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Kyoto Early Bird Half Day Highlights with Car Service
Join me on this tour as we explore four of Kyoto's must-see sights, starting early to beat the crowds. You'll enjoy the convenience of transportation between locations, with your knowledgeable guide driving you to each site. This allows you to save valuable time and energy for fully immersing yourself in the beauty and history of each location.
Meeting Point
At your hotel or JR Yamashina station
- I will pick you up at your hotel if it is located in Kyoto city. Otherwise, please meet me in front of JR Yamashina station, which is the next station east of JR Kyoto station.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and Kamishichiken Geisha District
Nestled in the northwest of Kyoto city, the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine boasts a rich history spanning over 1000 years. This shrine holds the distinction of being the very first in Japanese history to enshrine an actual person as a deity, renowned for his love of plum blossoms. As a result, the shrine features a stunning plum tree garden where visitors can revel in the beauty of the blossoms during March.
Adjacent to the shrine lies Kamishichiken, one of Kyoto's five Geisha districts. Unlike more touristy areas, Kamishichiken offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Geisha culture, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its genuine charm.
Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion)
Originally an aristocrat's cottage, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu transformed this site into his renowned retirement villa in 1397, later converted into a temple. Over the centuries, it has become one of Kyoto's most iconic temples, drawing countless tourists each year. The temple's garden is also famed for its beauty. As you stroll through the promenade-style garden, you'll marvel at the views of the pavilion and Kyoko-pond, also known as the 'mirror-lake pond,' from various vantage points. The temple was designated as UNESCO's World Heritage site in 1994.
Ryoanji Temple
The garden at Ryoanji Temple is renowned as one of Japan's most famous, embodying the essence of Buddhist Zen philosophy. Composed solely of white pebbles, stones, rocks, and moss, this 'dry landscape garden' evokes a profound sense of tranquility. Sitting quietly while gazing upon its minimalist beauty often leads to moments of Zen delight, with interpretations left open to the imagination. Recognizing its cultural significance, the temple was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994.
Arashiyama (Bamboo Forest)
Once a cottage country for aristocrats and priests, this area still retains its charming rural atmosphere today. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the allure of a bamboo forest draws many visitors. Amidst the crowds, I'll lead you to some of my favorite small, yet authentic temples, offering a quieter and more genuine experience.
Ending Point
Your hotel or a destination of your preference
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Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Hotel pick-up
Transportation (car) between locations
Admission fees for temples
Meals (Breakfast and lunch- about 15 USD per person)
Tour Important Information
*Although the guide will drive you between sites, please be aware that the tour entails a considerable amount of walking. Therefore, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
* The car can accommodate four people besides the driver; however, you may find the rear seat to be somewhat cramped and less comfortable.
* If your hotel does not have sufficient parking space, I may ask you to wait in front of your hotel for pick-up.
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
Kyoto Tour Reviews
Taty P.
Kyoto Early Bird Half Day Highlights with Car Service
“Great day and awesome tour guide”
Kanae was an excellent tour guide who escorted us to some of the most magnificent attractions in Kyoto. She demonstrated great adaptability and imparted a wealth of knowledge, ensuring our comfort throughout the excursion. I wholeheartedly recommend booking her services if you seek to explore and gain insights into Kyoto.
Kanae O.
(4 reviews)Taty, thank you so much for your kind review! I'm glad to hear that you and your sons had a good time. You have a beautiful family! I hope you'll continue to enjoy your stay in Japan and bring back wonderful memories back home.
Mike J.
Kyoto Two-Day Blend of Highlights and Nature
Customized
“Caring friendly guide”
We booked Kanae for 2 days in Kyoto, 1 day of seeing shrines and 1 day of hiking. Our plans changed and we needed 2 days of mixed sightseeing. Kanae was very accommodating and took it all in stride, even picking us up from the train station! Highly recommend her.
Kanae O.
(4 reviews)Mike, thank you so much for your kind and generous review!! I hope you enjoyed the first day. Looking forward to guiding you tomorrow!!
“Fantastic Kyoto Intro”
Kanae's professionalism and expertise in guiding us through Kyoto were nothing short of extraordinary. From the seamless coordination of our half-day tour to her punctuality at Kyoto station, where she effortlessly transported us to our lodgings, she provided invaluable insights into Kyoto's cultural tapestry. Amidst securing our theatre tickets, Kanae unveiled hidden gems: serene temples secluded from the bustle, with only a handful of visitors even during Sakura season. One such gem gifted us a tranquil tea ceremony overlooking a meditative garden, immersing us in a serene Zen experience. Navigating through popular tourist spots like a cherry blossom park and a temple adorned with 1,000 Buddha statues, Kanae's wealth of knowledge illuminated every step, transforming a short timeframe into a journey of profound discovery. Her absence from our entire trip was sorely felt, a testament to the depth of engagement she fostered. To anyone considering Kanae for a tour, let this testimonial ease any hesitation; I wholeheartedly endorse extending your time with her beyond a single day.
Kanae O.
(4 reviews)Corey, I'm touched by your generous and kind review! Thank you so much! It was truly a pleasure to guide you two, and I appreciate your interest and deep insight into Kyoto. I'm glad you enjoyed my tour! I hope you'll visit Kyoto again sometime in the future!
