A day tour to quietly enjoy the most spectacular autumn foliage.
This tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy the autumn foliage in mid-November. Sanzen-in Temple in northern Kyoto is famous for its stunning autumn foliage. It's a bit of a detour, but well worth it. After Sanzen-in, we move to the Higashiyama area and experience the wabi-sabi aesthetic at Shimogamo Shrine, Eikan-do Temple, and Nanzen-ji Temple.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Kyoto station central exit
- At the central exit of JR Kyoto station
Sanzenin temple
Sanzenin is a temple of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism and was founded by monk Saicho who introduced Tendai Buddhism to Japan in 804. The garden is particularly impressive during the autumn colors, which usually take place in mid November.
Shimogamo shrine
One of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, registered by UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The shrine complex is surrounded by the Tadasu no Mori forest that shelters visitors in a world of green.
Lunch
Near Shimogamo shrine, there are several restaurants.
Eikando temple
Eikando Temple is known as one of the most famous spots for viewing autumn leaves in Kyoto. Other attractions include the principal image of the temple, the "Looking Back Amida," and the Seven Mysteries of Eikando Temple.
Nanzenji temple Sanmon
From Sanmon( a huge mountain gate) of Nanzennji temple, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic view of Kyoto city.
Nanzenji Hojo (Main hall)
The highlights of Nanzenji Temple is the main bulding designated as national treasures, and breathtaking dry landscape Gardens. It was relocated from the former Imperial Palace, and is famous for its Kano school sliding screen paintings.
Acueduct Suirokaku
This acueduct Suirokaku in japanese has a unique, modern feel to it. It is called Suirokaku because of its imposing appearance that is reminiscent of the aqueducts of the Roman Empire.
Keage
Keage Incline was the longest incline railway in the world at the time it was built. The incline railway allowed a boat to ascend the height difference of approximately 36 meters without unloading its cargo. The boat was loaded onto a trolley, and carried by the same mechanical principle used for cable cars.
Ending Point
At your hotel
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
* Admission fees ¥2200 per person (Including all temples)
* Taxi fee ¥5000-8000 Round trip fare from your hotel
* Lunch ¥1500 - 2500 per person
* Admission fees, transport fee and lunch for guide.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Fumi U.
I have spent nearly 30 years working in a Government organization, contributing to development projects in Latin America and African countries. During this time, I cultivated strong cross-cultural understanding and effective communication skills.
For the past 10 years, I have lived in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where I managed a guesthouse, operated a jewelry workshop, and provided guided tours. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep sense of hospitality and attentiveness, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Leveraging these skills, I am dedicated to sharing the beauty of Japan with international guests and creating unforgettable travel experiences.
Reviews
Michelle G.
“A Perfect Day Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Gems — Fumi is Incredible!”
We booked the private eight-hour Kyoto western treasures tour through Go With Guide and it was hands down one of the most memorable days of our entire trip. Our tour guide Fumi was absolutely exceptional — friendly, warm, deeply knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about sharing the history and culture of Kyoto. She made our group of six feel completely taken care of from start to finish. We paid for an extra hour and included the round-trip Sagano Romantic train ride. The itinerary itself was perfectly curated. We began at the enchanting Ōtagi Nenbutsu-ji, where the hundreds of whimsical stone statues were unlike anything we had ever seen. From there, we walked the historic Atago Kaidō to Jōjakkō-ji Temple, strolled through the magical Bamboo Grove, and visited the stunning Tenryū-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a wonderful lunch break, we explored the world-renowned rock garden at Ryōan-ji before finishing the day at the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji — the Golden Pavilion truly lived up to every expectation. What set this tour apart was Fumi. Her knowledge, warmth, and enthusiasm made every stop more meaningful and memorable. If you are planning a trip to Kyoto, this tour is an absolute must — and if Fumi is your guide, you are in for an extraordinary day. Highly recommend!
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Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing such a wonderful review. I'm so sorry your husband couldn't make it. It was a special tour, starting with Saga Romantique train and ending at Kinkaku-ji Temple, so I imagine you were a little tired. However, I'm so glad that we were able to share such a fun time together, experiencing the unique characteristics of each place. I hope we can meet again someday when you visit Kyoto.
Lisa O.
