Unlock the very best of Kyoto with the Free Walking Tour by Kyoto Localized! Led by passionate local experts, this tour is your ultimate introduction to the city’s cultural heart, seamlessly blending rich traditions with unforgettable sights.
We take you straight to the absolute must-see highlights of the historic Higashiyama district. You won't just see Kyoto—you will truly experience it as we walk through the iconic geisha streets of Gion, marvel at Chion-in (Japan’s most famous Buddhist temple complex), stroll the postcard-perfect stone paths of Ninenzaka, and stand before the breathtaking Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Instead of just checking landmarks off a list, you will discover the hidden stories, local secrets, and cultural heritage that define Kyoto’s soul. It is the perfect blend of famous bucket-list attractions and lesser-known treasures. Join us to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, connect with fellow travelers, and kickstart your Kyoto adventure with the best local perspective available!
Welcome to Japan! We are the biggest walking tour company in Japan and we'll be happy to welcome you so you take with you a great memory from this amazing country.
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Meeting point:105-1 Hashimotochō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8011, JapanYour guide will be waiting in front of McDonald's Shijo Ohashi with Kyoto Localized Logo Board.Open in Google Maps →
1
Outside visit
Shijo-ohashi BridgeShijo Ohashi spans the picturesque Kamogawa River in Kyoto, connecting the Gion district with the bustling Shijo Kawaramachi area. This historic bridge offers stunning views of the river and surrounding scenery, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Crossing Shijo Ohashi provides a charming experience, with the flowing Kamogawa River below and the vibrant atmosphere of Kyoto's city life all around.
2
Outside visit
Gion Tatsumi Bridge
Gion Tatsumi Bridge is a scenic bridge in the historic Gion district of Kyoto. Crossing the Shirakawa Canal, the bridge offers picturesque views of traditional machiya houses and willow-lined waterways. It's a charming spot that embodies the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Kyoto's Gion area.
3
Free entry
Chion-in Temple
Chion-in Temple, located in Kyoto, is a historic and expansive Buddhist temple complex known for its grand architecture and serene gardens. As the headquarters of the Jodo sect, it houses impressive structures, including the massive Sanmon gate and the main hall. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the temple grounds, adorned with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Chion-in is a significant cultural and spiritual landmark, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto.
Meeting point:105-1 Hashimotochō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8011, JapanYour guide will be waiting in front of McDonald's Shijo Ohashi with Kyoto Localized Logo Board.Open in Google Maps →
1
Outside visit
Shijo-ohashi BridgeShijo Ohashi spans the picturesque Kamogawa River in Kyoto, connecting the Gion district with the bustling Shijo Kawaramachi area. This historic bridge offers stunning views of the river and surrounding scenery, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Crossing Shijo Ohashi provides a charming experience, with the flowing Kamogawa River below and the vibrant atmosphere of Kyoto's city life all around.
2
Outside visit
Gion Tatsumi Bridge
Gion Tatsumi Bridge is a scenic bridge in the historic Gion district of Kyoto. Crossing the Shirakawa Canal, the bridge offers picturesque views of traditional machiya houses and willow-lined waterways. It's a charming spot that embodies the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Kyoto's Gion area.
3
Free entry
Chion-in Temple
Chion-in Temple, located in Kyoto, is a historic and expansive Buddhist temple complex known for its grand architecture and serene gardens. As the headquarters of the Jodo sect, it houses impressive structures, including the massive Sanmon gate and the main hall. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the temple grounds, adorned with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Chion-in is a significant cultural and spiritual landmark, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kyoto.
4.84
1,178 reviews
Professionalism
4.86
Entertainment
4.75
Communication
4.81
Quality
4.82
Route
4.85
Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and €50 per participant.
Accessibility
Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Accepts bookings of up to 10 people.
Pets
Not suitable for bringing pets.
Minimum attendees
Requires a minimum of 5 people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour does not require payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Hana was an absolutely fantastic guide. She was very knowledgeable, friendly approachable, and professional. She shared tons of interesting information about Kyoto and we loved the tour very much. She was one of the best tour guides that we had throughout our trip. She took great care of our group and highly recommend her for any and all tours in Kyoto
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled alone
5 days ago
I had such an amazing time, 3 hours flew by! Ayumi our guide took us on such a well thought out journey though history, religion, culture, and I learned so much more than expected! She came prepared with her tablet and loads on pictures and diagrams to connect the dots! She was also a really good story teller, took good care of us, and showed us some amazing hidden gems! Highly recommend!
