Kyoto Beyond: A Cultural & Zen Experience

Art, Culture, & Historical

Joined 2025

Aya N.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Kyoto

English, Japanese (Native)

7 hours

Private tour (only you and Aya N.)

Up to 6 people

This Kyoto experience is designed for travelers who want to explore culture, historic architecture, Zen, and tranquility at a refined, unhurried pace.

The tour offers 6–8 hours of guided experience, focusing on selected areas rather than rushing through crowded landmarks.

You’ll experience the balance of history and nature, quiet temples, and local neighborhoods, allowing time to slow down and truly feel Kyoto.

Perfect if you are looking for authentic Kyoto experience beyond guidebooks.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

10:00 AM

Meeting Point

Kyoto Station or another convenient area in Kyoto

- Meet at Kyoto Station or another convenient area in Kyoto, depending on your accommodation and the day’s plan. I’ll suggest the most convenient meeting spot in advance to ensure a smooth start. If you’re traveling from Osaka, we can also meet in Osaka and travel together.

10:30 AM

Kiyomizu Temple, Higashiyama area

Historic temple and traditional streets, focusing on selected areas to avoid rushing.

12:30 PM

Lunch

A famous local lunch spot in Kyoto, chosen based on your preferences and the day’s mood.

Options may range from modern Kyoto cuisine to traditional dishes.

02:30 PM

Arashiyama area, Feeling Zen

Bamboo grove, nature walk, and Zen-inspired scenery, choosing quieter paths depending on the day.

Alternative options (depending on your interests, crowd levels, and pace):

Ryoan-ji Temple – a classic Zen temple with a serene Japanese rock garden

Fushimi Inari Shrine – iconic torii gates (visiting selected, quieter sections)

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks

Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) – refined aesthetics blending history and nature

The afternoon plan will be adjusted to create the best balance of culture, tranquility, and flow.

Ending Point

Final spot or a convenient area in Kyoto

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

What‘s included

- Guide fee

What‘s not included

• Entrance or admission fees (temples, shrines, gardens, etc. app.400–1,200yen per person, per location

• Transportation costs (train, bus, taxi, if used) for both of us during and outside the tour

• Meals and drinks for both

• Personal shopping expenses

• Any optional activities not listed in the itinerary

• Tips (not mandatory)

Tour Important Information

*Please let me know in advance about any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

*Would appreciate knowing your comfort level with walking and whether you enjoy walking, as the experience can be adjusted accordingly.

*This tour involves a fair amount of walking, including 20–30 minutes on foot from the closest bus stop or station, so please wear shoes that you’re comfortable walking in

*The pace and route can be customized to suit your preferences and physical comfort.

I'm usual flexible. If you don’t see a time that works for you, feel free to message me. I may still be able to accommodate other dates, time ranges, or consecutive days.

If you’d like to explore other cities, tours can also be arranged on separate days, subject to availability. I'm available in Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Hyogo.

Important message from the supplier

I mainly guide in Osaka, but depending on your request, I can also do in Kyoto, Nara, or Hyogo.

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 2025

Aya N.

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Aya N.

Hello! This is Aya, born and raised in Hokkaido and now based in Osaka. I am passionate about food, history, and traditions, and I enjoy sharing Japan’s hidden sides through both local insight and a global perspective.

Having lived in 6 cities in three countries (Japan, the US, and Canada) and bring an international background that helps me connect with guests from all over the world.

My tours are tailored to your interests, preferences, and cultural background whether that means exploring Osaka’s food scene, uncovering historical sites, or enjoying authentic everyday experiences.

P.S. I've lived in Hokkaido, Vancouver, Upstate New York, New York City, Tokyo, and Osaka