Yasaka Shrine

Take a tour of Kyoto's famous Gion district and learn all about the mysterious geisha traditions of the area. Your local guide will tell you about the traditions from an insider perspective about Geisha culture. At the same time you'll explore Gion's beautiful streets, temples, shrines, and shops, for a comprehensive overview of historic Kyoto. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, but on my experience ･In the first half we will walk in Gion and discuss the living traditions, their lifestyle and history. ･In the second half we will meet an apprentice geisha, Maiko. First we will talk with and ask her questions. Also we will watch her dancing, having one of these, a cup of tea or lunch or dinner together. *Picture and filming of Geisha is fine but not allowed to post it in public.

While exploring Osaka, take your sightseeing outdoors: by bicycle. This small-group tour introduces visitors to popular attractions as well as local hangouts such as Nakazaki-cho and America Town. Your guide selects the safest route with as little traffic as possible—difficult to do on your own. Enjoy plenty of stops including Osaka Castle, Nakanoshima Park, Yasaka Shrine, Nipponbashi Denden Town, and Shitennoji.

Discover some of Kyoto’s best temples and shrines in this 3-hour tour Visit the iconic Kiyomizudera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site See the stunning gardens and interiors of the Kodaiji Temple Learn about Shinto history and culture when at the Yasaka Shrine Stroll along Murayama Park, known for its famed cherry blossom tree Marvel at the magnificent Chion-in Temple Sanmon Gate

• This is a night-time walking tour in the Gion area. You will learn about Kyoto's geisha culture, Shinto beliefs, and Buddhism. Our local guides will also share their recommended spots to enhance your journey. • We will walk through photogenic areas of Kyoto, such as Gion, Yasaka Pagoda, and Yasaka Shrine. • At night, there are fewer people, allowing you to enjoy the Japanese atmosphere comfortably. • We provide Kin-Kame, a celebrated sake known for its fruity aroma and smooth taste. Experience the magic of Kyoto like never before with our exclusive night-time walking tour. Enjoy the serene and enchanting streets of Kyoto, illuminated by gentle lights. Explore the historic Gion, Yasaka Pagoda, and Yasaka Shrine, capturing the beauty of Kyoto's nightscape. We offer Kin-Kame, a renowned sake from Shiga Prefecture. We selected two types of Kin-Kame with popular polishing ratios of 60% and 80%, allowing you to compare their distinct and exquisite flavor profiles.

Experience Kyoto’s most iconic sights before the crowds arrive! Our early morning walking tour takes you through the historic streets of Gion, visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Street, and Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka with a knowledgeable and friendly English-speaking guide. ⚠️ Prior to the tour, please ensure that WhatsApp is available for easy communication. Our guide will contact you through these platforms. ✅ English Guided Walking Tour – Walking through Kyoto’s most scenic streets. ✅ Visit Five Must-See Locations – Explore Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Gion’s historic streets, and Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka. ✅ Learn Kyoto’s History & Culture – Discover the stories behind Kyoto’s geisha district, samurai history, and old temples with our expert guide. ✅ Capture Stunning Photos – Enjoy a crowd-free Kyoto and take beautiful photos in its most picturesque locations. ✅ Get Local Tips & Recommendations – Our guide will share insider tips to explore after the tour.

Experience an unforgettable one-day tour from Osaka, packed with culture, history, and natural beauty. Begin your journey at the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where you’ll walk through towering bamboo groves in a peaceful, dreamlike setting. Then, head to Hanamikoji Street in Kyoto’s Gion district, where traditional tea houses and charming wooden buildings create a historic atmosphere, and you might even spot a geisha. In Nara Park, meet the friendly deer that roam freely and bow to visitors, before visiting the awe-inspiring Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha. Finally, explore the vibrant Yasaka Shrine, a stunning Shinto site full of culture and tradition. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the best of Japan in one day. Book now for a journey filled with unforgettable moments

This half-day tour covers 5 of the most visited venues in Kyoto: Kiyomizu Temple, Ninenzaka Sannenzaka, Yasaka Shrine, Gion and Nishiki Market. The guests will find many unique shops and cafes which they might just walk pass by if they are not with guides. Hear many interesting stories of each place and useful travel tips from knowledgeable guide as they walk past the central area of Kyoto.

