Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.
Arashiyama is the hottest tourist destination. It is incredibly beautiful in spring and fall because of its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
In the fall, the leaves turn brown or red! In the outstanding Tenryuji, you will see a beautiful garden with beautiful mountains in the background. There are many other beautiful places with touching stories in this area. On the way back to downtown, we can visit two world heritage sites, Kinkakuji and Ryoanji. What a wonderful route!
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At you hotel lobby
Your hotel or the station
At your Hotel Lobby in Kyoto, etc.
Togetsukyo Bridge
Symbol of the Arashiyama area. The moon crossing bridge.
Tenryuji Temple
You will see the beautiful garden with beautiful Arashiyama and Kameyama in the backdrop.
The Bamboo Grove and the Kameyama Park
A Hot spot among foreign tourists! You must feel it's exotic.
And panoramic views from the Kameyama Park.
Lunch
We can spend time in a small, quiet, home-like restaurant
We will use some gorgeous restaurants when we need to book during the high season.
Jojakkoji Temple/ or other temple
Beautiful temple with stunning autumn foliage.
Ryoanji temple
Zen Buddhist temple, famous for its dry garden, admired by Queen Elizabeth. Please feel the universe of Zen Buddhism.
Kinkakuji Temple
Golden Temple. Top of the must-see list in Japan.
Visit at the best time of the day.
Hotel
Your hotel or the station
Ending Point
At you hotel or train station
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46733/f91fb200-8cd3-42eb-ab83-22445375e494.png)
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, hotel pick-up
transportation fee (you and the guide): taxi(about 4,800 yen) bus or metro( depends)
lunch (you and the guide) of about 3,000 yen /per person, or a more reasonable lunch of about 1,200 yen
admission fees of about 3,000 yen (Tenryuji 500, Jojakkoji 500, Kinkakuji 500 yen)/per person, no guide required
Tour Important Information
If you have any food allergies, please let me know at least 3 days in advance.
This tour is mostly flat or downhill, but there are a few uphills. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
To avoid being in a hurry, let's use taxis. Taxis are not expensive in Japan, and you can easily catch one in Kyoto.
We will visit many must-sees efficiently in limited hours.
I will plan to visit scenic beauties at a good time of the day.
I will take some photos of you, and you will see a lot of photogenic spots.
You will have a happy time in Kyoto.
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 Shuji O.
Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport.
I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds.
I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature.
I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan.
If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!
Reviews
Luis felipe G.
“Kyoto in a Rush”
With so much to see in beautiful Kyoto we were left with a desire to come back. Shuji, a former History teacher, made our tour memorable. He was very accomodating on our needs and showed us what we were most interested. We were lucky to be in Kyoto at the peak of the fall and had opprtunity to see the autum colors in full blown. Shuji took us to the mecca of the fall where we were amazed at the sights. Thank you for such a memorable tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46733/f91fb200-8cd3-42eb-ab83-22445375e494.png)
Shuji O.
Thank you for the kind words. Yes, Kyoto has many wonderful places. I'm so sorry there were no time to going to the Kinkakuji Temple. We had to go back to the ship in time. I was very happy to talk about history. I was surprised to see how much you know about Japan. We also enjoyed talking about Ken Follett's novels. If we had more time, I could show you more places. Yes, please come back to Japan again. Thank you so much for the fun time!
Shannon L.
“Excellent guide and experience”
Shuji took my group on two day trips for Osaka: Nara and Himeji Castle. They absolutely loved Shuji and I appreciated his quick replies to messages; it was very easy to work with him. Highly recommend, and I'll be using Shuji again for other trips in that area.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46733/f91fb200-8cd3-42eb-ab83-22445375e494.png)
Shuji O.
Thank you so much for kind words. I thought we would miss the best time to see the fall leaves, but we still enjoyed them. In Nara, deer greeted us as if they were old friends. We went to a lot of really pretty places, like the Isuien Garden. It was so comfortable there. Himeji Castle was also stunning, and we were able to visit and relax there. We were lucky because there weren't many visitors. We could also use the nice restaurant. Thank you for the nice gifts. Yes, I want to travel with you all again!
David B.
