Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour

The Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour offers an engaging exploration of the city’s cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, marvel at the gilded splendor of Kinkakuji Temple, and get lost in the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. With a moderate fitness level required, this 5-hour guided tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with insightful commentary and breathtaking moments. Those seeking to discover Kyoto’s iconic attractions in the early morning hours won’t want to miss this opportunity.

Key Points

1. The Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour is a 5-hour tour that starts early in the morning, allowing for additional afternoon activities.
2. The tour covers three renowned attractions in Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
3. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to attractions, and provides insights on Japanese culture and Shintoism.
4. The tour uses public transportation to reach each location, with an approximate cost of 1,300 yen not included in the tour price.
5. The tour has a moderate difficulty level, involving approximately 15,000 steps, and can be booked with a "pay later" option with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience, with prices starting from $105.06 per person.

The 5-hour tour departs early in the morning, allowing ample time for additional activities in the afternoon.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book now and pay later, securing their spot with no upfront cost.

This early bird tour promises to deliver a memorable exploration of three renowned Kyoto attractions: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

Itinerary and Attractions

Throughout the 5-hour Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour, you will visit three renowned attractions.

First, they’ll spend an hour at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, famous for its vibrant orange torii gates.

Next, they’ll travel by public transport to the breathtaking Kinkakuji Temple, where they’ll have an hour to admire the golden pavilion and its serene reflection.

The final stop is the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere for an hour and a half.

Public transport will be used to reach each location.

Highlights and Experience

Visitors on the Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour can capture stunning pictures at Fushimi Inari Taisha’s iconic torii gates. Attendees will then admire the gilded Kinkakuji Temple and its serene reflection. The tour culminates in the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where the tranquil sounds of swaying bamboo stalks create a captivating experience.

Experience	Description
Fushimi Inari Taisha	Iconic torii gates
Kinkakuji Temple	Gilded temple and reflection
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest	Serene sounds of swaying bamboo

The knowledgeable local guide provides insights on Japanese culture and Shintoism, enriching the tour experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking guide, entrance to the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, access to the Arashiyama bamboo forest, and admission to the Kinkakuji Temple, which costs an additional 500 yen.

However, the tour doesn’t include meals, drinks, or the costs of public transportation, which are approximately 1,300 yen.

Participants should have a moderate fitness level, as the tour involves approximately 15,000 steps. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or low fitness levels.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and smoking indoors isn’t allowed.

The meeting point may vary depending on the booked option.

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Participant Requirements and Guidelines

Participants should have a moderate fitness level, as the tour involves approximately 15,000 steps.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or low fitness levels. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Smoking indoors isn’t allowed. The meeting point may vary depending on the booked option.

These requirements ensure guests can fully enjoy the Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour.

Adhering to the guidelines guarantees a safe and pleasant experience for all participants as they explore Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Navigating to the meeting point is straightforward. The tour starts at Kyoto Station, a major transportation hub in the city. Participants can easily access the station via various modes of public transit.

Transportation	Duration	Cost
Train	20 minutes	~300 yen
Bus	30 minutes	~230 yen
Taxi	10 minutes	~1,000 yen

Attendees should arrive at the designated meeting spot, located at the Kyoto Station central ticket gates, at least 15 minutes prior to the tour’s start time. The guide will be holding a sign to help participants identify the group.

What to Expect on the Tour

Kicking off the tour, participants can expect to be immersed in the rich cultural heritage and serene landscapes of Kyoto.

The day begins with a visit to the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, known for its stunning vermilion torii gates.

Next, the group will marvel at the gilded Kinkakuji Temple and its reflecting pond.

The tour then ventures to the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where the gentle rustling of bamboo creates a peaceful ambiance.

Throughout the journey, the local guide provides insightful commentary on Japanese culture and Shintoism, ensuring an immersive and educational experience.

Benefits of Booking This Tour

By booking this Kyoto walking tour, travelers can experience the city’s top attractions efficiently and gain valuable insights from a local guide.

The early morning start ensures smaller crowds and cooler temperatures, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable exploration.

With complimentary entrance to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine and access to the Arashiyama bamboo forest, travelers won’t have to worry about navigating transportation or purchasing tickets.

Plus, the flexible cancellation policy and "pay later" option make this tour a convenient and risk-free choice for visitors looking to make the most of their time in Kyoto.

FAQ

Will the Tour Run in Rainy or Snowy Weather?

The tour will generally run in rainy or snowy weather, though the guide may adjust the itinerary if conditions become unsafe. Guests are advised to dress appropriately for the weather to ensure their comfort and safety.

Can Children Under 12 Participate in the Tour?

Children under 12 can participate in the tour, but it’s not recommended for those with low fitness levels or mobility issues. The tour requires moderate walking, about 15,000 steps, so parents should consider their child’s abilities.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Temples and Shrines?

Photography is generally allowed inside the temples and shrines, but visitors must follow any posted rules or guidelines. Some may prohibit photography, so it’s best to check with the guide or staff before taking pictures.

What Should I Bring for the Walking Tour?

For a walking tour, one should bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to dress in layers and bring a camera to capture the sights along the way.

Can I Leave the Tour Group to Explore on My Own?

The tour itinerary is set, but participants can typically split off from the group to explore on their own if desired. However, they should coordinate with the guide and rejoin the group at the specified meeting points.

Sum Up

The Kyoto Early Bird Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s cultural heritage. Spanning five hours, the tour showcases three iconic attractions – Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. With insightful commentary and opportunities to capture unforgettable moments, this tour provides an engaging and memorable experience for visitors seeking to discover Kyoto’s rich cultural legacy.

You can check if your dates are available here: