Top Experiences in Kennin-ji Temple

Receive a warm welcome to Kyoto on a private tour that will kick off your time in the city in the best way possible! In only 90 minutes, a local guide will get you acquainted with Kyoto to help you enjoy the rest of your stay to the fullest.

Discover where to find Kenninji temple and Yasaka Shrine, and how to explore them away from the crowds. And what about that unique family owned restaurant or that amazing local hotspot? We got you covered; the local guides are experts in the subject! Forget about touristy traps; on this city kickstart tour, your guide will point you in the right direction.

Private City Kickstart Tour: Kyoto is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

The yang of the bright and beautiful side of the city's 1200 year history is paralleled by the yin of the macabre, the bizarre and the bloody aspects of the story of Japan's old capital. Starting at Yasaka Shrine we will weave our way south through the back streets of Gion to Kiyomizu Temple, then descending through the Toribeno cemetery, one of the oldest and largest burial grounds dating back to the founding of the city. We pass through the shrine for cutting off bad relationships, stop by a 500 year old haunted candy shop, peek at the well that is said to have been used as a portal to the underworld by a famed Japanese sorcerer, and visit 'the hill of ears' monument.

Although the 'dark' will be highlighted in this experience, I also aim to impart an understanding of Japanese religious and cultural beliefs, and you will end the day with a more intimate understanding of Kyoto and a more balanced and realistic view of one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.

Kyoto has been the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years. Meanwhile, not only nobles, including Emperors and royal families, but also samurais, especially Shoguns, used to have a deep relationship with Kyoto. With this tour, you can visit gorgeous castles and temples founded by powerful Shoguns of different eras and learn about Kyoto and Japan’s history.

Kyoto also prospered as a capital, then the traditional and unique culture, including geishas and a row of town houses has very well preserved. By visiting the world-famous Gion, you can experience traditional Japanese heritage. This tour starts a little bit early in the morning, but enables you to enjoy your day comfortably, avoiding crowds.

Visit Higashiyama, Kyoto’s breathtaking historical district, in a traditional kimono. Walk along its cobblestoned slopes to discover Kiyomizu-dera, a striking temple complex built abreast a waterfall, then stroll beside geisha in the Gion district before finishing the tour in beautiful Yasaka Shrine — all the while learning about the history of this great area.
◆ Tour the most popular area in Kyoto with a nationally certified interpreter-guide
◆ Trek up to Kiyomizu-dera, a temple with over 1,250 years of history, best known for its overhanging stage overlooking the city
◆ Enjoy a truly serene moment in Kennin-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, founded by Eisai, the founder of Zen Buddhism
◆ Explore the brilliant vermillion red buildings of Yasaka Shrine
◆ Walk the streets of Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district
◆ Look around at the traditional shops, cafés and galleries that dot the Higashiyama district

Unlike a usual tour, this is a whole new experience designed to entertain visitors on a private basis. We believe that even a small thing can make your trip unforgettable. Even a shop you found on a street, a food you tried from convenience store, or someone you met on the street. In this trip, generally, our tour guide will take your through one of the oldest town, Kyoto explaining the background history from the sight of a local person. However, you are allowed to make any change to the plan. For example, you can just pop into any store on the street, you can choose what to eat. Anything you want to do will be supported by your local tour. Our goal is to provide you a new style of guide tour that can match your interest as much as possible so you do not have to follow the strict plan but still get guide tour from a local person. We make your trip easier and better.

浴衣(着物)で京都の町並みを散策、バスや電車での移動も出来て家族・友人・カップル、またグループでもお申込みいただけますので色々なシーンで体験出来ます。
9時30分からレンタル可能で17時までに返却すれば一日中お楽しみいただけますので京都旅行で是非とも体験ください。

This is a private full-day tour for Muslim visitors who want to visit what many say is the best tourist city in Japan, Kyoto. A local guide will show you the popular spots in the Shijom Gion, and Higashiyama areas of Kyoto. Please note that hotel pick-up is included, but you will have to make your own way back at the end of the tour.

Unlock the Magic of Kyoto with Our Unforgettable Tours: Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and cultural wonders of Kyoto by booking our expertly crafted tours. With our knowledgeable local guides, you'll gain insider access to hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and authentic experiences that truly showcase the essence of this enchanting city.

From strolling through historic districts like Gion and Pontocho, where geisha culture thrives, to exploring majestic temples like Kiyomizu-dera and serene shrines like Fushimi Inari Taisha, every step will be filled with awe-inspiring moments.

Indulge in Kyoto's exquisite cuisine at bustling markets or traditional restaurants, participate in traditional tea ceremonies, and witness the changing seasons transform the landscape with cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn foliage.
Minimum attendance 6 people

Explore the magical streets of Gion with us on this tour! We'll kick things off at Kennin-ji Temple, a peaceful spot that's a real hidden treasure in Kyoto. Even though it is one of the most beautiful sights in Kyoto, it has minimal amount of people here allowing you to immerse into inner peace and enlightenment. Then, we'll wander through the main streets of Gion, learning all about maiko, geisha, and how Gion came to be. Our last stop is Yasaka Shrine, where we'll enjoy the twinkling lights before wrapping up just in time for dinner. Don't worry about where to eat – our guide will give you some great recommendations!

