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Activity Kyoto, Japan

Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji Autumn Private Tour in Kyoto

5.0 (one review) 5 h 30 min Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji Autumn Private Tour in Kyoto

About this activity

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.

Nature and Wildlife Tours Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Nature Walks Seasonal

At a glance

Duration
5 h 30 min
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–6
Guide
English
Operated by
OTOMO Travel Guide

Ages: Infants (0–3 years) · Youth (4–17 years) · Adults (18–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Private Tour
  • Included: Tour Guide
  • Included: The necessary expenses for the guide during the tour

Not included

  • Not included: Estimated Costs of the Tour: 4,060 JPY per Person
  • Not included: Breakdown: Transportation: 460 JPY, Meal costs: 1,500 JPY per Person
  • Not included: Admission Fees: 2,100 JPY

Itinerary

  1. Nanzenji Tenju-an

    40 min Admission not included

    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.

  2. Nanzen-ji Temple

    50 min Admission not included

    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.

  3. Eikando Zenrinji Temple

    40 min Admission not included

    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.

  4. Stop 4

    one hour

    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.

  5. Ginkakuji Temple

    50 min Admission not included

    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.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Keage Station, In front of ticket gate

End point

Using your ticket

・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.

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

  • 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.

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · one review
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Nanzenji, Eikando, and Ginkakuji Autumn Private Tour in Kyoto

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