Kyoto Afternoon Tour (Round Trip From Kyoto)

We’ve heard plenty about the cultural riches of Kyoto, and the Kyoto Afternoon Tour offers a chance to explore some of the city’s iconic sites firsthand. From the stunning Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine to the serene Kiyomizu Temple, this guided tour promises an immersive experience that allows you to soak in the history and beauty at your own pace. With inclusions like transportation and admission fees, it’s an enticing option for making the most of your time in this captivating city. Let’s take a closer look at what this tour has to offer.

Key Points

• A 5-hour comprehensive tour visiting Kyoto’s cultural highlights, including Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Sanjusangendo Temple, and Kiyomizu-dera.
• Rated 4.3 stars from 78 reviews, with a maximum group size of 40 travelers.
• Starts and ends at the JTB Sunrise Tours Desk in Kyoto Avanti B1F, across from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit.
• Includes all admission fees, transportation, and an English-speaking guide, but excludes food, drinks, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Allows for independent exploration of Kyoto before and after the tour.

Tour Overview

The Kyoto Afternoon Tour is a comprehensive 5-hour excursion that takes us on a journey through the cultural and historical highlights of Kyoto.

Rated 4.3 stars from 78 reviews, the tour has a maximum group size of 40 travelers.

We’ll meet at the JTB Sunrise Tours Desk in Kyoto Avanti B1F, across from the Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit, and begin our tour at 1:20 PM.

The tour includes visits to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the stunning Sanjusangendo Temple, and the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu Temple, with admission fees and transportation costs covered.

The tour ends at the same meeting point.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

As we arrive at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, we’re immediately captivated by its vibrant crimson torii gates that wind up the mountain in a mesmerizing procession. The shrine’s notable features include:

Feature	Description
Colorful Building	Bright-red columns and immaculate gardens
Placid Ponds	Tranquil waters reflecting the natural surroundings
Duration	30 minutes to explore this significant Shinto shrine
Admission	Free to enter and wander the picturesque grounds

We’re eager to ascend the winding path and discover the shrine’s deeper spiritual significance as we continue our Kyoto tour.

Sanjusangendo Temple

After exploring the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, we head to the Sanjusangendo Temple, one of Kyoto’s most impressive and historically significant landmarks.

This temple boasts:

1. The longest wooden structure in Japan, extending 394 feet (120m).
2. Over 1,000 statues of the Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, lining the hall.
3. A 13th-century history, showcasing remarkable architectural and artistic craftsmanship.
4. Included admission, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in this iconic Kyoto destination.

We have 30 minutes to soak in the temple’s serene atmosphere and learn about its rich cultural heritage from our knowledgeable guide.

Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu-dera)

Next, we make our way to the renowned Kiyomizu Temple, or Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers panoramic views of Kyoto. We’ll have 1 hour and 10 minutes to explore this impressive structure.

Kiyomizu Temple
Duration	1 hour 10 minutes
Admission	Included
Notable Features	UNESCO World Heritage site, panoramic views of Kyoto from spacious terrace

The Kiyomizu Temple dates back to the 13th century and is known for its large, wooden veranda that juts out from the hillside. We’ll have time to take in the breathtaking vistas and learn about the temple’s storied history from our guide.

Inclusions and Restrictions

The tour includes a national government licensed English guide, all admission fees, transportation costs, and gratuities. This means you don’t have to worry about additional expenses for the following:

1. Visiting the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Sanjusangendo Temple, and the famous Kiyomizu-dera.

2. Getting to and from the tour sites via private transportation.

3. Tipping the knowledgeable guide who’ll provide insights into the history and culture.

4. Accessing the temples and shrines, as the admission fees are covered.

The only exclusions are food, drinks, and hotel pickup/drop-off, which allows you to explore Kyoto at your own pace before and after the tour.

Participant Experience and Reviews

Participants generally praise the tour for its friendly, informative guides and well-organized itinerary.

We appreciated the guides’ insights into Japanese history and customs, which enriched our experience.

However, some felt a bit rushed due to the limited time at each stop. While the tour efficiently covers significant sites, a full-day option might allow for more in-depth exploration.

The ability to see multiple noteworthy destinations in a short time is a strength of this tour.

Many of us suggest considering the full-day version for those wanting a more leisurely pace and deeper dive into Kyoto’s cultural treasures.

Cancellation Policy

According to the information provided, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

This flexible policy allows us to:

1. Change our plans if unexpected circumstances arise.
2. Receive a full refund if we need to cancel for any reason.
3. Avoid losing our money if something comes up at the last minute.
4. Have peace of mind knowing we can adjust our schedule without penalties.

Tour Logistics and Considerations

Let’s begin by discussing the logistics and considerations for this Kyoto Afternoon Tour.

The tour meets at the JTB Sunrise Tours Desk in Kyoto Avanti B1F, across from the Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit, starting at 1:20 PM. The tour ends at the same location around 6:20 PM.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers and service animals are allowed. Participants under 18 need parental permission.

The itinerary may vary due to traffic, but you’ll visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Sanjusangendo Temple, and Kiyomizu Temple.

Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, as there’s some walking involved. The tour provides an efficient way to see Kyoto’s highlights in an afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is English Audio Guide Available for the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a National Government Licensed English guide to provide commentary and insights throughout the experience. This allows us to fully appreciate the history and significance of the sites we visit.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, we can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The itinerary includes free time at each stop, so you’ll have the opportunity to explore local shops and markets for unique Japanese gifts and mementos.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

We’ll have a few opportunities to use the restrooms during the tour at the various sites we visit. The guide will let us know when and where we can take bathroom breaks along the way.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

While the tour duration is fixed at 5 hours, we can’t extend it during the tour. However, you’re free to explore the sites further on your own after the tour ends at the same meeting point.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites?

Yes, photography is allowed at all the sites on this tour. We’re free to take photos throughout the tour, capturing the stunning shrines, temples, and natural scenery we’ll experience.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto Afternoon Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the city’s cultural gems at your own pace. With expert guidance, private transportation, and all admission fees included, we can immerse ourselves in the serene beauty and rich history of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Sanjusangendo Temple, and Kiyomizu Temple. This comprehensive tour allows us to make the most of our time in Kyoto, creating lasting memories of this captivating city.