Kiyomizu Temple and Backstreets of Gion, Half Day Group Tour
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Kiyomizu Temple and Backstreets of Gion, Half Day Group Tour

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4h
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About this experience

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!

Available options

Kiyomizu Temple and Backstreets of Gion, Half Day Group Tour

What's included

Admission fee for temple
English Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Meet at Kyoto Ceramic Center

2
Stop 2

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.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8
Stop 8

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.

9

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.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Tripadvisor 5.0
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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
As this is a walking tour, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
There could be a delay at when the tour ends, if you have an appointment or plan right after this tour, please let us know in advance
The tour will take place rain or shine.

Meeting point

Please meet up at Kyoto Ceramic Center, in front of the entrance.

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

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Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
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