Kyoto Incense Experience at the Imperial Household temple

Kyoto, Japan
Duration2h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesJapanese, English
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Japan's only Imperial Household temple, Sennyuji, with an exclusive incense ceremony led by a master of the Senzan Goryu school.

What's included

  • A guide/interpreter
  • Exclusive temple tour
  • Incense ceremony led by a master
  • Ceremonial offering of incense
  • Brunch
  • Bottled water
  • Private transportation

What to expect

  1. Sennyuji Temple
    2h 30m · Admission ticket included
    Visit the main hall for a quiet moment of reflection, then enjoy a monk-guided tour of the temple grounds, learning about its history and ties to Japan’s Imperial family. The tour includes access to areas typically closed to the public, such as a kumikō incense ceremony in a Japanese-style room with sliding door paintings.

    Originally part of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, these cultural treasures hold great historical significance. The ceremony is led by an instructor from the Senzan Goryu school of Kodo, a prestigious tradition with roots in Sennyuji.

    This 90-minute experience introduces the ancient art of incense blending, deeply connected to Kyoto’s cultural heritage. The tour ends with a ceremonial incense offering at the main hall, leaving you with tranquility and spiritual connection.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please meet your guide in front of the Daimon gate (main gate) of Sennyuji temple. The guide will be holding a yellow sign.

End point

Please meet your guide in front of the Daimon gate (main gate) of Sennyuji temple. The guide will be holding a yellow sign.

Additional information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
35,000.00 JPY per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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From
35,000.00 JPY per person
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