Kyoto: Gion Full-Day – Popular Spots & Hidden Gems – Private

Kyoto’s Gion district is a captivating blend of tradition and culture. Visitors can experience this enchanting fusion on the "Kyoto: Gion Full-Day" private tour. This immersive 7.5-hour adventure promises to unveil both popular landmarks and hidden gems, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and spiritual beauty. From strolling along the picturesque Gion Shirakawa Street to marveling at the breathtaking views from Kiyomizu-dera, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to…

Key Points

• This full-day private tour in Gion, Kyoto, offers an immersive experience exploring both famous landmarks and lesser-known hidden gems over 7.5 hours.
• Highlights include strolling along the scenic Gion Shirakawa Street, visiting Shinto shrines like Yasaka Shrine, and exploring renowned temples such as Kōdaiji and Kiyomizu-dera.
• The tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage, from traditional wooden townhouses to centuries-old pagodas and shrines.
• With included entry tickets, a live guide, and a lunch break, the tour offers a well-rounded and convenient way to discover the best of Gion.
• The tour is priced at $155.21 per person, with up to 19% savings compared to standard rates and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Gion Full-Day Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto’s renowned Gion district, immersing them in the captivating blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern charm.

Priced at $155.21 per person, the 7.5-hour experience provides exceptional value, saving up to 19% compared to the standard rate. Guests can secure their spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and take advantage of the "reserve now, pay later" option.

The tour includes entry tickets, a live guide, and a lunch break, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey through Gion’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Itinerary Details

Starting at the Izumo no Okuni statue, the Gion Full-Day Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the district’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

The tour begins with a 15-minute stroll along the Gion Shirakawa Street, admiring the traditional teahouses. Next, the group ventures to Hanamikoji Street and Yasaka Shrine, immersing in Shinto traditions.

Guests then explore Kōdaiji Temple for an hour and Entoku-in for 25 minutes. After a lunch break, the tour culminates at the renowned Kiyomizu-dera Temple, followed by visits to Yasaka Kōshin-dō and Yasui Kompira-gū Shrine, offering unique blessings and spiritual renewal.

Gion Shirakawa Street

Gion Shirakawa Street enchants visitors with its picturesque rows of traditional wooden townhouses, known as machiya.

These historic structures, adorned with overhanging second floors and latticed windows, line the banks of the Shirakawa canal.

Visitors can stroll along the charming street, admiring the elegant architecture and catching glimpses of the tranquil waterway.

The area’s peaceful ambiance evokes a bygone era, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

With its serene atmosphere and well-preserved heritage, Gion Shirakawa Street is a highlight of the Gion district tour, providing a truly immersive experience in traditional Kyoto.

Yasaka Shrine

Nestled at the base of the Higashiyama mountains, Yasaka Shrine stands as a revered Shinto shrine in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Gion district. Visitors can explore the shrine’s tranquil grounds, adorned with centuries-old pagodas and vermilion torii gates. The shrine’s main hall, the Honden, is a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture, with its sweeping roof and ornate carvings. Nearby, the Maruyama Park offers a scenic backdrop, with its cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage. Visitors can participate in rituals, make offerings, and purchase amulets and talismans to bring home.

Shrine Feature	Description
Main Hall (Honden)	Stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture
Pagodas	Centuries-old structures on the shrine grounds
Torii Gates	Iconic vermilion gateways leading to the shrine
Maruyama Park	Scenic backdrop with seasonal foliage

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Kōdaiji Temple

Kōdaiji Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple founded in the 17th century, located in the historic Higashiyama district of Kyoto.

The temple’s highlights include its beautiful gardens, intricately carved wooden buildings, and a large pagoda.

Visitors can explore the carefully landscaped grounds, filled with ponds, bridges, and meticulously pruned trees.

The temple’s main hall, the Hōjō, features impressive sliding doors decorated with paintings of waves and cranes.

Kōdaiji offers visitors a serene respite from the bustling streets of Gion, allowing them to enjoy the tranquility of Zen.

Kiyomizu-dera

Kiyomizu-dera, a historic Buddhist temple, stands as one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. The temple’s main hall is perched on the edge of a cliff, offering breathtaking city views.

Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate architecture, which features wooden structures and vermilion-colored beams.

Three key highlights of the temple include:

1. The Main Hall, with its stunning balcony that juts out over the hillside.
2. The Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the god of love and matchmaking.
3. The Otowa Waterfall, where visitors can drink from three streams said to have different benefits.

Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple

Located along the bustling Hanamikoji Street in Gion, Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple stands as a unique spiritual haven within the district’s charming landscape.

This small but significant temple is dedicated to the Kōshin deity, who’s believed to protect against misfortune and illness.

Visitors can admire the temple’s intricate architectural details and colorful display of "tama" – small, round objects representing wishes and prayers.

The temple offers visitors a chance to participate in rituals, receive blessings, and imbue their journey with a sense of spiritual renewal before continuing their exploration of Gion’s historical charms.

Yasui Kompira-gū Shrine

Following the Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple, the Yasui Kompira-gū Shrine holds a unique place within Gion’s storied landscape. This Shinto shrine is revered for its offerings of spiritual renewal and prosperity.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the intricate architectural details of the shrine’s main hall.
2. Participate in purification rituals at the ceremonial water basin.
3. Receive blessings and tie ema (votive tablets) to the shrine’s wooden posts, imbuing their wishes with spiritual energy.

The Yasui Kompira-gū Shrine provides a tranquil respite, inviting travelers to connect with Kyoto’s enduring spiritual traditions.

FAQ

How Many People Can Be Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour can accommodate any number of people, as it’s a private tour. The tour details do not specify a group size, allowing for customization to the customer’s needs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can receive a full refund if you need to cancel or reschedule. This flexible policy allows you to plan with confidence.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Included Lunch?

The tour operator is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Travelers should notify the company of any special dietary needs when booking the tour, so appropriate arrangements can be made.

Are Group Discounts Available for Larger Parties?

Group discounts are available for larger parties on this tour. The tour operator offers special pricing for groups of 3 or more people to make the experience more affordable. Customers should inquire about group rates when booking.

What Is the Dress Code or Suggested Attire for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and attire suitable for visiting temples and shrines are recommended. Guests should avoid overly casual or revealing clothing to respect the cultural sites.

Sum Up

The "Kyoto: Gion Full-Day" private tour offers an immersive experience, blending Kyoto’s rich tradition and culture. From the picturesque Gion Shirakawa Street to the awe-inspiring Kiyomizu-dera, this 7.5-hour adventure showcases both popular spots and hidden gems, providing a unique glimpse into the city’s spiritual beauty and heritage. Guests can expect an enlightening and memorable journey through the enchanting heart of Kyoto.

You can check if your dates are available here: