Full-Day Sightseeing to Kyoto Highlights

Kyoto , Japan

Full-Day Sightseeing to Kyoto Highlights

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(77 reviews)

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About this experience

(This is a walking tour)
Perfectly designed for travelers with packed schedule and limited time in Kyoto. We are offering you not just sightseeing, visiting the tourist spot, and know the history of the spot, but also a deeper understanding about Japan, Japanese and their culture, their life philosophy and their minds. After the tour, you'll understand 'why it is very hard to find trash cans', or 'why Japan roads are so quiet' and the philosophy behind it. Even the smallest thing can be understandable if you join us.

Available options

Full Day Kyoto Highlights

Duration: 7 hours: 7 Hours and 30 minutes -ish<br/>Typical Japanese Set Lunch<br/>Bus: Train

What's included

Walking Experience

Experienced Local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We gather at the left side of the main entrance, after a brief introduction and explanation, we will ride on the train to Saga Arashiyama

60 mins
Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of the bamboo forest, while learning about Japan, Japanese, and why them being them.

40 mins
We will hop on the bus/ train from Arashiyama to Kinkakuji

Stop 3

40 mins
Enter the 2nd most visited tourist spot in Japan, we will explain to you about Buddhism in Japan, the history of the temple, while taking pictures of you with breathtaking view.

60 mins
Next we will go to Gion with various modes of transportation

75 mins
Explore the shopping street of Kyoto, we will have lunch here and you can also enjoy the view of Japanese Shopping Arcade

15 mins
We will walk on foot across the Shijo Bridge while enjoying the view of Kamo river to reach Gion

60 mins
We will go the the quiet side of Gion, entertainment area in Japan where the Geisha works, enjoy the beautiful scenery, learning about Geiko and Maiko and their world, and who knows?! maybe you're lucky enough to meet them.

10 mins
Next we will take the train to Fushimi Inari Taisha

Stop 6

Explore the number one tourist spot in Japan, we will learn about what is shintoism, the place and it's history while passing through thousands of vermillion torii gate

Stop 7

We will ride on the train to reach Kyoto Station once again and bid our farewell. See you again!

What's not included

Gratuities

Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion

JR, Buses and Metros

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

38 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

39 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not Recommended for pregnant travelers more than first trimester

This is a walking tour, not recommended for people with bad leg

Meeting point

At the pillar of Starbucks Kyoto Tower facing Kyoto Station. Please read the message we send you one day before the tour. We will send you the picture of our meeting point and the information regarding our guide.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.