Summer-only Higashiyama early morning tour
This is the perfect a half day tour that you can enjoy comfortably during this scorching Kyoto summer. This tour begins at Fushimi Inari Shrine, visits Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, concludes with a stroll through Gion Shirakawa after visiting Yasaka Shrine. Though short, it thoroughly covers the historic and popular spots of Higashiyama.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Inari station
- In front of JR Inari station, there is a big Torii gate. We meet at the Torii gate.
Fushimiinari shrine
Over 5000 vibrant orange torii gates that wind through the hills behind Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine makes it one of the most popular shrines in Japan.
From here, we take a taxi to Kiyomizu temple. ( Kiyomizu temple is located on the hill, there is no public transportation to go there. )
Kiyomizu temple
Situated atop a small mountain on the east side of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera temple offers a commanding view of the city. Perhaps it is the most beloved temple among Japanese people.
Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
From Kiyomizudera passing down to Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka cobblestone-paved slope where you can feel the atmosphere and historical houses from 300 years ago. You can enjoy shopping here too.
Yasaka shrine
Yasaka Shrine, located at the end of Shijo Street in Kyoto, is the head shrine of the Gion faith, which has approximately 2,300 shrines throughout Japan. The shrine is also known for the "Gion Festival" held every July.
Gion
Gion is a traditional entertainment district lying north and south of Shijo Street.
We can walk through Hanamikoji, this iconic street is renowned for its traditional machiya houses, upscale restaurants, teahouses, then continue to the canal Gion shirakawa, known for its picturesque streets.
Ending Point
Gion
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70544/88cc0a4f-d90f-48f7-b564-6a62c80d1fcd.png)
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 ¥500 per person
* Taxi fee about ¥2000 - ¥3000per group (Fushimiinari to Kiyomizu)
* Admission fees for guide.
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour is not recommended for those with back/knee problems.
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 Fumi U.
I have spent nearly 30 years working in a Government organization, contributing to development projects in Latin America and African countries. During this time, I cultivated strong cross-cultural understanding and effective communication skills.
For the past 10 years, I have lived in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where I managed a guesthouse, operated a jewelry workshop, and provided guided tours. Through these experiences, I have developed a deep sense of hospitality and attentiveness, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Leveraging these skills, I am dedicated to sharing the beauty of Japan with international guests and creating unforgettable travel experiences.
Reviews
Janet M.
“A great time seeing Kyoto's timeless treasures!”
Fumi knows Kyoto like the back of her hand. She met me at my hotel; from there I relaxed into following her as we walked to each train and bus and taxi stop. Was a pleasure to have such easy communication between the two of us, like we were old friends from the past. I enjoyed her company and her desire to help me find the places and things I was looking for. Fumi is understanding and flexible. I am in total appreciation of skills as a guide and human being. Thank you Fumi. So glad to have met you.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70544/88cc0a4f-d90f-48f7-b564-6a62c80d1fcd.png)
Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing such a wonderful review. I'm so glad that we were able to share such a pleasant time together. You are very gentle and inteligent person, I learnt a lot from you too. I hope we can meet again someday when you visit Kyoto.
Taylor M.
“Amazing tour for both English and Spanish speakers”
I joined my wife’s Spanish speaking family and had a great time with Fumi. She would switch back and forth from Spanish to English so all of us could enjoy it! She was amazing! Thank you!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70544/88cc0a4f-d90f-48f7-b564-6a62c80d1fcd.png)
Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a nice review. I am very happy that you enjoyed the tour. Next time please come and visit Kyoto again with your wife and your baby. I hope you, your nephew and niece return home safely with lots of happy memories.
Rajesh R.
“One day Tour of Kyoto”
Fumi was the best guide we had during our Japan tour. We booked a one-day Kyoto tour with her, and the experience exceeded our expectations. From promptly answering all our questions before we met to arriving on time at the designated meeting point, Fumi was professional, organized, and incredibly helpful throughout the day. She patiently explained the history and cultural significance of every place we visited and even accompanied us on several long walks to ensure we had the best possible experience. One incident that truly highlighted her dedication occurred when we accidentally left our mobile phone in a taxi. Fumi immediately took charge, contacted the right people, and successfully helped us recover it—something we would have struggled to do on our own. My wife, son, and I thoroughly enjoyed the tour and the thoughtfully planned itinerary. We only wished we had more time to spend exploring Kyoto with her. The next time I visit Kyoto, I will definitely reach out to Fumi again through this website to discover even more of the city's rich culture and history. I highly recommend Fumi to anyone interested in learning about Kyoto's heritage and traditions. Her knowledge is exceptional, and her passion for sharing it makes the experience truly memorable. Thank you, Fumi, for making our visit so special. We wish you continued success in your work!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/70544/88cc0a4f-d90f-48f7-b564-6a62c80d1fcd.png)
Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. I'm very happy that you enjoyed the tour. The day I spent with you and your family was an unforgettable one for me as well. It was a wonderful day with beautiful weather. I learned a lot from you about India, and it brought back fond memories of my own trip to India when I was younger. I'm also glad that your wife's cell phone was found without any problems thanks to the taxi company's quick response. Hope you come back to Kyoto and see you again.
