Kyoto Early Morning Tour with English-Speaking Guide

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Early Morning Tour with English-Speaking Guide

Active

(1359 reviews)

5h - 6h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Kyoto is one of Japan’s most popular destinations, so sightseeing can be very crowded during the day. In this tour, we start early to beat the crowds and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkakuji, and Arashiyama.

⬇︎ PLEASE READ CAREFULLY ⬇︎

▶️ This is a walking tour using public transportation (not a bus tour) and requires about 12,000 steps.

▶️ The tour is approximately 5.5 hours and may vary by about 30 minutes.

▶️ When booking, please provide a WhatsApp-reachable phone number (travel agents must enter the guest’s number).

▶️ Late arrivals cannot join the tour and no refund will be given.

▶️ Maximum group size: 8 guests.

Activities (held at MUTEKI Kyoto Geisha Show Experience Gion)These 2 options begin at 5:30PM the day of your Kyoto Walking Tour, there will be time after the tour to explore!

1. Mochi Making: Enjoy a fun mochi pounding and tasting experience.

2. Sushi Making: Learn to make authentic sushi with simple, hands-on guidance using fish brought from 5 star restaurant.

Available options

Mochi Making After Kyoto Tour

Mochi Pounding and Tasting: Starts at 5:30PM.
Experience Japanese mochi-making using a wooden mallet and mortar. Try out the mochi that you made!

Sushi Making After Kyoto Tour

Fresh Sushi and Beverages: Starts at 5:30PM.
In this hands-on workshop, you learn how to prepare authentic sushi with easy step-by-step guidance!

Kyoto Early Morning Tour with English-Speaking Guide

Limited for Winter: 9AM Start

Duration: 6 hours: Just for the winter season when you have a hard time waking up, we have a 9AM starting plan! Same tour as Kyoto Early Morning

What's included

English-Speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of the most famous shrines in all over Japan. Walk through thousands of striking red gates, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. It's a must-see spot that offers a beautiful and unforgettable experience. Don't miss the chance to visit this incredible place during your trip!

Stop 2

Discover the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo shoots create a tranquil ambiance, swaying gently in the breeze. This natural wonder provides a captivating experience for enthusiasts and photographers alike. Embrace the elegance of Arashiyama, an essential destination for those seeking both tranquility and exploration in Kyoto.

Kinkakuji, also known as the Golden Temple, is a true gem among Japan's temples. Its remarkable golden structure makes it an iconic and must-see destination in Kyoto. Prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking elegance of this renowned site during your visit to Japan.

What's not included

Public Transportation Fare (About 1240 yen)

Food and Drinks

Kinkakuji Temple

Available languages

Guide guide

KO EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

432 reviews

5★

411

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

927 reviews

5★

901

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Travel time is included in total tour duration.

Meeting point

Meet spot: Kyoto Station Central Ticket Gate, the big gate of JR lines on ground floor, on the north side where Kyoto Tower is located. Please arrive at the 10 minutes early. There is a seven eleven right next to it. Link for seven eleven: https://g.co/kgs/k4fpgH3

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.