Kyoto: Yasaka Shrine, Gion & Nishiki Market Walking Tour

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto: Yasaka Shrine, Gion & Nishiki Market Walking Tour

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour offers a rich blend of Kyoto’s spiritual, cultural, and culinary highlights—crafted into one immersive 2.5-hour walking experience. Rather than rushing from place to place, you’ll explore each iconic location with care. Starts with a meaningful visit to Yasaka Shrine, continuing through the atmospheric lanes of Gion, and ending at the lively Nishiki Market. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll gain deep insights into Kyoto’s living traditions—from sacred rituals to geisha culture and local flavors. Plus, with three curated food tastings included, you won’t just see Kyoto—you’ll taste it. Perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers looking for a deeper connection to the city.

Available options

Kyoto: Yasaka Shrine, Gion & Nishiki Market Walking Tour

What's included

Guided walking tour

Three food tastings

Stroll through Gion district

Visit to Yasaka Shrine

Visit to Nishiki Market

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is one of the city's most iconic and historically significant religious sites. With a history spanning over 1,300 years, the shrine welcomes visitors with its striking vermilion gate and a tranquil atmosphere steeped in Shinto tradition. A symbol of protection and prosperity for the city, Yasaka Shrine is where many locals come to pray for health, love, and good fortune. During your visit, your guide will explain the shrine's architectural features and rituals, helping you gain a deeper appreciation of its cultural importance.

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous traditional entertainment district, known for its preserved streetscapes and quiet, refined beauty. As you walk along its narrow, stone-paved lanes lined with wooden machiya townhouses, you'll step into a living postcard of old Kyoto. This area is also home to Kyoto’s geisha culture—your guide will share stories and cultural insights that reveal the subtle signs and hidden layers of this elegant world. Whether it’s the flicker of a lantern or the distant rustle of a kimono, Gion leaves a lasting impression on all who wander its streets.

Nicknamed “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” Nishiki Market is a vibrant, covered shopping street that has served the city’s culinary needs for over four centuries. With more than 100 vendors offering everything from fresh produce and pickles to traditional sweets and street food, the market is a paradise for food lovers. This tour includes three tastings from carefully chosen shops, giving you the chance to sample Kyoto’s food culture firsthand. More than just a market, Nishiki is a cultural hub where tradition meets everyday life.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet in front of the West Gate (Nishi-roumon) of Yasaka Shrine.
Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign.
For detailed location information, please refer to the map.

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.