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Kyoto Free Walking Tour in Gion District

Duration: 2h
Languages: English
Guru: Kazu
Quality Verified Registered on January 22, 2024

Greetings from the Kansai region! I'm Kazu, a passionate local eager to share the rich cultural heritage and hidden gems of both Osaka and Kyoto with you. Having grown up in the vibrant neighborhoods of Umeda and the northern regions of Osaka, I have developed a deep appreciation for the unique charm and bustling energy of this city. My roots in Osaka run deep, but my love for exploration extends beyond its borders. With fluency in English and a wealth of cross-cultural experiences from living and working abroad, I am well-equipped to guide you through the intricate tapestry of Japan's cultural landscape. Whether it's navigating the bustling streets of Osaka or exploring the serene temples of Kyoto, I am committed to providing you with an immersive and unforgettable experience. Beyond sightseeing, I specialize in teaching Japanese language and culture, offering you the opportunity to learn and engage in meaningful cultural exchanges while savoring the essence of local izakayas. Embark on a journey with me that goes beyond the guidebooks, where every moment is an opportunity for discovery and connection. Let's create unforgettable memories together in the heart of Kansai!

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  • No minimum number of attendees
    No minimum number of attendees is required for the tour
  • Free booking and cancellation
    Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free

Tour description

Step into the enchanting world of Kyoto's timeless charm with our "Timeless Kyoto: Free Walking Tour of Historic Landmarks"!


Embark on a journey through centuries of history and culture as we explore iconic landmarks and hidden gems nestled within this ancient city. From the vibrant streets of Hanamikoji-dori to the serene beauty of Maruyama Park, each step unveils a new chapter in Kyoto's rich heritage.


Join us on this immersive two-hour adventure as we unravel the mysteries of Kyoto's past and present, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Book your spot now and let the magic of Kyoto captivate your senses!

Minamiza Theater 

Hanami Koji Street

Yasaka Jinjya Shrine

Maruyama Park

Chion-in Temple

Shirakawa Minami Street

Pontocho

The tour ends at the same location as the departure location. 

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Highlights

What will we visit on this tour?

  • Meeting point:
    68 Shinchō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600...
    68 Shinchō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8001, Japan
    View on map

    2-B Entrance of Hankyu Railway "Kyoto Kawaramachi Station". This location is located on the ground floor at the southeast corner of the large intersection of Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori. The large EDION building is the landmark. Your Japanese guide will be waiting for you with a red handkerchief or red sign.

  • 1
    Outside visit
    Kawaramachi Station

    Hankyu Railway Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, 2-B Entrance / Exit. This location is located on the ground floor at the southeast corner of the large intersection of Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori. The large EDION building is the landmark. Your Japanese guide will be waiting for you with a red handkerchief or red sign.

  • 2
    Outside visit
    Minamiza Theater

    The history of Minamiza dates back to 1603. Although it has been renovated, it has been here for over 400 years.

  • 3
    Outside visit
    Hanamikoji Street

    The main street that runs through Gion from north to south. Although it is called a ``small street'', it is a townscape with an old-fashioned atmosphere along a wide road.

  • 4
    Outside visit
    Yasaka Shrine

    Yasaka Shrine, affectionately known as ``Gion-san'' since ancient times, is the head office of Gion shrines nationwide. It is said that the shrine was founded in the second year of Emperor Saimei's reign (656).

  • 5
    Outside visit
    Maruyama Park

    Maruyama Park is the oldest park in Kyoto, much beloved by residents and young people. It lies next to Yasaka-jinja Shrine, at the base of Kyoto's eastern mountains, and covers an area of 86000 square meters.

  • 6
    Outside visit
    Chion-in Temple

    Chion-in is known as the head temple of the Jodo sect. In addition to the national treasures Sanmon and Mieido, there are many important cultural properties.

  • 7
    Outside visit
    Shirakawa-Minami dori Street

    A 200m cobblestone road lined with cherry blossom and willow trees that follows the flow of the Shirakawa River, which flows into the Kamogawa River. Cherry blossoms cannot be seen all year round.

  • 8
    Outside visit
    Pontocho Park

    It refers to the long, narrow street running north and south along the Kamogawa River.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour opinions

38 ratings
4.6
By category
Professionalism
4.76
Fun
4.47
Expression
4.66
Quality
4.55
Route
4.72
Generic
5 stars
28
4 stars
6
3 stars
4
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Moritz 27 Apr 2024

Verified booking
Travelled in couple - Apr 2024
Kazu is a friendly and open minded person and easy to talk to, I can recommend this Tour to everyone!
Yaniv 26 Apr 2024
Tel Aviv-Yafo

Verified booking
Travelled alone - Apr 2024
Everything was perfect. The guide is so nice and full of knowledge. It was more than I expected
Andrew 26 Apr 2024
Singapore

Verified booking
Travelled in couple - Apr 2024
Both of us are seniors abv 65 years old. Our walking pace was slower. The guide shouldnt hv walk so fast.
Jose 22 Apr 2024
San Francisco

Verified booking
Travelled in couple - Apr 2024
Kazu is an amazing guide. I highly recommend him to any traveler coming to Kyoto
Philip&Mary 22 Apr 2024
Kyoto

Verified booking
Travelled in couple - Apr 2024
We thoroughly enjoyed our walk today as it showed us parts of the city we probably wouldn’t have visited-Kazu was very knowledgeable and friendly and this is a must for visitors to Kyoto
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Who is this tour for?

Accessibility
Non suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Accepts reservations up to 15 people.
Pets
Not suitable for pets.

What should you know?

Minimum of attendees
There is no minimum number of people required for the tour.
Additional costs:
The tour does not require the payment of entrance fees or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you will not be able to attend the tour, please cancel your booking, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Only cash payment is accepted.
When do you want to go?
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