Kyoto's east side is a place where culture and art began evolving in Japan. it was ones considered to be the heart of Japan and has for today, we are still lucky to Experience the atmosphere and magic of those eras that are gone but left its marks at the Higashiyama area.

During the tour I will provide you with a background story and in-depth explanation of the places you visit, giving you a deeper understanding of Kyoto Japan's rich history and culture.

As part of ShiZen`s highest quality guidance, I provide photo capturing for your trip along the way, so that you can cherish your memories for as long as you wish.

Join me on a journey of exploration and discovery in magical Kyoto!

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover Kyoto's highlights efficiently in a private vehicle accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced multilingual guide!

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Discovering around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our private car tour with Government Licensed Guide. Meet your guide at your hotel in Osaka, then head to Kyoto!

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto!

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 3 to 4 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto!

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 4 to 5 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

This is the ideal tour for travelers wanting to discover Kyoto's highlights efficiently in a private vehicle accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced multilingual guide!

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Discovering around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book this tour!

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

Note: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto!

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 2 to 3 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

- Start this historical sights tour by learning about Gion & Geisha and Zen culture in Japan in UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple, Kennin-ji in Gion district. Get ready to feel the world of Zen in traditional Zen temple with Japanese Rock garden called Karesansui.
After seeing the Kennin-ji temple, get ready to cycle again for a nice ride to the Nanzen-ji temple where your guide will give you some insights about Zen and the old days of Kyoto!

- Breeze through beautiful local streets in historical city and enjoy a delicious lunch at a Japanese tea house!

- Enjoy the local Kyoto oasis that is Kamogawa river with a relaxing cycle along it’s riverbanks to finish the tour off!

Magical Trip is a local tour operator with the TripAdvisor certificate of excellence that offers various types of small-group tours throughout Japan! Check out our Trip Advisor Page for more tours and our reviews!

Learn more about the top 23 tourist attractions in Kyoto. Its history, culture, myths, architecture, and other important facts are in this audio commentary.

The top 10 advantages for those who prefer flexibility on their tour.
1. Safe - Not required to download, with just a click of secure access links it can be listened to online on any device.
2. Save - The lowest price in the city.
3. Stories - No imagination stories, only verified information.
4. Schedule - Listen at your own convenience of time, pace, and location,
5. Select - Preferred languages and attractions.
6. Self-control: No need to be behind someone's instructions in always.
7. Share - with co-travelers in just a click.
8. Soft - Selective crafted words that make you listen again.
9. Simple - Use our personally created itinerary which starts from the city's central station and then gradually moves one by one.
10. Smart - in all aspects

Kyoto is an iconic image of traditional Japan for most tourists. Not only being symbolic, Kyoto is one of the oldest municipalities in Japan, the capital of Japan and the residence of the Emperor from 794 to 1868, is home to countless temples, shrines, and other historically significant structures.

This tour will focus on the eastern part of the prefecture. Many of the centres of the 15th century Japanese cultural development known as Higashiyama Culture are located here. The Gion entertainment district in front of Yasaka Shrine and the cobblestone streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka that lead to the world heritage site Kiyomizu Temple have been designated as protected areas to preserve traditional-style buildings.

Wandering through narrow streets and alleys and discovering beautiful gardens, majestic shrines, and dazzling temples. You can fully feel the historical atmosphere along with the glory of olden times. Come and discover this priceless experience.

Spend the day with one of our hosts as you unleash your inner explorer in Kyoto! You’re in the ‘City of Temples’ and you’ll be able to visit iconic and sacred sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Maybe explore the culturally rich entertainment district of Gion? Alternatively, you could get off the beaten tourist track and explore some hidden gems in the city that only a local would know about.

Within 24 hours after booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.

On this half-day private tour, we will visit picture-postcard places of Kyoto in Higashiyama area and enjoy walking through quiet alleys.
To start with, we will visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, and visit the photogenic places nearby that look like they have appeared in films! After strolling the scenic and hidden paths in Higashiyama area, we will stop by the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, Kenninji Temple, to adore their beutiful gardens. Finally, we will take a walk the picturesque streets of Gion, where "Memoirs of a Geisha" was set in, to end our tour.
If you are interested in Japanese culture and history of Kyoto, this tour will be a great introduction!

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto!

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 3 to 4 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

Traditional and historical Japanese gardens are best sites to see Japanese aesthetics. Both artistic landscape gardens with seasonal plants and dry landscape gardens at Zen temples help you get relaxed for meditation. Visiting various styled gardens and experiencing traditional Japanese spirits which are represented in plants, rocks, and total design.

Our government-licensed and experienced multilingual guides will help you efficiently enjoy a one-day private tour of the best Japanese gardens in Kyoto.

Select gardens from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. In addition to gardens, you may also choose any famous site in Kyoto for a truly memorable experience!

