What‘s Included

Reviews

• Focused on traditions...

  Robert G,

  Mar 26, 2025

  - Viator

  5.00

  Focused on traditions behind Japanese gardens; also basics about Shinto and Buddhist traditions and practices. Andrew was excellent, highly knowledgeable with a Master’s in landscape architecture and a personal interest in the philosophy and spiritual elements behind them

• Essential Tour for Kyoto’s Most Intriguing Sites

  Mark H,

  Nov 24, 2024

  - Viator

  5.00

  This was one of the best tours I have done anywhere, on any subject. Andrew has deep knowledge of the design principles for Zen gardens, but also shared insights on Zen philosophy, Japanese history, and contemporary life in Kyoto. Highly recommended.

• Great tour, great guide

  Susan C,

  May 8, 2024

  - Viator

  5.00

  Andrew has a great depth of knowledge of both the philosophy and construction of rock gardens, and added much to our appreciation and understanding of the gardens and their significance. His tour was the high point of our time in Kyoto.

• A must have tour

  Orsolya K,

  Apr 21, 2024

  - Viator

  5.00

  It was a real eye-opening and insightful experience regarding Japanese aesthetics. If you have any question about Japanese religion, history or gardening, Andrew will surely answer it. He tells not only data but points out correlations too. Andrew's personality proves that he not only preaches but also lives Zen.

• Best tour of Kyoto possible

  Linda W,

  Apr 7, 2024

  - Viator

  5.00

  Through the lens of the Zen garden Andrew brought to life the religion, society, history and culture of Kyoto. He brought our focus to the meaning of the rock gardens so prevalent in Kyoto and the shrines and garden choices. He answered the many questions we had about living in Japan and experiencing it as a foreigner who worked with Japanese gardens. He enriched our trip immeasurably and I’d recommend this tour to everyone visiting this exquisite city.