Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, offers a cultural experience like no other. The Kyoto Afternoon and Night Tour presents an opportunity to take in the city’s rich heritage. From the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine to the captivating performances at Gion Corner, this tour promises a delightful journey. But the true highlight awaits as participants indulge in a traditional Buddhist vegetarian dinner, a culinary delight that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- This 7-hour and 40-minute tour takes visitors to iconic Kyoto sites like Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Gion Corner.
- The tour includes traditional Japanese performances and a multi-course Buddhist vegetarian dinner with a beverage.
- The maximum group size is 24 participants, and the tour is led by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and children under 7 are not permitted without parental permission.
- Participants will meet at the JTB Sunrise Tours Desk, Kyoto Avanti B1F, and the tour ends at Ryokan Yoshi Ima in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto.
Tour Overview
The Kyoto Afternoon and Night Tour with Japanese Traditional Dinner provides travelers with a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Spanning 7 hours and 40 minutes, this tour takes visitors to iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Gion Corner, where they’ll witness traditional Japanese performances.
Dinner features a delectable Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, complemented by a beverage.
With a maximum group size of 24, travelers enjoy an intimate experience guided by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter.
The tour is suitable for ages 7 and up, with parental permission required for minors.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kyoto.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Although the Kyoto Afternoon and Night Tour comes with a range of inclusions, it doesn’t cover all expenses. The tour includes admission fees, a traditional Buddhist vegetarian dinner, and transportation costs.
It also covers the national government licensed English guide interpreter fee and dinner drink charges. However, any fees not explicitly listed as included are the responsibility of the participants.
This ensures travelers are aware of what’s covered upfront, allowing them to budget accordingly and avoid surprises. The tour provides a comprehensive experience while leaving some flexibility for individual preferences and needs.
Meeting and End Points
The tour begins at the JTB Sunrise Tours Desk, located at Kyoto Avanti B1F across from the Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit, where participants gather at 13:20 for a 13:30 departure. After the tour, guests are dropped off at the Ryokan Yoshi Ima in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto.
Meeting Point | Meeting Time | Departure Time | End Point | Drop-off Location |
---|---|---|---|---|
JTB Sunrise Tours Desk, Kyoto Avanti B1F | 13:20 | 13:30 | Ryokan Yoshi Ima | Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto |
Visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
First, visitors will venture to the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, located just a short 15-minute walk from the meeting point.
This famous Shinto shrine is renowned for its breathtaking vermilion torii gates that wind up the mountainside. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the shrine’s serene pathways, passing by countless torii gates and taking in the peaceful ambiance.
The shrine’s impressive architecture and tranquil atmosphere provide a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage, setting the stage for the immersive cultural experience that awaits during the rest of the tour.
Exploring Gion Corner
Next, travelers will transfer from Kiyomizu-dera Temple to Gion Corner, an approximately 25-minute walk that may be accompanied by an assistant.
At Gion Corner, they’ll enjoy a performance showcasing traditional Kyoto arts, including dance, tea ceremony, flower arrangement, koto music, bugaku, kyogen, bunraku, or noh play. The content may change, but the performance provides an immersive cultural experience.
After the show, travelers will savor a delectable Buddhist vegetarian dinner at a local ryokan, complete with seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors.
This part of the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Kyoto’s renowned cultural heritage.
Enjoying the Traditional Dinner
After the performance at Gion Corner, travelers will savor a delectable Buddhist vegetarian dinner at a local ryokan.
The multi-course meal features tofu, namafu wheat gluten, yuba tofu skin, and seasonal vegetables. A miso soup and rice round out the satisfying feast.
While the dinner utilizes bonito stock in the tempura dipping sauce, a salt alternative is available for those seeking a vegetarian option.
Diners can enjoy included drinks as they enjoy the traditional Japanese atmosphere and hospitality.
This dining experience perfectly caps off an afternoon and evening exploring Kyoto’s cultural wonders.
Participant Guidelines
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Service animals are allowed, but the tour may not be suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions.
Children under 7 years old aren’t permitted, and parental permission is required for participants under 18.
Participants under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
These guidelines ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during the Kyoto Afternoon and Night Tour with Japanese Traditional Dinner.
Tour Highlights and Experiences
Although the tour has a packed itinerary, participants can expect to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.
Highlights include:
- Exploring the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, known for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates.
- Witnessing a mesmerizing performance at Gion Corner, showcasing traditional Kyoto arts such as dance, tea ceremony, and music.
- Indulging in a delectable Buddhist vegetarian dinner, allowing travelers to savor the unique flavors and traditions of Kyoto’s culinary scene.
Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter, ensuring an enriching and informative experience.
The Sum Up
The Kyoto Afternoon and Night Tour provides a comprehensive cultural experience. Visitors can marvel at traditional Japanese performances, explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, and indulge in a delightful Buddhist vegetarian dinner. Led by a licensed guide, the tour ensures a rich and informative journey, accommodating individual preferences and covering all necessary expenses.
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