What You Will Do
Hi, I'm Kiyoto from Kyoto! Yes, I'm named after this beautiful city - quite unusual, right?
I love showing visitors the best of Kyoto, from famous landmarks to hidden gems tucked away in vibrant neighborhoods.
Forget the guidebooks - let's create an unforgettable adventure together!
Partnering only with passionate guides who share my philosophy, and working with a small team of guides I have personally trained and approved, I promise you the best day trip experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.
If you are eager to explore off-the-beaten-path spots like local pottery shops and family-run izakayas, we've got you covered. You'll discover Japanese dishes and delicious street sweets that you might miss on your own! Immerse yourself in Kyoto's world of scenic beauty, unique customs, history, and culture through our guides' captivating storytelling. First-timer or seasoned Kyoto explorer? Either way, I guarantee a magical experience.
Ready to discover the heart of Kyoto together?
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Sunny Cycle- Bicycle Rent-（京都レンタサイクル サニーサイクル）, 烏丸ＫＴ第一ビル 1F, ４７７ Ōhorichō, KyotoShimogyo Ward
1
Gojo Ohashi Bridge
15 minutes
Gojo Bridge, spanning the Kamo River in Kyoto, is famous for the legendary encounter between Ushiwakamaru (Minamoto no Yoshitsune) and Benkei during the late Heian period. The current bridge, built in 1959, serves as part of National Route 1 and offers views of Higashiyama. Statues of Ushiwakamaru and Benkei stand at its western end, commemorating their iconic duel.
2
15 minutes
Miyagawa-cho is a historic geisha district in Kyoto.
It's known for its traditional tea houses, where geiko (Kyoto's geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) entertain guests with dance, music, and conversation.
The area preserves Kyoto's cultural heritage.
3
Statue of Izumo no Okuni
15 minutes
Izumo no Okuni, the legendary founder of kabuki theater, is historically depicted in artworks and literature as a female performer who revolutionized Japanese entertainment in the early 17th century. While no confirmed authentic portraits survive, artistic representations often show her in dynamic poses with male attire or religious garments, reflecting her innovative cross-dressing performances. She is commonly portrayed holding a hand drum or prayer beads, symbolizing her fusion of folk dances with Buddhist chanting rituals. These stylized depictions emphasize her role in creating the iconic "kabuki odori" dance style that laid the foundation for modern kabuki.
4
Shirakawa Canal
15 minutes
Gion Shirakawa is a picturesque historic district, featuring traditional machiya houses, willow-lined canals, and a serene atmosphere where geisha occasionally stroll.
It's a quintessential Japanese landscape that captures the elegant essence of old Kyoto.
5
Tatsumi Bridge
10 minutes
A hidden gem that'll make your heart skip a beat.
Irresistible Charm of Tatsumi Bridge
Nestled along the picturesque Shirakawa River, Tatsumi Bridge is a small but absolutely stunning wooden bridge that'll take your breath away. With its vibrant vermilion railings and traditional Japanese design, it's like stepping into a living postcard!
Cherry Blossom Magic
Can you imagine anything more magical? In spring, the bridge transforms into a pink paradise as cherry blossoms burst into bloom, creating a dreamy tunnel of petals. It's so romantic, you'll feel like you're in a movie!
Photo Ops Galore
Get your camera ready because Tatsumi Bridge is a photographer's dream come true. The combination of the charming bridge, flowing river, and traditional tea houses in the background creates picture-perfect scenes that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
6
Hanamikoji Street
10 minutes
Hanamikoji Street is a charming alley in Kyoto's Gion district.
It's lined with traditional tea houses and restaurants, offering a glimpse of geisha culture.
Visitors can enjoy the historic atmosphere and possibly spot geisha or maiko in the evening.
7
Hokan-ji
20 minutes
You'll feel like you've stepped into a living postcard of ancient Japan!
Its elegant silhouette against the backdrop of Kyoto's historic Higashiyama district is simply breathtaking.
Picture-Perfect Moments
Don't forget your camera! The pagoda and its surroundings offer countless opportunities for stunning photos.
Whether it's cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant autumn leaves, or the soft glow of evening light, every season brings a new magical backdrop for your memories.
8
Maruyama Park
20 minutes
Maruyama Park in Kyoto is a historic national scenic park near Yasaka Shrine, famous for its weeping cherry blossoms and traditional Japanese landscape garden.
9
Chion-in Temple
10 minutes
Chion-in is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Buddhism.
Founded by Honen in 1175, it features impressive gates and halls.
The temple is known for its massive San-mon gate and large bell, and is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
10
Heian Jingu Shrine Otorii
15 minutes
The Great Torii of Heian Shrine in Kyoto is a massive vermilion gate standing 24.2m tall. Built in 1929 to commemorate Emperor Showa's enthronement, it's made of reinforced concrete and marks the approach to the shrine.
11
Heian Shrine
10 minutes
Heian Jingu is a Shinto shrine, built in 1895 to commemorate the city's 1100th anniversary.
It features a large torii gate, replica imperial buildings, and beautiful gardens with weeping cherry trees.
The shrine hosts the annual Jidai Matsuri festival.
12
Nanzen-ji Temple
15 minutes
Nanzen-ji, located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, is a prominent temple of the Rinzai sect, known for its rich history and beautiful gardens. Established in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama, it has become one of the most significant Zen temples in Japan.
13
Nanzenji Suirokaku
10 minutes
Nanzen-ji Aqueduct, known as Suirakukaku, is a significant historical structure located within the grounds of Nanzen-ji Temple.
Completed in 1888, this brick aqueduct was built to transport water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto, showcasing a blend of modern engineering and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
14
Philosopher's Walk
30 minutes
Philosopher's Path is a picturesque walkway located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, stretching approximately 2 kilometers along the banks of the Biwa Canal.
This scenic route connects the southern end at Wakaoji Shrine to the northern end at Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and is renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves.
15
Shimogamo Jinja
30 minutes
Shimogamo Jinja Shrine, officially known as Kamomioya Shrine, is located in the Sakyo Ward of Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in the region, with roots tracing back to around 90 BC. The shrine is dedicated to two main deities: Kamo Taketsunumi (the god of land development) and his mother, Tamayori-hime, who is also associated with fertility and protection for women.
16
Kamogawa Delta (Kyoto Prefectural Kamogawa Park)
15 minutes
The Kamogawa Delta, where the Kamo and Takano Rivers meet, is a popular spot for locals and tourists. Known for its stepping stones shaped like turtles and birds, it offers scenic views, seasonal beauty like cherry blossoms, and opportunities to relax in nature. Featured in novels and anime, it’s a cultural landmark. Easily accessible from Demachiyanagi Station, it’s perfect for a peaceful stroll or sightseeing.
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