Tour GuidesGuides Private ToursTours Private Car ToursCars Virtual ToursVirtual Half day Guided tour and memorable Photo shooting in Kyoto (Limited time sale happening now!
I would like to introduce you Highlights of Kyoto city with my authentic portrait lens equipped camera.I will send you memorable shoots after the tour.
FROM$227/ per group
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
Walking Tour of Kiyotaki to Takao ( hidden course Kyoto Arashiyama to north : Nature Tourism )
This is a guide course of visiting Takao from north part of Arashiyama through Toriimoto and Kiyotaki. We'll start from walking through an area with a historical landscape before heading toward mountainous area to walk on a riverside trail. It is a beautiful combination of history and nature.
FROM$400/ per group
Let's enjoy your Half-day Kyoto Tour!
Half-day Kyoto Tour would be personalized according to your interests and preferences. If you don't like the busy sightseeing spots, I'm happy to suggest the suitable itinerary for you on your requests. Let's enjoy your own tour to experience a wider variety of cultures in Kyoto!
The meeting time would be flexible based on your schedule, for example, 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM (or 1:00 PM) would be available.
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I would appreciate it if you could visit my page on Facebook by my name "Tohru Shimagaki".
FROM$200/ per group
One Day Tour of Higashiyama Area in Kyoto
Lots of popular destinations are packed in this Higashiyama area; temples, shrines, Japanese sweets shop, and souvenir shops.
Let me show you historic sites with interesting stories .
Higashiyama area is such a Kyoto-like district .
FROM$400/ per group
Discover Kyoto: 6-Hour Guided Sightseeing Tour
Experience Kyoto's highlights in just 6 hours with our guided tour of Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nijo Castle, and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Start at Fushimi Inari, renowned for its stunning torii gate pathways, then explore Nijo Castle's impressive architecture and gardens. End with the breathtaking beauty of Kinkaku-ji, where the gold-leaf temple glistens in its pond. Perfect for a comprehensive yet concise exploration of Kyoto's most iconic sites.
FROM$406/ per group
Discover Western Kyoto Full Day Private Tour
This is a full day tour of western Kyoto, ancient capital for over 1,000 years. We will visit must-see places in western Kyoto such as Nijojo Castle, Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Nishiki Market.
Nijojo Castle and Kinkakuji Temple are World Heritage Sites. It will literally be great fun to stroll along Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Nishiki Market as well where you’ll see a variety of Kyoto's signature foods/crafts.
FROM$374/ per group
Full day Kyoto private guided tour #2!
Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan. I would be very pleased to show you why by showing you the main landmarks and by talking about its history, tradition and society and to give you more context of the actual and daily life here I would like very much to share facts about my personal life and experiences living here
FROM$367/ per group
Nara Full Day Tour from Kyoto
Nara is located within one hour from Kyoto and Osaka by trains. Since Nara is the oldest capital city in Japan, it remains full of historic treasures, including some of Japan's oldest and largest temples. You can learn about Japanese old history (Nara period in 8th century). Why don't you explore the best parts of the city with a local guide? I can arrange the tour freely according to your favorite.
FROM$500/ per group
京都一日精彩遊 ~嵯峨,嵐山
嵐山與嵯峨位於京都西邊,是依山靠河的風光明媚的名勝古蹟。
春天可以欣賞盛開的櫻花,秋天可以欣賞鮮艷的紅葉。
這裡的空氣特別新鮮。路上能看到"人力車",也有一種獨特的氣氛。
天龍寺是一個被認定為世界文化遺產的名剎,設有迴游式的日式
庭園,水池子裡面有很多“錦鯉",非常漂亮!
"竹林"是聞名於世的景點,夏天也感覺到比較涼快。
"大覺寺"起源於公曆876年。曾經是嵯峨御所(皇宮),也是""華道"(插花)的發祥地。
FROM$240/ per group
Japanese foods introduction tour
I can show you Japanese traditional food and local food at Nishiki market and downtown after hearing your preference.
Let's explore Kyoto foods together!!
FROM$153/ per group
Half-Day Highlights Tour of Kyoto
This tour of Kyoto's iconic Fushimi Inari, Sanjusangendo, and Chishaku-in offers a captivating journey through Japan's spiritual and artistic heritage.
Beginning at Fushimi Inari, we traverse the famous vermilion torii gates that wind up the sacred Mount Inari. Next, the tour moves to Sanjusangendo, renowned for its impressive hall housing 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. Finally, at Chishaku-in, we will explore the tranquil temple grounds and the admire exquisite garden.
FROM$207/ per group
The Best of West Kyoto!!!- A Day Tour
Join me for an unforgettable day exploring West Kyoto together!
