A Morning at Daitokuji: Exploring the Samurai-Built Sanctuary of Tea (Special Access)

Escape the city bustle in Murasakino, Kyoto's serene northern district. Here stands Daitokuji, a monumental Zen complex rebuilt by powerful Sengoku-period warlords after being devastated by war.

Sub-temples built by these warlords as if to carve their legacies into history... Tea rooms and gardens that carry on the spirit of the great master Sen no Rikyu... This intersection of powerful samurai history and the delicate culture of tea is the true allure of Daitokuji.

Our journey begins at Daisen-in, which features Japan’s oldest surviving entrance. The main hall has stood for over 500 years, overlooking a Dry Landscape Garden (karesansui) wrapped in profound silence. Feel the stillness of its dignified, unchangeable beauty.

Next, we proceed to the Hatto (Dharma Hall) and Kyozo (Sutra Library), areas usually closed to the public. During this special opening, you will stand beneath the “Crying Dragon” ceiling painting—clap your hands and feel its mysterious echo. This moment is a privilege unique to this season.

After immersing yourself in the deep history of Daitokuji, we will visit Imamiya Shrine, worshipped since before the ancient capital moved to Kyoto as a guardian against plagues.

We conclude the journey with a moment of authentic Kyoto life: savoring the iconic Aburi-mochi at a cherished 400-year-old teahouse.

This half-day journey offers an intimate encounter with Kyoto's heritage and a warm, rustic treat perfect for the winter season.

Daitokuji is a major Zen temple complex with over 20 sub-temples. We will visit Daisen-in, home to Japan’s oldest surviving entrance and alcove (National Treasures).

Since its founding in 1509, it has preserved its original appearance for over 500 years. The highlight is the dry landscape garden (karesansui), a masterpiece of the Muromachi period. In a compact space of just 100 square meters, the world of "ink wash painting" is expressed three-dimensionally. The flow begins at the waterfall in the northeast, overcomes obstacles to become a great river, and finally pours into the vast ocean.Crafted entirely from rocks and sand, this dramatic scene is often interpreted as a metaphor for the journey of life.We invite you to reflect on your own life journey while viewing it in the winter silence.

We will enter the Hatto (Dharma Hall) and Kyozo (Sutra Library), which are usually closed to the public for training and rituals. Inside the Hatto, experience the mystical acoustics by clapping your hands under the "Nakiryu" (Crying Dragon) ceiling painting by the legendary artist Kano Tanyu. In the Kyozo, also specially opened, you will see the "Octagonal Revolving Sutra Shelf." It is said that rotating this massive bookshelf once grants the same merit as reading all the Buddhist scriptures stored within it.

Imamiya Shrine has been protecting the community for over 1,000 years, enshrining a deity against plagues and disasters, and is deeply cherished by locals as a haven for health and longevity. Don't miss the mysterious Ahokashi-san Stone on the grounds, used for wish divination. Lift the stone to gauge its original weight, stroke it while making a heartfelt wish, then lift it again. If it feels perceptibly lighter the second time, your wish is believed to be granted. Engage in this unique, hands-on mysterious experience!

Step into a living piece of Kyoto's daily life at this 400-year-old historic teahouse. The flavor of its signature Aburi-mochi has nurtured generations, passed down from parent to child. The famous Aburi-mochi are small rice cakes, perfectly grilled over fine Bincho charcoal and coated in a secret house sauce. The taste is an addictive blend of sweet sugar and savory white miso, creating a rich, salty-sweet perfection. Conclude your tour with this warming, rustic treat, complemented by the fragrant aroma of charcoal and a cup of hot tea.

◎ English-speaking local guide
◎ Admission fees for Daitokuji (Daisen-in, Hatto)
◎ Cost at "Aburi-mochi Honke Nemoto Kazariya"
×Transportation costs

9:00 Meeting at Daitokuji Main Gate (So-mon)

9:15 Daitokuji: Daisen-in

10:00 Daitokuji: Hatto & Kyozo [Special Viewing]

10:45 Imamiya Shrine

11:15 Aburi-Mochi at Kazariya

12:00 Tour ends / Individual Departure

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・Free of charge for cancellations up to 3 days prior to the tour date, 100% for cancellations 2 days or less prior to the tour date.
・Special Cases (Natural disaster, virus, etc.): Full refund.
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