On this half-day group tour, we will visit picture-postcard places of Kyoto in Higashiyama area and enjoy walking through quiet alleys.
To start with, we will visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, and visit the photogenic places nearby that look like they have appeared in films! After strolling the scenic and hidden paths in Higashiyama area, we will stop by the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, Kenninji Temple, to adore their beutiful gardens. Finally, we will take a walk the picturesque streets of Gion, where "Memoirs of a Geisha" was set in, to end our tour.
If you are interested in Japanese culture and history of Kyoto, this tour will be a great introduction!
Meet at Kyoto Ceramic Center
visit Kiyomizu-dera and learn about culture, history from professional guide.
Kiyomizu-dera is not only a significant religious site but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most visited and culturally significant landmarks.
The Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka are historic, steep streets leading up to Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. Sannen-zaka (Three-Year Slope) is the longer and steeper of the two, while Ninen-zaka (Two-Year Slope) is slightly shorter. Both are lined with traditional shops, teahouses, and old-style architecture, creating a charming, nostalgic atmosphere. These paths are popular with visitors, offering a glimpse into Kyoto's past while leading to the famous Kiyomizu-dera temple.
Seiryu-en is a Japanese garden located near Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. It is known for its beautiful landscape design, featuring ponds, traditional wooden bridges, and carefully arranged plants, offering a peaceful retreat. The garden is part of the Kiyomizu-dera temple complex and provides visitors with a serene space to enjoy nature while overlooking the surrounding area. Seiryu-en is particularly famous for its seasonal beauty, with vibrant colors in spring and autumn.
The Yasaka Pagoda (Yasaka no Tou) is a historic five-story pagoda located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. It stands near the Yasaka Shrine and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Built in the 15th century, the pagoda is known for its elegant design and significant cultural value. It is often associated with the surrounding historic streets, including Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka, and offers a beautiful view of Kyoto’s traditional landscape. The Yasaka Pagoda is a symbol of Kyoto’s rich history and heritage.
Yasaka Koshindo is a small, traditional temple located near Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. It is dedicated to the worship of "Koshin," a deity believed to protect people from illness and misfortune. The temple is known for its colorful, vibrant atmosphere, with many small wooden figurines called "koshin," which represent the deity. Visitors often come to offer prayers for health and protection. Yasaka Koshindo is particularly famous for its yearly rituals and its charm as a peaceful spot in the bustling Higashiyama district.
Yasui Konpiragu is a Shinto shrine located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. It is dedicated to Konpira-sama, the deity of safe travels and maritime protection. The shrine is particularly famous for its unique "love" connection, as people often visit it to pray for love, relationships, and marriage. It is believed that visitors can pray for happiness in their personal lives, and a popular custom involves walking through a small stone tunnel within the shrine grounds. Yasui Konpiragu is a peaceful and lesser-known spot that attracts visitors seeking blessings for love and good fortune.
Kennin-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai. It is one of the oldest and most significant Zen temples in Japan. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, including the large main hall (hōjō) and the stunning Zen garden. A highlight is the "Twin Dragons" painting on the ceiling of the main hall, created by artist Koizumi Junsaku. Kennin-ji is also famous for its peaceful atmosphere, offering a place for meditation and reflection.
Hanamikoji Street is a main street in Gion. This charming street is lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, shops and restaurants, exuding an atmosphere of old-world elegance. Hanami-koji is especially renowned for its well-preserved architecture and its association with Kyoto’s geisha culture, where you might spot geiko (geisha in Kyoto) and maiko gracefully walking.
Please meet up at Kyoto Ceramic Center, in front of the entrance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
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.
Japanese Yen (JPY)
JST (UTC+9)
100VV, 50/60HzHz
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.
Kyoto Station
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
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.
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Car, Bike, Scooter
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Price varies by option