$112/ per group
More tours by Fumi U.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18391/ed4593f6-89c9-4003-b806-3373a9a7f79d.jpg)
Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.
Perfect for those with limited time, this well-organized tour allows you to experience Kyoto’s most iconic sights efficiently. The itinerary includes the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoanji, Bamboo Grove in Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge. While these popular spots can be crowded, we utilize taxis to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey through this culturally rich city.
Kyoto's must-see attractions and World Heritage sites in one day.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18430/a1adf41d-db5a-48bc-99c3-d43487bd416f.jpg)
Las atracciones imprescindibles de Kioto y los sitios UNESCO en un día.
Ideal para quienes disponen de poco tiempo, este tour le permitirá conocer los lugares más emblemáticos de Kioto de manera eficiente. El itinerario incluye el Pabellón Dorado, el Bosque de Bambú, el Templo Tenryu-ji, el Puente Togetsukyo, Kiyomizu-dera y finaliza en el histórico distrito de Gion. Aunque estos sitios suelen estar concurridos, utilizamos taxis y transporte público para garantizar un recorrido cómodo y fluido por esta ciudad llena de historia y cultura.
Las atracciones imprescindibles de Kioto y los sitios UNESCO en un día.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18395/f1413d7a-f0c1-4997-9e28-f38759129bca.jpg)
Timeless Kyoto: A journey to explore the wabi-sabi culture of Higashiyama
Experience the timeless elegance of Kyoto on an exclusive tour seeking a deeper connection with traditional Japan. The day begins from Ginkaku-ji, the Philosopher’s Path, Hōnen-in, Eikando and Nanzen-ji—nestled at the base of Mount Hiei, where the subtle harmony of wabi-sabi and the changing seasons come to life.
Timeless Kyoto: A journey to explore the wabi-sabi culture of Higashiyama
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20867/ab9f2e3a-01d3-43e8-8624-e1ab3c062577.png)
Kyoto's highlights walking tour by public transport
This is a one-day efficient tour that uses public transportation to visit Kyoto's famous tourist spots. This tour will take you to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, Ryoan-ji Temple, and Kinkaku-ji Temple.
Kyoto's highlights walking tour by public transport
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Kyoto
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21290/8f50719a-bece-4ce8-a526-14cf6c086ca6.jpg)
Kyoto Heritage Walking Tour
Authentic cultural insights into Kyoto’s geisha world, Shinto & Buddhist traditions Scenic historical streets without rushing Ideal photo opportunities A relaxed, educational walk through Kyoto’s most charming districts
Kyoto Heritage Walking Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/80466/d66e7dc5-1de8-450c-af34-0b31639b7a1e.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12587/178876.jpeg)
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. It is best to have a local person guiding you to come up with a plan that suits your preference. I can create a tour with you which includes not only popular places like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari but small temples with wabi sabi such as those in Sagano and one of the oldest Japanese sweets shops in Murasakino.
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/47276/806519d4-d314-43ca-93bc-a4fef8e6ce4e.png)
Kyoto Highlights: Bamboo Grove & Ancient Temples (4-Hour Private Tour)
Short on time? Experience the best of Arashiyama in just 4 hours! We follow a smart, one-way route from a peaceful hidden gem through the magical Bamboo Forest down to the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. By entering Tenryu-ji Temple from the north gate, we avoid crowds and backtracking Saving your precious time and energy. Enjoy a seamless morning with a local professional guide!
Kyoto Highlights: Bamboo Grove & Ancient Temples (4-Hour Private Tour)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/94000/e38d160b-175f-486f-b995-35b518756a89.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18650/1d8babde-bdf3-4148-b796-8e922ef39f10.jpg)
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
Step into the beauty of Arashiyama, Kyoto’s scenic district, with this 4-hour walking tour. Starting from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, you’ll visit the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, the historic Tenryū‑ji Temple, the enchanting Sagano Bamboo Grove, and the peaceful Adashino Nenbutsu‑ji Temple. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and serene strolls away from the main crowds.
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/69610/c49801c3-752f-4733-905c-f0c443200719.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/409820fc-fea5-4a26-9e72-0e9091a98d5a.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/97a901f0-317d-4a56-a291-5c1e0406f619.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/71f86402-6012-4f03-a4d5-62ca588c3bd7.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/eb007265-9182-4c72-85aa-4f2e0abe75ea.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/ce4d3c2d-0cb4-439c-b27c-1ac72374dd63.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/3a189a1b-87c1-491b-af69-4b6111c0e3bf.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/ea823994-562f-4f44-9958-8565adc89fff.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/70cf3606-3948-474e-8ba3-688a644bbe19.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/24035/3d1d00e2-a479-468f-88f7-f4c23ac7f3ef.jpg)