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Kinyomizu Temple to Gion & Yasaka Shrine
Kyoto
5 hours
Let's overview panoramic scenery from Koiyomizu Temple Veranda, and walk to Yasaka Shrine, Gion District, via Sannen-Zaka, Ninen-zaka & Stone paved alley Yasaka Shrine is Guardian Shrine of Gion and Gion area offers you the old town scenery. And please enjoy 3 gardens and arts of Kenninji Temple.
FROM$217/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Kyoto Spiritual & Cultural Journey: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu Temple, and Gion Tour
Kyoto
6 hours
Discover Kyoto's beauty with our "Kyoto Spiritual & Cultural Journey: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu Temple, and Gion Tour." Start at Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its iconic torii gates. Visit the scenic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, offering breathtaking views of the city. Conclude in the charming Gion district, where you’ll explore Kyoto's traditional geisha culture. This tour combines Kyoto’s most spiritual and cultural landmarks for a memorable experience.
FROM$467/ per group
Ahmed A.
4.79 / 5
(38 reviews)
Tour of Fushimi-Inari-Taisya Shrine
Kyoto
3 hours
(History of the shrine) Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine was founded when the god Inari was enshrined on Mt. Inariyama in February, 711. It celebrated the 1300th anniversary of the god`s enshrinement and all the buildings in the ground were restored and re-painted with the vermilion color in 2011. (Highlights) Fushimi-Inari-Taisya Shrine is the "So-honzan" head shrine of 30,000 Inari shrines across the country. There are paths called "sen-bon-torii", meaning alleys of tunnels made of 1,000 torii gates. Actually, however, it is said there are a total of more than 10, 000 torii gates, large and small, in the shrine compound which includes the whole of Mt. Inariyama. You can reach the 233-meter-high top of the mountain, or rather a hill, going up the paths, but it will be a laborious, 1.5-hour walk amid the rich greenery. In the meantime, it is the guardian shrine of merchants and tradesmen, attracting millions of visitors in the New-Year period. A pair of foxes sitting at the base of the gates are regarded as the messenger of the god. (How to enjoy) Go through the huge torii gate and walk along the paved main road and you will be met by the huge main shrine building. Then, walk on unpaved narrow paths which are inside the tunnel of torii gates according to the instructions of the signboard. There are many vermilion-colored buildings on your way, souvenir shops and smaller structures selling charms. You can sit on the sides of the paths and enjoy chatting with your companions or have lunch. There are some places which commnd a fine view of the city of Kyoto. (Others) The JR fare is 140 yen one way from JR Kyoto station. No entrance fee is required (although you are expected to offer whatever amount of monetary donations at the mainn building). Also you are supposed to follow the tradition, including clapping your hands twice when you worship.
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
7 Fantastic Districts along Kamo River on foot or by bike
Kyoto
7 hours 30 min
2000 years ago Japanese Gods fell down to Shimogamo Shrine and Capital had been moved to Kyoto 1200 years ago. Kyoto Culture developed along Kamo River. Emperor Palace was located on the Western Side of Kama River and many Temples and Shrines were located on the Eastern Side of Kama River. The first Kabuki was performed by Okuni , Shrine Maiden at the Riverbed of Kama River. Would you explore 7 fantastic districts along the Kama River with me ? On foot or by bike!
FROM$307/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Arashiyama & Nara Highlights: One-Day Private Tour Adventure
Kyoto
9 hours
Experience Kyoto and Nara with our "Arashiyama & Nara Highlights: One-Day Private Tour." Start in Arashiyama, where you’ll walk through the stunning bamboo grove and enjoy views from Togetsu Bridge. Then, head to Nara to see the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, interact with friendly deer in Nara Deer Park, and Todaiji temple. This private tour combines Arashiyama’s natural beauty with Nara’s historic sites for a day of memorable experiences.
FROM$534/ per group
Ahmed A.