“Very good tour”
Fumi gave us an excellent tour of the Kiyomizu temple, the Kinkaku-ji temple, the Bamboo Forest and The Tenryu-ji temple. She provided us with an interesting history and explained the significance of each site. She also found a good restaurant or lunch that met our dietary requirements. This was an excellent tour and we would definitely recommend Fumi.
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Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. I was so glad that you and your husband were very interested in Japanese culture. I had a great time with you!! I look forward to seeing you again in Kyoto.
Nao N.
“Great time around Kyoto ”
We had a wonderful day along with Fumi san. She was very nice and liberated our mind of when and where and how to get there. Allowing us to enjoy the sites without stress. She gave us a lot of information about the history with made the whole experience much more enjoyable.
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Fumi U.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review. The time I spent with you was an unforgettable and valuable experience. I was impressed by your willingness to learn even more about Japanese history, despite your already extensive knowledge. I would love to see you again.
$188/ per group
More tours by Fumi U.
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Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.
Perfect for those with limited time, this well-organized tour allows you to experience Kyoto’s most iconic sights efficiently. The itinerary includes the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoanji, Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge. While these popular spots can be crowded, we utilize taxis to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey through this culturally rich city.
Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.
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Las atracciones imprescindibles de Kioto y los sitios UNESCO en un día.
Ideal para quienes disponen de poco tiempo, este tour le permitirá conocer los lugares más emblemáticos de Kioto de manera eficiente. El itinerario incluye el Pabellón Dorado, el Bosque de Bambú, el Templo Tenryu-ji, el Puente Togetsukyo, Kiyomizu-dera y finaliza en el histórico distrito de Gion. Aunque estos sitios suelen estar concurridos, utilizamos taxis y transporte público para garantizar un recorrido cómodo y fluido por esta ciudad llena de historia y cultura.
Las atracciones imprescindibles de Kioto y los sitios UNESCO en un día.
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Timeless Kyoto: A journey to explore the wabi-sabi culture of Higashiyama
Experience the timeless elegance of Kyoto on an exclusive tour seeking a deeper connection with traditional Japan. The day begins from Ginkaku-ji, the Philosopher’s Path, Hōnen-in, Eikando and Nanzen-ji—nestled at the base of Mount Hiei, where the subtle harmony of wabi-sabi and the changing seasons come to life.
Timeless Kyoto: A journey to explore the wabi-sabi culture of Higashiyama
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Kyoto's highlights walking tour by public transport
This is a one-day efficient tour that uses public transportation to visit Kyoto's famous tourist spots. This tour will take you to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Ryoan-ji Temple, and Kinkaku-ji Temple.
Kyoto's highlights walking tour by public transport
Other Popular Day Trip Tours in Kyoto
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Kyoto’s Must-See Wonders: Red Gates, Bamboo Forest & Golden Temple!!
Experience Kyoto’s top highlights in one unforgettable day. Walk through thousands of red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, an iconic symbol of Japan’s spiritual heritage. Wander the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and enjoy its riverside charm, a perfect escape into nature. End the day at the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), glowing against the reflection of its tranquil pond. This tour blends culture, history, and natural beauty—capturing the true essence of Kyoto in just one day.
Kyoto’s Must-See Wonders: Red Gates, Bamboo Forest & Golden Temple!!
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Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city
This tour covers 4 must-see sightseeing spot . Firstly, we visit the golden pavilion. We go to Arashiyama. We walk through Tenryuji garden and bamboo forest. In the afternoon, we'll visit Nijo castle. (We enjoy watching a live demonstration of Japanese sweet making with green tea(Mattcha).Finally you can learn about Kyoto’s traditional and wonderful kimono
Charming must -see in north west area of Kyoto city
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Your most memorable tour in Kyoto
Kyoto is an ancient capital that has existed for over 1000 years. There are many shrines and temples, and you can also see traditional Japanese culture such as tea ceremony and flower arrangement. You can also see the beautiful scenery that will take your breath away. Please feel Kyoto, which can be said to be the origin of Japan, with all five senses.
Your most memorable tour in Kyoto
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Customized Private Tour in Kyoto
This is customized private tour in Kyoto which guests can create easily by selecting any spots from a list of popular tourist destinations. The list consists of 16 tourist destinations (S01-16) that are very popular especially among foreign tourists. After the guest's selection the guide will arrange best itinerary with tour cost and feedback proper offer to the guest for formal booking.
Customized Private Tour in Kyoto
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