The life of a geisha is shrouded in secrecy, but you’ll be offered a rare glimpse into this ‘Floating World’ as you explore Gion with one of our hosts. Visit the famous Pontocho alley; a narrow passageway lined with bars, restaurants, and traditional geisha tea houses. You’ll also explore the scenic street of Shimbashi. Enjoy this ethereal evening with your host, as you travel back in time together (figuratively, of course). After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host who will personalize the itinerary to your requests and interests.

Travel through time in the "Nation’s Kitchen" and discover the delicious history of Osaka! Solve clues, uncover foodie secrets, and explore how the city evolved from the Edo period to the vibrant metropolis it is today. Using your smartphone, you’ll solve 10 puzzles while walking through famous areas like Dotonbori, uncovering stories about traditional dishes, culinary customs, and cultural rituals at Japanese temples. Each challenge brings you closer to tasting and understanding the heart of Kansai’s incredible food scene. Along the way, you’ll spot mouthwatering specialties – and we highly suggest you try a few! What makes this tour unique? It’s a flavor-packed, interactive walking quest that blends Osaka’s culinary delights with rich historical storytelling and real-world exploration. Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, couples, and families looking for a playful and delicious way to discover Osaka.

Take a journey through time in Kyoto and Uji, where tradition harmoniously blends with modernity, and immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore the eight most famous scenic spots, Golden Pavilion & Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka & Yasaka Koshindo & Uji River & Uji Shrine & Byōdō-in Temple & Byodo-in Omotesando. Let's embark on a memorable journey with our friendly and professional guide.

Immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and history of Japan on this unforgettable day tour. Begin your journey at the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene and magical atmosphere. Visit the iconic Yasaka Shrine, known for its vibrant architecture and spiritual significance. Stroll along Hanamikoji Street in Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, and soak in the charm of traditional wooden townhouses and the possibility of spotting a geisha or maiko. Continue to Nara Park, famous for its free-roaming deer and stunning autumn maple leaves. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park before heading to the majestic Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enhance your experience with a kimono rental, allowing you to immerse yourself in the traditional beauty of Japanese culture while exploring these iconic landmarks.

Uncover the timeless beauty of Kyoto with our exclusive walking tour of Yasaka Shrine and its enchanting surroundings. Steeped in over 1,300 years of history, Yasaka Shrine is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the vibrant Gion district. Wander through its lush gardens, admire the striking vermilion torii gates, and experience the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred Shinto site, dedicated to Susanoo, the god of storms. As you explore, immerse yourself in Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. Meander along Ninenzaka, a picturesque cobblestone street lined with traditional teahouses, artisan shops, and local delicacies. This charming lane offers the perfect blend of Kyoto’s ancient charm and modern-day craftsmanship. This isn’t just a tour—it’s an unforgettable journey into Kyoto’s soul. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, join us for an enriching experience that will leave you with lasting memories of the city’s spiritual heart. Book your tour today!

Discover the magic of Kyoto’s nightlife on this small-group tour through Gion and Pontocho, guided by a local expert. Gain unique insights into Kyoto’s rich geisha culture while exploring hidden gems and savoring traditional dishes. Start at Yasaka Shrine, beautifully illuminated at night, as your guide shares fascinating stories about its history and cultural significance. Next, enjoy a cozy izakaya experience in Gion with delicious dishes like karaage, tempura, and sashimi, perfectly paired with Kyoto’s famous sake. Stroll through the scenic Gion Shirakawa area and visit a shrine frequented by geishas, immersing yourself in the traditions of Kyoto’s iconic district. End the night in Pontocho, where you’ll taste more local flavors at a hidden dining spot, which has a different vibes. With over 10 unique dishes, cultural stories, and a glimpse into local life, this tour offers an unforgettable evening in Kyoto!