4.79 / 5
(38 reviews)
Tour of Daigo-ji Temple
Kyoto
4 hours
(Highlights) The origin of Daigo-ji Temple dates back to 874, when a student priest of Reverend "Kobo-daishi" acquired the mountain "Daigo-yama," which was then the sacred training ground for mountain-based ascetic priests, carved two Kannon Goddesses and placed the carvings on the top of the mountain. Afterward, under the protection of the three successive emperors, buildings were constructed one after another both in the upper and lower parts of the mountain. The temple served as the hub of the" Shingonsyu" Sect of Buddhism with the support of the Imperial family and feudal lords. Although it was destroyed by fires many times, the temple buildings were reconstructed after a ruler of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, held a cherry blossoms viewing party in 1598. In the Edo period, one of the temple buildings, "Sampoin hall," was designated as the head temple for those ascetic priests. Surviving the orders of "Separation of Shintoism and Buddhism" and "Abolition of mountain asceticism" after the Meiji Restoration, the temple has kept its teachings to this day under the efforts of successive head priests. (How to enjoy) You will be amazed at the harmony of man-made wooden structures, large and small, and the beautiful natural surroundings. The murmur of the small, pure stream will be soothing to you ears. The whole of the temple precincts will sevve you as the place for curing all your worldly worries and recharging your internal batteries. Sitting on the roadsides and enjoy having lunch may be a wonderful idea. (Others) Entrance fee is 600 yen for one segment of the temple compounds. Bus fare is 230 yen per one way from JR Yamashina station.
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Ski Tour for 3 days to Japan Alps, Shiga-High Land
Kyoto
3 days
Let's enjoy skiing at Japan alps If you take a train early in the morning from Osaka or Kyoto, you can enjoy skiing in the afternoon at Japan Alps during Mid January to End March. The quality of snow is very nice to enjoy skiing On your way back, you can enjoy skiing until 2:00-3:00pm and return to Osaka or Kyoto at night by train.
FROM$668/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Tailored Private Kyoto & Arashiyama Experience: One-Day Tour
Kyoto
8 hours
This personalized experience allows you to explore the iconic sights of Kyoto, including its historic temples and vibrant cultural districts. In Arashiyama, stroll through the enchanting Bamboo Grove, visit the tranquil Tenryu-ji Temple, and enjoy the scenic views of the Togetsu Bridge. With a tailored itinerary, this private tour ensures you see the best of both areas at your own pace, making it a perfect choice for a memorable and immersive day.
FROM$534/ per group
Ahmed A.
4.79 / 5
(38 reviews)
Tour of Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion
Kyoto
3 hours
(Highlights) Registered as the World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994, the temple, formally named "Rokuon-ji Temple", was originally built in 1397 by the third Shogun of the Muromachi period but was burnt down by a fire caused by a young Zen Buddhist student in 1950 and was rebuilt in 1955. The garden and buildings centered on the Golden Pavilion was said to represent the Pure Land of Buddha in this world. The temple also functioned as the official guest house. In 1987, gold foils were re-plated completely after one year and eight months of work. The golden structure forms a striking contrast to the water of the pond in front of it and the greenery surrounding the temple. As you walk on the path after viewing the temple, you will come across The "Sekka-tei (Place of Evening Beauty)" Tea House, where you can see the Golden Pavilion shining beautifully in the evening glow, and "Fudo-do" Temple hosing the stone statue of the Buddhist deity, "Fudo-myo-o." Yow will also find small stalls selling good-luck charms and small trinkets as well as souvenirs. (How to enjoy) Just walk on the pass leading to the Golden Pavilion and other buildings according to the instructions of a brochure you will be given after paying the admission at the gate. You can gaze at the magnificent golden structure and take its photos or ask someone for help to have your picture taken with the temple in the background. You can also enjoy drinking tea in the open-air garden near the "Sekka-tei" Tea House, or you can bask in the delicate aroma of burning incense at "Fudo-do" Temple. If you read the brochure, you can learn the history of the entire garden and the buildings. (Others) The bus fare is 230 yen and the admission fee is 600 yen.
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Autumn Tints Tour along Higashiyama Area with Extra Garden
Kyoto
5 hours
It is a time to enjoy the Autumn leaves. Let's visit Nanzenji Temple, Eikando Temple, Ginkakuji Temple and garden along the Philosopher's Path and realize the colour combination of Japanese Maple Tints, from green, Yellow, Orange, Red to dark colour.
FROM$217/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Kyoto's UNESCO World Heritage Sites: A Guided Sightseeing Tour
Kyoto
8 hours
Kyoto, built over centuries, is renowned for its stunning temples & shrines. In this 8-hour tour, we will explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden, Kinkaku-ji Temple, the iconic Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its breathtaking views. I will provide historical insights into each site, enriching your visit. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to wander Kyoto’s historic streets.
FROM$534/ per group
Ahmed A.
4.79 / 5
(38 reviews)
Tour of Chionin Temple
Kyoto
3 hours
(Highlights) Chionin Temple is the head temple of "Jodo (Pure Land) shinsyu" sect of Buddhism in Japan. In addition to the magnificent buildings in the precincts, it is famous for the two main features: one is "uguisu-bari" flooring technique which helped thwart the attempts by robbers to steal by emitting a sound somewhat resembling the note of a "uguisu" bush warbler as they walked and the other is the largest bell in Japan measuring 2.4 meters in diameter, 5.1 meters in height, 23.8 centimeters in thickness and weighing 74 tons. The temple buildings stand in the midst of trees on the height that can overlook the cityscape of Kyoto below. But before reaching the main hall, "Goeido", you have to go up the steep stone stairways which, in turn, enables you to take a good exercise. (How to enjoy) Just walk in the temple compound, get into the main hall and listen to the priests preach. Just see the marvelous technique utilized in the construction of the floor of corridors which is said to be the work of a noted sculptor of the late 16th century, Hidadi (left-handed) Jingoro, and see for yourself if the planking sounds like the chirping of a bush warbler as you walk. Just have a look at and wonder at the huge temple bell. (Others) The bus fare is 230 yen and the entrance fee is 800 yen. However, the main hall, "Goeido", is now under the extensive repair work which is estimated to take some four years (as of April, 2015).
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Monkey park & Bamboo grove
Kyoto
5 hours
Iwatayama monkey mountain has 50 years history, and many monkeys are feeded at the mountain plaza. You can buy treats and give them to monkeys directly. It will take 20 minutes to go up to the monkey plaza. After that, please walk around the Bamboo Grove, which is about 8 Acre space, and you will heal your physical body and spirits.
FROM$220/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Tour of Daikaku-ji Temple
Kyoto
3 hours
(History of the temple) This temple is the "Sohonzan" head temple of the Daikakuji faction of Shingonsyu Buddhism sect founded by the Reverend Kobo-daishi Kukai. It was originally built as the villa of Emperor Saga when he got married in early Heian period (794 to 1191) and was later enlarged and given the name Daikaku-ji Temple in 876. It is also the place where "Ikebana" flower arrangement began and the location of Samurai dramas and other modern dramas. (Highlights) There are a total of eight buildings, a ceiling painting, a large pond and others in the spacious precincts which are built with all sorts of Japanese construction technique and are a pleasure to your eyes. (How to enjoy) Just walk inside the buildings according to the instructions. You can get in touch with the serene but refined environment and the traditional Japanese culture. (Others) The entrance fee is 500 yen and the JR fare is 240 yen from Kyoto station.
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Walking around Arashiyama
Kyoto
5 hours
Arashiyama is Summer Villa Area of Emperors 1000 years ago. I wish to introduce some beautiful and attractive places in Arashiyama. Visiting places are adjacent then I wish to recommend you to visit each places on foot.
FROM$217/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Tour of Kyoto-Gosyo Imperial Palace
Kyoto
2 hours 30 min
(Highlights) Kyoto-Gosyo Imperial Palace has been the residence of Japan`s successive emperors ever since her capital was moved to Kyoto more than 1,200 years ago. It is surrounded by a huge rectangular earthen fence 450 meters north to south by 250 meters east to west and the area is 110,000 square meters. In the compound, there are many magnificent structures that will make you sigh, all of which stand in perfect harmony toward each other and are the combination of all the traditional forms of Japanese architectural technique. The present palace, however, is the reconstruction of the original structures that was carried out toward the end of the Edo period (1603-1867). (How to enjoy) A guide will take you on a tour around the palace buildings. Have a look at them and you will marvel at the traditional Japanese construction technique. You can also enjoy seeing the trees, a pond, gardens and other natural surroundings in the palace grounds. (Others) Reservation is necessary before you visit the place except during the brief period of spring and autumun. It can be done through a return card, online or in person. If you visit the palace administration office by yourself, you can get the permission for the entry on the next day, but if you make a request for a visit online, you have to wait at least four days, and in case of a return card, a month. The subway fare from JR Kyoto station is 260 yen way.
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Superb View Spots in Kyoto Part 3
Kyoto
8 hours
Kyoto is covered by mountains for 3 sides besides South, and many temples, shrines and gardens are located at the foot of mountains on the East Side Kyoto Culture started on the West Side and moved to the East Side. I plan this tour to observe several scenic places from North to South on the Eastern Side mountains. Silver Temple, Philosopher's path, Nanzenji Temple, Murinan Garden, Nishiki Market and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
FROM$294/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Tour of Nishi-Honganji Temple
Kyoto
2 hours
(History of the Temple) Designated as the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994, Nishi-Honganji Temple is the mother temple and headquarters of the Honganji faction of Jodo (Pure Land) Shinsyu sect of Buddhism. The Jodo-Shinsyu teaching was established by the Reverend Shinran-shonin (1173-1263) in the Kamakura period. He underwent austere trainings and hardships in various parts of the country before returning to Kyoto to complete his work, "kyogyoshinsho", or The True teaching, Practice and Realization of the Pure Land Way on Buddhism. After his demise, his daughter erected a mausoleum at Higashiyama, Kyoto, which became the foundation of Nishi-Honganji Temple today. In the 16th century, it was moved to and re-established at the present location. (Teachings of the sect) Followers of this sect will be reborn in the Pure Land and attain Enlightenment. They will be able to live lives to the fullest, become aware of both potentials and limitations in this world, overcome difficulties and realize happiness within their lifetime. ( What you can see in the temple) There are many structures in the precincts, many of which have the status of National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties of Japan. They are:" Amidado" (Hall of "Amida" Buddha, built in 1760), ""Goeido" (Founder`s Hall, completed in 1636), "Karamon" Gate, Shoin Hall, "Hiunkaku" House (believed to be part of Jurakudai Palace built by a ruler of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi) and others. There is also a 400-year-old huge ginkgo tree called the "upside-down ginkgo tree", because it looks as if its roots were spread into the sky. ( How to enjoy) Walk around the entire compound of the temple, have a look at all of the magnificent structures and trees and imagine the power of Buddhism. You will learn the meaning of life. All that you see will deeply impress you and remain in your memory. You can pray for the peace of mind before the image of the Reverend Shinran-shonin in the Buddhist altar inside the halls sitting straight on your legs, or relax sitting on the wooden-floored corridors. (Others) There is no entrance fee, but you are supposed to offer whatever amount of monetary donations to the temple to express your appreciation. The bus fare is 230 yen.
FROM$68/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Appreciate 3 special spots of Food and Sweets
Kyoto
6 hours
Would you appreciate 3 kinds of Kyoto fantastic food and fashionable Sweets ? We will offer you 10 selected restaurants or sweets shops, which are originated in Kyoto. Because Kyoto had been a capital of Japan for 1000 years Some shops have history of furnishing their goods to emperor family from 400 years ago, You may be in touch with old Japanese culture by joining this tour. You can taste 3 kinds specialities out of 10, with town walking.
FROM$240/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Tour of Adashino-nenbutsu-ji Temple
Kyoto
4 hours
(History of the temple) According to what has been told by temple priests, the Reverend Kobo-daishi established a temple in this area and buried the remains of the deceased scattered around some 1,200 years ago. Afterwards, the temple was made the training hall for the Reverend Honen and now it belongs to the Jodo (Pure Land) - Shinsyu sect of Buddhism. In the middle of the Meiji period (1868 to 1911), the monuments of the dead, which had remained unattended for many hundred years, were collected and re-arranged by local volunteers in accordance with the Buddhist doctrine. (Highlights) Located in the edge of a local community and at the foot of a hill, this temple consisting of six structures and a large graveyard, looks like a mountain retreat. Serene, quiet atmosphere prevails and visitors voluntarily bow to the stone monuments to pay respect to the souls of those who passed away a long time ago. There are more than 8,000 stone monuments in the precincts which are the gravestones of those who were deserted in this area in olden times and there is the wooden statue of Amida-Nyorai Buddha sitting in silence in the "Hondo" main hall. At the time of "Sento-kuyo" Buddhist ritual on August 23rd and 24th each year, the entite temple compound is literally lit by a thousand candles and the scene created by the light, darkness and stone structures makes us feel as if the Pure Land had suddenly appeared before us. In the meantime, variou kinds of colorful lanterns are displayed in the nearby streets and vacant lots and a concert is held by a band of a local high school. The palce attracts a huge crowd of people both from around Kyoto and from abroard on these days. (How to enyoy) Just walk around the temple precincts and feel the solemn atmosphere. The place is especially recommendable on the days of "Sento-kuyo" ritual, when you can have a good time being in the "blazing sea" of candlelights and also seeing the variou shapes of lanterns. You can get in touch with the long-lived local tradition which has a different taste from the conventionalized summer pleasures represented by fireworks shows and noisy festivals. (Others) The entrance fee is 500 yen (but 1,000 yen on the days of "Sento-kuyo" ritual). The bus fare is 230 yen. (If you take a JR train, the fare is 240 yen.)
FROM$136/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Moss Temple, Daigo Temple & Arashiyama
Kyoto
8 hours
You can visit Moss Temple, Daigo Temple. Tenryuji Temple & Hozu River area at the best time, full blooming tof Cherry Blossom. Regarding Moss Temple, we need to make a reservation in advance, then please book tour one month before. When we cannot book the tour on your requesting day, please cancel this tour.
FROM$294/ per group
Eric T.
4.88 / 5
(52 reviews)
Tour of Heianjingu Shrine
Kyoto
3 hours
(Highlights) Heian Jingu Shrine has been and still is the face of Kyoto since 794. The magnificent shrine came into being when the restoration of Chodo-in, the main edifice of the capital city, Heian Capital Kyoto, was completed in 1895, exactly 1,100 years after the city was established by the 50th emperor of Japan, the Emperor Kammu. Citizens of Kyoto organized a body to deify the Emperor Komei, the 121st emperor, who turned out to be the last ruler of the capital, to honor his character as well as his great achievements who laid the foundation of modern Japan. As a result, the shrine was rebuilt in 1940 (the 2,600th year after the legendary Emperor Jimmu descended from the heaven) and has maintained the present grandeur since then. (How to enjoy) First, see the huge vermilion Torii-gate which is the entrance to the shrine marking off the sacred area. Next, have a look at the Daigokuden hall, which is the main worshipping hall and the place where the Shinto God is enshrined. Then, go into the "Shinen" sacred garden, where you will be met by various kinds of trees, plants, flowers, ponds, stepping stones, small bridges and stones for resting. There is also "Taiheikaku" ceremonial hall built above the largest pond. (Others) The admission fee of 500 yen will be charged if you wish to visit the "Shinen" sacred gardens. The bus fare is 230 yen.
