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Must-See Kyoto with a Local Private and Personalized – Guide to Customized Tours
Heading to Kyoto, Japan, and wondering how to make the most of your time there? Instead of sticking to a strict itinerary, why not customize your own tour with a local who knows the city like the back of their hand? With the Must-See Kyoto with a Local Private and Personalized tour, you can do just that. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about this fully customized tour of Kyoto.Overview
Swap the rigid itineraries of typical sightseeing tours for a customized experience of Kyoto. After booking, you’ll be asked about your interests and personality to be paired with a like-minded host. As you explore Kyoto together on a tour that has been fully tailored to your preferences, you’ll get a local’s perspective and see places many tourists miss. With this private and personalized experience, you’ll have the flexibility to adjust the itinerary as you go, ensuring that you see the top Kyoto landmarks as well as hidden gems.What’s Included
The Must-See Kyoto with a Local Private and Personalized tour includes:- Private and personalized experience with a local host
- 7 hours of exploring Kyoto
- Walking experience (other transport can be arranged at an additional cost)
- Food and drinks
- Tickets to any attractions
- Transportation costs
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, which is located at the Underground Food Street inside Porta – 902番地 Higashishiokōjichō Shimogyo Ward Kyoto 600-8216 Japan; or you can request pickup from JR Kyoto station.Why Choose this Tour?
There are plenty of reasons to choose the Must-See Kyoto with a Local Private and Personalized tour. Here are just a few:Fully Customized Tour
One of the biggest advantages of this tour is that it is fully customized to your interests. Whether you want to explore historical landmarks or go off-the-beaten-path, your local host will help you create an itinerary that is tailored specifically to your preferences. You won’t have to worry about sticking to a strict schedule or missing out on what you want to see.Personalized Experience
Another advantage of this tour is that you’ll have a personalized experience. Your host will be matched with you based on your interests and personality, ensuring that you have a like-minded guide who can give you insider tips on the best places to visit. You’ll get a local’s perspective on what makes Kyoto so special.Flexibility to Adjust the Itinerary
With a fully customized tour, you’ll have the flexibility to adjust your itinerary as you go. If you stumble upon a hidden gem that you want to explore, you can do so without worrying about falling behind schedule. Your host will be open to making adjustments based on your interests and preferences.See Top Landmarks and Hidden Gems
Of course, this tour includes seeing the top landmarks of Kyoto, such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. However, you’ll also get to see some hidden gems that many tourists miss, such as local shops and restaurants, hidden shrines, and alleyways that are off-the-beaten-path.Final Thoughts
Overall, the Must-See Kyoto with a Local Private and Personalized tour is a fantastic way to explore the city on your own terms. With a local host, you’ll get insider knowledge on the best places to visit, and you’ll have the flexibility to adjust your itinerary as you go. If you’re looking for a personalized experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing tours, this is the tour for you. Book the tour here and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Kyoto.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kyoto
Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a city that is rich in culture, history, and tradition. It is also home to numerous temples, shrines, and other attractions that make it a popular tourist destination. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kyoto that you may find helpful as you plan your trip to this beautiful city.
1. What is the best time to visit Kyoto?
The best time to visit Kyoto is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists in the city. However, be sure to avoid the Golden Week holiday in late April and May and the Obon holiday in mid-August, as these times are very busy and expensive.
2. How do I get to Kyoto?
You can get to Kyoto by plane or train. The nearest airport is Kansai International Airport, which is about 75 minutes away by train. Alternatively, you can take a bullet train from Tokyo, Osaka, or other major cities in Japan. Kyoto Station is the main train station in the city, and it is serviced by both local and long-distance trains.
3. What are the must-see attractions in Kyoto?
There are many must-see attractions in Kyoto, including:
- The Fushimi Inari Shrine: Known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, this shrine is a popular pilgrimage site for visitors.
- The Kiyomizu Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its scenic views of Kyoto.
- The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A picturesque forest that is perfect for a peaceful walk.
- The Golden Pavilion: A temple covered in gold leaf that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kyoto.
- The Gion District: An area known for its traditional tea houses, geisha, and old-world charm.
4. What are some off-the-beaten-path attractions in Kyoto?
If you’re looking for something a little different, here are some off-the-beaten-path attractions worth checking out:
- The Philosopher’s Walk: A scenic path that runs alongside a canal and is lined with cherry trees.
- The Tofukuji Temple: A temple known for its beautiful autumn foliage.
- The Nishiki Market: A bustling food market that is popular with locals.
- The Daigoji Temple: A complex of temples and shrines that is located in a picturesque mountain setting.
