Highlights in Kitayama area and Tea Ceremony Experience
Joined 2021
Kyoto has many temples, shrines, artefacts, unique cultures, traditional architecture and beautiful gardens because it was the ancient capital of Japan. Kyoto city has two different areas called Kitayama area and Higashiyama area which were divided according to its period and culture. Today we will visit Kitayama area, which flourished in the 14th century. This tour will show you three temples which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a tea ceremony experience.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel or Kyoto station
- Hotel or other places
Your hotel
You can choose the meeting place. (EX a station or a building)
Ninnaji Temple
Ninnaji Temple was built by an emperor called Uda in 888. This temple is famous because the chief monk was also emperor. Although it was a high-ranking temple, it experienced a lot of fires because of battles in Kyoto. We can see the five-storey pagoda and the main gate which were built 400 years ago. The beautiful cherry trees in the temple are famous for their late blooming. They attract many visitors in the middle of April every year.
We can enjoy old architecture, Imperial structures and beautiful gardens that emperors in ancient times lived in or used, and the magnificent scenery behind.
Ryoanji Temple
Ryoannji Temple is famous for its beautiful rock garden, which is a Zen-style garden.
Originally, one of the top-ranking warlords under the Ashikaga Shogunate built this temple and invited a monk for Zen training. The simple and remarkable rock garden is completely different from the gorgeous gardens that court nobles constructed.
This simple garden gives us unlimited advice based on Zen teachings. We can also find the old stone wash basin. The four characters on it also gives us advice for our lives.
The temple also features a beautiful landscape garden.
We will enjoy sitting on the veranda quietly and then strolling around the beautiful garden.
Lunch in the Ryoanji Temple Ground or on the way to Kinkakuji Temple
A traditional Japanese restaurant is in the Ryoanji Temple Ground.
There are some local restaurants on the way to Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkakuji Temple
Kinkakuji Temple, or an official name Rokuonji Temple is located in the west part of Kyoto city. The temple is so famous for a golden colored pagoda that it is called ‘The Golden Pavilion.’ Originally, one of the powerful Shoguns called Yoshimitsu Ashikaga built this temple in 1397, when his Shogunate flourished. The most remarkable structure is a beautiful golden pavilion because of its gorgeous gilding. The reflection of the pagoda on the pond called ‘Mirror Pond’ enhances its attraction.
The temple also features a beautiful landscape garden which has a unique pine tree shaped into a sailing boat which faces the paradise in the west (according to Buddhist teachings), the magnificent view of the mountain behind, the spring water from the mountain, a traditional tea house, and other attractions.
We will enjoy seeing the gorgeous pagoda and strolling around the beautiful garden in the temple ground
Tea Ceremony Kyoto
The tea room is located near Kinkakuji Temple.
Tea ceremony is one of traditional Japanese culture. It is not only about serving and drinking tea but also about learning good manners. It is regarded as an elegant art and practiced in order to develop refined manners and mental composure.
Today we can enjoy this special Japanese culture as well as drinking 'Maccha', which is green tea.
According to this tour schedule, I will make a reservation for the tea ceremony from 3:30 to 4:15.
You will be able to experience a tea ceremony and learn how to make your own green tea.
At your hotel `or Kyoto station
Ending Point
At your hotel `or Kyoto station
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
Guide fee, hotel pick-up
transportation fee for you and your guide
Admission fee for you and your guide (Guides don't need admission fees for some temples.)
Lunch costs for you and your guide
Tour Important Information
• This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Several places we will visit do not accept credit cards, so please bring cash.
・The tea room is sometimes closed or fully booked. I will find another tea room or destination instead.
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 2021
About Tour Guide Atsuko T.
Hello. My name is Atsuko.I'm a licensed tour guide in Japan.
I have lived in Osaka since I was born.
I have guided many tourists all over the world as a volunteer for 6 years. I like showing my tourists my favorite places in Japan and talking with them. Osaka, where I was born and raised, is famous for foods, modern and ancient cultures. Nara and Kyoto, which are neighboring places, were ancient capitals in Japan. I'm happy to visit those places with you.
Reviews
“Great experience ”
We did a tour today with Atsuko. She was amazing. She was very knowledgeable and easy to understand. She took us to many places and kept everything at a nice walkable pace. Not to fast ...not to slow but let you explore on your own also. I highly recommend using her for a tour when you are in tue osaka area. We would have never seen as much of osaka without her!
Atsuko T.
Hello Mr. Ryan, Thank you for your kind review and comment for me. I really appreciate your words. It was fun for me to show you the attractions in Osaka and talking with all of you. I think you must be relaxing in the ship before it is leaving Osaka. It is cold and raining now. You made a right decision on the tour. Thank you for joining my tour today. Best regards, Atsuko
“One Day Tour with Atsuko”
Atsuko was an outstanding tour guide! Her deep knowledge of Kyoto made the tour both educational and enjoyable. She was attentive, approachable, and took care of all the details so that we could relax and enjoy. Atsuko’s enthusiasm for sharing her insights was contagious. Although the pace was on the quicker side, it ensured we had the opportunity to take in more sights and experiences. As first-time visitors, we would have likely taken a less efficient route and missed some of the hidden gems Atsuko introduced us to. I highly recommend her for an unforgettable tour experience!
Atsuko T.
Hello Mr. Dan, Thank you for your kind review and comment for me. I really appreciate your words. We visited many places on the day. My tour shows only two places so we decided to visit more places. We were in a hurry especially we had to reach Fushimi Inari Shrine before it got dark. Luckily, we manged to see the beautiful orange gates before it got dark when it was less crowded. I am happy to know you had a wonderful time in Kyoto. I also enjoyed showing beautiful places in Kyoto and chatting with you. Thank you for joining my tour. Best regards, Atsuko
Susan V.
One Day Tour with the picturesque scenery in Kyoto
“Great day with Atsuko ”
Our group of 7 had an amazing experience with Atsuko on her tour in Osaka! She was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, making the entire experience both enjoyable and enriching. Atsuko’s deep understanding of Osaka’s history, culture, and hidden gems truly brought the city to life. Whether we were exploring historic landmarks, bustling markets, or peaceful neighborhoods, she shared fascinating stories and insights that made each stop memorable. What stood out most was Atsuko’s ability to tailor the tour to the group’s interests and pace, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and engaged. Her warmth and genuine enthusiasm for Osaka shone through, making it feel like I was exploring the city with a close friend. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to discover the authentic charm of Osaka. Atsuko’s passion for her city is contagious, and I left with not only incredible memories but also a deeper appreciation for this vibrant city.
Atsuko T.
Hello Ms. Susan, Thank you for joining my tour yesterday. I really appreciate your kind words and review. I enjoyed the Osaka tour with you, your family, friends, and your ship's friends. We changed the Kyoto tour to Osaka tour. Your decision was great for us. Everyone relaxed and had a wonderful time in Osaka. I am happy to hear you truly enjoyed this tour. Please visit Kyoto next year as you mentioned. I am looking forward to seeing you next November. Please the rest of your journey and say hello to everyone. Thank you. Best regards, Atsuko
$229/ per group
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