Kyoto’s Cherry Blossom Wonders
Joined 2024
Enjoy a 5-6 hour tour of Kyoto’s cherry blossoms and culture. Start at Nijo Castle, then have lunch in Gion or a picnic in Maruyama Park. Walk the Philosopher’s Path, visit Kiyomizu-dera, and end at Maruyama Park with its famous shidare-zakura (weeping cherry trees). I’ll share cultural insights throughout the tour.
The tour ends with shidare-zakura (weeping cherry trees) at Maruyama Park. Along the way, I’ll share insights into Kyoto’s culture, history, and the significance of sakura.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Kyoto Station
- Kyoto Station (Central gate/in front of Kyoto Tower) Pick-up Location: Around Kyoto Station (exact location can be adjusted according to your preference) Optional: If needed, I can pick you up from your hotel for an additional fee (¥1000–¥2000).
Nijo Castle （二条城）
Nijo Castle (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM)
Overview: Nijo Castle is a historic site from the Edo period, known for its beautiful gardens and cherry blossoms. In spring, the gardens are filled with blooming sakura, creating a vibrant and picturesque scene.
Highlights: The cherry blossoms within the castle gardens, complemented by the castle's majestic architecture, present a quintessential Japanese landscape.
Cultural Talk: I'll share the history of Nijo Castle and explain the symbolic connection between sakura and Japanese castles and gardens.
Lunch around Central Kyoto or Gion
Lunch around Central Kyoto or Gion (11:15 AM - 12:00 PM)
Lunch Options: There are many casual restaurants in Gion or near Kiyomizu Temple where you can enjoy udon, ramen or other Japanese foods.
Example: You can try "Kyoto Udon" in Gion or a ramen spot near Kiyomizu-dera.
Alternative: You can buy bento or snacks and enjoy a picnic at Maruyama Park, which is close to the area.
Cultural Talk: I will share insights into Japanese food culture, dining etiquette, and local Kyoto specialties.
Philosopher’s Path （哲学の道）
Philosopher’s Path (12:15 PM - 1:00 PM)
Overview: The Philosopher's Path is a scenic walking trail that stretches from Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji, lined with sakura trees. In spring, it becomes a tunnel of cherry blossoms.
Highlights: Walk along the path and enjoy the stunning view of cherry blossoms reflected in the canal, capturing the tranquil beauty of Kyoto.
Kiyomizu Temple（清水寺）
Kiyomizu Temple (1:15 PM - 2:00 PM)
Overview: Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples, offering breathtaking views of the city and beautiful sakura. The large veranda provides a panoramic view of Kyoto and its cherry blossoms.
Highlights: Visit the Kiyomizu stage and enjoy the sight of sakura in full bloom, along with the scenic views of the city.
Maruyama Park（円山公園）
Maruyama Park (2:15 PM - 3:30 PM)
Overview: Maruyama Park is home to one of Japan's most famous shidare-zakura (weeping cherry trees). It’s a large park perfect for a relaxing stroll and enjoying cherry blossoms.
Highlights: Enjoy the majestic weeping cherry tree and take in the serene atmosphere of the park.
Cultural Talk: I will discuss the tradition of Hanami (flower viewing), the importance of sakura in Japanese culture, and the history of Maruyama Park.
The tour will be end at Maruyama Park with its famous shidare-zakura (weeping cherry trees). After the tour, feel free to relax and enjoy Hanami (flower viewing) in the park.
Ending Point
Maruyama Park
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
●Guided Tour of Kyoto: A personalized, guided experience, where I’ll take you to explore Kyoto's key cultural landmarks and share in-depth information about their history and significance.
●Cultural Conversations with Me:
-A chance to engage in interesting talks about the cultural differences between Japan and other countries. I work as an interpreter and help people who want to live in Japan, so I have many insights into life in Japan and how it differs from other cultures.
-We can discuss topics like Japanese customs, work culture, daily life, and more, and compare them to your home country. Feel free to ask questions about how living in Japan works or anything related to cultural integration!
●Meals: Lunch is not included in the tour price. You’ll have the option to purchase a meal at a local restaurant, where typical options include Kyoto-style food, sushi, Udon or ramen.
●Transportation Fees: Public transportation (bus, subway, or train) and taxi fares are not included in the price. These will cost approximately ¥1,000-2,000 per person depending on the mode of transport and distance between locations.
