Kyoto: Kiyomizudera, Higashiyama and Yasaka Discovery Tour

Kyoto’s historical tapestry unfolds on the "Kyoto: Kiyomizudera, Higashiyama, and Yasaka Discovery Tour." Visitors embark on a 3-hour guided journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, seeing the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizudera Temple‘s rich spiritual significance and the charming Sannenzaka neighborhood‘s traditional machiya houses. The tour also explores the serene Kodaiji Temple and the vibrant Yasaka Shrine, offering a captivating blend of cultural, architectural, and spiritual elements. What secrets and insights await those who choose to uncover Kyoto’s timeless allure on this discovery tour?

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided tour of iconic Kyoto landmarks, including Kiyomizudera Temple, Sannenzaka, Kodaiji Temple, and Yasaka Shrine, priced from $55.92 per person.
• Explore the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizudera Temple and learn about its principal deity, Kannon, and the blue dragon legend.
• Stroll through the historic Sannenzaka neighborhood, admiring the well-preserved traditional machiya townhouses and browsing local crafts.
• Visit the Zen Buddhist Kodaiji Temple, marveling at its stunning gardens, lacquered floors, and intricate carvings.
• Discover the prominent Shinto Yasaka Shrine, known for its vermilion gates and pagodas, and learn about its role in festivals like Gion Matsuri.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Kyoto: Kiyomizudera, Higashiyama and Yasaka Discovery Tour is a 3-hour guided experience that takes visitors through some of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.

Priced from $55.92 per person, the tour is limited to 9 participants and conducted in English. It includes guided visits to Kiyomizudera Temple, Sannenzaka, Kodaiji Temple, and Yasaka Shrine.

Entrance fees, snacks, and water are provided. Highlights include learning about Kannon and the sacred blue dragon at Kiyomizudera and exploring Shinto history at Yasaka Shrine.

The tour finishes at Gion-Shijo Station, allowing easy access to the charming Maruyama Park.

Kiyomizudera Temple Exploration

Kiyomizudera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a renowned icon in Kyoto’s cultural tapestry.

During the tour, visitors explore this sacred Buddhist temple and learn about its deep-rooted history and significance. The guide shares insights into the temple’s principal deity, Kannon, and the legendary blue dragon that’s believed to reside within.

Visitors marvel at the expansive wooden stage that juts out from the hillside, offering breathtaking views of the city below. The tour delves into the temple’s architectural marvels, its role in Japanese spirituality, and the rituals that have unfolded here for centuries.

Sannenzaka Stroll

After exploring the revered Kiyomizudera Temple, the tour guides visitors along the charming streets of Sannenzaka, a historic neighborhood in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district.

Sannenzaka, meaning "three-year slope," takes guests through a picturesque area lined with traditional machiya townhouses and local shops.

The guide explains the significance of the area’s well-preserved architecture and provides insights into the daily life of Kyoto residents.

Visitors can enjoy the quaint atmosphere, browse unique crafts and souvenirs, and capture the essence of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.

This tranquil stroll sets the stage for the next stop on the tour, the Kodaiji Temple.

Kodaiji Temple Visit

From Sannenzaka, the tour group makes its way to the serene Kodaiji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple built in 1606 to honor the memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s wife.

The guide leads the group through the temple’s stunning gardens, featuring lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and serene stone paths.

Inside, the guide explains the temple’s elaborate interiors, including its lacquered floors, intricate carvings, and impressive Buddha statues.

Visitors marvel at the temple’s harmonious blend of architectural styles and its peaceful atmosphere, which offers a respite from the bustling streets outside.

The 30-minute guided tour provides a glimpse into Kodaiji’s history and spiritual significance.

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Yasaka Shrine Tour

The tour group then heads to the historic Yasaka Shrine, a prominent Shinto shrine located in the heart of Gion.

The guide leads the group through the shrine, explaining its significance in Japanese Shinto culture. Visitors can admire the striking vermilion gates and pagodas, as well as the beautiful gardens.

The guide highlights the shrine’s role as a hub for festivals and cultural events, including the famous Gion Matsuri. Participants learn about Shinto deities and rituals, gaining a deeper understanding of this ancient Japanese religion.

The tour concludes with a stroll through the tranquil Maruyama Park before returning to Gion-Shijo Station.

Finish at Gion-Shijo Station

After exploring the historic Yasaka Shrine, the tour group concludes the Kyoto Discovery Tour by making their way to the Gion-Shijo Station.

As they exit through the serene Maruyama Park, the guide points out the lively Gion District and explains its significance as Kyoto’s famous geisha neighborhood.

The group bids farewell to their knowledgeable guide and expresses gratitude for the engaging insights into Kyoto’s cultural heritage.

With fond memories of the tour’s highlights, including the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizudera Temple and the tranquil Kodaiji Temple, the participants depart, eager to further explore the enchanting city of Kyoto.

Inclusions and Important Information

As part of the Kyoto Discovery Tour, the package includes several key elements that enhance the overall experience. Visitors will receive the services of an English-speaking tour guide, along with pre-paid entrance fees to the Kiyomizudera and Kodaiji Temple. Plus, light snacks and drinking water are provided throughout the tour. However, the tour is not suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, those with mobility issues, heart problems, or respiratory conditions. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring cash for any additional expenses.

Important Information
Not Suitable For	Pregnant Women	Heart Problems
	Mobility Issues	Respiratory Issues
What to Bring	Comfortable Shoes	Camera
	Cash

Customer Feedback

Based on the 8 reviews available, customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback for the Kyoto Discovery Tour.

Reviewers praised the guide’s energy, knowledge, and friendliness, with one American traveler, Helen, highlighting the guide’s impressive expertise.

Clemence from France commended the guide’s perfect English, while Aaron from the UK enjoyed the tour and appreciated the guide’s deep knowledge.

The tour has earned a stellar 5/5 rating, with customers enthusiastically recommending the experience to others.

The combination of an engaging guide, immersive cultural insights, and well-curated itinerary appears to have left a lasting impression on participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in Kyoto?

Yes, the tour can be combined with other activities in Kyoto. Visitors can explore additional temples, shrines, and cultural sites before or after the tour to make the most of their time in the historic city.

Are There Options to Extend or Customize the Tour Length?

Yes, the tour can be customized or extended. Customers can add additional sites or activities to the itinerary to create a more personalized experience. The tour provider may offer different package options with longer durations as well.

Are Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour company doesn’t currently offer any student or senior discounts. However, they provide a competitive base price and may consider special requests on a case-by-case basis. It’s best to contact them directly to inquire about any potential discounts.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as it involves extensive walking and climbing. The tour provider does not offer any special accommodations for travelers with disabilities. Those with health concerns should consult the guide before booking.

What Dining Options Are Recommended Near the Tour Sites?

There are several highly-rated dining options near the tour sites, including traditional Japanese restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls. Visitors can sample local specialties like bento boxes, ramen, and sweets. Many establishments offer vegetarian and allergen-friendly options as well.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto: Kiyomizudera, Higashiyama, and Yasaka Discovery Tour provides an immersive exploration of Kyoto’s iconic landmarks. From the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizudera Temple to the vibrant Yasaka Shrine, this guided journey showcases the city’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Visitors will stroll through the historic Sannenzaka neighborhood, discover the serene Kodaiji Temple, and experience the essence of Kyoto’s timeless traditions. This comprehensive tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the heart of Japan’s cultural capital.

You can check if your dates are available here: