The Heian period is for the Japanese as the Ancient Greek and Roman eras are for Europeans. Many of the foundational ideas, beliefs, and customs, as well as defining paintings, poetry, and works of literature were developed during that period, leading some to consider the Heian period as the primary period of development for Japanese culture. Not coincidentally, Heian-Kyo is also the former name of Kyoto, which was at the center of this profound period of development. On our Arashiyama Tour, you travel back in time to this integral period of growth on an excursion to the quiet enclave of Arashiyama on the outskirts of Kyoto, visiting villas, temples, and unspoiled forests to unearth how Japanese identity came about during this fertile period.

Meeting in front of Hankyu Kawaramachi Station, our guide will join us for the 20-minute train ride to Arashiyama, during which we’ll review the history of Kyoto, the important role that Arashiyama played in its development, and how it remains a tranquil enclave in a thoroughly urbanized society. Upon our arrival, we’ll walk to, and then across, Togetsu Bridge, the area's iconic landmark. The bridge, the name of which translates to “a bridge where the moon crosses," is surrounded by lush forests and is adjacent to a cherry tree grove, it provides a fittingly tranquil way to begin our exploration of Arashiyama.

Having passed over the bridge like monks have done for hundreds of years, we’ll move on to Tenryuji Temple, one of the most important Zen temples in the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A Rinza-sect Zen temple, it is known in particular for its garden, which has remained virtually unchanged since its inception, created by famed garden designer Muso Soseki in the 14th century. Exploring the sprawling grounds with our guide on our Arashiyama Tour, we’ll learn about the power struggle that led to the temple’s inception, the foundations of Zen landscape design, and how Zen Buddhism shaped and continues to influence Japanese society today.

Our Arashiyama Tour will at this point proceed into the famed bamboo grove. Wandering through this otherworldly place, we’ll spend some time appreciating the serene sensation of being surrounded by bamboo—it’s difficult to convey the particular sensation that comes from finding oneself surrounded by soaring shoots of bamboo. You may also visit a small shrine called Nonomiya Shrine in the middle of the forest. Originally, this was where an imperial princess purified herself before becoming a high priestess at Ise Grand Shrine. Notably, the shrine makes an appearance in The Tale of Genji, an 11th-century masterpiece of Japanese literature considered by some to be the world’s first novel.

Exiting the grove, we’ll walk about ten minutes to the northern part of Arashiyama, stopping at Jojakkoji Temple. Built in the 16th century, this Buddhist temple is famous for its quiet, yet breathtaking scenery, lovely moss garden, and two hundred maple trees. Enjoying a quiet respite from the more famous sites nearby, we’ll drink in the views of Kyoto as you contemplate the important religious sites and natural beauty you have experienced on our Arashiyama Tour.

We'll wrap up at Jojakkoji Temple, having gained a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture, as well as a better understanding of the forces that shaped it. You will also have the opportunity to see some of the most strikingly beautiful examples of nature in the city, from the finely manicured garden inside Tenryuji Temple to the unforgettable bamboo grove.