Private Kyoto Walking Tour Temples, Traditions and Hidden Gems

At Phoenix Tours & Photography, we create a personalized Kyoto experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. Here’s what sets our tour apart: Fully Customizable – Whether you’re interested in history, hidden alleyways, or street food, we tailor the tour to your interests and pace. Expert Local Guides – Our guides bring Kyoto’s history and culture to life with fascinating insights and stories. Hidden Gems – We take you beyond the tourist hotspots to discover Kyoto’s quieter, more authentic side. Balanced Exploration – The tour combines history, nature, culture, and food for a well-rounded experience. Immersive & Relaxed – With a walking tour, you can take in the details, from temple bells to charming tea houses. Personalized Recommendations – Get insider tips on where to eat, shop, and explore after the tour. Rather than just visiting Kyoto, experience it in a way that’s meaningful and unforgettable.

1. 1

   Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine

   Pass by

   Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates leading up Mount Inari.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   (500 yen) – A stunning gold-leaf-covered Zen temple reflected in a serene pond.

3. 3

   Gion

   Pass by

   (Free) – Kyoto’s historic geisha district, known for traditional teahouses and wooden machiya townhouses.

4. 4

   Kiyomizu-dera Temple

   Pass by

   (400 yen) – A UNESCO temple with a large wooden stage offering breathtaking views of Kyoto.

5. 5

   Arashiyama

   Pass by

   (Free) – A mesmerizing bamboo forest that feels like stepping into another world.

6. 6

   Tenryu-ji Temple

   Pass by

   (500 yen) – A major Zen temple in Arashiyama with an elegant garden designed by Muso Soseki.

7. 7

   Nijo Castle

   Pass by

   (800 yen) – A beautifully preserved shogunate-era castle with intricate interiors and famous "nightingale floors."

8. 8

   Stop 8

   Pass by

   (500 yen) – A Zen temple with a beautiful moss garden and sand sculptures.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Pass by

   (600 yen) – A temple known for its world-famous rock garden and peaceful atmosphere.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    Pass by

    (Free) – A scenic canal-side walkway lined with cherry trees and small temples.

11. 11

    Tofuku-ji Temple

    Pass by

    (400 yen) – A historic Zen temple with Kyoto’s most spectacular autumn foliage.

12. 12

    Yasaka Shrine

    Pass by

    (Free) – A vibrant Shinto shrine near Gion, especially beautiful during the Gion Festival.

13. 13

    Nanzen-ji Temple

    Pass by

    (500 yen for sub-temples) – A grand Zen temple complex with a striking Sanmon gate and an aqueduct.

14. 14

    Byodo-in Temple Museum Hoshokan

    Pass by

    (600 yen) – A UNESCO-listed temple featuring the Phoenix Hall, depicted on the 10-yen coin.

15. 15

    Kyoto Imperial Palace

    Pass by

    (Free) – The former residence of the Imperial Family, located in Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.

16. 16

    Kurama Onsen

    Pass by

    (1,000+ yen) – A natural hot spring retreat in the mountains north of Kyoto.

17. 17

    Stop 17

    Pass by

    (600 yen) – A temple famous for its stunning autumn maple leaves and scenic hillside location.

18. 18

    Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

    Pass by

    (Free) – One of Kyoto’s largest Buddhist temples, with an enormous wooden hall.

19. 19

    Kyoto Tower

    Pass by

    (800 yen) – The city’s tallest structure, offering panoramic views of Kyoto and beyond.

20. 20

    Fushimi Sake Village

    Pass by

    (Varies) – A historic area with traditional sake breweries offering tastings and tours.

• Service animals allowed
• 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

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