How to Plan Your Kyoto Early Bird Tour

Kyoto is a beautiful city in Japan, filled with rich cultural heritage, beautiful landmarks, and exquisite food. It is one of the most popular destinations in Japan which attracts over 50 million visitors annually. However, with so many tourists flocking to the city, it’s not always easy to have a good experience. Touring with a guide equipped to handle the crowd can not only make the experience easier but also more enjoyable. That’s where the Kyoto Early Bird Tour comes in. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan and book a successful Kyoto Early Bird Tour.

Overview of the Kyoto Early Bird Tour

The Kyoto Early Bird Tour is a guided tour that starts in the early morning to help you avoid the crowds and make the most of your day. The tour will take you to three of the top attractions in Kyoto: Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The early-morning departure ensures that you get to stroll around the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before the crowds start to arrive. You will then visit the Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) right as it opens, getting breathtaking views of the temple in the morning light. Finally, you’ll walk through the torii gates of Fushimi Inari (Shrine) before the midday heat. The tour will conclude before midday, leaving you with the rest of the day to explore Kyoto on your own.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The tour includes the following: – Guide fee – Admission fees (400yen @Kinkaku-ji Temple) – Drink and Food – Transportation fare (760 yen for JR Lines, 460 yen for City Bus) These inclusions will make your tour experience exceptional, and the cost is well worth it.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point for the tour is Kyoto Station, Kyoto, Japan. This activity ends back at the meeting point, so you don’t have to worry about transportation arrangements after the tour is over.

What To Expect

Here’s what you can expect on this tour: 1. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine: Take an hour-long stroll around the Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Japan’s most popular Shinto shrine. This shrine is known for its thousands of torii gates painted in bright vermillion, made even more beautiful in the peaceful early morning light. 2. Kinkakuji Temple: Visit the Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) just as it opens to get stunning views of the temple in the morning light. The temple is a Zen Buddhist temple, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. 3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: take a stroll through the picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a natural forest of bamboo located in the outskirts of Kyoto. The tour group arrives at the grove before the usual throngs of tourists, making the experience tranquil and magical.

How to Book the Tour

To book the Kyoto Early Bird Tour, visit Viator’s website and book here: book the tour here.

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Overall, the Kyoto Early Bird Tour is a great way to experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto without the crowds. It is an excellent choice if you want to have an authentic experience while still getting guided access to some of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. With this blog post, you now know how to plan and book a successful tour for yourself. We hope you have a fantastic time touring Kyoto!

Frequently Asked Questions About Kyoto

Kyoto is a city in Japan that boasts a rich cultural heritage, beautiful temples and shrines, as well as delicious culinary delights. It is no wonder that it has become a popular destination for tourists around the world. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Kyoto.

1. What is the best time to visit Kyoto?

Kyoto is a beautiful city to visit all year round, but the best time to visit really depends on your interests. If you want to experience the beautiful cherry blossom season, the best time to visit Kyoto is during late March to early April. During this time, the city is adorned with beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in shades of pink and white. If you prefer to visit during a cooler season, then the best time would be during Autumn (October and November) when the leaves change color, and offer a picturesque view.

2. How do I get to Kyoto?

Kyoto is accessible by air, train, and bus. If you are coming from overseas, the nearest airport would be Kansai International Airport (KIX). From KIX, you can take a train or a bus to Kyoto. If you are traveling domestically, you can take a Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto from Tokyo, Osaka or Hiroshima. Additionally, there are buses that run between major cities and Kyoto.

3. What are some must-visit tourist attractions in Kyoto?

Kyoto is home to a plethora of beautiful tourist attractions, and it is hard to only name a few, but some of the must-visit places include:

• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
• Kiyomizu-dera
• Fushimi Inari-Taisha
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
• Nanzen-ji
• Ryoan-ji
• Nijo Castle

4. What are the best places to try local delicacies in Kyoto?

Kyoto is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can try local delicacies. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Kaiseki Ryori (multi-course Japanese meal)
• Yudofu (boiled tofu)
• Takoyaki (octopus balls)
• Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancake)
• Matcha (green tea) everything – lattes, ice creams and cakes.
• Sake (rice wine)

5. Is it necessary to learn Japanese before visiting Kyoto?

While learning some Japanese phrases can certainly enhance your experience in Kyoto, it is not necessary to know the language. Most tourist attractions, hotels, and restaurants have English-speaking staff, and you can get by with English.