5. What is the food like in Kyoto?
Kyoto is known for its traditional Japanese cuisine, which includes dishes like sushi, tempura, and tofu. There are also many local specialties, such as Kyoto-style shabu-shabu, which is a type of hot pot, and Yudofu, which is a dish made from boiled tofu. Be sure to try some of the delicious matcha sweets that are available throughout the city, as well.
6. What is the Kyoto accent like?
The Kyoto accent is known for being soft-spoken and elegant. It is also characterized by a distinctive rhythm and intonation.
7. What is the best way to get around Kyoto?
The best way to get around Kyoto is by public transportation. There are buses and subways that run throughout the city, as well as taxis and rental bikes. If you plan on visiting several attractions in one day, it may be worth buying a one-day bus pass, which will allow you to ride any bus in the city for a fixed price.
8. What is the nightlife like in Kyoto?
Kyoto has a relatively quiet nightlife, but there are still plenty of bars and restaurants that are open late. The Pontocho Alley is a popular spot for nightlife, with many bars offering traditional Japanese food and drink. You can also find live music venues and clubs, but they are not as common as in larger cities like Tokyo.
9. Is Kyoto safe for tourists?
Yes, Kyoto is generally safe for tourists. However, like any city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep an eye on your valuables.
10. What should I pack for a trip to Kyoto?
When packing for a trip to Kyoto, it is important to consider the season and the activities you plan on doing. Here are some essentials:
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- A light jacket or sweater (even in summer)
- A hat and sunglasses (for sunny days)
- A camera and spare batteries
- Cash (many places in Kyoto do not accept credit cards)
Book Your Tour Now
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, cuisine, or natural beauty, Kyoto has something to offer. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your trip to this fascinating city.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kyoto
Kyoto is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. With its rich cultural heritage, it has a lot to offer to tourists from around the world. Its stunning temples, gardens, and traditional architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto and wondering how to spend your time there, this guide is for you.1. Visit the Famous Temples
Kiyomizu-dera
Kiyomizu-dera is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site was first established in 798 and has been rebuilt several times since then. What makes Kiyomizu-dera unique is its location on a hillside with a stunning view of the city below. The temple complex has several buildings, including the Main Hall, which is known for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside. The temple is popular among locals and tourists alike, and it’s especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring and fall foliage season in autumn.Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji is another famous temple in Kyoto and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This temple is known for its stunning golden pavilion, which sits on the edge of a large pond. The pavilion is covered in gold leaf and reflects beautifully in the water. The temple was originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for a shogun, and it was later converted to a Zen temple. The surrounding gardens are also beautiful, with paths that lead through pine forests and a tea garden.2. Explore the Traditional Neighborhoods
Gion
Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture. This traditional neighborhood is filled with old wooden buildings, narrow streets, and traditional shops. You can also spot geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) walking around the streets, adding to the area’s charm. Gion is especially beautiful during the evening when the lanterns are lit, and you can see geisha and maiko hurrying to their appointments.Pontocho
Pontocho is another one of Kyoto’s traditional neighborhoods, and it’s known for its many restaurants and bars. The narrow alley is filled with traditional wooden buildings and lanterns, creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere. The best time to visit Pontocho is during the evening when the restaurants and bars are open, and you can enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the river flow by.3. Take a Stroll Through the Gardens
Kodai-ji Garden
Kodai-ji Garden is one of the most beautiful gardens in Kyoto, and it’s a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. The garden was built in the late 16th century by the wife of a famous samurai, and it’s known for its stunning autumn foliage. The garden is divided into several sections, including a pond garden, a tea garden, and a bamboo grove. The garden is especially beautiful during the evening when it’s illuminated by lanterns.Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s most famous attractions, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city. The bamboo grove is located in the western outskirts of the city and stretches for several kilometers. Walking through the grove is a magical experience, with tall bamboo stalks surrounding you on all sides.4. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine
The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves hiking. The shrine is located at the base of the Inari mountain and is famous for its thousands of torii gates, which form a tunnel that leads up to the mountaintop. The hike to the top takes around two hours, but it’s worth it for the stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.5. Try the Local Cuisine
Kyoto is famous for its traditional cuisine, and there are several dishes that you must try while you’re there. Some of the must-try dishes include:- Kyo Kaiseki Ryori – a traditional multi-course meal
- Soba noodles – Kyoto-style soba noodles are made with 100% buckwheat flour
- Tofu – Kyoto-style tofu is known for its delicate texture and flavor
- Yudofu – boiled tofu served in a hot pot with a dipping sauce
