This tour takes you to the two areas, Fushimi and Uji. Both are a little away from central Kyoto and have the specific atmosphere that makes you feel comfortable away from hustle & bustle in central Kyoto.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At the lobby of your hotel in central Kyoto
Fushimi classic boat riding
In the past, Fushimi area was a large port town which faced a large lake which does not exist any more. Now you can enjoy riding the classical boat which makes you feel two hundreds years ago through the canal.
Ohkura Sake Brewery museum
You will enjoy visiting classical Sake brewery museum where you might slip back to the good old days when the Sake brewery was in operation. There, you will know the secret how to make nicest Sake.
Lunch
Japanese specialty if you like
Byoudouin temple and Omotesanndo in Uji
Byodouin temple was designated as one of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. In front of Byodoin temple, you enjoy walking the front street, Omotesando, with the aroma of green tea which is the local specialty.
Ujigami shrine and Nakanoshima
Ujigami shrine was designated as one of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. The area was the stage of ancient novel, "Tale of Genji", so you may feel the air of tranquility one thousand years ago.
Ending Point
The last spot or your hotel in central Kyoto
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guide fee, Hotel pick-up in central Kyoto area
Boat riding fee(1,200JPY), Transportation fee (apx. 1,000JPY), Lunch(apx. 1,500JPY), Entrance fee(apx.1,300JPY)
1. This tour is operated from end of Mar. to beginning of Dec. based on boat operation schedule.
2. Mondays from Jun. to Sep. and everyday between Aug.15 and Aug. 31 are off based on boat operation schedule.
3. The tour may not be operated when classical boat is full reserved especially in April. As early reservation as possible is recommend.
Operated from end of Mar. to beginning of Dec.
In case you want to book my tour for two or more consecutive days, please send me a message in advance.
My nick name is Rick and Japanese name is Ryoichi. I was born and grew up in Kyoto. Kyoto has so many sightseeing spots based on its 1000 year history. I will propose you the "must see" spots from local eyes not only temples & shrines but also alternative side of Kyoto. As Kyoto certified English guide, I will guide you with high hospitality for your satisfactory stay in Kyoto.
1. For the first visitors
I will prepare the tour with selection out of the spots as Nijo-castle, Imperial Palace, Nishiki-market, Gion amusement quarter, Arashiyama area and some temples and shrines of World Cultural Heritage Sites based on your request and taste.
2. For the visitors who want to see more spots than regular tours
I will prepare some unique tours like visiting Fushimi area for Sake brewery and riding classical boat, visiting some traditional handicrafts ateliers, enjoying traditional performing art, etc.
Please make any inquiry for your preferred type of Kyoto guiding without hesitation. I would be happy to propose you with the type of tour that makes your visit in Kyoto unforgettable one.
Credentials:
National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (EN01767)
Kyoto City Licensed English Guide (EN00004)
2nd Grade of the licensing examination on knowledge of Kyoto history & culture
“Personable and informative guide - Rick”
Rick led and guided us to the key sites with useful information. He was patient, personable and engaging. He knew the ground and communicated clearly in English. He was flexible and helpful with additional information for the rest of our stay in Kyoto. Definitely recommend Rick to anyone or group visiting Kyoto.
Rick I.
Dear Kenneth, Thank you very much for the nice review! I'm very glad to hear that you enjoyed the tour. All of your families are so nice and it was my pleasure helping you. I think the nice autumnal season continues, so please enjoy the rest of your days in Japan. Rick
Fiona H.
Kyoto customized tour for Fiona H on Dec. 18, 2024
Customized
“An informative and enjoyable tour of Kyoto's highlights with a kind and knowledgable guide”
Rick guided us on two tours, first to see Nijo Castle, the Golden Pavilion, and Nishiki Markets, then the second to Kiyomizudera temple, sights around Gion, and Kenninji temple. We really appreciated Rick's passion for both the history and culture of Kyoto. His knowledge was invaluable at every site, but especially at Nijo Castle and Kenninji temple. In fact for me, Nijo Castle was a highlight due to learning about the history of the shogun there and the meaning of the paintings and architecture. Rick was also armed with a folder of pictures to explain the locations further, so we could compare the old vistas with those of today or understand the detail of the construction methods, which are extremely impressive, not only for their scale but for surviving earthquakes and the centuries. Rick is also a kind and considerate guide. I had already worn my feet out in Tokyo (lots of standing!), and Rick regularly guided us to seats which allowed me to pace myself. He also suggested an excellent local ramen restaurant for lunch after our second tour, conveniently located near our next destination. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with Rick and happily recommend him to anyone seeking a courteous and informative guide to Kyoto. Thank you, Rick, for making our visit a pleasure.
Rick I.
Dear Fiona, Thank you very much for posting so nice review for me. I'm very glad to hear that you enjoyed the tours with me using the picture folders. Thanks for your suggestion, we enjoyed the early morning Kiyomizu temple and also having Ramen after the tour. I hope Kyoto will be one of your best memories in Japan. Rick
Marian T.
Customized Kyoto highlight tour for Marian T. on Oct. 7, 2024
Customized
“Great Guide”
Rick did an awesome job showing us around Kyoto, we loved it.
Rick I.
Dear Marian, Thank you very much for the nice review! I'm glad that you enjoyed the tour. We had nice conversation during the tour and it is my nice memory with you. I hope Kyoto will be one of your best memories in Japan and you will come back sometime in future. Best regards, Rick
$299/ per group