. Moreover we will visit a sweets shop that makes a special kind of sweet typical of this region and the gorgeous room where emperors ruled from 1336 to 1392. Nature, culture, and history all come together in this exciting and extraordinary tour that will give you new insights into Japan.
Meeting and Pickup
Yoshino Station
From Osaka Abenobashi: take the Kintetsu express bound for Yoshino leaving at 8:20 and arriving at 9:52. From Kyoto: take the Kintetsu express bound for Kashiharajingu-mae at 7:42. Change at Kashiharajingu-mae for the express bound for Yoshino leaving at 9:00 and arriving at 9:52. During cherry blossom viewing season in April trains are very crowded.
What To Expect
Kinpusenji Temple
After climbing up a slope by bus and on foot, we will arrive at the village of Yoshino which has developed on a ridge about 300 m above sea level. As we walk on the street lined with shops on the right and left, we will reach the imposing temple gate Nio (national treasure) with two powerful statues of Kongo Rikishi (fierce guardian gods) in it. The biggest building in the precincts of Kinpusen-ji Temple is the Zao-do Hall (national treasure) which is said to be the second largest wooden building in Japan. One wonders how people built this huge structure up on a mountain in the 9th century. Mountain monks of Shugen-do train and discipline themselves here and pray for people’s peace of mind. Devotional services take place every morning and evening, and we will watch the powerful Goma (fire) offering starting at 11:00 am. From spring and in fall, the 7-meter tall, blue-skinned statues of Yao Gongen, the protector deities of the Yoshino area, can be seen by the public.
Noten Daijin Ryuoin Temple
As we descend 460 steps from Kimpusen-ji Temple, we arrive at Noten Okami Shrine where the deity in charge of brain and head is enshrined. Various other deities are worshiped along the way. It’s a very special feeling descending into the bottom of the valley. This shrine/temple is a unique fusion of Buddhism and Shintoism. It’s hard work to climb up the stairs again, so let’s take a break on the way.
Yakko
Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves are a renowned Nara specialty. Your guide can tell you why this kind of sushi is popular in Nara.
Yoshimizu Shrine
When entering the old Shrine building you can see the lavishly decorated room where the Emperors of the southern court used to work. This place is also known as the site where the general of tragedy, Minamoto-no Yoshitsune, parted with his mistress, a story made into a famous Kabuki play. The general’s beautiful armor is displayed here.
Nakai Shunpudo
Visit Nakai Shunpudo and observe the making of arrowroot cake. White arrowroot powder is transformed into a transparent sweet with a simple but rich taste. Eating sweets while overlooking the mountains of Yoshino will make your fatigue disapper. Afterwards we will walk back to Yoshino station, from where we’ll return to Osaka, Kyoto, or Nara on the 16:34 express.
Additional Info
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Mark_F, Aug 2024
Fantastic tour! Met Hiroko on time at the train station where she reviewed the plan for the day along with maps and photos to illustrate what we would experience. Tour involves taking the local trains to each destination and she helped guide us through the ticket buying process. First we went to the famous Torii gates, where arriving early is a must to avoid the crowds. We arrived with few tourists and had the ability to take lots of photos, and Hiroko was helpful in taking lots of family pictures along the way and throughout the day. She explained history and symbolism of the shrines and gates as we walked. They are as impressive as you have seen! Next we went to the golden temple, which again was magical and stunning. It did start to get crowded but there was still plenty of opportunity to view the temple, and take photos. Again, Hiroko spoke about the relevance and took lots of family pictures. Third, we hopped back on the train and went to the bamboo forest. Started to get a little more crowded but we still got there early enough (before lunch) to enjoy the walk as well as the view. Hiroko was engaging with conversation both relevant to the location as well as general discussion about Japan and other subjects. We stayed for lunch in the area and enjoyed cherry blossom ice cream for dessert – a recommendation from Hiroko! Hiroko also provided us with other recommendations for our stay in Kyoto, which has been extremely helpful and sent our photos from the day which turned out great. Highly recommend this tour – It’s a don’t miss!
Greg, Aug 2024 Noriko was our guide. Was so friendly, spoke great english and really showed us around the 3 major sights of Kyoto. We enjoyed our 5 hours with her and learned so much about Kyoto. Meeting point was easy, communication was easy and her knowledge of each area and the city was really great. Thank you Noriko!
Francis_K, Jul 2024 Great communication and planning with our tour guide prior to the day. Our tour guide Ken was punctual, helpful and friendly. He made sure we stayed hydrated and stayed cool throughout the tour as that day was supposed to be the hottest day of the year ( July 2024). We would be able to complete all the three attractions in time. Thanks to Ken and his excellent time management.
