Page 14 - Japan 11 Day Sample Itinerary

A stroll through Nara Park from Todaiji leads to one of the best Shinto Shrines in Japan the Kasuga Grand Shrine (or Kasuga Taisha). Kasuga Shrine is Nara’s most celebrated shrine. It was established at the same time as the capital and dedicated to the deity responsible for the protection of the city. Kasuga Taisha was also the tutelary shrine of the Fujiwara, Japan’s most powerful family clan of most of the Nara and Heian Period. As Shinto tradition dictated, the family tore down and completely rebuilt the structure every 20 years until the late 1800s. The Shrine is famous for its 3000 stone lanterns which were donated by worshippers. The many bronze lanterns within the shrine and the hundreds of stone lanterns lining the shrine’s approach are lit on the occasion of the Lantern Festivals in February and August.. At approximately 6:00 PM return to Kyoto and check in to the Kyoto Hotel Okura. At the Kyoto Hotel Okura, reservations for (2) Corner Deluxe Rooms have been confirmed for the following 2 nights. Centrally located in the city’s tallest building, Kyoto Hotel Okura has welcomed guests for 120 years. Just steps from Shiyakusho-mae subway station, it offers 7 restaurants and beautiful city views. Sophisticated elegance inspires the rooms at the Kyoto Okura, with smooth lighting and relaxed colors. Rooms include picture windows with wide city views, and have free broadband internet. A variety of shops are located within the hotel, including a bakery and gift shop. Top Lounge Orizzonte and Teppanyaki Restaurant Tokiwa offer top-floor views of Kyoto. Irifune overlooks a garden and serves local Kyoto cuisine. Chinese and Italian restaurants, a bar and cafe are also housed at the hotel. This evening you may wish to explore Teramachi Street, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with interesting galleries and shops selling traditional goods. Or.. venture into the historic neighborhood of Ponto-cho and enjoy a stroll through the Gion District of Kyoto to see the elaborately dressed geisha in their fabulous kimono. Overnight: Kyoto Hotel Okura – (2) Corner Deluxe Rooms