Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage Sites: A Guided Sightseeing Tour
Joined 2017
Kyoto, built over centuries, is renowned for its stunning temples & shrines. In this 8-hour tour, we will explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden, Kinkaku-ji Temple, the iconic Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its breathtaking views. I will provide historical insights into each site, enriching your visit. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to wander Kyoto’s historic streets.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Any place inside Kyoto city ,including your hotel
- * The guide will meet you at your hotel inside Kyoto. If outside, please let us know. * We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.
10:00 Ryoan-ji Temple
Discover the serene beauty of Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous Zen rock garden, renowned for its simplicity and profound tranquility. Stroll through the temple's lush gardens and peaceful surroundings, offering a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto. Ideal for meditation and reflection, this tour invites you to experience the timeless elegance and spiritual depth of Ryoanji Temple.
11:30 Kinkako-ji Temple
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto's iconic Golden Pavilion, shimmering brilliantly against its serene pond backdrop. Stroll through the exquisite gardens, reflecting the harmonious blend of nature and artistry that defines this UNESCO World Heritage site. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and photographers, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Japan's architectural splendor and tranquil elegance.
13:00 Nijo Castle
Step back in time with a visit to Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto that showcases stunning Edo-period architecture and exquisite gardens. Explore the opulent Ninomaru Palace, famed for its "nightingale floors" and intricate woodwork, offering a glimpse into the life of the Tokugawa shoguns. Perfect for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, this tour promises a captivating journey through Japan's rich cultural heritage.
14:30 Nishiki Market / Lunch Break
Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". Dive into the culinary heart of Kyoto at Nishiki Market, a bustling five-block marketplace brimming with over a hundred vibrant stalls and shops. Savor the flavors of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and unique snacks while exploring traditional Japanese ingredients and gourmet treats. Perfect for food lovers and cultural explorers, this tour offers an unforgettable taste of Kyoto's rich culinary heritage.
16:00 Kiyomezu Dera Temple
Explore the enchanting Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the historic Gion area on your Kyoto tour. Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Perched on the hillside, the temple offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding forests. Its wooden stage, built without nails, is famous for its breathtaking views of cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant maple leaves in autumn. The temple's peaceful atmosphere, sacred shrines, and natural beauty make it an unforgettable destination.
17:00 Tour Finish
Ending Point
Gion District
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
Guiding Fees & Tour Management
*Transportation fees
*Entrance fees
*Lunch & personal Expenses
*We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.
*Gratuities are always appreciated but never expected. If you feel that your experience was exceptional, tipping is a lovely way to show your appreciation for the service provided.
Tour Important Information
*This tour is based on using public transportation, however we recommend car hiring (cost is JPY 100,000 per day in cash to the driver for up to 5 pax) since it will make it more convinient and efficient. In case you are interested please ask me to manage it.
*These tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
*We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.
Important message from the supplier
See the calendar for availability
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 2017
About Tour Guide Ahmed A.
Hello! I’m Ahmed, a passionate tour guide based in Kyoto, Japan. Originally from Kuwait, I moved back to Palestine where I earned my Medical Degree (MD) in 2008. In 2015, I was fortunate to receive a Japanese government scholarship to pursue further studies at Kyoto University, one of Japan’s top institutions.
Living in Kyoto opened my eyes to the rich history and stunning scenery of this ancient city, which served as Japan’s capital for over a thousand years. It ignited my passion for culture, history, and food, leading me to embark on a rewarding career as a tour guide.
I have traveled extensively across Europe and Asia, and I love sharing my knowledge of Japanese culture with others. I can provide historical insights at every stop, recommend the best local cuisine, and create personalized itineraries, including day trips from Tokyo to Kyoto.
I’m fluent in English and Arabic, and I thrive on connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you’re interested in exploring temples, experiencing traditional cuisine, or simply enjoying the beauty of Kyoto, I’m here to make your visit unforgettable.
Your safety and comfort are my top priorities. I measure my temperature before our tours and am happy to wear a mask if it makes you feel more comfortable. While I'm not a driver, I will accompany you in your vehicle or arrange for a separate car and driver if needed.
Book with confidence and get ready to explore Kyoto with me! I can’t wait to show you why I believe this city is the most beautiful in Japan.
Ahmed, MD, PhD, MBA
Reviews
Matthew W.
“Solid comprehensive tour of Kyoto”
We arrived in Kyoto around dinner time and had the following day to tour around the city. I looked online for a guide and found Ahmed who was thankfully available on short notice. Ahmed did an excellent job efficiently taking us around to the areas we wanted to see. Had we done it ourselves, it would've taken 3 days, and having a guide was especially helpful since it rained all day. Moreover, Ahmed has a deep historical understanding of each of the sites which was great, and he speaks fluent English which made our interaction easy. If you go with Ahmed, it is absolutely imperative that you also have him order a driver since that's what allows you to see so much. Given our last minute situation, we accepted the high combined cost for guide/taxi/tickets.
Ahmed A.
Thank you so much for the kind words! I'm really glad I could help make your time in Kyoto enjoyable, even with the rain, and that the tour was efficient and informative for you. Wishing to meet you again in Kyoto
Peter C.
“Deceitful And Inconsiderate”
Be careful when booking with Ahmed. I recently booked a tour with him for the following day. A prior/separate GoWithGuide tour to Mt Fuji from Tokyo included transportation for a similar price and I accidentally overlooked that the transportation was not included in this cost. In less than 4 hours, I realized my mistake and asked to cancel. We were communicating via WhatsApp and he seemed understanding and recommended that I reach out to GoWithGuide for the refund, which I did immediately. See photo for our conversation. Come to find out, he tells GoWithGuide that he refuses to sign off on the refund. Also, there was never any proof provided regarding “turning down another tour” and I generally doubt he received another request as this all took place so quickly. I would recommend staying away from booking any tours from Ahmed unless you are comfortable knowing that you will never get your money back if something happens at the last minute.
Ian B.
“Night time highlights ”
Ahmed was not able to guide us on our visit because of illness but arranged a substitute guide, Matheus. He was fabulous, adapting to our needs easily. A very enjoyable experience.
Ahmed A.
Great you enjoyed it. Thank you so much
$534/ per group
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