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.

To truly experience a city, you must deep dive into its culture, and there's no better cultural tradition to explore in Kyoto than through geishas and their traditions. On this private tour, get a cultural awakening as you learn more about geishas and the traditions and why this is such a unique part of the city's character. Learn from its history to the present influence that still lingers in Kyoto as you visit the Minamiza Theatre, Maruyama park and more. Thanks to this cultural experience, you'll be able to see Kyoto from a different perspective – the way the locals live it every day! Withlocals Treasures of Kyoto Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local products and preventing over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Embark on a captivating journey through Kyoto's iconic Gion district and the enchanting world of the geisha. This tour offers a deep dive into the cultural heritage and timeless allure of Gion. Stroll along the historic streets, where traditional wooden machiya houses line the pathways, creating an ambiance of old Japan. Admire the graceful architecture and exquisite craftsmanship that define Gion. Visit the beautifully lit Yasaka Shrine and learn about the history of geisha and maiko, their intricate rituals, and the role they play in preserving Japanese traditions. End the tour in Pontocho, a narrow street filled with restaurants and a lively atmosphere. We will tell you the stories of Gion's past and present, providing insights into the fascinating world of geisha culture. This tour promises an immersive experience in one of Japan's most cherished district.

The ideal pick for time-tight travelers that want to enjoy Kyoto. Avoid the potential confusion of Kyoto’s subway and bus systems; travel comfortably in a private vehicle instead! On this tour, some of the destinations you can choose to visit include the glittering Golden Temple, the architectural masterpiece that is Kiyomizu temple in the Gion Geisha district, and Arashiyama with its towering bamboo forest. You will have the freedom to explore each area on your own as the driver waits to accompany you safely to your next destination. We hope to see you in Kyoto soon! Tour details may change depending on your meeting point. This tour does not include a private guide. Please book one of our guided tours if you need a guide.

Spend time with one of our hosts exploring Kyoto. Half a day is not nearly enough time to see the whole city, but with a host by your side you will get a feel for its energy. Explore one of Kyoto's traditional neighborhoods, and see Kyoto as you would if you were coming to visit a friend who lived here. Within 24 hours after booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.

Our guests will be able to kill two birds with one stone by doing exercise while sightseeing. This allows travelers to see more sites than they would on a normal tour and in less time. Travelers will be greeted by our guides, a fitness professional, and an experienced tour guide at Nijojo-mae Station, where they will be led through a warm-up and a brief history of Kyoto City. They will jog east to the Imperial Palace, where they will see lesser-known hidden gems and take part in Tabata-style exercises. We will leave the Imperial Palace grounds and cross the picturesque Kamogawa before heading to Heian Shrine, where we will make a brief stop. On the next leg of the tour, we will pass through the immense torii gate and jog along the banks of the Shirakawa River, lined with mysterious weeping willows and small stone bridges. This leads us to Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine as we wind down to end our tour at the eastern bank of the Kamogawa with some stretches.

Our 10-Hour customizable private car tour is the best way to visit cultutal-enriching city Kyoto. Visiting the most attractive buildings in Kyoto called Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, you can experience the cultural charm of Kyoto by exploring traditional architectural styles and surrounding views. Later accepting blessing and praying for good luck at Yasaka Shrine at Yasaka Shrine. Wandering around Hanami-koji and Sannenzaka like local people, you can immerse yourself in the traditional style of Kyoto. With our private car and professional driver, you won't have to worry about transportation, navigation, or language barriers. Our private tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. We can pick you up and drop you off at your preferred location in Osaka, whether it's your hotel, airport, or train station. The English-speaking guide is optional. Our guide will provide local insights and stories about each destination, making your tour informative and engaging.