Step into the world of emperors and samurai on this historical journey through Kyoto.
Explore the elegant gardens and grand halls of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, then uncover the secrets of Nijo Castle—home to shoguns, hidden chambers, and the famous “nightingale floors” that sing with every step.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Nijo Castle
- Nijo Castle (Main Entrance/Ticketing Gate) 541 Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301
Nijo Castle Main Building
Step inside a real shogun residence filled with history, hidden chambers, and famous paintings. Experience the famous nightingale corridors.
Ninomaru Garden
A classic Japanese landscape garden with ponds, islands, and manicured pines—designed to reflect the refined beauty of the Edo period.
Honmaru Garden and Watchtower
A quiet, lesser-known garden tucked within Nijo Castle’s inner circle—climb the watchtower for scenic views of the castle from above.
Seiryu-en Garden
A modern-style Japanese garden used for tea ceremonies and official receptions, combining tradition with elegance.
Kyoto Imperial Palace and National Garden
Once the home of Japan’s emperors, this grand estate features wide courtyards, graceful gates, and beautifully preserved Heian-style architecture.
Ending Point
Kyoto National Garden
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
• Guide Fee
• Entrance Ticket to Nijo Castle
• Transportation cost from Nijo Castle to Imperial Palace
• Hotel Pick Up
Tour Duration: 3 hours
Walking Level: Moderate – please wear comfortable shoes
What to Bring: Water, sun protection, and seasonal clothing
Photography:
• No photos allowed inside Nijo Castle’s main building (Ninomaru Palace)
• Photography is allowed in the gardens and exterior areas
Hi, I’m Jasmine! I am a friendly, multilingual guide based in Kyoto.
My tours are perfect for families with children and easy-paced for elderly guests. I offer warm, personal experiences filled with fun stories, local delights, and hidden gems you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s explore Kyoto together!
Janice L.
“Get to know Kyoto from someone who’s passionate about Japan”
A great introduction to Kyoto — 6 hours well spent with Jasmine. She is very enthusiastic, accommodating, observant, and catered well to our needs and preferences. She tailormade a tour for us and shifted plans as our cravings and interests developed. She gave us recommendations for places to have dinner and where to buy what. Very easy going, clearly someone who loves Japan and appreciates its culture and heritage. A good way to appreciate Kyoto for more than its tori gates and Geisha.
Jasmine L.
Thank you so much for booking the tour and for leaving such a kind review, Janice! It was a pleasure to be your tour guide and I had a wonderful time showing you around Kyoto. I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour! Safe travels and I’m wishing you a smooth flight back :)
Johanna W.
“Customised tour ”
Jasmine tailored our tour to our interests. She was flexible, knowledgeable & enthusiastic. We particularly enjoyed the local fish markets & strolling through the Geisha district. It was a hot & humid day but we had plenty of drink stops along the way.
Jasmine L.
Thank you so much, Johanna! It was truly a pleasure meeting you and Kate and showing you around Kyoto. I’m so grateful you chose to book a tour with me, and I really enjoyed spending the day with you both. Wishing you safe travels and many more wonderful experiences ahead — I hope our paths cross again someday!
Lampros S.
“Arashiyiama ”
Made our Arashiyiama experience memorable with insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm. Worth the investment for the stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
Jasmine L.
Thank you SO MUCH Lampros! It was lovely meeting you and Claudia. I had a great time as your guide, I’m happy that the both of you had a memorable experience! Take care and I hope to see you again :)
$172/ per group