Half-Day Cultural Kyoto Tour (4 Hours)
Joined 2024
Explore Kyoto’s highlights in just 4 hours! Start at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its torii gates, then visit Nijo Castle to learn about samurai history. Next, enjoy stunning views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and finish in Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district.
I’ll share insights on history, culture, and Japan’s unique traditions throughout the tour!
[Note] On Sundays this tour only starts from between 9:00 or 9:30.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Kyoto Station（京都駅） Central Exit (Karasuma Exit)
- The tour will begin at Kyoto Station (JR, Kintetsu, and Subway), one of the most convenient and accessible locations in the city. We will meet at the JR Kyoto station Central Exit (Karasuma Exit),the side of the Kyoto Tower. **Alternative Meeting Option: Your Hotel (Additional Fee Applies) If you prefer, I can meet you directly at your hotel within Kyoto city. This option is available for an additional fee of ¥1,000–¥3,000, depending on the location. Please provide your hotel name and address in advance.
Nijyo Castle (二条城）
Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, once home to the Tokugawa shoguns. Explore its impressive architecture, “nightingale floors,” and beautiful gardens.
Yasaka-no-Tō (Hōkan-ji Temple) 八坂の塔（法観寺）
Yasaka-no-Tō (Hōkan-ji Temple) is a pagoda in Higashiyama. It is said to have been originally built in 592 AD by Prince Shōtoku and was reconstructed in 1440 (Muromachi period). The pagoda is a landmark of Kyoto, and visitors can enter and climb it during special openings. Located near Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, and Kiyomizu-dera, it offers a perfect blend of history and traditional scenery.
Ninen-zaka & Sannen-zaka （二年坂＆三年坂）
Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka – Kyoto’s Historic Streets
Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are two beautifully preserved stone-paved streets leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Lined with traditional wooden buildings, teahouses, and souvenir shops, they offer a glimpse into Kyoto’s past. Both streets are perfect for strolling, taking photos, and experiencing Kyoto’s timeless beauty.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple（清水寺）
Enjoy breathtaking views of Kyoto from this historic temple’s wooden stage. Learn about its Buddhist heritage and the pure water of Otowa Falls.
Gion District （祇園）
Stroll through Kyoto’s famous geisha（芸者） district, where traditional teahouses and wooden machiya buildings preserve Kyoto’s old-world charm.
Ending Point
Gion or Kawaramachi / 祇園 or 河原町
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
〇Guided tour with cultural and historical insights
〇Interesting discussions about Japan’s traditions and cultural differences
〇Some ideas and Advices how to spend time in Japan/Kyoto/Osaka (Where to go, What to eat, What to do)
×Transportation fees
×Meals and drinks (you and your guide)
×Entrance fees (you and your guide)
e.g. Nijo Castle: 1,300 yen
Kiyomizu-dera: 400 yen
Tour Important Information
●This tour involves a lot of walking, including stairs and slopes, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.
●The tour runs in all weather conditions. Please bring an umbrella or raincoat if rain is expected. Kyoto can be hot in summer and cold in winter, so dress accordingly.
●Bring cash, as some small shops and temples do not accept credit cards.
●Transportation fees are not included. You will need an IC card (Suica/ICOCA/Pasmo) or cash for buses and trains (around ¥1,000-2,000 per person).
●Food & drinks are not included. You can enjoy Kyoto’s specialties during lunch and snack breaks.
●Some attractions have entrance fees (about ¥1,000-3,000 per person), so please prepare for this.
●Hotel pickup is available for an additional ¥1,000–¥2,000, depending on location.
◎Kids are welcome on this tour! However, please keep in mind the following:
●The tour involves a lot of walking (about 5–7 km), including stairs and slopes. A lightweight stroller may be useful for younger children, but some areas (like Fushimi Inari) have uneven paths.
●Child-friendly food options are available during lunch breaks. Let me know in advance if your child has any allergies or dietary needs.
●There are many fun stops for kids, such as trying matcha ice cream, exploring souvenir shops, and seeing fox statues at Fushimi Inari.
●Restroom breaks will be planned, but facilities may not always be available nearby, especially in temple areas.
●Public transport will be used, so young children should be comfortable with short train/bus rides.
◎This tour can be made wheelchair-friendly, but some locations have stairs, slopes, or uneven paths. If you or someone in your group uses a wheelchair, please let me know in advance, and I will adjust the route to ensure a smooth experience.
※If you have specific requests to make the tour more kid-friendly (e.g., shorter walking distances, extra snack stops, or fun hands-on activities), or wheelchair-friendly, just let me know!
On Sundays this tour only start from between 9:00 or 9:30.
Important message from the supplier
Depends on other schedule, I can be more flexible. I can be more flexible if can know the schedule before.
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
Joined 2024
About Tour Guide Kazue K.
Hello! My name is Kazu, a tour guide from Kyoto. I was born and raised here, studied in Osaka, and became fluent in English after studying abroad in Canada. My experience there made me appreciate Japan’s beauty and cultural differences, inspiring me to share Kyoto with people from around the world.
I started as a volunteer guide for friends but now work professionally to show more people Kyoto’s charm. On my tours, I’ll take you to great spots and share insights into Japanese culture, customs, and the unique mindset of Japanese people. I look forward to guiding you!
Reviews
Veena R.
“Half day tour of Kyoto”
Kaz was lovely! We spent a casual half day seeing some local sights with her. She was incredibly kind and knowledgeable and we learned a lot about Kyoto from her!
$167/ per group
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