Kyoto Highlights Eastern Western Northern and Southern Routes

Kyoto’s guided tours offer visitors a chance to dive deep into the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic temples and shrines of the Eastern Route or the serene Zen gardens of the Northern Route, there’s a path for every traveler. Explore the majestic Nijo Castle, get lost in the Bamboo Grove, and uncover the secrets of local sake breweries – Kyoto’s treasures await those willing to venture beyond the beaten path.

Key Points

• The Eastern Route features temples, gardens, and the geisha district, providing insights into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
• The Western Route includes iconic landmarks like Nijo Castle and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, showcasing Kyoto’s architectural and natural wonders.
• The Northern Route highlights the Golden Pavilion and serene Zen temples, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s spiritual and artistic traditions.
• The Southern Route explores the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Gion district, and local sake breweries, capturing Kyoto’s vibrant and historical landscapes.
• The tour package includes private transportation, lunch, and covers various fees, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience in Kyoto.

Tour Overview

Kyoto’s charm comes alive through four distinct guided routes that immerse visitors in the city’s rich heritage and cultural wonders.

The Eastern Route showcases stunning temples, serene gardens, and the captivating geisha district.

The Western Route explores impressive castles and the iconic bamboo grove.

The Northern Route leads to the Golden Pavilion and tranquil Zen temples.

The Southern Route takes you to the striking Torii gates and the vibrant sake district.

Each route offers a unique lens to appreciate Kyoto’s timeless allure.

Private tours ensure an intimate, personalized experience to uncover the city’s hidden gems.

Pickup and Meeting Information

Travelers can choose to either head directly to the meeting point at Namba Station or request pickup service.

The tour conveniently starts and ends at this central location in Osaka. After meeting the group, you’ll embark on an immersive journey through Kyoto’s highlights.

At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the starting point where the activity concludes. This flexible pickup option ensures a seamless experience, allowing you to focus on exploring Kyoto’s rich history and stunning sights without worrying about transportation.

The meeting point’s proximity to public transit also makes it easily accessible.

Inclusions and Fees

The tour includes private transportation, fuel surcharge, parking fees, and gratuities. Plus, landing and facility fees are covered. Lunch is provided, ensuring you can refuel during the day’s adventures. However, it’s important to note that this tour is non-refundable, so there are no refunds for cancellations.

Inclusions	Fees
Private Transportation	From $335.28 per group (up to 2)
Fuel Surcharge	Non-refundable
Parking Fees	Lowest Price Guarantee
Gratuities	Select date and travelers to check availability

Participant Requirements

Though confirmation is received at booking, the tour may not be accessible for everyone.

The routes cover a range of terrain, from steps at temples to uneven surfaces in the bamboo grove. Travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions may find the tour challenging.

However, most people can participate, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is located near public transportation. Guests should be prepared for a moderate level of activity and mobility.

With advance notice, the tour operator can accommodate special needs or requirements to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience exploring Kyoto’s highlights.

Eastern Route Highlights

Nestled in the eastern hills of Kyoto, the Eastern Route immerses visitors in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Highlights include:

• Kiyomizudera Temple, a striking wooden structure with a sweeping veranda overlooking Kyoto. Visitors can sip from the temple’s sacred springs, said to bestow luck and longevity.

• Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, where glimpses of elegantly dressed geisha can be caught scurrying between teahouses.

• Kodaiji Temple, a Zen temple with beautifully manicured gardens and a towering stone pagoda.

• Maruyama Park, a lush green oasis famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in spring.

• Nanzenji Temple, a Zen temple complex featuring tranquil gardens and an impressive stone aqueduct.

Western Route Highlights

Crossing the Kamo River, the Western Route offers a captivating blend of historical wonders and natural beauty.

Explore the iconic Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ornate interiors and "chirping nightingale floors".

Wander through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering stalks sway in the breeze, casting a serene, otherworldly atmosphere.

Visit the stunning Kinkakuji, or Golden Pavilion, a zen temple draped in golden leaf that glistens in the sunlight.

This diverse route seamlessly combines Kyoto’s architectural gems and tranquil natural landscapes, providing a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s multifaceted charm.

Northern Route Highlights

The Northern Route takes visitors on a captivating journey through Kyoto’s renowned Zen temples and the iconic Golden Pavilion. This route showcases:

• The enchanting Kinkakuji Temple, a Zen Buddhist temple with its famous golden-topped pavilion reflected in the tranquil pond.

• The serene Kifune Shrine, nestled in the forested mountains and dedicated to the god of water.

• The Daitokuji Temple complex, a meditative sanctuary with meticulously maintained Zen gardens.

• The Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, a popular destination for students seeking success in their studies.

• The Kamogawa River, offering a peaceful riverside stroll amidst the city’s natural beauty.

Southern Route Highlights

Moving south from the serene Zen temples and Golden Pavilion, the Southern Route in Kyoto takes visitors on an enchanting journey through the iconic Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine and the lively sake district.

Explore the shrine’s thousands of vibrant orange torii gates winding up the mountain, offering breathtaking views.

Then, venture into the vibrant Gion district, known for its traditional teahouses and geisha culture.

Discover the hidden alleys and sample local sake at the charming breweries.

This lively route showcases Kyoto’s spiritual and cultural heart, leaving a lasting impression on all who explore it.

The Sum Up

Kyoto’s guided tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to take in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Each distinct route – Eastern, Western, Northern, and Southern – showcases iconic landmarks, tranquil temples, and unique local experiences, crafting a comprehensive and captivating exploration of Kyoto’s treasures. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these tours promise an unforgettable journey through the heart of Japan’s cultural epicenter.