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Offered languages
- English
On this half-day group tour, we will visit picture-postcard places of Kyoto in Higashiyama area and enjoy walking through quiet alleys.
To start with, we will visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, and visit the photogenic places nearby that look like they have appeared in films! After strolling the scenic and hidden paths in Higashiyama area, we will stop by the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, Kenninji Temple, to adore their beutiful gardens. Finally, we will take a walk the picturesque streets of Gion, where "Memoirs of a Geisha" was set in, to end our tour.
If you are interested in Japanese culture and history of Kyoto, this tour will be a great introduction!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please meet up at Kyoto Ceramic Center, in front of the entrance.
Itinerary
-
1
Meet at Kyoto Ceramic Center
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
visit Kiyomizu-dera and learn about culture, history from professional guide. Kiyomizu-dera is not only a significant religious site but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most visited and culturally significant landmarks.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
(Pass by)
The Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka are historic, steep streets leading up to Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. Sannen-zaka (Three-Year Slope) is the longer and steeper of the two, while Ninen-zaka (Two-Year Slope) is slightly shorter. Both are lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and old-style architecture, creating a charming, nostalgic atmosphere. These paths are popular with visitors, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's past while leading to the famous Kiyomizu-dera temple.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Seiryu-en is a Japanese garden located near Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. It is known for its beautiful landscape design, featuring ponds, traditional wooden bridges, and carefully arranged plants, offering a peaceful retreat. The garden is part of the Kiyomizu-dera temple complex and provides visitors with a serene space to enjoy nature while overlooking the surrounding area. Seiryu-en is particularly famous for its seasonal beauty, with vibrant colors in spring and autumn.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
The Yasaka Pagoda (Yasaka no Tou) is a historic five-story pagoda located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. It stands near the Yasaka Shrine and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Built in the 15th century, the pagoda is known for its elegant design and significant cultural value. It is often associated with the surrounding historic streets, including Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, and offers a beautiful view of Kyoto’s traditional landscape. The Yasaka Pagoda is a symbol of Kyoto’s rich history and heritage.
Admission ticket free -
3
Yasaka Koshindo is a small, traditional temple located near Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. It is dedicated to the worship of "Koshin," a deity believed to protect people from illness and misfortune. The temple is known for its colorful, vibrant atmosphere, with many small wooden figurines called "koshin," which represent the deity. Visitors often come to offer prayers for health and protection. Yasaka Koshindo is particularly famous for its yearly rituals and its charm as a peaceful spot in the bustling Higashiyama district.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Yasui Konpiragu is a Shinto shrine located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. It is dedicated to Konpira-sama, the deity of safe travels and maritime protection. The shrine is particularly famous for its unique "love" connection, as people often visit it to pray for love, relationships, and marriage. It is believed that visitors can pray for happiness in their personal lives, and a popular custom involves walking through a small stone tunnel within the shrine grounds. Yasui Konpiragu is a peaceful and lesser-known spot that attracts visitors seeking blessings for love and good fortune.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Kennin-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai. It is one of the oldest and most significant Zen temples in Japan. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, including the large main hall (hōjō) and the stunning Zen garden. A highlight is the "Twin Dragons" painting on the ceiling of the main hall, created by artist Koizumi Junsaku. Kennin-ji is also famous for its peaceful atmosphere, offering a place for meditation and reflection.
50 minutes • Admission ticket included -
(Pass by)
Hanamikoji Street is a main street in Gion. This charming street is lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, shops and restaurants, exuding an atmosphere of old-world elegance. Hanami-koji is especially renowned for its well-preserved architecture and its association with Kyoto’s geisha culture, where you might spot geiko (geisha in Kyoto) and maiko gracefully walking.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- As this is a walking tour, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
- There could be a delay at when the tour ends, if you have an appointment or plan right after this tour, please let us know in advance
- The tour will take place rain or shine.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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