Private Tour

Private Walking Tour in Gion and Higashiyama

Overview

Available languages

German

English

3 hours

Mobile ticket

Come with me on a captivating journey through the cultural heart of Kyoto as we explore the timeless Gion and Higashiyama districts. Wander down ancient streets lined with historic temples and charming teahouses, where every corner holds a story. We’ll stroll through the iconic Gion district, with its traditional machiya houses, and if we’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a real Geisha gliding by. I’ll share with you the secrets of these enchanting neighborhoods, giving you a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s rich heritage, blending the past and present in the most unforgettable way.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Gion

Discover the captivating history of Kyoto, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern beauty, and experience the enchanting world of the Geisha. This deep dive into the rich Geisha culture will take you on a mesmerizing journey through the lives of the Maiko (apprentice Geisha) and Geiko (fully-fledged Geisha). We'll explore the picturesque Gion and Higashiyama districts, where these skilled women reside and work, and delve into the fascinating rituals and dedication behind their artistry. As we wander through the charming streets, we might even be lucky enough to spot these elegant women, adorned in exquisite kimonos and intricate hairstyles, as they gracefully make their way to their evening engagements. It's an unforgettable experience that offers a rare glimpse into Kyoto's most iconic and mysterious cultural tradition.

1 hour • Admission Not Applicable

Kennin-ji Temple

Step into Japan’s spiritual world as we explore the origins of Buddhism and its influence on the culture. At Kennin-ji, one of Kyoto’s oldest Zen temples, we’ll uncover the history of Buddhism in Japan and experience the tranquility of its beautiful Zen garden. It's a peaceful retreat into mindfulness and tradition.

30 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

All Fees and Taxes

Options

Private Walking Tour in Gion/Higashiyama

Reviews

5.00

15 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Wonderful and informative walking tour in Gion
lindalustenberger,,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I really enjoyed this walking tour. Dominic is a wonderful tourguide and has so much knowledge! He showed me around Gion and explained things about the Japanese culture, religion and history. I learned a lot and would definitely recommend this tour to everyone visiting Kyoto :)
Very nice tour with friendly and competent guide
Culture61609582903,,Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A really great tour with a friendly and and above all very good guide! We would book Dom again immediately.
A ‘must’ for your Kyoto visit!!
S8713BGlenas,,Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The tour with Dominic through the geisha district of Gion and the old town of Higashiyama was an absolute highlight of our trip. Dominic introduced us to Japanese culture in a fun and exciting way with his great knowledge and likeable manner and was able to give us some good tips for our further Kyoto stay. Thank you for the eventful day Dominic!!
Absolutely recommend!
S4693VYsimong,,Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A very positive experience! Our friendly guide had an incredible amount of knowledge and made the tour exciting and lively. It was especially pleasant to have a German-speaking guide in Japan.
Best tour in a long time!
sandramP3344SH,,Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This was the best tour in a long time and I travel a lot. Dom is a super guide with an extraordinarily great knowledge. We could ask him what we wanted. He knew everything, whether it was history, culture or everyday customs of the Japanese people. This afternoon in Kyoto with Dom was the highlight of our trip to Japan!
Great day with Dom
giovannac2823,,Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Dom is lonely pointed👍 He explained so much about the culture and the country to us with enthusiasm. The tea ceremony at the temple was of the best. We book him again, on our next trip. 🇯🇵 Book Dom and the tour will be an experience
Best tour guide ever
R7755NDpamelae,,Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Dom was an excellent tour guide. Hiis English was perfect and his knowledge of the culture and history of Kyoto was amazing. Very informative, interesting and he was a delightful guide.
Informative and entertaining tour
439gustavg,,Sep 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
It was great fun to discover Kyoto together with Dominic. His tour is an entertaining mix of information about Japanese history, the life of the geishas in Gion, religion in Japan and interesting insights into Japanese everyday life. You can ask Dominic anything and always get an informative answer. We can only recommend this tour.
Highly recommend!
Samuel H,,Sep 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
One of the best tours I’ve ever been, Dominic was excellency! Extremely friendly and knowledgeable throughout the entire tour. He made the tour both fun and informative, answering any question and adding great local insights. Highly recommend him if you want a guide who goes above and beyond. Worth every penny.
Fantastic tour!
O9666ICpeterm,,Sep 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Thanks to Dominic, we got a lot of insights into life in Kyoto and especially the Gion quarter on our private walking tour. Dominic can be asked anything and gets extremely informed answers, also thanks to his personal Japan and Kyoto experiences. We enjoyed this entertaining afternoon with Dominic and his enthusiasm for “his” city is infectious.