As a unique experience, let me guide you through Kyoto's protected Higashiyama District at sunrise. Away from the crowds of tourists, this short trip offers the chance for those interested in Japanese culture and history to experience the area at a peaceful and meditative pace.
At your hotel
Hotel pick up
Let's visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site for a morning prayer, beautiful grounds, amazing cityscape and the nature sounds from Mt Otowa. The view of Kyoto at sunrise is unique, a one-of-a-kind memory.
These historic alleys are in a preserved area of Kyoto where we can pass by traditional Japanese houses. In the early hours, residents of the area can be seen attending to their businesses or starting the day with jogging and dog walking. It is a picture for those who are interested in the daily life of the Japanese people. Historical facts of the area will also be presented.
On our way to Yasaka Shrine, we will stop briefly at Maruyama Park for morning photos. The views of the mountains are spectacular. After, we will visit Yasaka Shrine, the protective shrine of the Gion district.
Have you ever wondered how the district of geiko (geisha) looks in the early morning? Along the small cobbled Hanamikoji street, we will see well-preserved tea houses (ochaya) or merchants' houses (machiya), and experience the uniqueness of the area.
We will continue our morning tour at Tofukuji Temple. Abundant in maple trees, moss and pine trees, the temple grounds offer a mixture of peace, natural beauty and architectural wonder. The autumn foliage is spectacular and it should not be missed.
We will end our morning walk at Fushimi-Inari Shrine. We will walk through a 1,000 torii gate passage under the protective eyes of the god Inari represented by foxes. I will also help you choose souvenirs or buy delicious snacks from the local vendor at the entrance of the shrine.
Kyoto Station, or Destination of your choice
Guide fee
Hotel pick-up
Transportation fee
Entrance fee
Meals
Good walking shoes and folding umbrellas are needed as the trip includes slippery slopes and stairs and the weather is unpredictable.
Please keep in mind that this is an EXTRAORDINARY time to visit this historic protected area and that shops are NOT open. As we pass through residential areas, we will have to keep quiet in some parts.
“Kyoto and Nara day tour”
Ms Ana is a very professional Guide. She is awesome with all the arrangement, information, and helpful. Great job.
Ana I.
(9 reviews)Dear Jee, thank you for the chance to show these two cities. It was a great learning experience for me and I had much fun with. Happy travels!
“Amazing tours of Kyoto!”
Where do I begin?! Ana is an incredible guide! We spent 1.5 wonderful, inspiring, information-filled days with her in Kyoto and I wish we could have had her with us the rest of our trip. She seems to know everything about everything (truly, there wasn't a single question we asked that she couldn't answer). She's wonderful with kids — she was so kind and patient with our young children, who absolutely adored her (my 7 year old daughter was holding her hand by the end of our first day together). She also advised us well about visiting sites that weren't part of our tour and some of our best family photos of our trip were taken by her. We feel lucky to have met her and we're so grateful to have had her guidance. We highly, highly recommend Ana!
Ana I.
(9 reviews)Dear Marta, thank you for the kind review. It was such a treat for me to spend a day and a half with your family! The children were amazing and under your wonderful parental guidance, they were patient and open to trying things during the tour. It was a bittersweet moment to say my goodbyes to everyone and I am so grateful for choosing me to show you Kyoto. I wish you all much health and joyous days ahead️.
“Exceptional Tour Experience with Ana in Kyoto”
Ana is not only a wonderful tour guide, but she is also incredibly flexible. Whether it was accommodating our schedule or adapting the tour to suit our son's needs, she was always ready to adjust and ensure our comfort. Her knowledge of Kyoto is extensive and impressive and she conveys it in a way that is both engaging and enjoyable. Her kindness towards our nine-month-old son was particularly touching. She was patient, engaging, and always considerate of his needs. We couldn't have asked for a better guide! 10/10 would recommend!
Ana I.
(9 reviews)Dear Natalie, thank you all for allowing me to show you Kyoto on a surprisingly hot day. Your son is a champion and I will remember him as my sweetest and most charming guest ever. Much appreciated the warmth of the group and attention to my stories and commentary. Thank you so much for the opportunity to meet everyone. All the best!