Visiting temples and tea ceremony experience in East Kyoto
This tour is based on 'A Wonderful Half Day in Kyoto (East Kyoto). You can visit Kiyomizudera Temple, Sanjyusangendo Temple, Kenninji Temple. You can also enjoy tea ceremony experience.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel (lobby)(in Kyoto)
Sanjyusangendo Temple
In this temple, you can see 1001 Buddhist statues in a hall. You will be amazed at the scenery, 'Forest of Buddha'.
It is said that you can find the Buddhist statue which resembles you among these statues.
Please be noted that you cannot take any pictures in this hall. Please imprint the breathtaking view in your memory!
Kiyomizudera Temple
This temple was built on the 13-meter cliff without any nails in the 8th century. (UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site)
You can enjoy the panoramic view of Kyoto city, shopping and eating on its approach way. You can find shops where you can buy Kiyomizu pottery which is produced in this area. I hope you will enjoy trying some different kinds of Yatsuhashi (specialty sweets of Kyoto area).
Kiyomizudera temple is so beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring and colored maple leaves in fall.
Kenninji Temple
This temple is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto built in the 13th century and holds the replica of one of the most famous paintings, 'FUJIN RAIJIN' (Wind God and Thunder God Screens)
It's located in the area of 'Gion', however, not so many people visit this temple and you can enjoy the quiet rock gardens. This temple is also famous for the huge picture of dragons which is drawn on the ceiling of a temple.
Japanese tea ceremoy experience (about 45 minutes)
Please enjoy Japanese culture, tea ceremony experience.
Ending Point
This tour ends at the place near Shijyo, however, I will show you how to go back to your hotel.
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/15113/62910.jpg)
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, hotel pick up in Kyoto area
Transportation fee (you and guide)
Entrance fee: Sanjyusangendo Temple, 600 Japanese yen/person (you and guide)
Kiyomizudera Temple,400 Japanese yen/person
(Zuigudo, 100 Japanese yen/person)
Kenninji Temple, 500 Japanese yen/person
Lunch (you and guide)
Tea ceremony experience
Tour Important Information
*Inside of Sanjyusangendo Temple, you cannot take any pictures.
*Please book tea ceremony by yourself at 15:00 or 15:30.
*We will use public transportation.
This tour is available only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday this year.
Important message from the supplier
If you book me early, I can exchange mails with you many times to know what you want to do in details, collect information and prepare a lot for your plan. Please don't hesitate to ask me anything in advance.
I can guide you in the morning almost every day.(from 8:30 or 9:00 AM till 13:00 or 13:30PM)
This year, in case of the full day tour, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, are available.
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 Tomoe S.
Hello! My name is Tomoe. I'm a national licensed guide interpreter(English). I made my page here, TripleLights in October 2018. Thank you for finding me.
I was born and grew up in Otsu,Shiga, which is the next city of Kyoto.
I graduated from the university in Kyoto and lived there for four years due to my husband's job.
I like history and like to visit temples in Nara.
My hobby is to plan trips and have visited many cities and towns in Japan and abroad. One of my favorite places is the AIRPORT!!
I have enjoyed meeting and guiding people from abroad, to sightseeing spots in my country.
I really want many people from abroad to enjoy visiting many places and have wonderful experiences in my country. I'll be really happy if I can have such experiences with you!!
Please tell and ask me if there are any places which you want to visit and anything which you want to do in my country. I'll plan the trip only for you.
I am cheerful and always positive. I like to talk with people. I would like to talk with many people from many countries. Please tell me about your country, too!!
I'm looking forward to seeing you!!
* If you want, I will take you back to your hotel (within the time or with the extra hourly rate)
Or, I will show you how to go back to your hotel when we finish the tour.
* If you want, I will give you some advice about what to and where to eat your lunch/dinner.
Reviews
Steven P.
“An Outstanding Guide — Our Two Days with Tomoe Were Exceptional”
We had the pleasure of spending two full days with Tomoe, and she truly made our time in Kyoto and Nara unforgettable. She is exceptionally knowledgeable, thoughtful, and a joy to explore with. Day 1 – Kyoto Tomoe guided us through some of Kyoto’s most iconic cultural treasures: Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Nijo-jo Castle. Her deep understanding of history, architecture, and cultural traditions brought each site to life. She shared insights and stories we never would have discovered on our own, and she always seemed to know the perfect viewpoints and quiet corners away from the crowds. Day 2 – Nara Our day in Nara was equally memorable. We visited the Kōfuku-ji Temple complex, the magnificent Todai-ji with its Great Buddha, and the serene Isui-en Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens we’ve seen in Japan. Tomoe’s explanations made the history and symbolism of each place vivid and meaningful. She also brought us to a wonderful local restaurant, Soba-dokoro Kitahara, where we enjoyed some of the best soba we’ve ever had. Why We Loved Touring with Tomoe Beyond her expertise, Tomoe is warm, patient, organized, and truly attentive to every detail. She customized the pace to our interests, helped with photos, answered every question with enthusiasm, and created an atmosphere that felt relaxed and friendly. Spending time with her felt like exploring with a knowledgeable friend who genuinely cares about making your experience special. We cannot recommend Tomoe highly enough. If you’re visiting Kyoto or Nara, she is an outstanding guide who will elevate your trip in every way. Arigato Gozaimus, Tomoe, from Steve and Inna
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/15113/62910.jpg)
Tomoe S.
