Private Kyoto Walking Tour: Arashiyama, Gion, Uji or Fushimi
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Uncover the charm of Kyoto with a private walking tour, where you choose one of four iconic areas: Arashiyama, Gion, Uji, or Fushimi. Each route offers a distinct side of Kyoto, from natural scenery to historic streets and powerful temples. Enjoy a relaxed, personalized experience at your own pace, guided by a knowledgeable local who brings each area’s stories to life. Perfect for travelers seeking a deeper, more intimate way to explore Kyoto.
Private walking tour with your choice of Arashiyama, Gion, Uji, or Fushimi
Explore bamboo forests, historic districts, tea culture, or temple complexes depending on the route
Flexible pace and customized experience based on your interests
Led by a local guide offering cultural insights and hidden details
Available options
Private Fushimi Tour
Fushimi Area Only<br/>Starting point:<br/>Shichijō Station, Shimohorizumecho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0992, Japan
Private Arashiyama Tour
Arashiyama Tour<br/>Starting point:<br/>Saga-Arashiyama Station, 11-1 Sagatenryūji Kurumamichichō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8373, Japan
Private Uji Tour
Uji Area Only<br/>Starting point:<br/>Uji Station, Otsukata Uji, Kyoto 611-0021, Japan
Private Gion Tour
Gion District Only<br/>Starting point:<br/>Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni, Kawabatacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0076, Japan
What's included
Entrance fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Choose from four unforgettable Kyoto walking tours, each designed to show a different face of the city:
1. Arashiyama
Bamboo forests, playful monkeys, and Zen beauty. Walk through the famous Bamboo Grove, visit Tenryū-ji Temple, relax at Ōkōchi Sansō, and climb to the Monkey Park for panoramic views of Kyoto.
2. Gion
The soul of old Kyoto. Stroll Hanamikoji, visit Kennin-ji and Konpira-gū, walk the quiet Nene-no-Michi, and wander Sannenzaka’s historic streets filled with timeless atmosphere.
3. Uji
Kyoto’s tea heartland. Explore the elegant Byōdō-in Temple, walk along the Uji River, and enjoy a traditional tea experience where history and flavor come together.
4. Sanjūsangendō & Fushimi
Powerful temples and hidden stories. Discover Sanjūsangendō’s iconic hall, the seasonal beauty of Tōfuku-ji, explore the Fushimi area, and uncover lesser-known spots most visitors never see.
Four routes. Four moods. One city worth exploring again and again.
What's not included
Tips (welcomed)
Pick Up Service
Food & Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tours are in English only. Want a different language like German or Italian? Please ask us before booking
Recording & live streaming are NOT allowed during the whole tour!
Meeting point
Fushimi Tour:
We will meet Shichijo Station at Exit 2 top of the stairs.
Important notes
We will send important information the day before the tour, including the meeting time and meeting location. Please check the tour details carefully to confirm the correct meeting point.
WhatsApp is mandatory for receiving tour details and updates.
If you do not receive our message, please contact us immediately.
During the tour, entry tickets are required for the temples and gardens.
Your guide will purchase these tickets at each location and provide them for you.
NOTE: It is not possible to purchase these tickets in advance, therefore there will be a brief wait till the guide secures your tickets.
We appreciate your patience. Looking forward seeing you soon.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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