2025.01.29
At HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, we are excited to offer four unique experiences that include exclusive access to UNESCO World Heritage temples To-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, which are renowned cherry blossom viewing spots. These experiences are designed to provide our guests with an unparalleled opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Kyoto in spring. Enjoy the luxury of enjoying the cherry blossoms during your stay with us.
To-ji, one of Kyoto's iconic temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also renowned as a cherry blossom viewing destination, with approximately 200 cherry trees gracing its grounds. Among them, the over 120-year-old weeping cherry tree, Fuji-zakura, stands as a symbol of To-ji in spring. During the nighttime special viewing, the cherry blossoms are illuminated, creating an amazing backdrop that attracts many visitors each year.
We are pleased to offer a private tour, allowing one group per day to exclusively enjoy this world-famous temple. Tour participants will visit To-ji at the end of regular visiting hours and gain access to the Ko-shobo, a private chamber typically closed to the public, originally built to host members of the Imperial family. Inside, you can admire stunning fusuma (sliding door) and wall paintings by the renowned Japanese artist Domoto Insho.
Following this exclusive experience, you’ll explore the temple grounds, including the National Treasure Kondo (Main Hall), the Important Cultural Property Kodo (Lecture Hall), and the National Treasure Five-storied Pagoda, all guided by a priest providing insightful explanations.
Dates: Limited to 3days: Mar 28th, Mar 29th, Apl 1st, 2025
Time:9pm to 10:30pm
Number of Participants: Registration on a first come, first served basis. One group per day. *Maximum of 8 participants per group
Price: JPY 400,000 per group (tax included) Accommodation fees are separate
<Course Content>
Shōshibō (usually not open to the public) → Important Cultural Property: Lecture Hall → National Treasure: Golden Hall → National Treasure: Five-story Pagoda (usually not open to the public) → Garden
Back by popular demand, the Kiyomizu-dera Early Morning Private Tour returns this year. This luxurious experience invites you to explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple during the serene early morning hours when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, accompanied by a special opportunity to converse with the current steward and priest, Shoun Onishi.
The highlight of the tour is access to the Hozoden—a treasure hall typically closed to the public—where Important Cultural Properties are housed. Inside, you can admire rare Buddhist statues, such as the Standing Eleven-faced Kannon and the Standing Bishamonten, as well as vibrantly painted votive plaques (ema), offering a deeply exclusive experience.
To conclude the tour, participants will visit the normally private Joju-in, where they can enjoy a conversation with Shoun Onishi while gazing upon the famed Garden of the Moon. Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of Kiyomizu-dera and its cherry blossoms in the stillness of early morning. This special journey offers not only breathtaking scenery but also meaningful encounters and dialogue, creating a truly enriching and cleansing experience that goes beyond ordinary sightseeing.
Dates: Limited to 3days: Mar 30th, Mar 31st, Apl 3rd, 2025
Time: 6:30am to 8:30am
Number of Participants: Registration on a first come, first served basis. One group per day. *Maximum of 4 participants per group
Price: JPY 400,000 per group (tax included) Accommodation fees are separate
<Course Content> Important Cultural Property: Western Gate (usually not open to the public) → Treasure Hall (usually not open to the public) → National Treasure: Main Hall → Inside the Main Hall (usually not open to the public) → Inner Sanctuary → Jojuin (usually not open to the public) for a conversation with a priest
Important Notes for these Special Experiences
* The details are subject to change based on circumstances on the day of the event.
* Cancellations made within seven days of the scheduled date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the tour cost.
* Participation in the tour is limited to individuals aged 13 and older.
For reservations and inquiries,
please contact: +81 75 468 3100 (Hotel Reception) or email.