Japanese Roof Architecture and Workshop Tour

Tour info

Duration
4 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Discover and learn in detail about the beautiful Japanese roof architecture of temples and shrines. This is a unique opportunity to visit workshops and experience this form of craftsmanship. On this tour, you will visit some of the last craftsmen who dedicate their lifework to the preservation of renowned temples and shrines in Japan. Since ancient times, Japanese people have believed that the beauty of Japanese architecture starts from the roof. This tour is an amazing chance to learn and understand Japanese roof tiles, which are recognized internationally for their beauty and artistic details. In the intimate venue of their workshops and homes, the roof craftsmen will explain to you how roof materials such as tiles, cypress bark and rice straw are used for roofs and share in detail the differences between temple and shrine roofs. 

What’s included?

  • Local guide

  • Mini onigawara ornament

  • Local transportation fare (taxi fare from JR Hieizan-Sakamoto Station)

  • A snack (SOBA buckwheat noodle)

  • All Fees and Taxes

  • Entry/Admission - Sakamoto Tourist Information Center

  • Entry/Admission - Otsu

  • Entry/Admission - Hiyoshi Taisha

  • Gratuities

  • JR Kyoto Station Pickup charge

  • Round trip train fare between JR Kyoto and JR Hieizan-Sakamoto stations

  • Entry/Admission - Kyoto

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h 30m

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Cancellation Policy

    If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.

Operated by:

Tour du Lac Biwa

About operator:

Spend quality time with your family, friends or a special person at the tranquil lakeside which is a hidden gem away from all the main tourist's hot spots of Japan. On our tour, you can experience quality Japanese traditional life as well as cooking experience using plentiful fresh local vegetables and rice through heart-warming communication with our friendly local host families. We offer programs where you can enjoy the beautiful scenes of Lake Biwa or terraced rice fields either by bicycles or by foot at your own pace. Other programs are offered where one can learn about traditional local culture and art. All the tours are either private or as part of a small group attended by a guide to ensure the quality of your tour. Discover and participate in the traditions of Shiga life in un-crowded, natural surroundings. We believe that our tours offer a real heart to heart cross-cultural experience, which will remain as one of the highlights of your trip to Japan.

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