In November, Yoshino transforms into a canvas of crimson and gold, as the mountain slopes ignite with vibrant autumn foliage. Join our Nara Autumn tour to discover centuries-old temples nestled among the trees, and step into the sacred world of Shugendō, the mystical mountain faith born in these very hills.
Whether you're admiring the maple-lined trails or pausing in quiet reverence at a temple gate, Yoshino in fall offers a journey both breathtaking and deeply serene.
- Discover the highlights of this tour in the video below.
Start:
9:45 AM in front of the ticket gates at the Kintetsu Osaka-Abenobashi Station (Osaka)
End:
17:52 PM at Kintetsu Osaka-Abenobashi Station (Osaka)
Language: English
Price: USD 138
Season: November
- 09:45 We meet in front of the ticket gates of the Kintetsu Osaka-Abenobashi station (in Osaka)
We will ride a lux train to Mt Yoshino (*Subject to ticket availability)
After arriving we will head to the impressive Kinpusenji Temple, that houses outstanding relics of this religion, including the 7-meter high, blue-skinned statues of Zao Gongen, over 1,300 years old, which are displayed only for limited time during the spring and autumn seasons.
The main pavilion of this temple is the second largest wooden structure in Japan and has been designated as a “National Treasure of Japan”.
At this stop of our Nara Autumn tour we will breathe history!
This shrine was originally founded as a temple in the 8th century. In the 12th century it was the refuge of the famous commander Minamoto Yoshitsune and then, in the 14th century, it gave shelter to Emperor Godaigo, who founded his imperial court in Yoshino and made this shrine his palace.
Live Demonstration
Watch as our artisan explains the fascinating chemistry of kuzu-making through an open kitchen demonstration. Using only water and starch from the kuzu root, witness the magical transformation as kuzu starch turns into sparkling, translucent jelly before your eyes. The artisan will guide you through each step of this centuries-old process, from mixing the ingredients to the delicate heating technique that brings these traditional sweets to life.
Authentic Tasting Experience
Savor freshly prepared Yoshino Hon-Kuzumochi and Yoshino Hon-Kuzukiri, crafted with precision using only water and kuzu flour. The fresh kuzu is translucent, soft, and jelly-like, with an extremely light flavor and hint of natural sweetness. Enjoy your sweets with traditional accompaniments including Japanese molasses, brown kinako powder, and cold tea each adding its own unique dimension to the delicate kuzu.
**Authentic hinoki cypress chopsticks included as a memorable keepsake of your experience.**
- 17:52 Ends at Osaka-Abenobashi Station of Kintetsu Railway (Osaka)
- Express Train Fee between Osaka Abenobashi and Yoshino and (JPY 1,040 ea.)
- Deluxe Train Fee from Osaka Abenobashi to Yoshino (JPY 210)
- English, Japanese and Spanish speaking guide.
- Entrance Fee to Kimpusenji Temple (JPY 1,600)
- Lunch
- Japanese Traditional Kuzu Sweets Demonstration and Tasting (JPY 1,000)
- Food and drinks, unless specified.
- Basic Train tickets between Osaka Abenobashi and Yoshino (approx. $8 USD each way)
(1) This tour includes light hiking in the mountain. Participants must be comfortable with hiking including uneven surfaces, steps and inclines.
(2) This tour route is NOT fully accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
(3) This tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
(4) Participants should be in moderate physical condition.
(5) Pets are not allowed.
(6) We depart at the scheduled time, so please arrive punctually.
(7) Please note that the tour may end slightly earlier or later than scheduled. If you have plans immediately afterward, please allow sufficient time between the tour and your next commitment.
(8) The order of stops may vary depending on route conditions or congestion at destinations.
(9) If any locations are closed, we will visit an alternative location instead. No refunds will be provided in this case.
(10) Since this is a guided walking tour, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
(11) The tour will continue in light rain, so please bring rain jackets and/or umbrellas.
(12) If a weather warning is issued, the tour may be cancelled or suspended, and we will provide a full refund.
