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The ancient city of Kyoto holds many wonders to discover on this full-day tour. Begin with a scenic 1.5-hour motorcoach ride to the first destination, Kinkakuji Temple.

Then "Temple of the Golden Pavilion," Kinkakuji Temple is a landmark and symbol of Kyoto. The main building, a three-story pavilion covered in gold leaf, was originally the retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu but was made a Zen temple after his death in 1408. Surrounded by peaceful gardens, thoughtfully laid out around a central pond, Kinkakuji is designated as a National Special Historic Site, a National Special Landscape, and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The garden is a perfect example of classical Muromachi-period garden design, which emphasized the harmonious integration of buildings with their surroundings.

After your pleasant stroll through the extensive grounds, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant before proceeding on to Nishiki Market.

From here, it is a short drive over to lively Nishiki Market, a long, narrow, outdoor marketplace where you can stroll and discover a wide variety of Kyoto's finest culinary delights. Begun as a fish market in 1310, the district grew and added a wider variety of shops over the years. It now is popular with tourists and locals alike! Many stores have been run by the same families for generations, and most things you see are produced locally.

The final stop of the day is Kiyomizu Temple, in the eastern part of Kyoto. First established in 778, it has been destroyed numerous times. Most if the existing structures date from the early Edo period (1630s). The Buddhist temple's main hall is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is where you can find the famous Kiyomizu Stage – a veranda that extends out over a cliff and which was built without a single nail. The view of Kyoto from the stage is unparalleled. Don't miss the waterfall, whose water is said to have wish-granting powers, or the "love shrine" where visitors can attempt to walk between two stones with closed eyes. Success supposedly foretells good fortune in love!