Best Free Walking Tours in Kyoto
Kyoto Free Tour Calendar
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If you’re looking to discover the cultural capital of Japan, here are the best free walking tours in Kyoto that you should check out. The Kyoto City Tour, led by a local guide, takes you for a relaxed walk around the historic downtown. For newcomers to this ancient capital, this tour is a great introduction to old and new Kyoto. The Cultural Tour of Gion and Ponto-Cho takes you on an exploration of the most famous geisha district, so you can discover the fascinating geisha culture from a local perspective. And, of course, the popular Izakaya Walking Tour lets you discover the best of local food by visiting informal and authentic eateries. If you feel adventurous, the Arashiyama Bamboo Groves Tour covers one of the most beautiful natural places in Japan. These tours will give you a glimpse of traditional sights and historical landmarks; from beautiful gardens to stunning temples – all in one go! Whether you’re visiting Kyoto for a day or longer, these free and informative free guided tours are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Visit Kyoto and discover Japanese culture with a local tour guide!
For those looking to get the full tourist experience in Japan, a Kyoto Free Walking Tour is an ideal way to visit some of the most iconic and well-known landmarks in the country. Kinkakuji (the noteworthy Golden Pavilion) is a prominent stop in some guided tours, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage status Nijo Castle. Sanjusangen-do Hall, a Buddhist temple with 1,001 statues of the goddess Kannon, is also featured in many of the tours—it allows guests to marvel at the longest wooden building in Japan and admire its ancient beauty. A walk around Gion District will let visitors discover the complexities of the geisha world. Some Free Tours in Kyoto will cover monuments on the outskirts of Kyoto; such as Kiyomizu Temple, perched high above the city with amazing views, and Fushimi Inari Shrine, whose thousands of vermilion torii gates offer stunning photo opportunities. All in all, the prominent attractions you can visit with a walking tour offer glimpses into Japan's past, culture and traditions – an experience that can't be missed when visiting Kyoto!
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Things to Do in Kyoto
A trip to Kyoto can be packed with shopping, karaoke, restaurants and temples. During the day, one of the most popular sites to visit are Kyoto’s world-famous geisha spots. Throughout Gion District and beyond, geishas can sometimes be seen in full kimonos strolling down alleys and streets. And remember that traditional festivals such as Gion Matsuri take place annually in July, when the whole city is lit up with vibrant parades and performances. Shopping can also be found around this old capital, whether it’s high-end fashion or traditional crafts. The shopping districts of Shijo-Dori, Kawaramachi and Nishiki Market offer a variety of choices for tourists. The bustling shopping arcades are great places to discover local snacks while sampling the range of Japanese dishes in nearby restaurants. If you’re looking for something fun to do at night, then look no further than the many karaoke bars in Kyoto – they offer great entertainment and delicious food! With so much to see and experience in just one or two days, there’s no doubt that you’ll have a wonderful time on a Free Tour in Kyoto!