Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji Autumn Private Tour in Kyoto

Kyoto , Japan

Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji Autumn Private Tour in Kyoto

Active

(1 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto's autumn season with our exclusive private tour, guided by a local expert who will provide you with insider knowledge and personal insights. Begin your adventure with a visit to the tranquil and picturesque Nanzenji Temple, a place of peace and reflection amidst the changing leaves. Experience the subtle charm of Tenjuan Garden, a hidden gem offering a serene escape from the bustling city.

Continue to the captivating streets leading to the iconic Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), where historical elegance and autumnal colors create an unforgettable scene. Conclude your tour with a scenic walk along the approach to Ginkakuji, filled with traditional shops and tea houses, perfectly capturing Kyoto’s blend of culture and natural beauty.

This private tour is designed to provide a unique and immersive experience of Kyoto’s fall splendor, combining tranquility and inspiration with the convenience of public transport.

Available options

2025 Autumn

What's included

Private Tour

Tour Guide

The necessary expenses for the guide during the tour

Detailed itinerary

Tenjuan Garden:
Tenjuan, a sub-temple of Nanzen-ji, offers a serene retreat with its two exquisite gardens: a tranquil dry landscape garden (karesansui) and a lush pond garden. Originally built in 1337 and reconstructed in 1602, the temple buildings are closed to the public, but the gardens are open for visitors. Hidden within the temple complex, Tenjuan is renowned for its moss-covered pathways, koi-filled ponds, and vibrant bamboo grove. The garden's beauty is particularly striking in autumn, when the maple leaves turn brilliant shades of red and gold. Despite its proximity to popular Nanzen-ji, Tenjuan remains a peaceful haven, perfect for quiet reflection year-round.

Stop 2

Nanzen-ji Temple:
The temple has a history and prestige that sets it apart from other Zen temples in Japan. There are numerous cultural heritage sites and attractions within the temple grounds. Among them, the view of the temple grounds from the Sanmon Gate and the Suijikaku (Waterway Pavilion), built in the Meiji era (1868-1912), are two of Nanzenji's most famous landmarks. There are many photo spots within the spacious precincts of the temple, which are popular among many young people.

Stop 3

Eikando:
Eikando, also known as Zenrin-ji Temple, is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage, with maple trees that turn vibrant shades of red and gold. Established in 863, it features a unique Amida Buddha statue with a sideways gaze, a serene pond, and winding paths through lush gardens. During the autumn season, the temple is illuminated at night, attracting many visitors while still offering moments of tranquility. Eikando remains a must-visit spot for those seeking to experience the beauty of Kyoto’s seasonal colors.

The approach to Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, is a charming and picturesque path that sets the tone for your visit. Starting from the foot of the hill, this serene route is lined with traditional shops, tea houses, and picturesque scenery, leading you gently towards the temple. The approach captures the essence of Kyoto’s blend of natural beauty and historic ambiance, making it a delightful prelude to the main temple experience.

Stop 5

Ginkaku-ji Temple:
It is one of the most representative architectural structures of Japan's medieval culture. It was a palace built by the shogun who ruled Japan and converted into a temple after his death, and the buildings where the shogun lived at that time remain in the precincts. Experience the atmosphere of a time when the Japanese culture, which is connected to wabi and sabi, flourished.

What's not included

Estimated Costs of the Tour: 4,060 JPY per Person

Breakdown: Transportation: 460 JPY, Meal costs: 1,500 JPY per Person

Admission Fees: 2,100 JPY

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All transportation costs, entrance fees, food and drink costs, etc. incurred at the visited spots, will be borne by the customer.

Tour finishing spot is different from starting spot. Please let your tour guide know if you would like to change the finishing spot.

Please wear comfortable clothing as you will be walking a lot.

Please understand that tour spots might be changed to alternative spots in case of temporary closure.

Some of the spots we will visit on the day do not accept credit cards. Please remember to bring cash.

If the weather is bad on the day, there is a possibility that the means of transportation, destinations, and routes may be changed.

Meeting point

Keage Station, In front of 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.