An Autumn Walk Among
1200 Sacred Statues

AUTUMN EDITION
Online Experience

DESCRIPTION:
A Unique Kyoto Adventure
Get insider access to a mountain temple that is far off the radar of most visitors to Kyoto. As we stroll the grounds of this highly unique temple during peak autumn season you will hear about it’s fascinating story that has never been told in such depth in English before.

Stepping Back Into Time
We begin our magical adventure strolling through the streets of Arashiyama, a small town on the west side of Kyoto which has been a popular destination going back 1,200 years ago, when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. After spending time along along the river, we make a quick visit to the famed Saga Bamboo Forest, and visit the villa of an ex-samurai film actor, reveling in the beautiful autumn foliage at each site along the way.

Then we will head north into the foothills, to a quiet temple called Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. Originating in the middle 700’s, this temple had fallen on hard times after WWII. In an effort to restore it, an ambitious art project was initiated that brought regular people from all over Japan together to carve their own rakan, or followers of the Buddha, out of stone.

An Introspective and Relaxing Experience
In this online experience you will follow the artistic transformation of Otagi Nenbutsu-ji and intimately experience the power it emanates. While traveling through space and time, this truly unique and uplifting story will undoubtedly fill your heart with joy and inspiration.

LENGTH:
1.5 hours

REQUIRED SOFTWARE:
Zoom

FEE:
$22.00 per guest
$110.00 for a private group of up to 5 guests.

ABOUT YOUR HOST:
Hello. I am Andrew William, a landscape designer living in Kyoto for the last decade. Over the last 3.5 years I have been leading tours of many of the amazing gardens and cultural sites in Kyoto. With over 1,000 5-star online reviews, An Design has become one of the most highly rated tour companies in Kyoto.

Drawing on my 16 years of garden experience in the US and Japan and my self-studies in Eastern philosophy since my early teens, I am able to provide experiences for my guests that are unique and from the heart.

As the only foreigner to graduate from the Kyoto Japanese Garden Training Program, I have gained insights to Japanese culture and gardens that are very rare for an outsider to obtain.

I hope to be able to lead you on an adventure away from the regular tourist route, immersed in the exquisite and mystical nature of Kyoto.

RECENT REVIEWS:

“If it’s possible to travel to a location without leaving your house, Andrew has made that experience possible with our tour in Kyoto. It was a great mix of history, culture, and perspectives beyond the typical attractions that Japan usually draws.

For both the experienced and novice traveler, these tours provide hidden gems that all will enjoy. Definitely recommend.” —Evan.

“I booked this experience for my parents as a present and they had the most incredible time. They said the tour was beautiful, very well done and that they learned so much from Andrew. They also really enjoyed connecting with Andrew and hearing about his life and his time living in Kyoto.

My family now wants to plan a trip to Kyoto as soon as we can. Thank you so much Andrew, this turned out to be a great gift!” —Daniela