Kyoto’s Eastern Highlights: Heian Shrine, Ginkaku-ji, Philosopher’s Path & Nanzen
Visit Heian Shrine and Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion), then enjoy a peaceful walk along the Philosopher’s Path. Discover the beautiful gardens of Eikando Temple, the Zen atmosphere of Nanzen-ji Temple, and its famous brick aqueduct. The tour finishes at the historic Keage Incline, a symbol of Kyoto’s modernization.
Experience Kyoto’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and beautiful scenery while discovering the unique history and culture of this ancient city.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden
- Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden is a modern shopping complex in central Kyoto. It is located just above Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station and has many shops and restaurants. You can find a large world map on the building as a landmark. The meeting point is at the ground floor entrance. If you would like to meet at your hotel lobby, I can come and pick you up there. However, if your hotel is far from the tour route, let’s meet at Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden instead.
Heian-Jingu Shrine
Heian Shrine was built in 1895 to celebrate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto becoming the capital of Japan.
It is dedicated to Emperor Kanmu, the first emperor of Kyoto, and Emperor Komei, the last emperor of Kyoto.
The large torii gate and beautiful garden are the highlights of this shrine.
Ginjakuji Temple
Visit Ginkaku-ji Temple, the famous Silver Pavilion.
This Zen temple is known for its simple beauty, peaceful garden, and elegant design.
Experience the beauty of Japanese Zen culture surrounded by nature.
Lunch Time
For lunch, you can try the food you are interested in or your favorite Japanese dishes.
I can also recommend some local restaurants based on your preferences.
The Philosopher’s Path
The Philosopher’s Path is a beautiful walking trail along a canal in Kyoto.
It is famous for cherry blossoms in spring and the peaceful atmosphere throughout the year.
Enjoy a relaxing walk surrounded by nature and traditional Kyoto scenery.
Eikan-do Temple
Eikan-do Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Kyoto, especially famous for its autumn colors.
The temple has a peaceful garden, traditional buildings, and a beautiful view from the hillside.
It is a perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Japanese nature and Zen culture.
Nanzen-ji Temple and the Suirokaku Aqueduct or water bridge
Nanzen-ji Temple is one of the most important Zen temples in Kyoto.
It has a beautiful garden, a large wooden gate, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Inside the temple grounds, you can also see the Suirokaku Aqueduct, a unique brick structure built during the Meiji period.
It is a beautiful combination of Japanese temple culture and Western-style architecture.
Keage Incline
Keage Incline is a historic railway track that was used to transport boats between canals with different heights.
Today, it is a popular walking spot surrounded by cherry trees and beautiful Kyoto scenery.
It is a unique place where you can enjoy both history and nature.
Ending Point
Keage Station on the Kyoto Subway Tozai Line
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Guide fee
Admission fees
Taxi fare for one section of the tour is included in the tour price.
After visiting Heian Shrine, we will take a taxi to Ginkaku-ji Temple.
Public transportation fees
Lunch
Personal expenses
Tour Important Information
This tour includes bus rides and walking. Please wear comfortable shoes.
This tour is not recommended for guests with difficulty walking or leg/back problems.
Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions.
My available dates are mainly shown on my calendar.
If you have another preferred date, please feel free to contact me, as I may be available.
Important message from the supplier
Although my calendar currently shows Friday, Saturday, and Sunday as available, my work schedule changes every week. I may also be available on weekdays, depending on my shift. If you’d like to book a tour on another day, please feel free to send me a message. I’ll do my best to accommodate your request. Please don't hesitate to ask!
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
About Tour Guide Kazunori O.
Hello! I’m Kazunori. I’ve been guiding visitors around Kyoto for the past two years. So far, I’ve guided more than 30 groups. Many guests have told me I should become a professional guide, and their kind reviews encouraged me to join GoWithGuide.
I know Kyoto very well, especially Arashiyama and the Higashiyama area, including Kiyomizu-dera.
My goal is to help you enjoy Japan so much that you’ll want to come back again. I’ll be happy to share Kyoto’s history, food culture, and traditions in a simple and enjoyable way.
I look forward to meeting you and showing you the beauty of Kyoto!
$125/ per group
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