Kyoto by Moonlight Discover Its True Spirit on a Private Tour.

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto by Moonlight Discover Its True Spirit on a Private Tour.

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About this experience

Ready to see Kyoto truly come alive? Imagine stepping into the magical world of Gion as twilight paints the sky. Our special Kyoto After Dark Tour invites you to uncover the city's most enchanting secrets once the sun sets.
Stroll through the historic lanes of Gion, where the soft glow of lanterns illuminates traditional wooden machiya. This is your chance to respectfully catch a glimpse of the graceful geiko and maiko hurrying to their evening engagements, a truly iconic Kyoto sight.

Then, we'll dive into the vibrant energy of Pontocho. This charming alleyway, bustling with an incredible array of restaurants and unique shops, is perfect for a little evening exploration and perhaps finding that special souvenir.

Forget the guidebooks, this is your invitation to experience the authentic pulse of Kyoto's night. If you're ready for an unforgettable evening filled with beauty, culture, and a touch of magic, let's get your private after-dark adventure booked!

Available options

Kyoto by Moonlight Discover Its True Spirit on a Private Tour.

What's included

1 soft Drink& Water

3 Hours walking tour after Dark in the hidden Gems

Hotel Pick up\off

Your professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Gion is Kyoto's most famous geisha district, an enchanting area renowned for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and exclusive restaurants. It truly comes alive in the late afternoon and evening when glimpses of geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) can sometimes be caught hurrying to appointments. Beyond its captivating atmosphere, Gion also hosts beautiful temples, shrines like Yasaka Shrine, and the Gion Corner, where visitors can experience various traditional Japanese arts. It's a place where Kyoto's rich cultural heritage feels most palpable, offering a step back in time

Stop 2

Yasaka Shrine, often affectionately known as "Gion-san," is one of Kyoto's most vibrant and historic Shinto shrines, standing majestically at the eastern end of Shijo-dori in the famous Gion district. With a history stretching back over 1,350 years, its striking vermilion gates and traditional Gion-zukuri architecture are instantly recognizable.

Hanami-koji Street is the heart of Kyoto's traditional geisha world, famed for its beautifully preserved machiya (traditional wooden merchant houses) that now host exclusive ochaya (teahouses) where geiko (Kyoto's term for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) entertain. As you stroll down this atmospheric lane, especially in the late afternoon or early evening, you might catch a rare glimpse of a geiko or maiko gracefully hurrying to an engagement. Lined with elegant restaurants, bars, and teahouses behind delicate latticework, Hanami-koji offers a captivating step back in time, embodying the timeless allure of old Kyoto.

Tatsumi Shrine is a tiny yet enchanting Shinto shrine nestled in the heart of Kyoto's Gion district, specifically alongside the picturesque Shirakawa Canal and Tatsumi Bridge. Often called "Tatsumi Daimyojin," it's a beloved spot, especially by the geiko and maiko of Gion, who traditionally pray here for artistic improvement and good fortune in their performances.

The Gion Shimbashi Bridge, more commonly known as the Tatsumi Bridge, is an iconic and picturesque stone bridge located in the charming Gion Shimbashi area of Kyoto, precisely where the Shirakawa Canal meets the delightful Tatsumi-bashi Alley.

Stop 6 Pass by

Pontocho is one of Kyoto's most enchanting and atmospheric districts, running as a narrow, stone-paved alleyway stretching between Sanjo-dori and Shijo-dori, parallel to the Kamo River. Known for its traditional wooden architecture, Pontocho awakens at dusk, transforming into a vibrant hub of dining and nightlife illuminated by countless red lanterns bearing the district's distinctive white plover emblem.

Kiyamachi Street is a narrow, bustling street in Kyoto that runs parallel to the Takase River Canal, just west of the Kamo River. Known for its lively nightlife, it's packed with a diverse array of restaurants, bars, izakayas, and clubs, many offering views of the canal.

What's not included

Meals

Public transportation

Gratuities

Tickets Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A confirmation massage ill be recived to your mail after booking the tour and withing 2 days before the tour you will recive another massge that have the detials of the guide of your tour

Meeting point

a guide will be waiting for the guest in the meeting point holding a flag

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.