Private Tour
Carefree Private Exploration of Fushimi Inari, Gion, Kiyomizudera, and More
Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Dive into and swoon about one of Kyoto's most historically rich areas, Higashiyama ("Eastern Mountain") with your very own private, English speaking guide with vast knowledge of Kyoto and Japanese culture. Start from the southernmost mountain in the city, where the justifiably famous Fushimi Inari Shrine lies in wait with its thousands upon thousands of bright red torii gates leading you up the mountain into higher and still holier places. Mission accomplished, a short train ride (included) deposits us perfectly for an exploration of the Gion, a traditional entertainment district, where geisha still hold court and high regard. Work your way through various temples and shrines on the east side while learning what makes this area so special. All admission fees and transit are included so there's no need to fret about hidden fees.
Since this is a private tour, feel free to contact us about any changes you'd like to make to the itinerary. We're very flexible.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
A native or equivalent speaker of your language (we mean it!), and someone that is actually fun too
Transit from Fushimi Inari to Gion
Entrance fees to temples and shrines
First child (12 and under) free! Additional children at greatly reduced pricing.
Food and Drinks
Taxis (not required, but the customer may request one if they like)
What To Expect
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Start your journey at the southernmost tip of the Higashiyama mountain range with the unrivaled magnificence of Fushimi Inari Shrine. Here, transport yourself to another world underneath the thousands of mystical, vermilion torii gates, as your guide explains the meaning behind the architecture and symbolism. Founded in 711 AD, this shrine has lots of stories to tell.
Hanamikoji Street
A quick train ride takes us to the granddaddy of Kyoto entertainment districts, the Gion, where Geisha still reside and entertain to this day. Pass by the awe-inspiring Kabuki theater, then stroll the tea house string of pearls known as Hanami Koji Street. The beautifully preserved medieval architecture in this area transports you straight back the Edo period (1603-1868).
Options
Private Tour
Bundled Day and Night Tour
Bundled Day and Night Kyoto To: Our day and night tours bundled at a discount! Our night tour includes many dishes and 3 drinks, and starts in Kyoto at 6pm.
Small Group Tour
Reviews
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Walking tour around Gion...
Margaret C,
Sep 2, 2025
- Viator
3.00Walking tour around Gion and Fushimi Inari. A lot of walking was involved and we had someone who used a cane. It was extremely hot and it would have been nice to have more water breaks.
Walk in Kyoto - shrines and more
Shela G,
Jun 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00Oisin greeted us at the station and we were Introduced to shrines and temples of Kyoto. Up and down the hills we walked and enjoyed seeing so many sites. What a great way to spend the day.
Great essential tour of Kyoto!
Julie S,
Jul 2, 2023
- Viator
4.00Our guide (and his trainee) were very knowledgeable about all aspects of Japan. We had a great time and learned a lot. Ferdinand took us to some less busy spots of the shrines where we could enjoy the peaceful surroundings and soak in the experience. We had a great time! It is a pretty fast pace and gave us a great introduction to the area so we could go back and visit places we wanted to spend more time.
Duygo provided us...
William S,
May 13, 2023
- Viator
5.00Duygo provided us excellent explanations of all the sites we visited. Very friendly and super knowledgeable! Lots of walking and a few steeper hills made the trip challenging for some older folks in our group but guide was very accommodating.
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Operated by Pinpoint Traveler, Inc