Activity Kyoto, Japan

Dark Kyoto Tour

5.0 (3 reviews) 4 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

3 reviews

5.0

Dark Kyoto Tour — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Dark Kyoto Tour, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Ghost Tours Small Group DSA non-compliant

At a glance

Duration: 4 hours
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 10 people
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English
Operated by: Atticus Sims

Ages: Youth (8–17 years) · Adults (18–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Tour Guide

Itinerary

Yasaka Shrine

15 min

Yasaka Shrine played an important role the attempts to ward off a plague that had befallen the city in the 9th century CE.
Gion

30 min

The back streets of the Gion District are home to many haunting tales.
Kennin-ji Temple

15 min

Kennin-ji Temple is the oldest Zen temple in Japan.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple

30 min Admission included

Kiyomizu Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but is also known locally for it's dark history.
Toyokuni Shrine

10 min

This is where the shogun Hideyoshi is enshrined.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We will meet at the main gate of Yasaka Shrine at the intersection of Shijo Street and Higashioji Street. Convenient by city bus, Keihan Line, Subway or Hankyu Line.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.