“A Wonderful Autumn Day in Kyoto”
My wife and our friend spent a wonderful day with Shuji walking throughout eastern Kyoto. He patiently worked with me ahead of time to tweak his standard Eastern Kyoto walking tour itinerary, responding promptly to all messages and making helpful suggestions. On the day of the tour, he arrived promptly at our hotel and ably led us on our adventure. Highlights (for me) included the off-the-beaten-path Komyo-in Temple, with its lovely dry landscape garden and its stunning art exhibit upstairs, as well as a visit to the Sanjūsangen-dō Temple with its 1001 Kannon sculptures (plus another one, that Shuji will show you) and 28 incredible guardian deity sculptures. Throughout the day, Shuji provided background information, patiently answered questions, took pictures, and was always ready to make adjustments as needed. All in all, a delightful experience!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/46733/f91fb200-8cd3-42eb-ab83-22445375e494.png)
Shuji O.
Thank you for the kind words. Yes, it was a really wonderful day. I hadn't expected to see fall foliage, thinking it would be a little early. But we could enjoy them very much already. We could choose a secret route to avoid the crowd, for the sake of your agreement. The tour was comfortable, and the weather was nice. We don't often have such a nice day. Thank you so much!
$319/ per group
More tours by Shuji O.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/11957/2d5fdd42-fd1a-4f29-a2db-d4009ef32373.jpg)
The best of Kyoto, tailored to your requests.
Kyoto has been the capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years! There are so many historic sites and beautiful places that you will be at a loss for what to choose. Please tell me about your favorite. Considering the access, the season, and the time, I will make a suitable plan. I recommend some hidden gems if you like going off the beaten track. And also the charming famous popular tourist spots worth visiting when it is so busy. I will tell you stories to help you appreciate the place.
The best of Kyoto, tailored to your requests.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12337/181979.jpg)
Visiting Nara from Osaka ~truly the must-see place in Japan~
Nara: the must-see place in Japan. Nara was the capital of ancient Japan before Kyoto became the capital. In the Nara era, Buddhism played an important role in stabilizing the country. So you can see many big old temples there. Many of these are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and are concentrated in a small area. So, if you have only one free day to spend in the Kansai area, I highly recommend visiting Nara.
Visiting Nara from Osaka ~truly the must-see place in Japan~
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13001/67e41b2c-77cd-41dd-92db-adbe4e6918dd.jpg)
Walking tour in Eastern Kyoto
Since there are so many beautiful places densely in eastern Kyoto, we can take a walking tour there. Please add or skip some. This is an example of a walking tour in eastern Kyoto, emphasizing history and culture. We will use the train only once or twice.
Walking tour in Eastern Kyoto
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/13015/616e13a0-c618-4120-a208-6fff6bcaa06a.jpg)
Day trip to Himeji Castle from Osaka
Among the many castles in Japan, Himeji Castle is truly special. You will feel happy just to be there when you see its beautiful figure over the surrounding cherry blossom or maple trees. It has a long and touching history. It is definitely a must-see in Japan.
Day trip to Himeji Castle from Osaka
Other Popular Highlights Tours in Kyoto
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18391/ed4593f6-89c9-4003-b806-3373a9a7f79d.jpg)
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.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70544/88cc0a4f-d90f-48f7-b564-6a62c80d1fcd.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3879/145142.jpeg)
One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)
Tour will start from the Hotel in Kyoto. Frst visit is Kinkakuji temple (Golden Pavillion ),then, to Ryoanji tmple where is famous for rock garden. Tour will stop at Arasiyama area to take lunch and visit Togetsu bridge, Bamboo grove, Tentyuji temple and others. The last visit is NIjyo castle. As these places are normally crowded. using chartered taxi is highly recommended in order to effectively use your valuable time in Kyoto.
One day tour in Kyoto (Arashiyama area)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/16782/67164.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/4826/82581.jpg)
Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji
Shall we explore some of the most popular sightseeing destinations in Kyoto while most tourists are preparing for their tour? I would also like to take you some hidden gemes in Kyoto. Beat the crowds!
Early Bird Tour Western Kyoto including Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji Kinkakuji
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/10288/90682.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/19021/eed6cb7f-7292-4b81-be97-41d54506ae50.jpg)
Full-Day Kyoto Private Tour!! World Heritage and Local Secrets, Just for You!
Please feel free to share your interests- places you wish to visit, foods you'd like to try, or how long you'd like to stay at each location. I"ll create a fully customized 8-hour tour just for you, blending famous sights with local hidden gems!
Full-Day Kyoto Private Tour!! World Heritage and Local Secrets, Just for You!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/73286/dfe6acef-8f8f-4939-9edd-8425c371d5a4.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12289/174364.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12289/174515.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12289/174514.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12289/174363.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12289/174360.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12289/32b8928e-4a76-4972-b849-69404f4d6f31.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12289/9de430ee-17a0-426b-b296-6baca3658b30.jpg)