Kyoto’s Gion, Kiyomizu Temple, and Nishiki Market are must-see destinations for visitors. This morning tour offers an immersive experience, exploring these iconic landmarks before the crowds arrive. With a small group, you’ll discover the serene beauty of Kiyomizu-dera, the vibrant Gion district, and the lively Nishiki Market. Along the way, a knowledgeable guide provides insights into the rich history and culture of Kyoto. What awaits you in this four-hour journey is a chance to uncover the city’s hidden gems and savor its local flavors.

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Key Points

This 4-hour morning tour takes visitors to explore Kyoto’s iconic landmarks, including Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Nishiki Market.
The group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience, and the tour includes an entrance ticket to Kiyomizu Temple.
Visitors can experience the historic Gion district, known for its teahouses and geisha culture, and have the opportunity to sample local culinary delights at Nishiki Market.
The tour is led by an English-speaking guide who provides historical insights throughout the experience, and photos are taken to capture memories.
The itinerary is flexible and subject to change, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 4-hour Kyoto morning tour offers an immersive experience exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural highlights.

It’s limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with an English-speaking guide. Priced at $78.66 per person, you’ll visit Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Gion, and Nishiki Market, discovering Kyoto’s beauty before the crowds arrive.

The tour includes an entrance ticket to Kiyomizu Temple and photo opportunities. Flexibility is built-in, as the itinerary is subject to change.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book now and pay later, securing your spot hassle-free.

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Itinerary

The tour begins at Kirakuan Okamoto Gojozaka, where you will spend 50 minutes exploring the iconic Kiyomizu-dera temple. Next, they’ll visit the Yasaka Shrine for 45 minutes, followed by a 45-minute stroll through the historic Gion district. The tour then stops at the Nishiki-Tenmangu Shrine for 15 minutes before spending an hour exploring the vibrant Nishiki Market.

Destination	Duration
Kiyomizu-dera	50 minutes
Yasaka Shrine	45 minutes
Gion	45 minutes
Nishiki-Tenmangu Shrine	15 minutes
Nishiki Market	1 hour

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change.

Tour Highlights

Visitors can explore iconic Kyoto landmarks, including the renowned Kiyomizu Temple, the serene Yasaka Shrine, and the charming Gion district known for its historic teahouses and geisha culture.

Plus, the tour takes guests to the vibrant Nishiki Market, where they can sample an array of local culinary delights.

This morning tour allows travelers to experience Kyoto’s beauty and rich heritage before the crowds arrive, providing a more peaceful and immersive experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes a professional English-speaking guide who provides historical insights into the districts visited.

They’ll take photos throughout the tour for you to remember the experience.

The entrance ticket to Kiyomizu Temple, one of the main highlights, is included in the price.

While food and drinks aren’t provided, you’ll have the opportunity to sample local culinary delights at the renowned Nishiki Market.

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Meeting Point

The meeting point for the Kyoto: Gion, Kiyomizu Temple, & Nishiki Market Morning Tour is in front of a souvenir store.

Customers can easily find the starting location by searching for it on Google Maps. The tour guide will be waiting at this designated spot to greet the group and begin the morning excursion.

Participants should arrive at the meeting point a few minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a prompt start.

The tour’s itinerary will then take visitors through the iconic landmarks and neighborhoods of Kyoto’s historic city center.

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Kiyomizu-dera Visit

After departing the meeting point, the tour heads to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera, one of Kyoto’s most famous temples.

Perched on a hillside, Kiyomizu-dera offers stunning views of the city below. Visitors can explore the historic main hall, supported by hundreds of wooden pillars, and admire the intricate Buddhist architecture.

The guide provides historical insights, explaining the temple’s significance and its role in Kyoto’s cultural heritage. Guests have approximately 50 minutes to wander the temple grounds, take in the serene atmosphere, and capture memorable photos before moving on to the next stop, Yasaka Shrine.

Yasaka Shrine Visit

From Kiyomizu-dera, the tour proceeds to the nearby Yasaka Shrine, a Shinto shrine noted for its iconic vermilion torii gates.

The guide leads the group through the shrine’s main gate, revealing an expansive complex with several buildings, including the main hall and multiple pagodas.

Visitors learn about the shrine’s history, dating back to the 6th century, and its role as a hub for Gion‘s geisha culture.

The group spends around 45 minutes exploring the serene grounds before moving on to the next destination, Gion, to discover Kyoto’s famous teahouses and geisha traditions.

Gion Visit and Nishiki Market Visit

After visiting the iconic Yasaka Shrine, the tour group heads to the historic Gion district, the heart of Kyoto’s renowned geisha culture.

They’ll explore the area’s narrow alleyways, traditional machiya townhouses, and catch a glimpse of geisha scurrying to their engagements.

Next, the tour continues to Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto’s Kitchen."

Here, guests can:

Sample local delicacies like sushi, yakisoba, and okonomiyaki.
Peruse stalls selling Japanese knives, ceramics, and other crafts.
Admire the vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere of this 400-year-old marketplace.
Discover hidden gems and enjoy Kyoto’s rich culinary traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, food and drinks are not included in the tour. However, participants are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages, unless otherwise specified by the tour operator.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly advertised as wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility concerns should contact the tour operator to inquire about accessibility options and arrangements prior to booking.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera or Will One Be Provided?

You’ll need to bring your own camera, as one isn’t provided on the tour. The tour includes photos taken during the experience, but you’ll want to capture your own memories as well.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Visitors should dress respectfully, as the tour includes visiting religious sites.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase souvenirs during the tour, particularly at the Nishiki Market, which is known for its variety of local culinary delights and handicrafts. However, the cost of any souvenirs or food is not included in the tour price.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive morning tour offers an immersive experience exploring Kyoto’s iconic landmarks. Visitors will marvel at the stunning Kiyomizu-dera, stroll through the serene Yasaka Shrine, and discover the historic Gion district before indulging in local delicacies at the vibrant Nishiki Market. With a small group and an English-speaking guide, this tour promises a peaceful and enriching exploration of Kyoto’s beauty before the crowds arrive.

You can check availability for your dates here: