Kyoto Early Morning Walking Tour: Nature & History

Kyoto’s early morning walking tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s natural wonders and historic landmarks. Guided by knowledgeable locals, visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, all while avoiding the crowds. With a focus on Zen Buddhism teachings and the region’s rich cultural heritage, this unique experience promises to deliver a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s allure. What secrets await those who embark on this enchanting journey?

Key Points

• This 4.5-hour walking tour in Kyoto explores iconic Shinto shrines, tranquil bamboo groves, and serene temple gardens in the early morning to avoid crowds.
• Highlights include the vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, the calming Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the stunning Tenryu-ji Temple with its manicured gardens.
• Tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into Zen Buddhism and the cultural significance of the sites.
• Group size is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with recommendations for dining and exploring the area.
• The moderate 9,000-step activity level is suitable for most fitness levels, with an early start around 5 a.m. to beat the heat and crowds.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Kyoto Early Morning Walking Tour: Nature & History offers an immersive 4.5-hour experience that showcases the city’s iconic sites and natural beauty.

Priced from $95.74 to $81.38 per person, with up to 15% off, the tour limits group sizes to 9 participants and is available in English and Japanese.

It features highlights like Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and Tenryu-ji Temple, along with shorter stops at the Kimono Forest and Togetsu-kyō Bridge.

Travelers can take advantage of the early morning start to avoid crowds, and the tour involves approximately 9,000 steps, showcasing Kyoto’s rich history and natural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at Kyoto Station, the tour takes participants on a captivating journey through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

First, they’ll spend an hour exploring the serene Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its striking vermilion torii gates.

Next, they’ll wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, admiring the towering bamboo stalks for another hour.

The tour then visits Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple with stunning garden views.

Along the way, they’ll pass by the Kimono Forest and Togetsu-kyō Bridge, with a 20-minute break in Arashiyama.

Public transportation connects the various sites.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, greets visitors with its striking vermilion torii gates that wind up the forested mountain.

Dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, Inari, the shrine is renowned for its thousands of these iconic gates, which pilgrims climb to reach the upper shrines.

Along the way, smaller shrines, stone foxes, and vendors selling souvenirs add to the serene atmosphere.

Visitors can explore the intricate network of trails, taking in panoramic views of Kyoto below.

The first stop on the tour, Fushimi Inari Shrine sets the stage for the day’s immersion in Kyoto’s nature and history.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Leaving the iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine behind, the tour makes its way to the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Towering bamboo stalks sway gently in the breeze, casting a calming green glow over the winding paths. Visitors are invited to stroll through this enchanting forest, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. The area’s tranquility provides a welcome respite from the bustling city.

Bamboo Grove Highlights
Lush, green landscape	Peaceful atmosphere
Winding walking trails	Photo opportunities
Calming sounds of wind	Spiritual connections

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Tenryu-ji Temple

Next, the tour group makes its way to the magnificent Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most iconic Zen temples.

Here, the guide provides insights into the temple’s rich history and its significance in Japanese Buddhism.

The group explores the main hall, admiring its intricate architecture and the serene garden.

The guide explains the role of Zen meditation and the temple’s connections to the Arashiyama region.

With their newfound knowledge, the travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the spiritual and cultural significance of Tenryu-ji Temple within Kyoto’s historic landscape.

Additional Stops

As the group departs Tenryu-ji Temple, they make a quick stop to admire the Kimono Forest, a unique art installation featuring vibrant kimono patterns along the Togetsukyo Bridge. They pause briefly to take in the stunning views of the Katsura River and the iconic bridge before continuing on to their next destination.

Location	Duration	Description
Kimono Forest	5 minutes	Pass by this colorful art installation along the pathway.
Togetsukyo Bridge	5 minutes	Admire the beautiful 16th-century bridge over the Katsura River.
Break in Arashiyama	20 minutes	Enjoy a short break to explore the charming Arashiyama district.

Experience and Benefits

The guided tour allows participants to learn about Zen Buddhism and the history of each location from a knowledgeable guide.

By starting the tour early, around 5 a.m., visitors can avoid crowds and beat the heat. The physical activity level is moderate, with the tour covering approximately 9,000 steps.

This early morning experience offers unique advantages, providing a more intimate and personalized tour. Guides also offer valuable recommendations for dining and exploring the area, enhancing the overall experience.

The small group size, limited to 9 participants, further contributes to the tour’s personalized and immersive nature.

Important Information

To properly prepare for the Kyoto Early Morning Walking Tour, guests are recommended to wear comfortable shoes and carry cash.

This tour involves a significant amount of walking, about 9,000 steps, so proper footwear is essential. Plus, some stops along the route may only accept cash payments.

Guests should also ensure they can be easily contacted by the guide during the tour by providing a working WhatsApp number or SMS.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the destinations and activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour to Visit Other Locations?

Yes, the tour can be customized to visit other locations. The tour operator is generally open to accommodating requests for alternative or additional stops, subject to feasibility and guide availability.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing are recommended. Participants should dress appropriately for the early morning start and to explore the shrines and temples on the itinerary.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, but this would need to be arranged directly with the tour provider. Extensions may incur additional fees and are subject to availability. Customers should inquire about this possibility when making their booking.

How Is the Tour Affected During Inclement Weather?

The tour may be affected by inclement weather. In such cases, the guide will make necessary adjustments to the itinerary, focusing on indoor attractions and shorter outdoor segments to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for participants.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. Private group bookings allow for more flexibility in schedule and group size. Guests have the option to customize the itinerary to their preferences.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto Early Morning Walking Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing participants to discover the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural heritage before the crowds arrive. With a focus on serene natural settings and Zen teachings, the tour provides a personalized and enriching way to appreciate Kyoto’s beauty and history. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil and insightful exploration of this captivating destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: