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Tour of Ryoanji Temple
(History of the temple)
Originally a country house of the powerful Tokudaiji Clan, it was acquired in 1450 by a high-ranking official of the Muromachi Shogunate government, Hosokawa Katsumoto, for use as a Zen training temple. Later, It was formally established as Ryoanji Temple by the head priest of nearby Myoshinji temple. It was burnt down during the "Onin" War (1467 to 1478), but rebuilt some 20 years later by Hosokawa`s son. It was again met by fire in 1797 and some of the buildings in the precincts were lost. The present main hall, "Hojo", was then transferred to the present location from another site of the temple.
(Highlights)
Along with the gardens, paths and a large pond amid the rich greenery, this temple is well-known for its rock garden called "Kare-sansui" consisting of no more than white gravel and 15 rocks, large and small. The rocks and sand are said to represent mountains and water, respectively, making a striking contrast to the concept of traditional Japanese gardens which emphasizes the beautiful combination of trees, rocks and pond.
The rectangular garden, measuring 25 meters from east to west and 10 meters from north to south, is said to have been created by a highly respected Zen monk at around 1500. The meaning of this extremely symbolized rock garden is shrouded in mystery, leaving the interpretation to the imagination of visitors.
The roofed earthen wall is also remarkable. It is made of clay boiled in rapeseed oil and its color has been subtly changed by the seeping of oil as time went by.
(How to enjoy)
No word is necessary. Just get inside the "Hojo" main hall, look around, sit down on the edge of the corridor and have a look at the "miracle garden". You can also enjoy strolling along the paths in the spacious compound and viewing the large pond as you walk, where a large flock of mandarin ducks were to be seen until quite recently .
(Others)
The bus fare is 460 yen on both ways and the entrance fee, 500 yen.
FROM$102/ per group

Tour of Ninnaji Temple
(History of the temple)
In the Heian period (794 to 1191), the 58th emperor of Japan, Emperor Koukou, started to build a temple then known as Nishiyama-Goganji. In the year of 888, Emperor Utada, taking over the wishes of his predecessors, completed the construction of the temple, which is now called the Temple of Ninnaji. After he resigned from his position, he became a priest and resided in this temple and underwent training under the doctrine of "Shingon-Mikkyo" esoteric Buddhism. Afterwards, head priests of this temple had been the members of the Imperial Family and it had been popularly called the "Omuro-Gosho" Imperial Palace until the Meiji Restoration of 1868. Designated as the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994, it is the "Sohonzan" head temple of the "Omuro" faction of the "Shingonshu" sect of Buddhism.
(Highlights)
This temple consists of a total of 23 buildings and gardens amid the rich greenery arranged in perfect harmony in the spacious enclosure, with many of them designated as the Important Cultural Asset. There is the magnificent "Nio-mon" gate at the entrance to this temple, a splendid, tall, five-storied pagoda, beautiful landscaped gardens, large tatami-matted rooms with wall paintings, a Buddha image, and so on. All these beautiful structures make us sigh with amazement.
(How to enjoy)
Just walk in the temple precincts following the guidance of the leaflet. You can enjoy seeing the marvelous buildings and beautiful wall paintings inside "Hakushoin" and "Kokushoin" halls. You can relax sitting on the veranda of "Shinden" Great Hall, while looking at the garden consisting of white gravel and a pond. You can really feel the aura of a great temple constructed with the superb ancient technique.
(Others)
The entrance fee is 500 yen and the bus fare is 460 yen on both ways.
"Kannondo" Hall is now undergoing repairs which will take some three years to complete.
FROM$102/ per group
KYOTO - A Tailor-Made experience for you
Kyoto was the Capital city of Japan. With over 1200 years of history, Kyoto is still renowned and popular today. A little city with more than 1.5million inhabitants, Kyoto is well-known thanks to its 1200 temples and 400 shrines. With so many UNESCO highlights, Kyoto is a must-see during your stay in Japan. Let's explore Kyoto's finest culture and tradition together!
FROM$320/ per group
Western Kyoto Tour
We can go to Arashiyama to visit bamboo forests and explore some temples with Japanese gardens.
The golden pagoda, Kinkakuji,you'll appreciate the most shiniest pagoda in Kyoto.
Kitano Tenmangu shrine to pray for academic luck for your studies.
Nijyo castle, the old history and story of the castle in Kyoto.
FROM$374/ per person
Tranquil Kyoto: A Serene Journey from Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji
This 3-hour tour takes you through the Ginkakuji to Nanzenji area, perfect for those seeking to experience Kyoto beyond the usual tourist destinations. Explore serene temples, tranquil pathways, and hidden gems, providing a peaceful and authentic glimpse into the city's timeless charm.
FROM$140/ per group
Kyoto Kaiseki: A Culinary Journey Through Seasons and Tradition
Kaiseki is a traditional Japanese haute cuisine characterized by its meticulous preparation and artistic presentation. The tour will guide you through the intricate world of Kaiseki, where every ingredient is carefully selected to reflect the season's bounty.
Having experienced over 20 kaiseki restaurants, I've developed a deep appreciation for the art of tableware and seasonal decor. Let me create a truly special Kyoto evening for you.
FROM$134/ per group
Le Chemin de la Philosophie et le Temple Ginkakuji
On suit un chemin calme et paisible au long du Canal du Lac Biwa, qui s'appelle le Chemin de la Philosophie. Un philosophe s'y promenait en discutant avec ses étudiants. Au Temple Ginkakuji, on peut apprécier un jardin magnifique, qui est aussi connu pour un monticule de sable blanc.
J'espère que ce sera une excellente expérience pour vous!
FROM$267/ per group
Visitamos dos lugares importantes en Kioto, Kinkau-Ji y Nijo-Jo y templo Kiyomizu
¡ Bienvenidos a Japón !
Para conocer bien Kyoto, le recomiendo visitar los siguientes lugares.
1) El templo de "oro", Kinkaku-Ji
2) El castillo Nijo
3) Mercado Nishiki
4) El templo Kiyomizu y barrio Gion
Cada lugar tiene su encanto e historia, y me gustaría explicarselos
a ustedes con detalles.
Nos vemos pronto !
FROM$234/ per group
Essential Kyoto: Half-Day Adventure
Embark on a journey through Fushimi Inari Taisha where the spiritual Torii gates weave a path through sacred forest trails.
Stroll the streets of Gion District the legendary Geisha Quarter while making way toward the hidden Power Spot and absorb its mystical energy.
Take the plunge atop the Kiyomizu-dera Temple of Pure Water offering breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto.
Transport back into time through the maze of Historical Whispers and finish at Yasaka-jinja the Guardian Shrine of Gion.
FROM$117/ per group
Kyoto: Visite Guidée Privée - Temples et Vieille-Ville
Nous visiterons 3 spots importants de la ville de Kyoto sous ses différentes facettes.
Le temple bouddhiste avec Kyomizu dera, la vieille ville avec le quartier de Gion et le sanctuaire Shinto avec Fushimi Inari taisha.
FROM$434/ per group
1-day your highlight of Kyoto
1-day customized Kyoto tour
I offer a model course , however, you can customize your preference.
As a Kyoto tourism and culture expert, I can build your own tour.
FROM$300/ per group
[Basic Course] Explore Eastern Kyoto city (Higashiyama)
Kyoto is one of the biggest destination is Japan, filled with traditional atmosphere.
But it's hard to explore the whole city in one day and this tour focuses on the eastern part called Higashiyama, which includes the oldest history in Kyoto. Through the tour, you'll learn the history and culture of Kyoto, not only about the old days but also how people live nowadays.
FROM$367/ per group
Kioto. Tour privado, 1 día. 3 sitios UNESCO y Fushimi Inari, Distrito de Geishas
Visitaremos los siguientes lugares.
*Pabellón de Oro
*Castillo Nijo
*Mercado Nishiki
*Fushimi Inari
*Kiyomizudera
*Gion Distrito de Geishas
8 (horas)
*Se usa transporte público (Bus y tren)
*No Incluye entradas ni transporte.
*Comidas no incluída
=====
También realizo guías a:
Nara
Osaka
Kobe/Himeji
Isla de Naoshima
Hiroshima
Consulte por un presupuesto.
FROM$434/ per group
Kyoto's Golden Triangle: Shrines, Bamboo & Market Tour
Explore Kyoto’s most iconic spots in just 6 hours! Visit the famous torii gates of Fushimi Inari, stroll through the serene Arashiyama bamboo grove, and end your journey at the bustling Nishiki Market. A perfect mix of culture, nature, and local charm awaits you!
FROM$280/ per group
Kyoto City "Full-Day" Bicycle Tour
We'll visit 5 amazing places in Kyoto! From Fushimi Inari Shrine and its amazing red torii gates to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toji Temple, and its 5-layered pagoda. The Imperial Palace (former residence of Japan’s emperors) is on our list, and then onto Kinkakuji Temple (The Golden Pavilion) while you gaze at the glimmer of gold as it reflects on the water off the pond in front. Lastly, Gion, the most famous Geisha/Geiko/Maiko area and district in Kyoto. And, SO MUCH MORE!
FROM$154/ per group
Half-day Kyoto History and Culture Tour
First and foremost, I do not want to provide a typical tour to the standard fair of tourist attractions. As with the majority of visitors to Kyoto, you do not really need a guide to visit such places. Instead, what makes my tour special is that I can show you the unique places of Kyoto with the addition of a historical and cultural background. Lunch at local restaurants, visit temples of the beaten path, go to local shopping arcades for unique products. Enjoy Kyoto without the crowds.
FROM$401/ per group
Matcha, Mochi, the Majestic Byōdōin and Tōdaiji: An Forgettable Day Exploring Kyoto & Nara
Embark on a full-day tour from Kyoto to Nara discovering Japan's rich heritage start with the iconic Fushimi inari taisha famous for its thousands of red torii gates Experience the traditional art of matcha in uji, then explore Nara's majestic Todaiji temple, home to the great Buddha. Enjoy the serene Nara Deer Park. Finally experience the lively traditional of making mochi. This memorable journey blends history, culture, and authentic Local experience for a truly unforgettable day
FROM$213/ per group
A full-day highlights tour of Kyoto city whole
You can visit famous places in Kyoto city.
This tour is very suitable for couples who wants to travel privately.
As a former school teacher, my tour is academic.
You can visit famous places by using public transportation or taxi.
All the transportation fee and entrance fees of temples or shrines are not covered by the guiding fee.
FROM$567/ per group
Attend Trans-Kansai : To and From Air (KIX) , Kyoto etc,
I will meet you at the Kansai Airport etc.,and take you to your accommodations.
If you have enough time to make a short exploration before checking in at your accommodation, let's make a pleasant memorable travel at Namba and Shinsaibashi of Osaka city, I will show you around the places such as shopping mall, eating places and cultural facility.
FROM$134/ per group
Walking Tour - District Focus (Ukyo Ward 右京区)
Kyoto Shi (市) is the centre of Kyoto Fu (府) which is a fusion of not only transitional Japanese architecture, culture but also European elements. This tour will be focused on the district (区) away from Kyoto Station or popular tourist place so you can have a different look and feel about Kyoto.
FROM$60/ per person
KYOTO - Calligraphy Workshop & Half-day Kyoto Tour
This is a introductory calligraphy lesson and 4 hour tour. If you are with small kids, expecting to have a hands-on experience with a local, please feel free to contact me!
FROM$354/ per group
Explore Best View Of Eastern Kyoto Tour
We can go to the Ginkakuji temple by bus and walk along the philosopher's path.
Then visit Heian shrine or Nanzenji temple.
After that, Gion district to Kiyomizu-temple, we can appreciate different historical sites and shops too. It should be 1.5hs walk.
Take a bus or taxi if we get tired or run out of time but it could be easy walk and we gonna have a great time I guess.
FROM$374/ per person
Arashiyama Awaits: A Serene Blend of Scenic Views and Cultural Gems
This tour will take you through the serene and picturesque Arashiyama area, known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. You will experience some of Kyoto's most iconic sights, including the Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the area.
FROM$140/ per group

Un paseo agradable por Kyoto-zona este
1) Salida del hotel
2) Visitar Ginkaku-ji (templo plateado)
3) Pasear por Tetsugaku No Michi (camino de filosofia)
4) Visitar Honen In, Nanzen Ji
5) Comida en la zona Gion
6) Visita Sanju-Sangen Do
7) Visita Fushimi-Inari Jinja o Nishiki-Ichiba o Kiyomizu-Dera
8) Regreso al hotel
En la ciudad Kyoto, hay tantas cosas que ver y no se puede visitar
todos los lugares en 1-2 dias.
Sin embargo, puedo ofrecerles un paseo muy agradable.
En kyoto hay dos templos importantes, "Kinkaku-Ji" (templo dorado) y "Ginkaku-ji" (templo plateado).
Esta vez les ofrezco empezar el recorrido desde "Ginkaku-ji".
Desde la estacion de Kyoto (JR), vamos a caminar hasta la estacion de Shichi-jo
(en 10 - 15 minutos).
Vamos a la estacion Demachiyanagui en tren Keihan, y al llegar a la estacion
Demachiyanagui, tomamos autobus hasta Ginkaku-ji.
Ginkaku-ji tiene jardin precioso, y es la concentracion de la belleza "tranquila"
comparando con "Kinkaku-Ji".
Saliendo el templo, vamos a pasear "camino de filosofia", donde podemos ver
paisaje tradicional de Kyoto con el arroyo, flores y naturaleza.
Tambien hay tiendas de regalos tradicionales, alla podemos aprovechar tiempo.
Luego visitamos "Honen in" y "Nanzen ji". Honen in es casa del monje "Honen",
que tiene jardin muy bello, y "Nanzen ji" tiene templos y jardines preciosos y
historicos. Desde la arriba del templo, puede gozar el paisaje muy tradicional de Kyoto.
Al terminar la visita, vamos a regresar al centro de Kyoto (zona Gion) en tren,
y comer comida japonesa. Si tenemos suerte, podemos ver a "geisha" y "maiko" !
Despues de comer, vamos a visitar "Sanju-Sangen Do" donde se conservan 1,001
estatuas de Budda. Es un lugar muy sagrado y al mismo tiempo muy importante
de la historia de Kyoto.
Si todavia tenemos tiempo, vamos a visitar "Fushimi-Inari Jinja" (tiene 1,000 porticos
sintoistas) o mercado "Nishiki" (mercado de todo), o Kiyomizu-Dera.
Espero que les guste mi plan de visita a Kioto !
FROM$234/ per group
More Private Tours in Kyoto