Dear Steve and Inna, Thank you so! so! so much for your wonderful review. I had the greatest joy as a guide, spending two wonderful days with you, who had so much interest in my country. You must have checked a lot and prepared a lot for your long tour in Japan. Sharing time with such ambitious couple inspired me a lot. Yes! I will never forget eating delicious soba at Kitahara in Nara with you. Thank you very much for booking me as your guide. I hope that I can see you again (with your family next time???) I miss you so much... TOMOE
Angelica Z.
“Fabulous Nara & Kyoto tour ”
Our tour in Nara, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Fushimi Inari was absolutely fabulous! We even had the unforgettable experience of wearing kimonos while walking around the Narashima Pagoda area — such a magical way to see Kyoto’s beauty and culture. Tomoe-san made sure we had an amazing time, tailoring everything to our interests and needs at every step. Her warmth, organization, and attention to detail made our Kyoto trip truly special. We’re so grateful for the experience and all the wonderful memories! Brian & Angelica O
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/15113/62910.jpg)
Tomoe S.
Dear Angelica and Brian, Thank you sooo much for such a warmhearted review. It was the superb present for me that you still remember me and booked me as your guide again 5 years after COVID pandemic. What a wonderful reunion! You have not changed at all since January 2020 and I was able to see your fabulous husband this time. '凛’ You are such a nice person! Please let me have more chances to see you again. Thank you very much for giving me such a precious meeting. TOMOE
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/47397/bbee5e69-a6d4-480c-8f72-c1113ae97bd3.png)
Rowena S.
“Nice tour with Tomoe”
I booked a Kyoto full day tour with Tomoe for my clients, who came from the UK. They really enjoyed the tour with her, she was excellent and really went out of way to make the tour interesting and informative. My clients would like to gave her the top mark for everything! Once again, thank you so much Tomoe!~~
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/15113/62910.jpg)
Tomoe S.
Thank you very much for your warmhearted review. I enjoyed the day, guiding your clients to Yasaka Koshindo, Kiyomizudera Temple, Golden Pavilion and Bamboo Forest in Kyoto. I miss such a nice couple so much... Thank you very much for booking my tour and giving me such a precious meeting. I hope that I can work with you again. TOMOE
$199/ per group
More tours by Tomoe S.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3654/90107.jpg)
Very Special 1day Kyoto Tour just for You
Kyoto had been the capital of Japan for 1000 years and has many wonderful places to visit. Please choose a few places among the following sightseeing spots, as you like. If you have any other preferable spots, please let me know. I'll guide you as many places as possible. Please note that some places are located in a little far away from the center of the city and it may need some time to go and come back.
Very Special 1day Kyoto Tour just for You
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3663/89764.jpg)
Must see spots in Kyoto and Nara in a day (8 hours)
It's a little bit difficult, for the first comers to Japan, to visit popular sightseeing spots in both of Kyoto and Nara. In this tour, you can visit Nara Park, Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, three most popular sightseeing spots in Nara and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto, the most popular sightseeing spot for visitors from abroad, in Kyoto. Deer will wait for you in Nara Park!
Must see spots in Kyoto and Nara in a day (8 hours)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3604/89855.jpg)
A Wonderful Half Day in Kyoto (East Kyoto) 4h
This tour is recommended for the first visitors to Kyoto. Kyoto had been the capital of Japan for 1000 years and has many old temples and shrines to visit. In this tour, you can visit two of the most famous and popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto and see the wonderful tradition, especially about Buddhist culture.
A Wonderful Half Day in Kyoto (East Kyoto) 4h
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3611/89303.jpg)
A Wonderful Half Day in Kyoto (North-west Kyoto) 4h
This tour is recommended for the first timers to Kyoto. Kyoto had been the capital of Japan for 1000 years and has many old temples and shrines to visit. You can visit three famous and popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto. All of these three places are registered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites.
A Wonderful Half Day in Kyoto (North-west Kyoto) 4h
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Kyoto
/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)
Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour
This half-day tour begins at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a sacred site with more than 1,300 years of history, famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates. Next, we will take a train to another district and visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. Here you will learn how Japan’s iconic drink has been crafted for centuries and enjoy a tasting of several sake varieties. We will wrap up the tour with a leisurely stroll through the lively Otesuji Shopping Arcade.
Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/72739/2120b4e6-bbb4-447b-b630-34e25e943fe6.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12587/42d686b0-dbab-4415-acb2-a58ed5fac5da.jpg)
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)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/17360/cc1ab6a7-dcb9-4099-8358-8ad0b3173e95.jpg)
Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest
Experience the charm of tranquility in a mountain temple. Take a 3km walk around the foothills of the Higashiyama Mountain Range, visiting shrines and temples along the path. Starting at Seikanji Temple on Mt. Kiyomizu (242m height), follow the Uta-no-Nakayama Road to Kiyomizu-dera. Then, go through Sanneizaka and Nene-no-michi, and reach Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine. Along the way, we can feel old stories of tragic love while enjoying panoramic views of the Kyoto cityscape.
Eastern Kyoto, Short Hike in a Peaceful Temple and Forest
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/61875/d7d4e207-5e4f-476f-811a-dbd7043e46b1.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/89769.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/89768.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/89767.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/89766.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/89765.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/63323.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/63319.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/63316.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3618/63315.jpg)