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Spend an hour strolling through Kyoto with a professional photographer to capture the best possible images of your tour. You'll learn about local monuments and get a photo shoot with your loved ones; this activity is kid-friendly and can accommodate your groups. After the session, you'll receive professional quality images that you can cherish.

・Local photographer guide takes photos of you and your group in Kyoto
・Receive edited images via email after the session
・Perfect souvenir of your trip

THE tour for a local's experience of Kyoto’s best food! Our nationally-licensed and experienced English-speaking guides will help you find the best eats while learning about Kyoto.
Kyoto’s dishes have little flashes of flavor that will surprise you from Tofu skin hot pots to eel rice bowls, and buckwheat noodles with a huge fish.
Street food fans must visit Nishiki Market. This 400 year old market is rich in history and food. See some too-cute-to-eat Japanese ‘wagashi’ sweets or the eccentric tako-tamago, a skewered octopus stuffed with a quail egg. Or you can enjoy looking at the pickled foods that locals love! If you are a tea fan, have some rich and warm green tea (matcha), or a green tea parfait to cool down.
Once your reservation is made, please chose 3-4 spots from the tour details and let your guide know your food interests when planning. We hope to guide you soon!

For the time and budget-conscious traveler, experience the Gion district with our government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guides.

You'll start your day by meeting your guide at the Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine, the center of Gion. While exploring Gion, your guide will show you the history and culture of geisha―from their kimonos and hairstyles to rules and daily rituals.

You'll walk down the cobbled streets of three Geisha areas in total―Gion, Pontocho, and Miyagawacho―while you listen to stories of Kyoto's ancient past. If you're lucky, you may even spot a geisha on the street!

This short but value-packed trip is a fantastic way of experiencing a side of Kyoto that most tourists do not get to see.

This private tour is a walking day tour with a guide. A private vehicle is not included.

Kimono is the beautiful traditional dress of Japan. This 6 hour Kyoto walking tour includes wearing a Kimono experience! You will be dressed by a professional and have your hair done in a simple hairstyle.

It will take about one hour to change for one group (including a simple hair set for women). Afterward, you can walk around the old capitol, Kyoto.

The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city waring a Kimono can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries.

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 2 to 3 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests.

Make your Instagram followers envious as you explore Kyoto on a customizable day trip to its most recognizable hotspots!

Kyoto is synonymous with Old Japan, and it is indeed where you’ll be able to find many picture opportunities. You are going to check out the places with the best Kyoto aesthetic and it will be a treat for your eyes and your Instagram followers.

From shrines to street art, this city is loaded with photogenic spots. Grab your camera and get your hashtags ready, here are the most Instagrammable places in Kyoto!

The best thing about this day trip is that you choose the exact experience that you want. We will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you.

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Take a tour of Kyoto's famous Gion district and learn all about the mysterious geisha traditions of the area. Your local guide will tell you about the traditions from an insider perspective about Geisha culture. At the same time you'll explore Gion's beautiful streets, temples, shrines, and shops, for a comprehensive overview of historic Kyoto. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, but on my experience

･In the first half we will walk in Gion and discuss the living traditions, their lifestyle and history.
･In the second half we will meet an apprentice geisha, Maiko. First we will talk with and ask her questions. Also we will watch her dancing, having one of these, a cup of tea or lunch or dinner together.

*Picture and filming of Geisha is fine but not allowed to post it in public.

No trip to Kyoto is complete without a trip to the old preserved district of Gion, and it's no surprise why it's such a popular place to visit. It is one of the only places in the world where you can see a real-life "geisha" walking along the beautiful alleyways. Join our Gion Night Walk and we can tell you all about the mysterious lives of the geisha as we walk along these charming cobblestoned streets all lit up with lantern light. Let these places some to life with a fun and friendly guide to tell you what happens behind the closed doors of Gion.

Unlike a usual tour, this is a whole new experience designed to entertain visitors on a private basis. We believe that even a small thing can make your trip unforgettable. Even a shop you found on a street, a food you tried from convenience store, or someone you met on the street. In this trip, generally, our tour guide will take your through one of the oldest town, Kyoto explaining the background history from the sight of a local person. However, you are allowed to make any change to the plan. For example, you can just pop into any store on the street, you can choose what to eat. Anything you want to do will be supported by your local tour. Our goal is to provide you a new style of guide tour that can match your interest as much as possible so you do not have to follow the strict plan but still get guide tour from a local person. We make your trip easier and better.

Kyoto keeps traditional arts and beauty alive, but the busses and subways can be confusing and provide challenges for those with walking limitations. At Japan Guide Agency, we want everyone to experience Kyoto so we are happy to provide this customizable, private guided tour with a vehicle!

Join us on a tour of Kyoto to see Kiyomizu Temple as it towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. The bamboo forest of Sagano and the gardens, shrines and temples in Kyoto will provide you with a window into old Japan. There is much in this city that you don’t want to miss!

Once your reservation is made, a guide will contact you to plan your personalized tour. Choose 4 to 5 spots from ‘Tour Details’ to visit. Don't know where to go? Ask the guide to send you their recommendations. Whether you are a history buff, love Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

Maximum 7 participants per tour.