Kyoto Highlights: Half Day Customized World Heritage Walking Tour
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4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Enjoy a fully customizable 4-hour private tour of Kyoto’s world heritage sites, tailored to your preferences. Choose your attractions, set the start time, and explore with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who provides cultural insights and local tips. Visit iconic landmarks like Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizudera Temple, or let your guide help you craft the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
Available options
Northern Kyoto in Chinese
Northern Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Botanical Gardens, Ota Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kitaoji Station, Koyamakitakamifusacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8142, Japan
Northern Kyoto in French
Northern Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Botanical Gardens, Ota Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kitaoji Station, Koyamakitakamifusacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8142, Japan
Central Kyoto in Chinese
Central Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Nijo Castle, Gion District, Yasuka Shrine and Kiyomizudera.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Nijojo-mae Sta.(Nijo-jo Castle), Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan
Central Kyoto in English
Central Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Nijo Castle, Gion District, Yasuka Shrine and Kiyomizudera.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Nijojo-mae Sta.(Nijo-jo Castle), Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan
Northern Kyoto in English
Northern Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Botanical Gardens, Ota Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kitaoji Station, Koyamakitakamifusacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8142, Japan
Central Kyoto in French
Central Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Nijo Castle, Gion District, Yasuka Shrine and Kiyomizudera.
Central Kyoto in Spanish
Central Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Nijo Castle, Gion District, Yasuka Shrine and Kiyomizudera.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Nijojo-mae Sta.(Nijo-jo Castle), Nijojocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8301, Japan
Northern Kyoto in Spanish
Northern Kyoto: The suggested itinerary includes visit to Botanical Gardens, Ota Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Kitaoji Station, Koyamakitakamifusacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8142, Japan
What's included
Tour guide of your selected language
4 hours customized tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Explore Kyoto's heritage gems on a customizable 4-hour tour with your personal guide. Tailor your itinerary by selecting attractions and setting the tour's start time. Your knowledgeable guide will assist with navigation, cultural insights, and local tips.
Share your chosen sites during checkout, and include extra options for flexibility. Consider travel distances when planning. Need ideas? Visit Nijo Castle, marvel at Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion, enjoy Kiyomizudera Temple's views, stroll the Philosopher's Path, or explore Toji Temple. Unsure? Your guide can offer suggestions to create the perfect schedule!
2
(Included in the Northern Kyoto suggested itinerary.)
Kyoto Botanical Garden is a serene oasis showcasing a diverse collection of plants and seasonal blooms, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
3
Stop 3
(Included in the Northern Kyoto suggested itinerary.)
Kamigamo Shrine, one of Kyoto's oldest Shinto shrines, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its serene setting, traditional architecture, and vibrant annual Aoi Matsuri festival.
4
(Included in the Northern Kyoto suggested itinerary.)
Ota Shrine in Kyoto is a serene Shinto shrine known for its picturesque iris garden, especially vibrant during the blooming season, and its tranquil, wooded surroundings.
5
Stop 5
(Included in the Central Kyoto suggested itinerary.)
The Gion District in Kyoto is a historic area known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, vibrant geisha culture, and charming streets lined with teahouses and shops.
6
Stop 6
(Included in the Central Kyoto suggested itinerary.)
Kiyomizu-dera is a famous Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning wooden stage that offers panoramic views of the city, surrounded by lush nature and cherry blossoms in spring.
7
Stop 7
(Included in the Central Kyoto suggested itinerary.)
Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, is a stunning example of Japanese feudal architecture, famous for its "nightingale floors" that chirp when walked upon, and its beautiful gardens and ornate interiors.
What's not included
Transportation
Entrance fees
Meals and other drinks
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
FR
ES
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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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet at Nijojo-Mae Station inside Exit 1 at your selected time
Important notes
Customers are free to customize the tour based on their own requirements
What should you bring:
Camera
Comfortable shoes
Cash (for personal expenses)
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
![[Kyoto & Nara & Uji Day Trip] Nara Park's Adorable Deer & Fushimi Inari Shrine's Thousand Torii Gates & World Heritage Site Todai-ji Temple & Byodo-in Temple & Uji Matcha Food Street & Uji River & Uji Park & Asagiri Bridge Day Trip](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/activities/ldngpfhcjg0mts875udl.jpg)
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