Kyoto Night Walk in Fushimi Inari with 4 Gion Area Highlights

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Night Walk in Fushimi Inari with 4 Gion Area Highlights

Active

2h - 3h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover a quieter side of Kyoto on this magical evening walking tour.
Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of vermilion torii gates glow as the sun sets. Walk through this iconic shrine during the calm, golden hour—perfect for stunning, crowd-free photos.

Next, explore the lantern-lit streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, historic stone-paved alleys lined with traditional townhouses.
Visit Yasaka Shrine, where soft lights and centuries of history create a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.

End your walk in Gion, at Hanamikoji, Shirakawa Canal, and Tatsumi Shrine, where Kyoto’s timeless beauty comes alive at night.
Led by a local guide, this tour offers both breathtaking views and hidden stories.

Available options

Kyoto Night Walk in Fushimi Inari with 4 Gion Area Highlights

What's included

Entrance fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

As the sun sets, the endless red torii gates of Fushimi Inari fade into the evening shadows.
This is Kyoto’s most iconic shrine—but we visit it at the perfect hour, when the crowds disappear and silence takes over.
Learn the meaning behind the torii and the spiritual stories of the mountain.
We won’t climb to the top, but we’ll walk far enough to soak in the magic and capture incredible photos, surrounded by the natural twilight glow.

Stop 2

Winding stone paths, traditional wooden houses, and a sense of timelessness await in this famous historic area.
At night, the crowds are gone, the lanterns are glowing, and the atmosphere is peaceful and deeply nostalgic.
It’s one of the best spots to take photos that truly feel like “old Kyoto.”
We’ll walk slowly and explore the beauty that only reveals itself after dark.

Stop 3

One of Kyoto’s most beloved shrines, Yasaka transforms at night.
The gentle light of lanterns creates a sacred, otherworldly atmosphere.
We visit when the grounds are quiet, giving you space to reflect and feel the deep connection locals have had with this place for centuries.
It’s a moment of calm and reverence in the heart of the city.

This is Kyoto’s most elegant street, and after sunset, it turns into something truly magical.
Soft lights glow from the lattice windows of old wooden teahouses.
You might spot a maiko (apprentice geisha) gliding by—an image straight out of a dream.
We’ll stroll slowly and take in the refined beauty of this iconic neighborhood.

A quiet stream, stone-paved lanes, and a hidden shrine where geisha have prayed for generations.
This part of Gion is a true hidden gem—rarely crowded, always enchanting.
The vermilion bridge and glowing lanterns offer a perfect Kyoto night photo spot.
We end our walk here, in one of the city’s most peaceful corners.

What's not included

Public transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note that the walk at Fushimi Inari Taisha includes stairs and some inclined stone paths. If you have any mobility concerns or leg issues, we kindly ask you to consider your condition before booking. We’re happy to adjust the pace or route where possible—feel free to contact us in advance with any questions.

Meeting point

We offer two meeting point options:

JR Inari Station: We’ll meet right outside the ticket gate of JR Inari Station. Look for your guide holding a sign that says “japa-kon”.

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.