Kyoto Art Tour
We will explore art places in Kyoto.
We will visit the Kyoto Handicraft Center, the Kyoto Ceramic Center, and other notable locations. We also see the nearby Heian-jingu Shrine and Kyomizu Temple. Please enjoy the art in Kyoto.
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 the station
Heian Jingu Shrine
We will take a bus to go there.
This is a large shrine. Please enjoy its characteristic buildings and beautiful garden.
Kyoto Handicraft Center
We walk to the nearby Kyoto Handicraft Center.
It's a big souvenir shop.
Lunch
Let me know about your preferences
Kawai Kanjiro Museum
If you like design, art, and architecture, a visit to Kawai Kanjiro's house will not disappoint. It's a rare opportunity to discover the authentic style and humanity of an incredible Japanese artist who influenced generations of potters and craftsmen.
Kyoto Ceramic Center
We can learn a lot about the ceramics in Kyoto.
You can try to make some or learn a great deal about ceramics.
We will use the Keihan Railway to get there.
Please note that it will be closed in both summer and winter.
Kiyomizu Temple
If you have already visited here, we can move to another location, such as the Kondo Yuzo Museum.
Stunning views and unique architecture.
Must-see in Kyoto
Walk to Higashiyama Hills (sannenzaka, ninennzaka)
Sannenzaka to Yasaka pagoda
If you have visited here, we can change to another place.
Atmospheric hills to the Yasaka area.
Downhill course with stairs. There are many shops, restaurants, and temples alongside. Photogenic spot.
Gion Museum
If you have visited here, we can change to another place.
If you like, you can enjoy the real Geisha's (Geiko's) dancing.
And learn a lot about their art and life.
The museum costs 3100 JPY.
If you are not interested in this, we can end at your hotel or at a location where you will never get lost at 5 pm.
Ending Point
At Gion
Want to personalize this tour?
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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 pickup
- transportation fees about 2000 JPY
- entrance fees 2000 JPY
- lunch 1500 - 3000 per/ person
- insurances
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
About Tour Guide Shuji O.
Hi, I am Shuji, a licensed tour guide living near Kansai International Airport.
I taught world history in high schools for four decades. So, I can explain Japanese culture or history in an easier way tailored to you who have different cultural and historical backgrounds.
I also practiced Kendo, Japanese fencing, for more than four decades, and now I enjoy growing vegetables and going fishing. Therefore, I can also share some Japanese culture and its nature.
I have traveled to more than 25 countries and all over Japan. I’m also passionate about photography and know many photogenic places in Japan.
If you prefer to go off the beaten track, I can take you to hidden gems, including some cozy restaurants. Of course, I also know how to enjoy the crowded, most popular tourist sites. I am here to make your trip stress-free. See you soon!
Reviews
Jeffrey M.
“A Quiet Day Exploring Ohara”
Our first day in Kyoto was in Ohara, a small but historically significant town NE of the city. Our guide reached our multiple times prior to our meeting to confirm day/time, but also inquired about what our hopes were for the day together. Shuji was on time and we found him to be the ultimate guide for this all day experience. As a retired history teacher, and native to the area, we had a guide with deep insight to places we explored together, which included 800 year old temples punctuated with hip coffee and lunch spots along the way. This was exactly what we were looking for after a hectic pace in Tokyo! If you are looking for a professional and knowledgeable guide to show you to the lessor seen corners of Kyoto, Shuji is the man.
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Shuji O.
Thank you for the kind words! We had a nice day with you two. You knew how to enjoy the tour and appreciate the place and its history. We could travel to places that are less crowded but still charming. We enjoyed Ohara very much. We can't expect such a nice tour often. Thank you for the happy talk, too. Have a great time in Japan!
Dana W.
“Nara Park is key to visit”
We have an interesting visit to Nara Park which we learnt.
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Shuji O.
Thank you for your review. You were very good at traveling, especially for your age. We enjoyed the statues and shrines. I hope you enjoyed the nice restaurant we went to for lunch. Thank you for choosing my tour for the last part of your trip to Japan. I hope this trip makes great memories for both of you!
Dana W.
“The Hongu temple is outstanding to learn about as well as the Turkey Museum history created an excellent relationship between Japan and Turkey.”
We have learnt from Shuji O on Japan history, traditions & culture.
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Shuji O.
Thank you for the kind words! Yes, we learned many things. First, we learned about the culture of Kumano. Second, we learned about the good relations between Turkey and Japan. We visited the museum where we learned about the sad and touching stories of the Turkish ship. During a storm, Japanese people saved many Turkish sailors. Thank you for a great experience. I was happy to be with you both.
$314/ per group
More tours by Shuji O.
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Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.
Arashiyama is the hottest tourist destination. It is incredibly beautiful in spring and fall because of its cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In the fall, the leaves turn brown or red! In the outstanding Tenryuji, you will see a beautiful garden with beautiful mountains in the background. There are many other beautiful places with touching stories in this area. On the way back to downtown, we can visit two world heritage sites, Kinkakuji and Ryoanji. What a wonderful route!
Bamboo grove and Arashiyama area, three World Heritages.
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The best of Kyoto, tailored to your requests.
Kyoto has been the capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years! There are so many historic sites and beautiful places that you will be at a loss for what to choose. Please tell me about your favorite. Considering the access, the season, and the time, I will make a suitable plan. I recommend some hidden gems if you like going off the beaten track. And also the charming famous popular tourist spots worth visiting when it is so busy. I will tell you stories to help you appreciate the place.
The best of Kyoto, tailored to your requests.
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Visiting Nara from Osaka ~truly the must-see place in Japan~
Nara: the must-see place in Japan. Nara was the capital of ancient Japan before Kyoto became the capital. In the Nara era, Buddhism played an important role in stabilizing the country. So you can see many big old temples there. Many of these are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and are concentrated in a small area. So, if you have only one free day to spend in the Kansai area, I highly recommend visiting Nara.
Visiting Nara from Osaka ~truly the must-see place in Japan~
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Day trip to Himeji Castle from Osaka
Among the many castles in Japan, Himeji Castle is truly special. You will feel happy just to be there when you see its beautiful figure over the surrounding cherry blossom or maple trees. It has a long and touching history. It is definitely a must-see in Japan.
Day trip to Himeji Castle from Osaka
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Kyoto
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Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
Step into the beauty of Arashiyama, Kyoto’s scenic district, with this 4-hour walking tour. Starting from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, you’ll visit the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, the historic Tenryū‑ji Temple, the enchanting Sagano Bamboo Grove, and the peaceful Adashino Nenbutsu‑ji Temple. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and serene strolls away from the main crowds.
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
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Kyoto Heritage Walking Tour
Authentic cultural insights into Kyoto’s geisha world, Shinto & Buddhist traditions Scenic historical streets without rushing Ideal photo opportunities A relaxed, educational walk through Kyoto’s most charming districts
Kyoto Heritage Walking Tour
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Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. 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 one of the oldest Japanese sweets shops in Murasakino.
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
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All inclusive - Cultural sites with Kyoto-born Art & Architecture oriented guide
For those who like to explore the deeper insight of the cultural city and value the quality of tour then visiting the listed sites. 100% tailor-made. We use taxies between sites when necessary. This tour is especially for the advaced travellers who like to feel the' true experience' and see the local beauty.
All inclusive - Cultural sites with Kyoto-born Art & Architecture oriented guide
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