Japan Day 4

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Day Plan: Arashiyama + Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

🕘 Morning: Arashiyama

  • Start early (~8:30–9:00 AM) and head to Arashiyama (take JR San-in Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station)

  • Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

  • Visit Tenryu-ji Temple and its beautiful Zen garden

  • Stroll along the Katsura River—option to rent a boat or cross the Togetsukyo Bridge

  • Optional: Visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park (light uphill hike with city views)

🍱 Lunch in Arashiyama

  • Enjoy a riverside meal—try yuba (tofu skin), soba, or matcha-based desserts

🕑 Afternoon: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

  • Take a bus or taxi to Kinkaku-ji

  • Explore the stunning Golden Pavilion and its reflecting pond (spend ~45 minutes to 1 hour)

  • Optionally visit Ryoan-ji Temple (nearby, with a famous Zen rock garden)

🕔 Evening (Optional, depending on your energy)

  • Head back toward central Kyoto—consider an early dinner in Pontocho or explore Nishiki Market if it’s still open

  • Or enjoy a peaceful walk near Kamogawa River as the sun sets

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Our Day 6 was spent on Western and Northwestern part of Iceland. Driving time actually took longer than sightseeing time. The Northwest region is one of the least populated areas in the country, the most untamed region of the island and the least frequented by tourists. Fishing is the only economic activity in this region, which has a harsh climate and beautiful terrain.