As emperor has stayed at Kyoto for more than one thousand years, there are so many historical places related with emperors in Kyoto.Also at samurai period, Muromati Shogun had stayed at Kyoto, and Tokugawa Shogun built the castle in Kyoto.This tour will visit Nijo-jo castle, Imperial palace, Kinkakuji temple, and Ninnaji temple to learn the history of Kyoto related with emperor and Shogun. Once you visit these historical sites in Kyoto, you will understand the history of Kyoto and Japan.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Kyoto station or the hotel in Kyoto
Nijo-jo castle: This is historical site indicating the begining of Tokugawa Shogun and the end of Shogun.
Kyoto Imperial Palace: This is the palace where emperor had been stayed for one thousand years.
Kinkakuji temple(Golden pavilion): This was the villa of Ashikaga Shogun, Yoshimitsu, and turned to the temple later.
Ninnaji temple: This temple has been used as the villa of retired emperor and many interesting points compared with Imperial Palace.
Ending Point
Kyoto station
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Guide fee, hotel pick-up in Kyoto
transportation fee (you and guide), We would use Subway/bus one day ticket - 900 yen,
Entrance fee: Nijo-jo castke, Kinkakuji temple, and Ninnaji temple - 1500 yen
1. Normally Kyoto Imperial Palace is closed on Monday, so I will check the schedule, and confirm the tour first.
2. Please consider the tour starting time to be at 9AM or after, as I come from the local area of Nara to Kyoto in the morning.
No special conditions
Hello, I’m Makoto (Mac) and I'm a national-licensed tour guide.
My previous career as an automotive engineer, gave me the opportunity to learn English and to live in the US, Germany, and England. After I retired, I learned more about the Japanese history especially focusing on Nara and Kyoto to become a historical specialist of the Nara area. I now live in Ikaruga town in Nara prefecture, where the UNESCO World Heritage, Horyuji temple is located. I regularly offer guides on the Fujinoki tumulus, which is located near the Horyuji temple. It contains very interesting Archaeological findings from the end of the Kofun Period.
Recently, there are many foreign tourists who come to Japan, and I hope they enjoy learning about the culture and history of Japan. I would like to help tourists have a broader and deeper understanding of the Japanese culture and that is the reason why I decided to become a tour guide to help and support their experience in Japan.
Nara is the place where Japan started. The capital was located in Asuka, Fujiwara and Nara before it moved to Kyoto. Therefore, there are many places to visit in Nara to trace the original history of Japan, which I have a depth of knowledge.
Let’s explore the roots of Japan together!!
Donald H.
“Highlights of Kyoto”
An excellent tour of the temples and shrines of Kyoto. Makoto gave us the history and interesting facts about each of the sites we visited. He managed to quickly connect us through public transit to give us time to visit multiple locations during our day in Kyoto. Would highly recommend Makoto and this tour. Makoto is friendly, knowledgeable and has excellent English language skills.
Makoto Y.
Dear Donald, Thank you very much for your nice comments. I am happy to know that you have enjoyed the tour. I enjoyed to see the plumn blossoming, and enjoyed for you watching it. I hope you enjoy the trip in Japan. Thank you again for your choosing me of your guide this time. Makoto
Jacob R.
“Exceptional Guide: Makoto Made Our Japan Trip Unforgettable”
Our January trip to Japan, encompassing Nara, Osaka, and Kyoto, was transformed from a standard tourist experience into an unforgettable journey thanks to Makoto. We sought to immerse ourselves in the rich culture and history, and Makoto exceeded our expectations in every way. He didn't just point out landmarks; he brought them to life with insightful explanations and historical context, giving depth and meaning to every photograph we captured. More than a guide, Makoto became 'whānau,' a true member of our family, sharing his knowledge and warmth with us. Beyond the historical insights, Makoto expertly navigated the complexities of Japanese travel, seamlessly guiding us through train systems, recommending authentic local cuisine, and pinpointing the best shopping spots. His communication was impeccable, ensuring our itinerary aligned perfectly with our interests. He was incredibly responsive and flexible, tailoring our experience to our specific desires. Makoto's presence made our trip not just enjoyable, but deeply enriching. We left Japan with cherished memories and a genuine connection. Without hesitation, we will seek out Makoto's exceptional services on our next visit. Thank you, Makoto, for making our Japanese adventure truly extraordinary. Sincerely, Jacob
Makoto Y.
Dear Jacob, Thank you for your nice comments. I am so happy that you had nice trip of Japan, and I could support this trip. During the guide, I felt that you have really nice family relationship and I could feel that I am one of your family member. This is what recent Japanese people is missing recently. Please consider coming back to Japan again. Thaks again for your choosing me of your guide. Makoto
Nick R.
“Kyoto and Nara”
Had a great time traveling around Kyoto and Nara and learning about the history of Japan. Very informative and interesting tours.
Makoto Y.
Dear Nick. Thanks for your prompt review comments. I had wonderful time spent with you as you had good knowledge about history of Japan. We have good time of cherry blossoming, autumn leaves etc. Please come to Japan again. Thanks again for your choosing me of your guide this time. Makoto
$154/ per group