Tour of Ishiyama-dera Temple
Joined 2014
(Highlights)
This temple is popular not only among pilgrims and dedicated Buddhists but also among ordinary citizens. It is well-known as the place where a 12th -century woman writer Murasaki-shikibu worked on the manuscript of her masterpiece "Genji-monogatari (tale of Genji)". People visit the temple to pray for the safe childbirth, peace in the family and happy marriages. It is also the place where people can enjoy viewing the beautiful harvest moon known as "Ishiyama-no-syugetsu (moonlight over the temple of Ishiyama-dera) in mid-September. Not only Buddhist rituals but also jazz concerts and other festive events are held at that time. In mid-August, in addition, a magnificent fireworks show can be seen in the nearby river bank accompanied by as many as 3,000 candles lit in line in the same bank a bit away and "Bon" dancing" is performed by visitors each year.
The 900-year-old temple is the attractive place surrounded by natural beauties throughout the year: plum blossoms in winter, cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green leaves in early summer and colored leaves in the fall.
( How to visit the temple and enjoy)
After you go through the main gate, walk to the admission-collecting booth, where you are asked to pay 500 yen. They will give you a leaflet explainig about the temple in its entirety.Then, go up the steep hill and you will reach the "Hondo" main hall, which houses the magnificent "Go-honzon-sama", or " Kannon-sama", the Goddess of mercy, which is the principal icon of the temple. There you have to pay another 300 yen, then you can step in to the sacred hall, where the huge image sits. You have to take your shoes off beforehand. Taking a photo is not allowed there. You can sit on the chair before the image and offer a prayer. Afterward, walk on the path that leads you to whatever places or buildings there are in the compound. You will never get lost, since there are signboards everywhere directing your way and the path is simple. One hour will be enough for the tour of the entire temple.
(Others)
The bus fare is 230 yen and the entrance fee is 500 yen ( plus 300 yen for entering the "Hondo" main hall). You can also take a private railway train ride for almost the same fare.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At your hotel
Ishiyama-dera temple
Seta-no-karahashi Bridge. Feudal lords in Japan used to fight for the control of this bridge.
Ending Point
At your hotel
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, hotel pick-up in Kyoto area
transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, dinner, entrance fee, hotel pick-up in areas beyond Kyoto area
Tour Important Information
Important message from the supplier
I would like at least 7 days notice before a booking.
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 2014
About Tour Guide Tatsuhiro N.
It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.
Reviews
Chris G.
“Awesome Guide”
I'd like to introduce Tatsuhiro, a kind and thoughtful older gentleman who brings with him a deep understanding of Japanese cultural values. He not only embodies these traditions in his daily life but also offers valuable insight into their meaning, function, and relevance. Through his presence and perspective, Tatsuhiro helps us appreciate the richness and depth of Japanese culture. My last visit to Kyoto was back in 1993, and now, in the year 2025, I finally returned. The city has become a global destination, especially during the beautiful Cherry Blossom season, when visitors from around the world come to experience its magic. During this trip, I visited several incredible sites, including the Golden Pavilion Temple (Kinkaku-ji), the 33 Rooms Temple (Sanjūsangen-dō) with its awe-inspiring thousand-armed Buddhas, the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, and the breathtaking Kiyomizu Temple. This was a budget-friendly tour, which meant a lot of walking—something that stood out to me as a North American. We’re so used to driving everywhere, while in Japan, walking is deeply woven into daily life. That lifestyle difference might help explain why the Japanese enjoy longer lifespans, even without relying heavily on advanced medical interventions. Personally, I’d love to see an option for tours with vehicle support, even at a higher cost, to accommodate different needs and preferences. Our guide, Tatsuhiro, was exceptional. He is a kind and knowledgeable gentleman who offers deep insight into Japanese culture and tradition. I highly recommend him to anyone visiting Kyoto—his guidance truly enriched the experience. Chris
Chase S.
“Nice, relaxed Tour. ”
Good pace and very nice. Helped guide us through some transportation issues. Would recommend as a guide.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Chase-san, Michael-san & Coby-san, I am glad we were able to conclude today`s tour safely in spite of the poor weather. Thank you very much for the delicious lunch and your high rating of my job. See you again. Good luck. Regards, Hiro
Caroline W.
“Immersive, personalized & unique tour-the highlight of our trip!”
We had an incredible tour exploring Kyoto with Hiro, who provided a truly personalized journey through his beautiful city. Hiro was not only knowledgeable, but also passionate about sharing Kyoto’s rich history, culture, and hidden gems. Hiro planned our itinerary and took us to beautiful temples, charming streets, and peaceful gardens that we may never have discovered on our own. We had a full day itinerary, and Hiro expertly guided us to each stop. My favorite stop on our tour was the Sanjūsangen-dō, which we would have never known to visit without Hiro’s help. He balanced our tour with famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path spots, making sure we experienced Kyoto beyond the typical tourist attractions. He also shared stories and historical insights that made each route stop more meaningful. Beyond his expertise, Hiro was warm, engaging, and genuinely invested in making our time in Kyoto unforgettable. If you’re looking for a tour that feels immersive, thoughtful, and uniquely tailored to you, we highly recommend Hiro. Our time with him was truly one of the highlights of our trip, and we are so grateful for the experience!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Caroline-san & Alissa-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment. I really feel happy for it and got inspired to do a better work the next time on. By the way, I came to know the city of Kennebunkport in the state of Maine in January, 1991, when the 41st President of the United States, Mr. George H. W. Bush, was surrounded by reporters in the beach of that city. He was answering their questions. At that time, what is happening in Ukraine today was taking place in Kuwait, which was invaded by the troops of her northern neighbor, Iraq. The U.S.-led multinational forces drove out the Iraqi army from that small, oil-rich country. Sorry for veering away from the subject. I wish you two a happier and more fulfilling future. Hope to see you again sometime somewhere in the future. Best regard, Hiro
$178/ per group
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