Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Virtual Guided Walking Tour

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Amid the ongoing pandemic, traveling abroad is very difficult for the foreseeable future. But thanks to this situation, I could take a video of this ancient city with few people out on the street. The video shows the highlights of Higashiyama area of Kyoto which is filled with many attractions. You can relax at home while deeply immersed in the traditional city of Japan with a detailed explanation and guidance by a professional licensed guide. We will have a Q&A session after seeing the video. I provide a walking route map online for your future reference.

NOTE: You don't have to show your face but fast Internet connection is required for the video online.

NOTE: The starting time is JST, Japan Standard Time.
11:00 AM (JST) is 10:00 PM on the previous day in NY or EDT area and 7:00 PM in LA or PDT area.
8:00 PM (JST) is 12:00 noon in GB or BST area or 1:00 PM in CEST area.

Available options

Kyoto Virtual Guided Walking Tour

What's included

An online walking route map in Kyoto

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Starting at this shrine which is probably the most famous in Kyoto city as it is the birthplace of Gion Festival. The festival has a history of more than 1,000 years and probably the most famous festival in the country.

Stop 2

Behind Yasaka Shrine, there is this park famous for its cherry blossoms. I will show the photos in spring time with the flowers.

Stop 3

This is the headquarters of Jodoshu sect of Japanese Buddhism and its gate as a wooden gate is the biggest in the world.

The street named after the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a shogun in the 16th century.

This stone passages district is calm and serene. You can feel the retro vibes of the ancient town with a history of more than 1,000 years.

We briefly look at Entoku-in temple where Nene, the wife of the shogun, lived for 19 years after his passing.

Stop 7

There two slopes or staircases are located in the middle of Higashiyama area of Kyoto. Around these slopes, there are many traditional and quaint houses.

A temple with three monkeys. A very famous spot for taking Instagram-able photos!

This ancient temple has the landmark, Yasaka Pagoda or Yasaka no To. The current structure has been standing for almost 600 years, one of the oldest remaining wooden structures in Kyoto. The temple's history has more than 1,400 years.

Stop 10

The temple is one of the 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto. It is a must see place for tourists. It has a very famous protruding balcony.

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheelchair accessible

Meeting point

This is an "Virtual Online Tour", so you can join us from anywhere as long as the Internet connection.

Important notes

I will send you a message with the ZOOM link for this virtual online tour.

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.