We’ll start at Nijo Castle, walking through the impressive Kara-mon Gate, hearing the “nightingale floors" beneath our feet, and admiring Edo era artwork.
Next, we’ll visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a golden temple reflecting on a serene pond.
Later, will visit at Ryoan-ji, and pause to reflect at the famous Zen rock garden.
Finally, we’ll end in Arashiyama, strolling the magical Bamboo Grove and crossing Togetsukyo Bridge.
FROM$434/ per group
Kyoto Philosophical Tour (Silver Route)
This tour takes you to the must-see places mainly on the northeastern side of central Kyoto. The tour covers a relatively peaceful, natural area, including a popular local walking trail or sacred place for Japanese "Pure Land" Buddhism. As the tour visits a shrine, Zen garden, Pure Land Buddhism's secret place, Buddhist gate, and modern architecture, you will be able to experience a wide range of fascinating aspects of Japanese culture.
FROM$280/ per group
Hike to Enjoy Panoramic View in Kyoto
Walk from bottom to top and find the townscape from different angles.
Kyoto has been the capital for 1000 years because of geographical advantages from the viewpoint of governance, defense, transport, and citizen’s lives: the center of Japan, 3 large rivers running, and mountains on 3 sides. Many temples and shrines were built on hillsides, creating attractive scenery each season. On this tour, we hike from the riverbank to the hillside while dropping in some historical spots on the road.
FROM$207/ per group
Eastern Highlights in Kyoto for the first time visitor - Full Day Tour -
Kyoto is a city full of charm, both ancient and modern such as the stone gardens of Zen temples, orange gates of Shito shrines, traditional cafés, local cuisine loved by Kyoto people, modern art museums and so on. I would like to show you not only major sightseeing spots but also small tips to enjoy the city. Let's explore together and discover the real Kyoto with me!!
FROM$340/ per group
Spritual tour in Kyoto Higashiyama, Kiyomizudera, Sanjusangendo, Byodoin and more
There are a lot of cultural properties like temples and shrines in Kyoto. In this tour, we will visit some temples and shrines in Higashiyama to meet Buddhas and Deities. We will visit Kiyomizu Temple, Sanjusangendo Temple, Yasaka Shrine and Byodoin Temple or Fushimi Inari Shrine. I will be able to finish the tour at Gion so that you can explore Gion and Nishiki Market.
FROM$300/ per group

Premium tour of Kyoto: (3) Sanjusangendo temple, Kiyomizu-dera temple & Kodaiji temple
(1) Sanjusangen-do temple
Officially called "Rengeo-in", meaning "Temple of the Lotus King Kannon-bosatsu", and designated as the National Treasure, it was originally established by the order of the cloistered emperor in 1164. After the original temple building was burnt down in 1249, 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. There is a 335-centimeter-high seated statue of Buddhist deity, Senju-Kannon Sahasra-bhuja, the principal image, and 1,000 life-size standing statues of Senju-Kannon in the 118-meter-long main hall of the temple.
There are also two powerful and dynamic statues of "Fujin" Wind God and "Raijin" Thunder God at either end of the hall and 28 images of guardian deities protecting the 1,001 "Kannon" deities and pious Buddhists. The statues are made of Japanese cypress using the assembled-wood construction method called "yosegi-zukuri" and coated with gold foil. As there are thirty-three 2.5-meter-long spaces between the columns, the temple came to be called "Sanjusangen-do" (a hall with 33 spaces between columns).
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 said to be made based on the idea of one time ruler of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and reflect the aesthetics of the 16th century.
(2) Kiyomizu-dera temple
According to the Chronicle of Kiyomizu-dera temple, it originated in 778 when the noted monk, Enchin, enshrined an image of "Kannon" Goddess of Mercy on the mountain overlooking the Otowa-no-taki waterfall; later in 798, the distinguished general, Sakanoue-no-Tamuramaro, built a Buddha hall there, following which the temple came under the official patronage of Emperor Kammu. Repeatedly destroyed by fire over the centuries, it was rebuilt on each occasion.
Today, the principal temple buildings are the "Saimon" West Gate, the three-storied pagoda, the "Kyodo" Sutra Hall, the "Tamurado" Founder`s Hall, the "Todorokimon" Middle Gate, the "Asakurado" Hall, the "Hondo" Main Hall and the "Amidado" Amida Buddha Hall, all aligned on an east-west axis.
