Gion area in Kyoto is a very famous old and historic area, as it is well known for preserving the old architecture and beauty. You may be lucky to catch up a Geisha in Hanami street.
Highlights
Chionin temple gate, Maruyama park, Yasaka shrine , Haname Street and Shinbashi street.
Teahouse, Geisha and Maiko explanation and spotting areas, Minamiza Kabuki Theatre
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Any place inside Kyoto city ,including your hotel
- Any place in Kyoto city * The guide will meet you at your hotel inside Kyoto. If outside, please let us know. * We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.
16:00 Izumo no Okuni statue and Kaboki drama explanation
Discover the cultural heritage of Kyoto with a visit to the Izumo no Okuni Statue, dedicated to the pioneering figure who founded Kabuki theater. Izumo no Okuni revolutionized Japanese performing arts in the early 17th century, and her statue stands as a tribute to her legacy.
Experience a fascinating explanation of Kabuki Drama, a traditional Japanese theater form known for its dramatic storytelling, elaborate costumes, and dynamic performances. Learn about its historical origins, unique performance style, and its significant impact on Japanese culture. This tour offers an insightful glimpse into the world of Kabuki and its influential founder.
16:15 Shinbashi street, Geisha and Maiko explanation, Chionin temple gate
Stroll through this picturesque street and experience the ambiance of old Kyoto.
Learn about the captivating world of Geisha and Maiko—Kyoto's iconic traditional performers. Discover their roles, training, and cultural significance as you encounter them in their historic setting.
Visit the impressive Chionin Temple Gate, a grand entrance to one of Kyoto's most revered Zen temples. Admire its massive wooden structure and intricate carvings, which reflect the temple's rich heritage and spiritual importance.
16:30 Maruyama Park and Yasaka shrine
Discover the serene beauty of Maruyama Park, a lush green oasis in Kyoto perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing break. The park features picturesque ponds, seasonal cherry blossoms, and tranquil paths, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Just a short walk away, explore Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant Shinto shrine renowned for its lively festivals and stunning lantern-lit pathways. This historic shrine is a focal point of Kyoto’s cultural and spiritual life, providing a rich and immersive experience into traditional Japanese heritage.
16:45 Hanamikoji Street : Tea houses & Geisha and Maiko spotting areas
Wander down Hanamikoji Street, the charming heart of Kyoto’s historic geisha district. This picturesque street is lined with traditional teahouses and elegant wooden machiya houses, offering a glimpse into the city's cultural past.
Enjoy a visit to a classic teahouse, where you can experience the authentic ambiance and appreciate the art of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
Explore popular geisha and maiko spotting areas, where you might catch a glimpse of these graceful performers in their elaborate costumes. This tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Kyoto's enchanting traditional culture and the world of geisha.
17:00 Pontocho Alley
Experience the charm of Pontocho Alley, one of Kyoto’s most iconic and atmospheric streets. This narrow, lantern-lit alley is renowned for its traditional wooden buildings and cozy eateries, offering a delightful blend of old-world charm and vibrant nightlife.
Stroll through Pontocho’s historic surroundings, where you might spot geisha and maiko on their way to appointments, and savor the authentic flavors of Kyoto in its renowned dining establishments. This picturesque alley provides an unforgettable glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and lively ambiance.
18:00 Tour finish
Ending Point
Any place inside Kyoto city ,including your hotel
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guiding Fees & Tour Management
* Transportation fees
* Entrance fees
* Food& personal Expenses
*Gratuities are always appreciated but never expected. If you feel that your experience was exceptional, tipping is a lovely way to show your appreciation for the service provided.
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
See the calendar for availability
Hello! I’m Ahmed, a passionate tour guide based in Kyoto, Japan. Originally from Kuwait, I moved back to Palestine where I earned my Medical Degree (MD) in 2008. In 2015, I was fortunate to receive a Japanese government scholarship to pursue further studies at Kyoto University, one of Japan’s top institutions.
Living in Kyoto opened my eyes to the rich history and stunning scenery of this ancient city, which served as Japan’s capital for over a thousand years. It ignited my passion for culture, history, and food, leading me to embark on a rewarding career as a tour guide.
I have traveled extensively across Europe and Asia, and I love sharing my knowledge of Japanese culture with others. I can provide historical insights at every stop, recommend the best local cuisine, and create personalized itineraries, including day trips from Tokyo to Kyoto.
I’m fluent in English and Arabic, and I thrive on connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re interested in exploring temples, experiencing traditional cuisine, or simply enjoying the beauty of Kyoto, I’m here to make your visit unforgettable.
Your safety and comfort are my top priorities. I measure my temperature before our tours and am happy to wear a mask if it makes you feel more comfortable. While I'm not a driver, I will accompany you in your vehicle or arrange for a separate car and driver if needed.
Book with confidence and get ready to explore Kyoto with me! I can’t wait to show you why I believe this city is the most beautiful in Japan.
Ahmed, MD, PhD, MBA
Lynn P.
“Poor communication”
We cannot really say much about Ahmed as a guide because he sent us someone else. As for Ahmed as a tour operator, we are very disappointed with his services. Because the information given by him by private message was not very clear, we almost ended up booking a tour that was 3 times as expensive as a similar tour offered by other operators. In the end, we figured out that he asked more than 1,000 euros for a day tour by private car in Kyoto. After that he sent us a booking link to another tour that was still different to what we requested. When we realized that he sent us a link for the wrong tour, it was already too late to cancel. Our guide Kazz was great. He was helpful, friendly and very flexible with spontaneous requests. On top of that he took a lot of pictures of us that he sent us via Google Drive the same day. We highly recommend him as a guide.
Zubair A.
“Fantastic tour of Kyoto ”
This was our first visit to Kyoto. We were able in the time given to experience a number of great attractions. The city if full of amazing historical places. We enjoyed the Nishiki market and food. The bamboo forest of Arishayama was amazing splendor. Our guide Ahmed was excellent in his knowledge and guidance. It was great to have arabic speaking guide that made the tour more enjoyable. The coordination for the trip was extremely smooth even though it was a late request. Thank you Ahmed and Go with guide.
Lynne H.
“2 half days in Kyoto”
He is nice. knows his stuff. Did not share much, does not make conversation so it was a slightly awkward 2 half days. Ewe spent time on buses. - not good when we have limited time, one place had queues so long we abandoned it and then went everywhere by taxi - which added to the cost. It was very poor value for the money. if we had 2 full days - maybe better - but would never recommend this approach again.
$239/ per group