Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Gion Early Morning Walking Tour

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(22 reviews)

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About this experience

Experience Kyoto’s most iconic sights before the crowds arrive! Our early morning walking tour takes you through the historic streets of Gion, visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Street, and Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka with a knowledgeable and friendly English-speaking guide.

⚠️ Prior to the tour, please ensure that WhatsApp is available for easy communication. Our guide will contact you through these platforms.

✅ English Guided Walking Tour – Walking through Kyoto’s most scenic streets.

✅ Visit Five Must-See Locations – Explore Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Gion’s historic streets, and Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka.

✅ Learn Kyoto’s History & Culture – Discover the stories behind Kyoto’s geisha district, samurai history, and old temples with our expert guide.

✅ Capture Stunning Photos – Enjoy a crowd-free Kyoto and take beautiful photos in its most picturesque locations.

✅ Get Local Tips & Recommendations – Our guide will share insider tips to explore after the tour.

Available options

Kyoto Gion Early Morning Walking Tour

What's included

English-Speaking Guide

Approximately 3 hours

Detailed itinerary

Strolling through Gion Shirakawa, you’ll experience Kyoto’s old-world charm in a peaceful, early-morning setting. The Shirakawa River, lined with traditional machiya houses and weeping willows, creates a picture-perfect scene. Crossing the Tatsumi Bridge, you’ll pass historic teahouses where geisha and maiko still perform.

Walking down Hanamikoji Street, you’ll step into Kyoto’s geisha district, lined with historic wooden machiya houses and traditional teahouses (ochaya). This iconic street is where geisha and maiko gracefully walk to their evening engagements, preserving centuries-old traditions.

Stop 3

A visit to Kiyomizudera offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Kyoto’s spiritual heritage. Famous for its wooden stage, the temple overlooks the city, surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant maple leaves in autumn.

Arriving in the early morning, you’ll experience the tranquility of this UNESCO-listed site before the crowds. Your guide will share the history of this 1,200-year-old temple, its connection to Kyoto’s traditions, and the meaning behind the pure water spring that gives Kiyomizudera its name. A must-see destination for history, culture, and stunning scenery.

Stop 4

Walking through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, you’ll step into a postcard-perfect scene of stone-paved streets, traditional wooden townhouses, and quaint local shops. These historic lanes, leading to Kiyomizudera, are among Kyoto’s most scenic spots.

In the early morning, you’ll enjoy a peaceful stroll, capturing the timeless beauty of Kyoto before the crowds arrive. Your guide will share stories of these preserved streets, their role in Kyoto’s history, and the charming legends tied to their names.

Standing tall amidst Kyoto’s historic streets, Yasaka-no-To (Yasaka Pagoda) is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

In the quiet of the morning, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to capture its elegant silhouette without the crowds. Your guide will share the history of this Zen temple, its connection to Kyoto’s past, and why it remains a symbol of Higashiyama’s timeless beauty.

Stop 6

A visit to Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most revered Shinto shrines, offers a glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Known for its vibrant vermilion gate and famous lantern-lit dance stage, this shrine has protected Kyoto and the Gion district for over 1,350 years.

What's not included

Hotel Pick-Up

The Admission Fee: Kiyomizudera-Temple

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni. It is next to the 4 Exit of Keihan Gionshijo Station.

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.