Kyoto Gion Night Guided Walking Tour for 3 Hours

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Gion Night Guided Walking Tour for 3 Hours

Active

2h - 3h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto after dark on this Kyoto Gion Night Guided Walking Tour (3 Hours). Stroll through the atmospheric streets of Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, as your guide shares fascinating stories of its culture and traditions. Walk along the lantern-lit Hanamikoji Street, admire the tranquil beauty of Shirakawa-dori, and visit the iconic Yasaka Shrine glowing under the night sky. Enjoy the serene charm of Pontocho Park by the Kamogawa River and experience the city’s magical evening ambiance. Perfect for culture lovers and photographers, this guided tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Kyoto’s elegant nightlife and centuries-old heritage.

Available options

Kyoto Gion Night Guided Walking Tour for 3 Hours

What's included

Walking tour

Snacks

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, and charming old streets that capture the essence of ancient Japan. Visitors can stroll along Hanamikoji Street, enjoy authentic Kyoto cuisine, and may even glimpse elegantly dressed geisha or maiko on their way to evening appointments. Gion beautifully blends culture, history, and elegance, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Kyoto.

Hanamikoji Street is the heart of Kyoto’s Gion district, famous for its beautifully preserved wooden teahouses, traditional architecture, and timeless atmosphere. Lined with restaurants and ochaya (teahouses), it offers a glimpse into Japan’s elegant geisha culture. Walking along Hanamikoji, visitors can experience the charm of old Kyoto, especially in the evening when lanterns glow softly and geisha or maiko can sometimes be seen heading to their appointments.

Stop 3

Yasaka Shrine, located between Kyoto’s Gion and Higashiyama districts, is one of the city’s most iconic Shinto shrines. Known for its vibrant vermilion gates and lanterns, it attracts visitors year-round for its beauty and cultural significance. The shrine is especially famous during the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most celebrated festivals. Surrounded by nature and tradition, Yasaka Shrine offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Kyoto’s spiritual heritage.

Shirakawa-dori is one of the most picturesque streets in Kyoto’s Gion district, running alongside the tranquil Shirakawa River. Lined with willow trees, stone paths, and traditional wooden teahouses, it offers a serene and romantic atmosphere, especially beautiful when illuminated at night or during cherry blossom season. This charming street perfectly captures the timeless elegance of old Kyoto and is a favorite spot for peaceful strolls and photography.

Pontocho Park is a small but charming riverside area located in Kyoto’s famous Pontocho district, known for its narrow alleys, traditional restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Overlooking the Kamogawa River, the park offers a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy scenic views, especially in the evening when the lanterns of nearby restaurants light up the riverside. It’s a perfect place to experience Kyoto’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural ambiance.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Group size: 1-9 participant(s)

Kindly be at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the stated meeting time. Our tour guides will only wait a maximum of 10 minutes before proceeding to the next stop.

Luggage storage and delivery services are not provided

Meeting point

Meet at Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden, 68 Shincho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan.
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before departure time.
Meet in front of the big black world map. Your guide will be waiting for you at the meeting point wearing a TripGuru shirt or holding a TripGuru sign

Important notes

We will send an E-Voucher via Email one day before the travel date.

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.