Kyoto Full Course Tour: Explore 10 Must-See Sights & Hidden Gems

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Full Course Tour: Explore 10 Must-See Sights & Hidden Gems

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About this experience

Welcome to Kyoto, Japan!

Let’s dive into and discover Kyoto's kaleidoscope of sights and sounds.
Explore as many as 10 attractions in the city on this full day tour.
We take you to the must-see sights and show you the hidden gems of each location.
Let’s stroll the city on foot and by bus like a local.

Transportation in Kyoto is very complicated.
However, all our guides were born and raised in Japan, have lived for a long time close to the area, and are well-trained expert locals.
So, we can take you to so many places, within a limited timeframe.

Though the tour, you can learn about our history, culture, society, values, etiquette, how to take public transportations, and everyday life.

【Highlights】
(Meet at JR Saga-Arashiyama station at 8:50)
Arashiyama Area, Randen Tram Line, Ryoan-ji Temple, Conveyor belt sushi for lunch(Sushi, Vege-Sushi, Ramen, Kara-Age, Beer, Mochi too), Kinkakuji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-zaka slope, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Gion area

Available options

Kyoto Full Course Tour: Explore 10 Must-See Sights & Hidden Gems

What's included

Consumption tax

Tour fee

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Beautiful bamboo forest and Japanese forested mountain.

Stop 2

You can't miss this place. The famous "golden temple"!

Stop 3

The stone garden became famous because Queen Elizabeth visited here and praised it.

Stop 4

The No. 1 sightseeing spot in Kyoto chosen by overseas customers!!
The more than 1,000 red torii gates lining the path are spectacular.

Full of souvenir shops and local eateries.

Stop 6

The most popular tourist spot for Japanese tourists. The wood stage does not use a single nail.

It is a beautiful local slope in Kyoto. Souvenir shops lined up this pedestrian road.

"Yasaka Pagoda" is one of the major symbol of Kyoto.

Stop 9

This is the beauty of historical city, Kyoto.

What's not included

Transportation expenses: totally about 10USD

Food and beverage expenses(depend on your order $6.8-14USD)

Entrance fees: totally about 11USD

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

1. Those under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a guardian

2. If you include persons under 13 years old, please send us a request as "Private Tour"

3. Those who are unwell or under the influence of alcohol will not be permitted to participate (no refunds)

4. This program starts just on time. Late arrivals will not be allowed to participate (no refunds)(The start time is 8:50, not 9:00)

5.The tour fee does not include food & beverage and transportation. We recommend that you have cash ready

6.Prepare transportation IC card such as SUICA/PASMO in advance

7.You are required to walk over 20,000 steps, then; 1)comfortable walking shoes and clothing are required 2)not suitable for people of pregnant, with back problem, in wheelchair, of low fitness level

8.You are required to follow the host from your side. If you break away from the host, for any reasons, host cannot look for you (no refunds)

Meeting point

We will start at 8:50!. At the only exit of "Saga-Arashiyama" station (JR-E08), of "JR" Line.

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.