6. What is the best way to get around Kyoto?

Kyoto has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains, so getting around is convenient. A day bus pass allows unlimited travel on the Kyoto City Bus and costs 600 yen for adults, while a one-day subway pass costs 600 yen. If you prefer to explore Kyoto at a leisurely pace and admire the scenery up-close, cycling is a popular option. You can rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops around the city, and prices start from around 1,000 yen per day.

7. What are some lesser-known places to visit in Kyoto?

Kyoto has so much to offer beyond the famous attractions. If you have time, be sure to check out these lesser-known places:

• Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
• Tofuku-ji Temple
• Sanjusangendo Hall
• Kurama-dera Temple
• Kyoto International Manga Museum

8. How many days should I spend in Kyoto?

Ideally, you should spend at least 3 to 4 days to explore Kyoto in-depth. This will give you enough time to visit most of the famous tourist attractions, as well as some hidden gems.

9. What is the currency used in Kyoto, and where can I exchange money?

The currency used in Kyoto is the Japanese yen. There are many currency exchange booths located around the city, typically located near major tourist spots and train stations. Additionally, most convenience stores (such as 7-eleven) have ATM machines that accept international debit cards.

10. Is Kyoto safe for tourists?

Kyoto is generally a very safe city, and crime rates are relatively low. However, it is always important to keep your valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

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Kyoto is a city that is rich in culture and has something to offer for everyone. From its beautiful temples and shrines to its delicious cuisine, there is so much to explore and discover in Kyoto. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Kyoto is definitely worth a visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kyoto

Kyoto, known for its rich history and cultural importance, is a city in Japan that every traveler must visit at least once in their lifetime. From its famous temples and shrines to its traditional Japanese cuisines, Kyoto has a lot to offer to its visitors. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Kyoto.

1. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most famous attractions in Kyoto. This shrine is known for its thousands of orange torii gates that form a path up the mountain. The path to the top of the mountain is relatively easy and can take around 2-3 hours to complete. The view from the top of the mountain is stunning, giving a panoramic view of the city.

2. Explore the Kinkaku-ji Temple

The Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a Zen temple in Kyoto. This temple has an astonishingly beautiful golden pavilion that is surrounded by a small pond. The surrounding garden and landscape make this attraction even more beautiful. This temple is a must-visit location when visiting Kyoto.

3. Stroll Around the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a peaceful and serene destination filled with bamboo trees that can reach up to 30 meters in height. The bamboo grove offers a unique experience with paths that allow people to stroll through the grove. The light coming through the bamboo trees makes dope patterns, providing an opportunity for great photos or videos.

4. Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple

The Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an old Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto. This temple is renowned for its wooden terrace as it offers a beautiful view of the city of Kyoto. The temple has an excellent history, and its wooden terrace was built without using a single nail. A unique experience when visiting Japan.

5. Take a walk in the Gion district

The Gion district is a traditional district in Kyoto, famous for its geishas and their traditional entertainment. Taking a stroll through the streets of the Gion district is like being transported back in time. The streets are lined with traditional Japanese architecture and small shops, complimenting a traditional Japanese experience.

6. Do some shopping at Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market is a street market located in the heart of Kyoto, famous for its food stalls and shops. The market offers a variety of goods ranging from snacks such as dried seafood and soy sauce to traditional Japanese arts and crafts. One can find almost anything in this market, which makes it a must-visit location for those looking to buy unique and traditional Japanese souvenirs.

7. Enjoy traditional Japanese food

Kyoto is famous for its traditional Japanese cuisine. A great way to indulge in these cuisines is to go to traditional Japanese restaurants and try out the local delicacies. Some of the traditional foods in Kyoto include Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal, and Matcha, traditional Japanese green tea. A culinary adventure awaits anyone that chooses to explore the rich flavors of Kyoto.

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Kyoto is a destination that offers a unique blend of rich culture, history, and a modern city. Its ancient temples, traditional cuisine, and serene surroundings make for an unforgettable experience. This list is only to give you a taste of what Kyoto has to offer. There are many more destinations and attractions in Kyoto worth exploring, making this city an excellent place to add to your travel list.