There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. Also, Kyoto is getting very crowded due to a lot of foreigners visiting there. 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 the oldest Japanese sweet shop in Murasakino.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel or wherever you choose
Kiyomizu Temple
Will visit Kiyomizu temple which is one of the most well known temples in Japan. Established in the 8th century and the temple has been welcoming people from across Japan and now from all over the world. It is one temple that is better to have someone explaining the meanings of all the areas inside.
Walk on Sannenzaka and traditional narrow paths to Gion
Will stroll on the famous Sannenzaka after seeing Kiyomizu temple and see the well known Yasaka pagoda. We will continue walking towards Gion by going through the old traditional narrow paths.
Gion area
Will go through Gion area where you can see the traditional tea houses that Maiko/Geiko (Geisha) entertain customers. If you are lucky, we might be able to come across the beautiful geisha ladies going out and about.
Nishiki Market
After going through the traditional Gion area, we will walk over to the Kyoto's Kitchen, the Nishiki Market. All kinds of Japanese food especially ones famous in Kyoto such as Kyoto pickles are there to see and possibly try. Kitchen related items such as the famous Aritsugu knives are sold here.
Ending Point
West side exit of the Nishiki Market (Takakura street)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
- Interpretation/guide fee
- Transportation fee (you and the guide), lunch (you and the guide), entrance fee, experience fee (if included)
Examples of entrance fees: Kiyomizu temple ¥400, The golden Pavilion ¥500, Daitokuji ¥1,550 for three sub temples,
Arashiyama Monkey Park ¥600
- Lunch and transportation costs for the guide also have to be borne by your side.
- In order to create a fully customized tour, we need enough time to plan together. Please book well ahead of your time of travel to allow
enough time to communicate by email and come up with the best tour for you.
- This tour involves walking and public transportations.
- This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
- Need to allocate at least 45 - 60 mins for lunch time.
- The guide will not be liable for any injuries or loss incurred during the tour. It is recommended to have overseas travel insurance.
Also, please remember to carry enough cash in Japanese Yen since some small stores do not accept credit card. Thank you.
For some tours I can not guide everyday due to store closings. Please check my availability on each tour page. Thank you!
I have lived in the US, UK, and India for approximately 20 years, and I’ve also traveled to about 30 countries. Living abroad for such a long time made me realize Japan’s value and sparked my interest in working as a translator/guide for foreigners. I’m truly passionate about introducing people to historical sites, authentic Japanese culture, and stunning natural spots that may not be widely known to people outside of Japan. There are countless places that I believe people would love.
Originally from Nagoya, I cover areas around the city and the Kansai region including Kyoto, Shiga and Mie. I’m here to ensure your trip to Japan becomes an unforgettable memory. Looking forward to meeting you!
Charlene E.
“Kyoto and surroundings”
We did two tours with Nori. One by foot and the other by car. Both ere excellent. Nori is very knowledgeable and spoke very well english. I highly recommend Nori as a guide.
Gus D.
“A trip and tour full of memories”
A tour with Nori, is a tour like no other. He is not only an exceptional guide, but knowledgeable and accommodating, with each persons needs, requests and interests. We saw and experienced Kyoto in ways we never thought possible and that was all due to Nori. He is not a one size fits all type of guide but truly cares and respects each group. His English is exceptional and his fun and easy going personality makes touring with him effortless. If you know what you want to see or do he does everything possible to make sure that happens. If you have no idea, he is great with suggestions and works with you to make sure you are pleased. Truly, Nori was not only our guide, but became a friend we enjoyed making these once in a lifetime memories with.
Nori I.
Thank you very much for the kind words. I am really glad to hear that you were able to have wonderful time here in Kyoto. I had amazing time also with you every day for the three days. And now it is so nice to hear that you guys are coming back! I will make sure you and your son will make more great memories in Kyoto!
Jason H.
“Kyoto in 2 Days!”
We want to give our highest recommendation for having Nori as your guide. He was prompt every day, he knew the local/national history, he answered all of our (sometimes dumb) questions, he was a pleasant conversationalist, he took our photos everywhere, and showed us all that we asked for. I wish him good luck in the future. Domo arigato gozaimasu!
Nori I.
Thanks for your kind comments. It was my pleasure having you both and exploring Kyoto together. I thought perhaps you might post the unique photo with the friendly policemen. It was a very interesting experience for me as well! There is a lot more to see here around Kyoto. Hope to see you guys again in the future!
$200/ per group