Guided Tour of kyoto

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Arashiyama

  Discover the breathtaking charm of Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most beloved districts, where nature, history, and tradition come together in harmony. Located at the foot of the mountains on the western edge of the city, Arashiyama offers a peaceful yet enriching experience for every traveler. What You’ll See and Experience: • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Stroll through the world-famous bamboo forest—an ethereal pathway lined with towering green stalks that sway and whisper in the breeze. It’s a dreamlike experience and perfect for photos.• Togetsukyo Bridge Admire stunning views from this iconic “Moon Crossing Bridge” that stretches over the Katsura River. Especially beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons.

  1 hour 40 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 2
  Kinkakuji Temple

  Visit Kinkaku-ji – Kyoto’s Iconic Golden Temple Step into one of Kyoto’s most iconic and mesmerizing landmarks – Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any traveler visiting Kyoto, offering a picture-perfect blend of beauty, history, and Zen culture. What You’ll See and Experience: • The Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) Be amazed as you lay eyes on the shimmering gold-leaf-covered temple, gracefully reflected in the calm waters of the surrounding pond. Set against a backdrop of pine trees and mountains, it’s one of the most photographed sites in Japan—and for good reason.

  50 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 3
  Nishiki Market Shopping District

  Discover Kyoto’s Kitchen – A Flavorful Walk Through Nishiki Market Step into the heart of Kyoto’s food culture at Nishiki Market, a lively, colorful shopping street known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” With over 100 shops and stalls packed into a narrow, 400-meter arcade, this historic market has been serving locals and visitors for over 400 years. What You’ll See and Experience: • Authentic Kyoto Street Food Taste your way through local favorites like matcha mochi, grilled skewers, Japanese pickles (tsukemono), tamagoyaki (sweet omelet), fresh sashimi, and even fried tofu donuts. Sampling is part of the fun! • Unique Local Ingredients See the core ingredients of Japanese cuisine—dried bonito, seaweed, miso, yuba (tofu skin), and seasonal produce—used by Kyoto’s top chefs. • Traditional Japanese Shops Discover beautifully displayed goods such as handcrafted knives, bamboo kitchenware, tea sets, and elegant ceramics—perfect souvenirs or gifts to take home.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free
• 4

  Discover the former residence of Japan’s imperial family at the majestic Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho), located in the serene Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. Once the political and cultural heart of Japan, this historic site offers travelers a rare glimpse into the elegance of traditional court life and architecture. What You’ll See and Experience: • Grand Palace Grounds Walk through beautifully maintained gravel paths and pine-lined avenues within the expansive Kyoto Gyoen park. The palace grounds are peaceful, spacious, and free to enter—perfect for a relaxing yet meaningful cultural visit. • Traditional Japanese Architecture Admire the refined simplicity and classic design of Shishin-den (the Hall for State Ceremonies), Seiryoden (Emperor’s Residence), and other wooden buildings that showcase imperial-style construction and layout. • Elegant Imperial Gates Pass through the iconic vermillion and wooden gates, including the impressive Kenrei-mon Gate.

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 5
  Gion

  Wander the Historic Streets of Gion – Kyoto’s Geisha District Step back in time as you explore Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, where tradition and elegance come alive. Known for its beautifully preserved wooden townhouses, lantern-lit alleyways, and quiet teahouses, Gion offers a rare glimpse into the refined world of geiko (Kyoto geisha) and maiko (apprentices). What You’ll See and Experience: • Hanamikoji Street – Walk along this iconic cobblestone street lined with traditional machiya houses, upscale restaurants, and exclusive teahouses where geisha still perform. • Maiko & Geiko Sightings – If you’re lucky, you may spot an elegantly dressed maiko gracefully making her way to an evening engagement—an unforgettable Kyoto moment.

  40 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 6
  Kiyomizu-dera Temple

  Visit Kiyomizu-dera – Kyoto’s Iconic Temple with a View Discover the beauty, history, and spiritual heart of Kyoto at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched on the forested hills of eastern Kyoto. Founded in 778, this legendary temple is one of Japan’s most celebrated and visited landmarks. What You’ll See and Experience: • The Grand Wooden Stage Stand on the temple’s massive wooden terrace, built without a single nail, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto city, cherry blossoms in spring, or fiery red maple leaves in autumn. • Main Hall (Hondo) Admire the architecture of the main hall, where the statue of Kannon—the goddess of mercy—is enshrined. It’s a place of deep spiritual significance and tranquility. • Otowa Waterfall Sip water from one of the three sacred streams at the base of the temple. Each stream is said to bless you with either longevity, success in school, or love—choose wisely!

  50 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 7
  Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

  Walk Through 10,000 Gates – Discover Fushimi Inari Taisha Experience one of Japan’s most iconic and spiritual sites at Fushimi Inari Taisha, the head shrine of the Inari deity, located in southern Kyoto. Famous for its endless path of vibrant vermilion torii gates, this sacred mountain shrine offers both beauty and cultural depth. What You’ll See and Experience: • Torii Gate Tunnel (Senbon Torii) Walk through a magical path lined with thousands of red torii gates winding up Mount Inari. It’s one of the most photographed and awe-inspiring sights in all of Japan. • Main Shrine (Honden) Visit the grand main shrine at the base of the mountain, where locals come to pray for success, prosperity, and safe business. You’ll see stunning architecture and detailed Shinto decorations. • Fox Statues (Kitsune) Spot stone foxes, the sacred messengers of Inari, holding keys in their mouths—symbols of rice granaries, abundance, and protection.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tags