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Offered languages
- English
This private tour is not for the casual observer—it’s an immersive exploration of architecture, philosophy, design, and the psychology of local life. If these subjects don’t intrigue you, this tour is not for you.
Away from the fleeting highlights of TikTok—which I personally dislike—this private tour is designed for the opposite: depth.
Rather than simply announcing Googled facts like many guides, I aim to unveil the essence of Japan that curious travelers are truly seeking. The soul of the country is revealed through well-known sights, with discussions and debates as we peel back Japan layer by layer.
[ Warning ] If you’re not into architecture, design, philosophy, or psychology, this tour isn’t for you.
[ Notice ] This tour is completely private, meaning it will be only the travelers in your booking—no one else will join.
[ Guarantee ] If the tour doesn’t meet your expectations, you can receive a full refund—through Viator, TripAdvisor, or directly from the guide himself.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The default meeting point is your hotel lobby, and we will contact you to confirm. As the tour will be conducted using public transportation, if you prefer a different meeting spot that is convenient for you, I can easily accommodate that.
Itinerary
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1
We’ll ascend to the rooftop of Kyoto Station and stroll along the Sky Bridge from west to east, where the city unfolds beneath you in a breathtaking panorama. As I share stories and insights about Kyoto, you’ll feel the pulse of this timeless city. And while the station’s bold, modern design dazzles the eye, it also whispers a question: how does such contemporary grandeur coexist with the traditions of Japan’s most historic city?
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Sanjusangendo Temple
We will explore Japan’s longest wooden building and uncover its connection to the art of Kyūdō. Here, you’ll discover the secrets of traditional Japanese carpentry, the cultural significance of wood, and the deeper meaning of the “dō” — the way — in Kyūdō and other Japanese arts, revealing how philosophy and craftsmanship intertwine.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
3
This is the spot where Kyoto’s two rivers converge. What does it have to do with Japanese architecture? You’ll soon discover how nature, water, and design flow together in ways that shape the city’s very soul.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Pontocho District
Here, we’ll zigzag along a narrow traditional street, slipping through the hidden pockets between historic buildings. We’ll dive into the world of Japanese townhouses, exploring machiyas and ryokans, and uncover the fascinating, often overlooked details that make Kyoto’s architecture so uniquely captivating.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Gion
We’ll delve deeper into Japanese architecture and design on a serene stroll through the historic geisha district, winding our way toward one of Kyoto’s most revered Zen temples, where tradition, artistry, and spirituality converge.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Here, we’ll visit the charming Zen garden of Seirai-in, a subtemple within the Kenninji Temple complex, and explore the aesthetics and guiding principles that make Zen garden design a timeless expression of harmony and contemplation.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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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.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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