Explore Kyoto in Style: Temples, Shrines & Cultural Highlights

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Todai-ji Temple

  During your visit to the iconic Tōdaiji Temple in Nara, you’ll discover one of Japan’s most historically significant and visually awe-inspiring landmarks. You will step inside the world’s largest wooden structure, home to the Great Buddha (Daibutsu)—a towering bronze statue that stands over 15 meters high. I will guide you through the temple grounds while sharing fascinating stories about its ancient architecture, Buddhist traditions, and the cultural importance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free
• 2
  Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

  Fushimi Inari Taisha – Kyoto’s Iconic Torii Path Explore the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that wind through the sacred Mount Inari. Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, this site offers a mesmerizing walk through tunnels of red gates, peaceful forest trails, and scenic viewpoints over Kyoto. A must-see cultural landmark, Fushimi Inari Taisha captures the spirit and mystery of Japan’s ancient traditions.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 3
  Gion

  Gion District – Kyoto’s Timeless Geisha Quarter Step into Kyoto’s most enchanting neighborhood, the Gion District, where old Japan comes to life along streets lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and lantern-lit alleys. Famous as the home of Kyoto’s geisha (geiko) and maiko (apprentice geisha), Gion offers a rare glimpse into centuries-old elegance and culture. Stroll along Hanamikoji Street and Shirakawa Canal, admire women in exquisite kimono, and enjoy the soft glow of the evening lights reflecting on the cobblestone paths. Guests can also experience fine kaiseki dining, traditional tea ceremonies, and local crafts. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic beauty, Gion captures the soul of Kyoto — graceful, historic, and unforgettable.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 4
  Kiyomizu-dera Temple

  Kiyomizu-dera Temple – Kyoto’s Iconic Hilltop Sanctuary Discover the breathtaking Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, renowned for its grand wooden stage that extends dramatically over the hillside. Built without a single nail, this architectural marvel offers sweeping views of Kyoto city and the surrounding cherry and maple trees — stunning in every season. Visitors can explore the temple’s sacred halls, drink from the Otowa Waterfall believed to bring health, success, and love, and stroll through the charming Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets lined with traditional shops and teahouses. Whether you visit during cherry blossom season, vibrant autumn foliage, or a tranquil winter day, Kiyomizu-dera embodies the timeless spirit and beauty of ancient Kyoto

  2 hours • Admission ticket not included
• 5
  Nishiki Market Shopping District

  Explore the vibrant Nishiki Market, often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” where over 400 years of food culture come alive in one lively shopping street. This historic marketplace stretches through the heart of downtown Kyoto, offering more than 100 stalls and small shops packed with local delicacies, fresh seafood, pickles, wagashi (Japanese sweets), matcha treats, and street food favorites. You can stroll through the narrow, colorful lanes sampling Kyoto’s signature flavors — from grilled skewers and yuba (tofu skin) to seasonal vegetables and handmade snacks. It’s a paradise for food lovers and photographers alike, blending the energy of a local market with the tradition of Japanese culinary artistry.

  2 hours • Admission ticket not included
• 6
  Kinkakuji Temple

  One of Kyoto’s most celebrated landmarks, Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, is a stunning Zen temple covered in brilliant gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the calm waters of its surrounding pond. Originally built as a shogun’s villa in the 14th century, it was later converted into a temple and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, admire the shimmering pavilion from different angles, and experience the peaceful harmony of traditional Japanese architecture and nature. Each season brings a different charm — cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery autumn leaves, and a serene snow-covered pavilion in winter.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 7
  Arashiyama

  1. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Step into one of Kyoto’s most iconic and enchanting landscapes — the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walk through towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze, creating a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere. The soft rustling sound of the bamboo and filtered sunlight through the dense green canopy make this a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection. 2. Iwatayama Monkey Park Enjoy a short scenic hike up Mount Arashiyama to reach the Iwatayama Monkey Park, home to over 120 Japanese macaques. Once at the top, you’ll not only get up close to the friendly monkeys, you can even feed the monkeys safely from inside a designated area — a fun and memorable experience for both adults and children. 3. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple Discover one of Arashiyama’s hidden gems — the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, a peaceful sanctuary filled with over 1,200 hand-carved stone statues of rakan (Buddha’s disciples)

  2 hours • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

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