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Insider Experience: Hidden Higashiyama ghost tour
Join our Kyoto "Insider" Ayako Kiyono for a ghostly walking tour through the haunted temples and secret tombs of Kyoto's Higashiyama district.
Japan has a rich heritage of ghost and spirit stories, but no where more so than in Higashiyama, one of Kyoto's most attractive and historic corners. To locals this area marks the "entrance to the other world", a world where the spirits of the ancestors reside. In fact, a thousand years ago, it was in Higashiyama where Kyoto city residents disposed of dead bodies, in the days before cremations.
Our "Insider" expert, Ayako Kiyono, will walk you though the local traditions and superstitions as you explore haunted temples and secret tombs where the ghosts lurk. Visit Otani Honbyo, the mausoleum dedicated to Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo-Shin Buddhism which now has over 1,500 tombs. You'll also explore the well at Rokudo Chinnoji meanwhile is known for its deep well where spirits are still said to reside, while Yasui Kompira offers an ingenious solution to troubled love lives.
As you wander the hidden backstreets of Higashiyama, Ayako will regale you with ghost stories. All in all, you're in for a revealing glimpse into the tapestry of ancient superstitions which still play an important role in modern Japanese culture.
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
A quick note about our experiences: Our experiences are designed to be part of a complete, tailor-made travel package and are not available to book individually. This allows us to ensure every detail – from accommodation to transport – is perfectly coordinated for you. If you're interested in one of these experiences, we'd love to help you build a full itinerary around it!
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