Kyoto Early Bird Tour in Uji and Fushimi Inari
Overview
Available languages
5 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Ran by @guidemejapan on Instagram. Please check our Instagram for visual examples of our wonderful guides!
Start your morning with the magic of Kyoto—before the crowds arrive. This small-group tour (max 8 people) takes you on a peaceful journey through Fushimi Inari’s famous thousand torii gates, the stunning Byodoin Temple from the 10 yen coin, and Ujigami Shrine, Japan’s oldest. It’s the perfect blend of iconic sights and hidden gems, led by a local English-speaking guide who brings each place to life. Quiet, authentic, unforgettable.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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 To Expect
Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine
Explore the enchanting Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of the most famous shrines in all over Japan. Walk through thousands of striking red gates, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. It's a must-see spot that offers a beautiful and unforgettable experience. Don't miss the chance to visit this incredible place during your trip!
Byodoin Temple
Byodoin Temple in Uji is one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, famously featured on the back of Japan’s 10 yen coin. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the stunning Phoenix Hall, a masterpiece of Heian-period architecture. Discover the real-life elegance behind the coin in a tranquil, historically rich setting.
What‘s Included
English Speaking Guide
Entrance Fee to Byodoin Temple
Transportation Fee
Lunch
Options
Kyoto Early Bird Tour in Uji and Fushimi Inari
Reviews
19 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Early morning Kyoto and Uji tour
Marie G,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00My husband and I traveled from Osaka to Kyoto to do the early morning tour. The tour was great and worth doing the early morning commute to Kyoto. Genki our tour guide was very knowledgeable and very well spoken the information he gave us made the tour very interesting. You can see that he loves sharing the history of the Temples, Shrines, Kyoto and Uji. Early morning you avoid the crowds and it is nice and cool. It was very well paced and comfortable. Thank you Genki for a great tour, we will definitely book another tour with you when we return to Japan.
Great Experience!
thaliat2026,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour guide was very knowledgeable and patient. I learnt a lot and I would definitely recommend this tour. If you find all 108 foxes, you will have good luck for the rest of the year! Ganbatte!!
Amazing guide
imeho2026,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It is was super amazing , the guide made us understand the history of the shrine .. and was spoke English so well , we need no interpreter
History thaws the soul
zenobiau2026,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Though it was a chilly night, the tales of the past offered warmth thanks to the tour guide. There is a lot to learn, but our tour guide kept it short and spicy which I appreciate since my Fingers are quickly turning into popsicles.
Lovely experience
aunty1997,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Tour guide very knowledgeable, excellent communication and friendly. We had a pretty smooth visit and he answered our questions patiently.
Peacefull Uji trip
krystyna37803,Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Our guide Genki was very knowledgeable with explaining the differences between Shinto and Buddhism. He gave us just enough information that we could retain it. The morning tour is not crowded, and we had lots of space around us. We didn't rush so we could enjoy our morning exploration of Uji. Genki gave us also a good advice for lunch {it was delicious) and where to shop for a good tea. Thank you, Genki, for a lovely morning
Best tour ever
松中一,Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely fantastic tour experience! From start to finish, everything was well-organized, engaging, and enjoyable. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate, which made the entire journey even more memorable. The itinerary was perfectly balanced — enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The transportation was comfortable, and all logistics ran smoothly. We visited some breathtaking spots that we wouldn’t have discovered on our own. It was clear that a lot of thought went into planning every detail. This tour offered great value and truly exceeded expectations. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the area with a fun, informative, and hassle-free experience. I’d gladly book with this company again in the future!
Early Morning Tour in Uji
562yuia,Oct 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful experience as I got to see some of the Kyoto’s iconic Shrines!! There were not a lot of people since it was early in the morning and I got some great pictures! Definitely a recommended!!
Lovely early morning walk...
Savitha R,Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Lovely early morning walk through the beautiful temple!Guide Genki was excellent! Warm, engaging and very knowledgeable and caring
Hidden gems with an amazing guide
Radmila D,Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing sites with an extremely knowledgeable guide! Thank you Genki for sharing the beauty and the rich history of these extraordinary shrines . Hidden Uji gems that I am sure will be flooded with tourists soon enough! A must see experience for everyone visiting Kyoto and the area.
From ¥10,500
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