Essential Free Tour Kyoto
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Latest reviews
5.00
31/10/24
03/10/24
Awesome tour very informative and interesting. Our guide kazu was lively and fun, despite me being the only person who showed up on a day washed out by rain. We had a great time!
09/09/24
Explore the most picturesque neighborhood in the cultural capital of Japan with the Essential Free Tour of Kyoto! Strolling around the iconic Gion district with a knowledgeable local guide is the best way to get up close and personal with its ancient temples, shrines, gardens, and paths. On this high-rated free tour, you can expect a well-paced walk with a small group of international travelers, frequent stops for explanations and pictures, and lots of fun! First, you’ll explore the history of Kyoto, which served as the capital of Japan from 794 to 1868. The tour will then continue in Gion, the geisha district. Here, we'll learn about these fascinating women and admire the neighborhood's traditional wooden houses, built in the Machi-Ya architectural style. You will learn that Higashiyama is one of Kyoto's oldest districts, dating back to the 8th century when Emperor Kammu founded the city. In this period, Imperial mansions, temples and shrines were established in Higashiyama due to its stunning natural beauty.
One of the most remarkable landmarks in your Free Kyoto Walking Tour is a stop at Kodai-ji Temple – another breathtaking structure where you can marvel at mind-blowing artwork from different centuries. The manicured gardens and tranquil pathways are part of this wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will be able to learn some basics about Japanese spirituality and traditions, and of course, take plenty of great pictures. Make your way over to Nene-no-Michi (The Path of Nene) for a stroll down an old cobbled street lined by machiya houses dating back to the 1600s. Listen closely for melodic voices singing traditional songs from within these wooden buildings – it’s an unforgettable experience! Not far from here guests can find Yasaka Shrine, which is also known as Gion Shrine. Here, vibrant festivals are celebrated throughout the year, and it’s a perfect spot to see pink cherry blossoms in springtime.
Along your free tour, you will learn that Higashiyama has been a major cultural and religious center throughout history. In fact, it’s home to some of Kyoto’s most famous temples, such as Chion-in Temple. This is one of Japan’s most important religious complexes – don't miss out on this incredible site full of amazing architectural feats such as massive Sanmon gateways and intricate wall painting murals. Another popular destination you might pass during the tour is Shoren-in Temple – a perfect place for relaxation thanks to its Zen garden filled with moss and rocks meant to represent Mount Fuji! Today Higashiyama is an incredibly popular destination for tourists from all over the world who come to explore its rich history, culture and architecture! Take the Essential Free Walking Tour around Higashiyama in Kyoto for an insightful journey into Japan's past – it promises to be an eye-opening experience like no other!
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5.00