Gion and Kiyomizu Temple Tour to enjoy Kyoto in a short time

Kyoto , Japan

Gion and Kiyomizu Temple Tour to enjoy Kyoto in a short time

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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

Kyoto is a city that continues to attract the attention of international travelers as one of the best cities to visit in Japan.
This short tour is recommended for first-time visitors to Kyoto and for those who want to visit Kyoto's unique spots in a short time.
This tour is also recommended for those who have other plans for the day, as it allows for efficient and smooth sightseeing in and around Gion and Kiyomizu-dera Temples, which are especially popular in Kyoto!

Explore Gion's traditional charm, visit Yasaka Shrine with its historical ties to the area, and admire the serene beauty of Kodaiji Temple's gardens. Stroll through Sanneizaka Area for picturesque views before reaching Kiyomizu-dera, renowned for its thousand-year history and iconic cliffside stage offering breathtaking city panoramas.

[Visit Spots]
・Gion/Hanamikoji Street
・Yasaka Shrine
・Kodaiji Temple
・Sanneizaka
・Kiyomizu Temple

Available options

Standard

What's included

Private Tour

Necessary expenses for the tour guide

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Gion/Hanamikoji Street:
As the main street of the Gion area, it is a popular place for tourists. The street and surrounding area are lined with temples, shrines, tea houses, and other buildings that are very Kyoto-like. If you are lucky, you may be able to see real maiko and geiko walking along the alley.

Stop 2

Yasaka Shrine:
Located in Higashiyama, it is the representative shrine of Kyoto City. Until the Meiji era (1868-1912), the shrine was called "Gion Shrine." The famous town of Gion was the gateway to Yasaka Shrine, and the festival "Gion Matsuri" became Kyoto's representative summer festival, greatly influencing the culture, customs and landscape of Kyoto.

Stop 3

Kodaiji Temple:
This temple is dedicated to the memory of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the general who unified Japan during the Warring States period, and his wife. The temple is also known for the beauty of its magnificent and spacious garden with the Higashiyama Mountains in the background.

Stop 4

Sanneizaka:
This slope is part of the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and is said to have been used by Kitamasato, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Together with Niningsaka, it is designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Kyoto City. The winding stone pavement and stone steps are flanked by old-fashioned buildings, and it is also known as the center of sightseeing in Kiyomizu.

Stop 5

Kiyomizu Temple:
It is a World Heritage temple representing Kyoto. In addition to being a popular tourist destination, the temple attracts many pilgrims who come to see the main image of the Buddha who saves people with his mercy. The "Kiyomizu-no-butai" (stage of Kiyomizu), built on the slope of the mountain, offers a panoramic view of the beautiful city of Kyoto.

What's not included

Estimated Costs of the Tour: 1,200 JPY per Person

Breakdown: Transportation: 0 JPY, Admission Fees: 1,100 JPY, Meal costs: 0 JPY per Person

Optional Experience Costs: 100 JPY per Person

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Transportation, entrance fees, food and beverages, etc. incurred at the visited spots are to be borne by the customer.

The dismissal point is different from the meeting point. Please contact the guide if you would like to change the dismissal point.

Please wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking.

Please note that each spot may be changed to another spot in case of temporary closure.

Some of the spots you will visit that day include facilities that do not accept credit cards. Please remember to have cash ready.

If you miss the meeting time on the day of the tour, we may not be able to provide an adequate tour experience due to the transportation used. Please be careful not to be late.

Food and beverage spots are not included.

In case of inclement weather on the day of the tour, the means of transportation, places to visit, and routes may be changed.

Meeting point

Keihan Electric Railway, Gion-Shijo Station, Ticket gate

Important notes

・Please contact us using the messaging feature or WhatsApp message : +81 80-7475-5829.
・Please note that we do not answer calls. In case of any difficulties meeting up, kindly call your tour guide directly.
・All transportation costs, entrance fees, food and drink costs, etc. incurred at the visited spots, will be borne by the customer.
・If you do not arrive at the specified starting place after 60 minutes from the agreed meeting time, the tour will be considered canceled.

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.