The Fushimi Inari Shrine is the head shrine for some 30,000 Inari shrines all across Japan. It is especially famous for its seemingly endless 1,000 vermilion shrine torii (gates). Fushimi Inari was dedicated to the gods of agriculture, the deities were enrolled to ensure prosperity in business, a bountiful harvest and traffic safety.

Arashiyama district is located in the Western part of Kyoto. This area becomes most attractive around early April and late November when the cherry blossoms bloom and the colors of the fall seasons usually peak. During the summer months, traditional cormorant fishing is practiced on the Hozu River for tourists to watch. One highly recommended spot is the Sagano Bamboo Forest. Later, you will have lunch (if selected) at designated restaurants.

There is a Japanese proverb regarding “jumping off of the stage at Kiyomizu". This is the Japanese equivalent of the English expression "to take the plunge". Here in the Main Hall, there is a large wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. It was built without using a single nail and is supported by 139 pillars. The view of the city of Kyoto from this Kiyomizu Stage is magnificent. The Kiyomizu-dera (the temple of clear water) was named after the Otowa Waterfall which is said to be good for your longevity, health, and study if you drink from it. This temple is famous for the cherry blossoms in spring and the foliage in autumn.