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
5 days ago
Ayumi was amazing - she had so much information to share, clicked amazing pics and also had shopping and food recommendations. Would definitely recommend tours with her
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
5 days ago
Kyoto walking tour was fabulous! It surpassed all expectations. Ayumi was an amazing guide - her warm and engaging personality, coupled with so much knowledge and enthusiasm about each place we visited, made for a most fantastic 4 hours. She knew so much history and had so many details to share. Her English was fluent. She kept us all captive, with her stories and explanations. We can’t thank her enough - I’d give 10 stars if I could!
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
today
Michael was a great tour guide - we were entertained and also used all of his tips and knowledge for the rest of our stay. It was so interesting and useful and he definitely earned our tip!!
L
1 Review
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
yesterday
Hana was an absolutely fantastic guide. She was very knowledgeable, friendly approachable, and professional. She shared tons of interesting information about Kyoto and we loved the tour very much. She was one of the best tour guides that we had throughout our trip. She took great care of our group and highly recommend her for any and all tours in Kyoto
V
VENATIUS
4 Reviews
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled alone
5 days ago
I had such an amazing time, 3 hours flew by! Ayumi our guide took us on such a well thought out journey though history, religion, culture, and I learned so much more than expected! She came prepared with her tablet and loads on pictures and diagrams to connect the dots! She was also a really good story teller, took good care of us, and showed us some amazing hidden gems! Highly recommend!
Divyam
4 Reviews
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
5 days ago
Ayumi was amazing - she had so much information to share, clicked amazing pics and also had shopping and food recommendations. Would definitely recommend tours with her
4.75
Communication
4.81
Quality
4.82
Route
4.85
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
yesterday
Hana was an absolutely fantastic guide. She was very knowledgeable, friendly approachable, and professional. She shared tons of interesting information about Kyoto and we loved the tour very much. She was one of the best tour guides that we had throughout our trip. She took great care of our group and highly recommend her for any and all tours in Kyoto
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled alone
5 days ago
I had such an amazing time, 3 hours flew by! Ayumi our guide took us on such a well thought out journey though history, religion, culture, and I learned so much more than expected! She came prepared with her tablet and loads on pictures and diagrams to connect the dots! She was also a really good story teller, took good care of us, and showed us some amazing hidden gems! Highly recommend!
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
5 days ago
Ayumi was amazing - she had so much information to share, clicked amazing pics and also had shopping and food recommendations. Would definitely recommend tours with her
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
5 days ago
Kyoto walking tour was fabulous! It surpassed all expectations. Ayumi was an amazing guide - her warm and engaging personality, coupled with so much knowledge and enthusiasm about each place we visited, made for a most fantastic 4 hours. She knew so much history and had so many details to share. Her English was fluent. She kept us all captive, with her stories and explanations. We can’t thank her enough - I’d give 10 stars if I could!
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
today
Michael was a great tour guide - we were entertained and also used all of his tips and knowledge for the rest of our stay. It was so interesting and useful and he definitely earned our tip!!
L
1 Review
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
yesterday
Hana was an absolutely fantastic guide. She was very knowledgeable, friendly approachable, and professional. She shared tons of interesting information about Kyoto and we loved the tour very much. She was one of the best tour guides that we had throughout our trip. She took great care of our group and highly recommend her for any and all tours in Kyoto
V
VENATIUS
4 Reviews
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled alone
5 days ago
I had such an amazing time, 3 hours flew by! Ayumi our guide took us on such a well thought out journey though history, religion, culture, and I learned so much more than expected! She came prepared with her tablet and loads on pictures and diagrams to connect the dots! She was also a really good story teller, took good care of us, and showed us some amazing hidden gems! Highly recommend!
Divyam
4 Reviews
Guided by Localized Walking Tours
Traveled as couple
5 days ago
Ayumi was amazing - she had so much information to share, clicked amazing pics and also had shopping and food recommendations. Would definitely recommend tours with her
