A Full Day In Kyoto: Food, Geishas, Temples
A perfect blend of taste and tradition—start with a delicious food tour at Nishiki Market, featuring 7 types of Japanese food (included in the price). Then stroll through the historic Gion district and visit iconic landmarks like the Yasaka Pagoda, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Kodaiji Temple.
Ideal for first-time visitors who want to experience Kyoto’s culture, scenery, and flavors in one memorable day!
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Apple Kyoto
- Apple Store Kyoto 〒600-8006 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Tachiuri Nakanocho, 83-1 〒600-8006 京都府京都市下京区四条通高倉東入立売中之町83-1
Nishiki Market
Kyoto’s historic food market with over 400 years of history, enjoy souvenir shopping and trying 7 types of local Japanese food.
Kamo Gawa
Kyoto’s most famous river—perfect for relaxing walks, and enjoying the view of nature, with cherry blossoms along the riverside in April.
Shirakawa Canal
One of Kyoto’s most beautiful streets, lined with willow trees and traditional houses.
Hanami Koji
The heart of the Gion geisha district, known for its wooden teahouses and the chance to spot a geisha or maiko.
Yasui Kompiragu Shrine
Famous for its “power stone” that’s said to break bad ties and bring good relationships.
Yasaka Pagoda Tower
A tall five-story pagoda that’s a Kyoto icon.
Kiyomizu Dera Temple
Famous temple with a huge wooden stage and stunning city views.
Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
Historic shopping streets full of charm, souvenirs, and photo spots.
Kodaiji Temple
Zen temple with pretty gardens, bamboo grove, and peaceful vibes.
Yasaka Shrine
One of Kyoto’s most famous shrines, especially known for the Gion Festival. It’s lively and open day and night.
Pontocho Alley
A narrow alley beside the river, filled with traditional restaurants and bars. A great place for food and a possible geisha sighting.
Ending Point
End in Pontocho Alley
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
• Entrance ticket for Kiyomizu-dera temple
• Entrance ticket for Kodaiji Temple
• Nishiki Market Food Tasting with vegetarian option available (wagyu beef gyozas, fluffy Japanese omelette, shrimp tempura, freshly made takoyaki, soy milk donuts, matcha mochi, japanese sake)
• Hotel Pick Up
Tour Important Information
Tour Duration: 7 hours
• Included Experiences:
• 7 types of Japanese food included in Nishiki Market food tasting
• Stroll through the Gion & Hanami Koji geisha districts
• Visit two iconic temples: Kiyomizu-dera and Kodaiji Temple
Food Info:
• Vegetarian-friendly options available upon request
• Food items can be swapped for allergies or dietary needs – please inform in advance
Geisha Etiquette:
• No direct interaction with geisha or maiko, no guaranteed sighting
• Photos are allowed from a distance only, out of respect for their privacy
Entrance Fees:
• Entrance ticket to Kiyomizu-dera and Kodaiji Temple is included in the tour price
What to Bring:
• Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a bottle of water
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 Jasmine L.
Hi, I’m Jasmine! I am a friendly, multilingual guide based in Kyoto.
My tours are perfect for families with children and easy-paced for elderly guests. I offer warm, personal experiences filled with fun stories, local delights, and hidden gems you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s explore Kyoto together!
Reviews
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Nathan D.
“Gion/Temple for deaf solo traveller”
Jasmine had been very excellent throughout the guided tour. I’m impressed by how knowledgeable she is about Gion and the temple. The route she designed for this tour is very relaxing and easy-paced, which is excellent! Just what I needed after some heavy walking during my trip around Japan :) If you need a relaxing day and don’t want to put too much strain on your legs, and want to learn more about the history of Gion and its temple, then this tour will be perfect for you. I will recommend it to everyone. A must-try!
Daria V.
“Great guide!”
Jasmine was a really great guide, very kind sweet and smart. She was there on time and her knowledge of the city of Kyoto is immensely big she knows all about the culture and answered all the questions very confidently. She had a great recommendations for restaurants and shopping spots as well as she knew how to move around the temples and the shrines, giving you the best perspective of Kyoto and it’s all within walking distance. She was very attentive and well spoken and her English is really good. We are more than satisfied with her job and we would recommend this tour for anyone who is coming to Kyoto because it will amplify and make your experience so much better and you will learn a lot of things with her. she was a great photographer since she offered to take pictures and even gave us a little parting gift before the tour 0 The best guide in Kyoto! I
Maile B.
“A lovely day filled with history and flexibility!”
Jasmine did a great job of communicating ahead of time all the logistics and answered all my questions. During the tour she was very knowledgeable and super friendly. We have younger children who aren’t from a walking city so Jasmine altered the day to fit the needs of our family. It was a wonderful tour and we highly recommend Jasmine!
$421/ per group
More tours by Jasmine L.
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A Family Day in Kyoto: All The Best Places
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Discover Old Kyoto: Gion Geisha Stroll
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Discover Old Kyoto: Gion Geisha Stroll
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Arashiyama Tour with Scenic Boat Ride
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Arashiyama Tour with Scenic Boat Ride
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Short Relaxing Tour: Explore Gion and Temples
Step into the magic world of old Kyoto! This 4-hour tour takes you through the heart of the city’s most traditional neighborhoods—perfect for first-time visitors. Stroll the charming streets of Gion, lined with beautiful wooden teahouses and learn about the geisha culture. We’ll visit the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Zen Kodaiji Temple, and the 1000 year old Yasaka Shrine. Along the way, enjoy scenic views, traditional architecture, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Short Relaxing Tour: Explore Gion and Temples
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Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
Step into the beauty of Arashiyama, Kyoto’s scenic district, with this 4-hour walking tour. Starting from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, you’ll visit the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, the historic Tenryū‑ji Temple, the enchanting Sagano Bamboo Grove, and the peaceful Adashino Nenbutsu‑ji Temple. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and serene strolls away from the main crowds.
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
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Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. It is best to have a local person guiding you to come up with a plan that suits your preference. I can create a tour with you which includes not only popular places like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari but small temples with wabi sabi such as those in Sagano and one of the oldest Japanese sweets shops in Murasakino.
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
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A Zen Immersion at Daitoku-ji Temple: Gardens and Tea
Daitoku-ji is a renowned Zen temple founded in 1315. During this visit, we will explore three to four of its 24 sub-temples that are open to the public. You will gain insight into Zen philosophy while enjoying serene gardens and traditional ink paintings, as well as an introduction to the tea ceremony rooted in Zen practice. Optional add-ons include a zazen meditation experience (subject to availability) and a Zen vegetarian lunch. Refresh yourself in the tranquil grounds.
A Zen Immersion at Daitoku-ji Temple: Gardens and Tea
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