Timeless Kyoto: A journey to explore the wabi-sabi culture of Higashiyama
Joined 2025
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.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
- At the reception of your hotel. Then we will take a taxi or bus to Ginkakuji.
Ginkakuji temple
A 15th-century Zen temple known for its beautiful gardens and a sand mound shaped like Mount Fuji.
The Philosopher's Path
The Philosopher's Path is a long promenade, It runs along the Lake Biwa Canal and is known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Honenin temple
It's famous for the thatched roof of the mountain gate. There are few tourists visiting this temple, so you can really feel the sacred and tasteful atmosphere.
Lunch
Have lunch at a restaurant near the Philosopher's Path. There are several restaurants, I will make a reservation according to your preference.
・Restaurant Ginkakuji Ikana (Japanese cuisine)
・Restaurant Green terrace (Japanese cuisine)
・Coffe shop And bull coffee (Pizza and salad)
Eikando temple
Eikando Temple is known as one of the most famous spots for viewing autumn leaves in Kyoto. Other attractions include the principal image of the temple, the "Looking Back Amida," and the Seven Mysteries of Eikando Temple.
Nanzenji temple Sanmon
From Sanmon( a huge mountain gate) of Nanzennji temple, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic view of Kyoto city.
Nanzenji temple Hojo (Main hall)
The highlights of Nanzenji Temple is the main bulding designated as national treasures, and breathtaking dry landscape Gardens. It was relocated from the former Imperial Palace, and is famous for its Kano school sliding screen paintings.
Matcha tea break
You can enjoy matcha tea while looking out at the garden in the teahouse located inside the Hojo.
Acueduct Suirokaku
This acueduct Suirokaku in japanese has a unique, modern feel to it. It is called Suirokaku because of its imposing appearance that is reminiscent of the aqueducts of the Roman Empire.
Keage Incline
Keage Incline is a former railway converted into a gently sloping pedestrian trail lined with sakura (cherry trees) that links Lake Biwa Canal to Kyoto’s Kamo River.
Ending Point
Keage Incline
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
Guide fee
* Admission fees ¥2300 per person (Including all temples)
* Taxi fee ¥1000-2000 from your hotel to Ginkakuji
* Lunch ¥1000 - 2000 per person
* Admission fees, transport fee and lunch for guide.
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* Please let me know in advance which restaurant you wanto to have lunch.
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 2025
About Tour Guide Fumi U.
I have spent nearly 30 years working with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), 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
Tom H.
“Kyoto Tour”
Fumi was just lovely. She was so knowledgeable about the area and the sites that we were visiting. She was a great leader and took us with ease throughout the city. She also took us to a wonderful restaurant that was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend Fumi as your tour guide for Kyoto. We have nothing but wonderful memories of our time we spent with her. She would be a great guide for anyone for the Kyoto area. She went out of her way to take us all the way back from the city center to our cruise ship. This put her over an hour to 2 hours out of her way to help us get back safely to our ship. Wow!! She was wonderful.
Fumi U.
Thank you so much for wonderful review. I am very glad that you enjoyed the tour. Your group was very friendly and easy going. I had a great day too. Hope to see you again in Kyoto.
Isabelle S.
“Excellent guide for Kyoto”
Fumi gave us useful information about the sites in Kyoto (temples, bamboo farms, shopping districts) and picked a delicious restaurant for lunch. She was also patient with us despite the 41C heatwave. We highly recommend her.
Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. I'm very happy that you enjoyed the tour. I look forward to seeing you again.
Troy N.
“Amazing Foodie Experience w/ Fumi”
Fumi was absolutely amazing! She showed me several restaurants then help me picked the perfect one! We had numbers delicious kobe beef cuts! While eating we had a great conversation about her life and our past experiences! Afterwards she showed me around Gion and give some good advice and several restaurants options that my wife and i should try! It was a pleasure Fumi, and thanks for making my first Kyoto food experience wonderful!
Fumi U.
Thank you so much for writing a wonderful review. I'm very happy that you enjoyed the food tour, although we visited only one Wagyu restaurant. I hope you enjoy Gion festival today and see you again in near future!!
$196/ per group
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