Carefree Private Exploration of Fushimi Inari, Gion, Kiyomizudera, and More

4.6 (7 reviews) 4 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

7 reviews

4.6

The captivating Kodaiji, in the Higashiyama district. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

The streets of Higashiyama. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Dive into and swoon about one of Kyoto's most historically rich areas, Higashiyama ("Eastern Mountain") with your very own private, English speaking guide with vast knowledge of Kyoto and Japanese culture. Start from the southernmost mountain in the city, where the justifiably famous Fushimi Inari Shrine lies in wait with its thousands upon thousands of bright red torii gates leading you up the mountain into higher and still holier places. Mission accomplished, a short train ride (included) deposits us perfectly for an exploration of the Gion, a traditional entertainment district, where geisha still hold court and high regard. Work your way through various temples and shrines on the east side while learning what makes this area so special. All admission fees and transit are included so there's no need to fret about hidden fees.

Since this is a private tour, feel free to contact us about any changes you'd like to make to the itinerary. We're very flexible.

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At a glance

Duration: 4 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–8
Guide: English, French, Spanish
Operated by: Pinpoint Traveler, Inc

Ages: Children (2–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: A native or equivalent speaker of your language (we mean it!), and someone that is actually fun too
Included: Transit from Fushimi Inari to Gion
Included: Entrance fees to temples and shrines
Included: First child (12 and under) free! Additional children at greatly reduced pricing.

Not included

Not included: Food and Drinks
Not included: Taxis (not required, but the customer may request one if they like)

Itinerary

Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

1 h 15 min Admission included

Start your journey at the southernmost tip of the Higashiyama mountain range with the unrivaled magnificence of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Here, transport yourself to another world underneath the thousands of mystical, vermilion torii gates, as your guide explains the meaning behind the architecture and symbolism. Founded in 711 AD, this shrine has lots of stories to tell.
Hanamikoji Street

15 min

A quick train ride takes us to the granddaddy of Kyoto entertainment districts, the Gion, where Geisha still reside and entertain to this day. Pass by the awe-inspiring Kabuki theater, then stroll the tea house string of pearls known as Hanami Koji Street. The beautifully preserved medieval architecture in this area transports you straight back the Edo period (1603-1868).
Yasui-Konpiragu

15 min Admission included

Pay a visit to Kyoto's most notorious love shrine where people don't just wish for their soul mate, but also revenge. See if you can crawl through the power stone said to help strengthen bonds with those you love, and cut out the toxic ties in your life.
Yasaka Pagoda

Passing by

Behold the breathtaking Yasaka Pagoda that towers over the Eastern Mountain district. Its authoritative stance has been part of the district's fabric since 1440 AD. We'll stop by this architectural wonder on our way up to Sannenzaka street.
Kodai-ji Temple

45 min Admission included

Blissfully less crowded then some other must-see spots in Kyoto, Kodaiji temple allows you to bask in the serenity of its gardens and just generally breathe it all in. The temple complex hosts the mausoleum and remains of two heroes from the end of the Warring States period in the late 16th century, the 2nd great unifier Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and his wife, Nene. There was a time when the temple was enrobed in luxuriant lacquer, with crushed precious metal inlay achieved through a technique called “Maki-e”. Despite many fires, there is still one original structure with the fading lacquer and murals as well as the immaculately preserved mausoleum itself, where you can see the spectacular, enduring craftsmanship up close and first hand.

For an additional 500 yen, you can also enjoy some fresh whisked matcha tea with a small sweet as you gaze at the serene gardens.
Sannenzaka Ninenzaka

20 min

Two beautifully preserved pilgrimage streets that lead to the famous Kiyomizudera (pure water) Temple. Lined with bustling shops and townhouses in the medieval style, with lovely, unobstructed, lines of sight.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Inari Station

End point

Inari Station

Using your ticket

You will be notified two days in advance of your tour with your guide's name and contact information. You should please contact your guide directly should any issues arise. Please be aware that for group tours, the tour must start on time and it may not be possible to get in touch with the guide once they have started the tour.

If you bundled the day and night tour together, it start's at 6:30 and we will meet in front of Minamiza Theatre, which is right at street level of Gion Shijo Station exit

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%

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Options

Small Group Tour
Private Tour
Bundled Day and Night Tour

Bundled Day and Night Kyoto To: Our day and night tours bundled at a discount! Our night tour includes many dishes and 3 drinks, and starts in Kyoto at 6pm.