Private Custumized Walking Tour with a Local Guide

Kyoto , Japan

Private Custumized Walking Tour with a Local Guide

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(1 reviews)

2h - 8h

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

This is a fully personalized experience crafted just for you. Whether you're interested in Kyoto's iconic landmarks, hidden backstreets, local markets, cafe hopping, or even need shopping assistance, we will design an itinerary that reflects your interests and travel style. Simply share your requests!

As a local guide, I will provide insider stories, cultural insights, and tips you won’t find in any guidebook.

Note: The iternaly is flexible. Destinations may vary depending on your start time, walking pace, and personal preferences. Remember, this is a fully tailored tour, so we will discuss your interests and plan the perfect itinerary together before the tour begins. We will reach you out via WhatsApp.

Available options

Private Custumized Walking Tour with a Local Guide

What's included

Entrance fees

Customize to your route or let your guide take care of the itinerary planning

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Meet your guide at Kyoto station.

Stop 2

Marvel at Kyoto’s most iconic temple, covered in gold leaf and beautifully reflected in the surrounding pond. A serene introduction to Zen architecture and Japanese aesthetics.

Stop 3

Explore Kyoto’s lively "Kitchen Alley" filled with over 100 shops and stalls offering everything from seasonal produce to traditional street food. Enjoy a casual lunch while sampling local specialties.

Wander through Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, and the charming lanes of Higashiyama. These well-preserved areas offer a glimpse into the city’s traditional wooden architecture and old-world atmosphere.

Stop 5

Visit this vibrant Shinto shrine that has stood at the heart of Kyoto for over 1,300 years. Known for its colorful lanterns and festivals, it serves as a spiritual and cultural hub connecting Gion and Higashiyama.

Stop 6

Climb up to this UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of the city. Famous for its wooden stage and seasonal beauty throughout the year.

Stop 7

End your journey at the world-renowned Fushimi Inari, where thousands of bright red torii gates form a magical path through the forested mountain. A must-see spiritual spot beloved by visitors and locals alike.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Public transportation fee during the tour

Entrance fees for optional attractions

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

The default meeting point is Kyoto Station, but both the starting and ending locations of the tour can be flexible. Depending on your preference, we can arrange to meet or finish at your hotel or a local sightseeing spot.

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.