●Entrance Fees: Some temples and shrines along the tour are free to visit, but many temples and gardens charge an entrance fee ranging from ¥300–¥1,000.
For example:
Kiyomizu Temple: ¥300
Tofukuji Temple: ¥500 - ¥1000
Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion): ¥500
Ryoanji: ¥500
Ninnaji: ¥500
●Snacks & Souvenirs: Any snacks or souvenirs you purchase during the tour (e.g., matcha drinks or local crafts) are not included.
Tour Important Information
●This tour involves a lot of walking, including stairs and slopes, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.
●The tour runs in all weather conditions. Please bring an umbrella or raincoat if rain is expected. Kyoto can be hot in summer and cold in winter, so dress accordingly.
●Bring cash, as some small shops and temples do not accept credit cards.
●Transportation fees are not included. You will need an IC card (Suica/ICOCA/Pasmo) or cash for buses and trains (around ¥1,000-2,000 per person).
●Food & drinks are not included. You can enjoy Kyoto’s specialties during lunch and snack breaks.
●Some attractions have entrance fees (about ¥1,000-3,000 per person), so please prepare for this.
●Hotel pickup is available for an additional ¥1,000–¥2,000, depending on location.
◎Kids are welcome on this tour! However, please keep in mind the following:
●The tour involves a lot of walking (about 5–7 km), including stairs and slopes. A lightweight stroller may be useful for younger children, but some areas (like Fushimi Inari) have uneven paths.
●Child-friendly food options are available during lunch breaks. Let me know in advance if your child has any allergies or dietary needs.
●There are many fun stops for kids, such as trying matcha ice cream, exploring souvenir shops, and seeing fox statues at Fushimi Inari.
●Restroom breaks will be planned, but facilities may not always be available nearby, especially in temple areas.
●Public transport will be used, so young children should be comfortable with short train/bus rides.
◎This tour can be made wheelchair-friendly, but some locations have stairs, slopes, or uneven paths. If you or someone in your group uses a wheelchair, please let me know in advance, and I will adjust the route to ensure a smooth experience.
※If you have specific requests to make the tour more kid-friendly (e.g., shorter walking distances, extra snack stops, or fun hands-on activities), or wheelchair-friendly, just let me know!
This tour is available in late March and early April.
Important message from the supplier
Depends on other schedule, I can be more flexible. I can be more flexible if can know the schedule before.
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 2024
About Tour Guide Kazue K.
Hello! My name is Kazu, a tour guide from Kyoto. I was born and raised here, studied in Osaka, and became fluent in English after studying abroad in Canada. My experience there made me appreciate Japan’s beauty and cultural differences, inspiring me to share Kyoto with people from around the world.
I started as a volunteer guide for friends but now work professionally to show more people Kyoto’s charm. On my tours, I’ll take you to great spots and share insights into Japanese culture, customs, and the unique mindset of Japanese people. I look forward to guiding you!
Reviews
Veena R.
“Half day tour of Kyoto”
Kaz was lovely! We spent a casual half day seeing some local sights with her. She was incredibly kind and knowledgeable and we learned a lot about Kyoto from her!
Kazue K.
Thank you so much for your lovely review, Veena! It was such a joy to guide your wonderful family around Kyoto. I especially enjoyed spending time with your girls! Writing kanji together on the ema at the torii gate was also a special and memorable moment for me. I’m really glad we could share such a fun and meaningful day. Thank you again for choosing me as your guide!
$210/ per group
More tours by Kazue K.
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This 5-6 hour guided tour offers a deep dive into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage, starting from the Fushimi Inari Shrine and winding through historic districts, famous temples, and traditional streets. Perfect for first-time visitors and those who want to experience Kyoto’s essence in a day. -Pace: Moderate, with a mix of walking and short train/taxi rides. -Best for: Culture lovers, history enthusiasts, and first-time visitors. -Tour Style: A blend of famous sites, and cultural experiences.
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Explore Kyoto’s highlights in just 4 hours! Start at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its torii gates, then visit Nijo Castle to learn about samurai history. Next, enjoy stunning views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and finish in Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district. I’ll share insights on history, culture, and Japan’s unique traditions throughout the tour! [Note] On Sundays this tour only starts from between 9:00 or 9:30.
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