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Tour of Sanjyusangen-do Temple
Kyoto
2 hours 30 min
(Highlights) The 120-meter-long temple houses a total of 1,000 standing statues of "Kannon" (Goddess of mercy), her gigantic statue seated in the center of those images, two powerful and dynamic statues of "Fujin" Wind God and "Raijin" Thunder God at either side of the hall and 28 images of guardian deities protecting the "Kannon" deities and pious Buddhists who believe in her. The statues are made of Japanese cypress using the special technique . As there are thirty-three 2.5-meter-long spaces between the columns in the facade, the temple came to be called "Sanjyusangen-do" (a hall with 33 spaces between columns). (History) Officially called "Rengeo-in temple and designated as the National Treasure, it was originally established by the powerful warrior-politician Taira-no-Kiyomori in 1164. After the original temple building was burnt down 80 years later, the building was reconstructed in 1266 and it has remained unchanged to this day for some 700 years with four major renovations in that period. Among the 1,000 standing statues, 124 were made in the 12th century, when the temple was founded and the remaining 876, in the 13th century, when the temple was renovated. (How to enjoy) Walk on the corridor in the long hall seeing the statues, while smelling the delicate aroma of burning incense, and you will be amazed at the serene-looking faces of the images of "Kannon-sama". Just bring yourself to the mysterious and esoteric world of Buddhism. You will never end up not admiring the ancient sculpture-making technology and the enthusiasm of those who were engaged in the construction of the statues. I wish I could add the pictures of these magnificent images, but I can`t, since photo-taking is no allowed inside the hall. They tend to be ignored, but you cannot miss the two structures in the temple precincts: South Gate and roofed earthen fence both of which are connected with Regent Toyotomi Hideyoshi and reflect the aesthetics of the 16th century. (Others) The bus fare is 230 yen and the entrance fee is 600 yen.
FROM$68/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)
Tour of Ginkaku-ji Temple
Kyoto
3 hours 30 min
(Highlights) Originally built in 1482 by the eighth Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate government, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, who spent his retirement days here, the temple is a Zen Buddhist temple belonging to the Shokokuji faction of Rinzaisyu sect of Buddhism, and is formally called Higashiyama- Jisyoji, named after his posthumous title. It is the place where Higashiyama Culture started after Kyoto was burnt down by an 11-year-long war between the two rival clans. The temple consists of 10 buildings, a garden, a pond, two wells and a lookout station, all of which forming a perfect combination of splendid man-made structures and the beautiful nature. (How to enjoy) After getting off the bus, go back a little bit and walk on the uphill road leading to the "Somon" gate, go through it and walk on the "Sando" approach of sand, on both side of which are hedges made of stones and bamboo and camellia trees, toward "Nakamon" middle gate, the main entrance to the magnificent courtyard. Once inside the temple precincts, walk on the paths in accordance with the directions. You will see all sorts components making up the beauty of Japanese gardens and structures standing among them. The main building, Ginkaku-ji Temple itself is, needless to say, will be your main focus of attention. The place attracts visitors all the year round, but the snow-capped temple building in winter, in particular, will be a joy to your eyes. (Transportation and entrance fee) The temple is some 45-minute bus ride from JR Kyoto station for a fee of 230 yen and the entrance fee is 500 yen. (Other pleasures) After you get out of the temple compound, walk along the "Tetsugaku-no-michi" (Path of Philosophy) for about 30 minute and you will get to Nanzen-ji Temple, famous for its splendid gate.
FROM$102/ per group
Tatsuhiro N.
4.55 / 5
(60 reviews)