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
Anne-marie G.
“Amazing day with Fumi! ”
We had a beautiful and informative day with Fumi! She was extremely knowledgeable and kind. We learned so much about the history of Kyoto while exploring all the beautiful sites! Thank you for sharing your wonderful city with us.
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Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. I had a great day with you and your very nice friendly family. I look forward to seeing you again. I hope you return home safely with lots of happy memories.
Dina T.
“Beautiful one-day tour in Kyoto”
Dear Fumi, I am very grateful to you for a well-planned tour to the famous historic places and beautiful sites in Kyoto in April of 2026, it was exciting! You told so many interesting facts about each place, amazing! Thank you for your recommendations of other places to visit, food and shopping. I enjoyed the whole tour and keep wonderful memories of Kyoto!
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Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. I'm very happy that you enjoyed the tour and whole your trip in Japan. I enjoyed very much with you learning about your country. I hope one day I'd like to visit your country!! I look forward to seeing you again in Kyoto.
Carole B.
“Such a nice day”
The tour guide provides an excellent experience. She was knowledgeable, friendly and well organized making every visit both informative and enjoyable. The itinerary was thoughtfully planned, allowing enough time at each location without feeling rushed. She was always attentive to the group needs. Thank you for the wonderful day Carole
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Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. You and your friends are very friendly and easy going, so I had a pleasant day with you. I hope you return home safely with lots of happy memories. I look forward to meeting you again in Kyoto.
$202/ per group
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Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.
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Timeless Kyoto: A journey to explore the wabi-sabi culture of Higashiyama
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