The "Hondo" Main Hall, built in 1633, is the central building of the temple compound and is an example of "Kake-zukuri", or "overhang" architecture. It is famous for its so-called "Kiyomozu-dera stage", an imposing veranda, supported by a forest of tall wooden columns with wooden braces running through them crosswise and lengthwise. The temple itself is a magnificent building utilizing every sophisticated construction technique available in the olden times of Japan.
Not only can you be in the solemn atmosphere accompanied by the delicate aroma of burning incense, but also get the breathtaking view below from the 12-meter-high platform, which is popularly known for the proverb "Jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu-dera temple", meaning making a bold attempt at doing something dangerous or impossible. The Buddhist temple is attractive throughout the year in the beautiful natural surroundings: cherry-blossoms in early April, fresh green leaves in early summer and trees with beautiful red and yellow leaves late in autumn. Meanwhile, you can drink cold, clean water from a waterfall below the platform. You can also find various kinds of souvenir shops on both sides of the approach to the temple and spend a happy time there wondering what to buy.
(3) Ryozen-Kannon Goddess & Kodaiji temple
This imposing, 24-meter-high "Kannon" statue built in 1955 to wish for the construction of peace-loving Japan and to console the souls of Japanese killed in World War Ⅱ stands with the rich greenery in the background. Her serene, mild, gentle face gives us relief from our daily worries and concerns.
Kodaiji temple near the Kannon image was built by the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one-time ruler of Japan, to console his soul in 1606. Later, with the huge financial assistance made by Tokugawa Ieyasu, his successor, the temple enjoyed prosperity. After 1789, however, it lost many of its buildings due to repeated fires except the main hall, the mausoleum of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his wife Nene called "Mitamaya", where the statues of the couple is seated, the two tea houses and a few other structures.
There is a small museum in the temple precincts called Kodaiji Sho (palm-of-the-hand) Museum, where many pieces of "makie" lacquerware and other artifacts are on display. The lacquerware was made by sprinkling gold powder on the lacquered products such as spice containers, pitchers and chests of drawers. They are associated with the life of the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
FROM$200/ per group
Kiyomizudera(Kiyomizu Temple) and kawai kannjirou Memorial house and Sanjyusangendou
This tour covers one of the most popular temples in Kyoto Kiyomizudera and walking around Kiyomuzu area and Sanjyusangendo temple.
Plus visit a traditional Japanese house , The Kawai Kannjiro Memorial house. Kawai Kanjiro was one of the most famous multi-talented artists in
Japan such as a ceramic sculptor, an engraver.The Kanjiro’s House will carry you to the joyfulness of life. we take a walk in Sannenzaka slope and Ninenzaka street to Yasaka no to street to Yasaka shrine.
FROM$147/ per group
Walking tour in Eastern Kyoto
Since there are so many beautiful places densely in eastern Kyoto, we can take a walking tour there. Please add or skip some. This is an example of a walking tour in eastern Kyoto, emphasizing history and culture. We will use the train only once or twice.
FROM$333/ per group
Cherry Blossom Viewing Walking Tour
The tour starts at JR Kyoto Station at 9 AM. You will go to Demachi Yanagi Station by JR Nara Line and Keihan Line. From there you will begin walking. The main tourist attractions of this tour are Ginkaku-ji Temple ( the Silver Pavilion ), the Philosopher's Path, Nanzen-ji Temple, Heian Jingu Shrine Garden and Maruyama Park. The tour ends at Gion Shijo Station of Keihan Line.
FROM$220/ per group
Half-Day Kyoto Tour (4 Hours)
Explore Kyoto’s highlights in just 4 hours! Start at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its torii gates, then visit Nijo Castle to learn about samurai history. Next, enjoy stunning views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and finish in Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district.
I’ll share insights on history, culture, and Japan’s unique traditions throughout the tour!
[Note] On Sundays this tour only starts from between 9:00 or 9:30.
FROM$167/ per group
Kyoto Kiyomizu and Fushimi Tour
This tour is designed for the tourist, who is interested in the atmosphere of ancient capital, and cultures.
This is walking tour of Kiyomizu area through Yasaka Shrine, where the ancient atmosphere is well remained.
We plan to visit Nishimi Food Market street to see the food culture of Kyoto people also.
FROM$154/ per group
Kyoto Temples & Sake Discovery Half-Day Walking Tour
Join me for an unforgettable Kyoto adventure, combining spirituality and sake-making. We’ll start at Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking through the iconic red torii gates. Then, explore the Fushimi Sake District, one of Japan’s oldest sake regions, and taste local brews. The tour ends at a historic sake factory with a glass of sake. With over five years in Kyoto Fushimi, I’ll guide you through this unique experience blending history, culture, and flavor.
FROM$193/ per group
More Private Tours in Kyoto