Kyoto is a city full of charm, both ancient and modern such as the stone gardens of Zen temples, orange gates of Shito shrines, traditional cafés, local cuisine loved by Kyoto people, modern art museums and so on. I would like to show you not only major sightseeing spots but also small tips to enjoy the city. Let's explore together and discover the real Kyoto with me!!
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel or JR Kyoto Station
- Pick you up at your hotel or meet up at JR Kyoto Station
Fushimi-Inari Shrine
It’s famous for many orange gates called Torii. We walk through Torii Tunnel, so your wishes come true. I will tell you the reason why!
Admission:Free
Sanjusangen-do Temple (We would like to have lunch around here.)
Famous for the traditional Japanese archery contest called Toshiya. I would like to show you the incredible history of it. You may also be mesmerized by numerous Buddhist statuses in the old wooden hall.
Admission:600JPY/P
Kiyomizudera Temple
It's famous for wooden hall and stage, the layout of buildings with its green mountain background, established in the 8th century.
Admission:500JPY/P
Sannenzaka, Ninenzaka, historical preserved area
These are stone pavement streets lined with many shops and cafés. You can feel the atmosphere of ancient Kyoto. Even Japanese people also like this nostalgy.
Gion
It's the biggest amusement quarter of female entertainers. You may encounter Geisha.
Nihiki Ichiba Food Market and Depachika food floor of Daimaru Department Store
We walk around Nishiki Ichiba food market and the food corner of a famous department store. You can enjoy various kinds of Japanese food and drink.
Downtown(Shijo Karasuma or Kawaramachi) in Kyoto
See you off in downtown Kyoto or at your hotel
Ending Point
At your hotel or Downtown Kyoto
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guiding Services, Hotel pick-up
Personal Expenses, Souvenirs, Public Trasportation Tickets, Food, Drinks, Snacks, and others
On this tour, we will use public transportation such as JR train, Subway, Bus or Taxi.
I usually use public transportation systems such as trains, buses, taxi, and so on.
I like outdoor activities. If you would like to do hiking, cycling etc., please feel free to ask me in advance.
Hi! I'm Koichi. I was born in Osaka, I studied in Kyoto when I was a university student. Now I live in Shiga next to Kyoto. I am a national government licensed tour guide. I have been guiding about 160 groups over the past twelve months.
I usually guide my customers mainly in Kansai region including Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe and Shiga by public transportation systems.
Well, I am curious about Japanese history, especially the history of Japan's ancient times since I was raised next to the world biggest mausoleum of the ancient Emperor called "Nintoku" in Sakai city Osaka which has just become one of the world cultural heritage sites. I dug out some ancient earthen ware vessels around there when I was a primary school student like the adventure archaeologist “Indiana Jones" (It’s our secret!!). That was my hobby. Now, one of my hobbies is outdoor activities such as mountaineering, kayaking, skiing and others. So I would like to take you to some good places where you can enjoy Japanese unique nature.
I love to guide foreign visitors from all over the world. I think it is my calling or heavenly given job. Let's go and enjoy together! I hope to see you soon.
Sara V.
“Western highlights private Kyoto tour”
Our private tour of Kyoto’s western highlights was nothing short of extraordinary. From start to finish, our guide Koichi provided an enriching, and personalized experience that exceeded all expectations. We explored the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, marveled at the elegance of Tenryu-ji Temple, strolled along the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge, and visited the stunning Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Koichi was both educational and enjoyable. This private tour was a true highlight of our trip to Japan. If you want to explore Kyoto’s western treasures this is the way to do it. Highly, highly recommended! Koichi was superb. I would give him more than 5 stars!
Sara V.
“Eastern Kyoto private tour”
I can’t recommend this Kyoto tour highly enough! Our guide Koichi was not only incredibly knowledgeable but also warm, professional, and passionate about Kyoto’s rich history and culture. From the moment we met, he made us feel welcome and tailored the tour perfectly to our interests. We explored iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizudera, visited Gion town and walked around Sannenzaka and Ninnenzaka streets. Koichi provided historical context, local legends, and even restaurant recommendations that only a true local would know. His English was excellent! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a deeper dive into the city, this tour is absolutely worth it. It was one of the highlights of our entire trip to Japan!
Eileen E.
“Great day in Osaka”
Koichi met us at our hotel, showed us how to use the train, shortened the lines and managed the crowds for us on a great day in Osaka. He was friendly, funny and well-informed. I highly recommend him for a tour of Osaka
Koichi W.
Hi! Eileen san. Thank you for giving me such a nice review and good rating. It was a short time but I was able to share a wonderful time with you. If you have a chance to come to Japan, I hope to see you again. Arigato-gozaimasu!! Koichi
$357/ per group