Kyoto Heritage Path - From Fushimi Inari's Mystery to Kiyomizu Temple Majesty

Kyoto is undoubtedly one of the most famous cities in Japan. Unlike the modern urban atmosphere of Tokyo and Osaka, Kyoto represents the image of traditional Japan for many visitors. More than just a symbol, Kyoto is one of the oldest municipalities in Japan and served as the capital of Japan and residence of the Emperor from 794 to 1868. Today, it is home to countless temples, shrines, and historic landmarks that continue to preserve the city's rich heritage. With so much to explore and experience, Kyoto is a destination worth spending several days discovering.

This tour focuses on eastern Kyoto, an area that was at the heart of the cultural flourishing known as Higashiyama Culture during the 15th century. Many of Kyoto's most famous historic districts and landmarks can be found here. The Gion entertainment district, located near Yasaka Shrine, and the cobblestone streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka leading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu-dera have been carefully preserved to maintain their traditional character.

Wander through narrow streets and hidden alleys while discovering beautiful gardens, majestic shrines, and dazzling temples. Experience the atmosphere of old Kyoto and gain a deeper appreciation for the history, culture, and traditions that continue to shape the city today.

Highlights

• Visit some of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks, including Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the historic Gion district.
• Walk through thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari, one of Japan's most famous and photogenic shrines.
• Explore Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," and enjoy free time to sample local specialties for lunch.
• Discover Kyoto's Zen heritage at Kennin-ji Temple, the city's oldest Zen temple, and admire the beautiful dry landscape gardens of Kodai-ji Temple.
• Stroll through the preserved streets of Gion, Ninenzaka, and Sannenzaka, where traditional Kyoto can still be experienced today.
• Learn about Kyoto's history, culture, religion, and daily life from an experienced English-speaking guide.

Description

Our journey begins at 09:00 at JR Kyoto Station. The first destination is Fushimi Inari Shrine. The highlight of this shrine is the row of torii gates called Senbon Torii. The custom of donating torii gates has spread since the Edo period as a way to make wishes come true, or to express gratitude for having a wish come true. To this day, successive torii gates have been built by donors to show their gratitude. Approximately 800 torii gates line the approach.

After spending some time at the shrine, we will head to the city centre and visit the Nishiki market. The market, which is steeped in history and tradition, is known for stocking many of Kyoto's specialties, and is home to approximately 130 stores selling a wide range of produce, fish, dried goods, and more, earning it the nickname "Kyoto's Kitchen." It is your lunch time! If you don't want to have lunch inside the market, you can also eat at a restaurant around the city centre. There are many food options. 

Once you have had your fill of delicious food, our afternoon begins with Kenninji Temple. Kenninji claims to be Kyoto's oldest Zen temple. Zen Master Eisai, who is said to have brought Zen to Japan, served as the founding chief priest of Kennin-ji Temple and is buried within the temple grounds. Kennin-ji Temple was built in the style of Baizhang-ji Temple of the Tang Dynasty in China.

After some quiet time, we are ready to return to the crowded centre. As you pass through the Gion area, you will see all the old buildings of Kyoto's old entertainment district, allowing you to imagine what it was like in its heyday. We walk slowly through this area until we reach our next destination, Kodaiji Temple. It was built in 1606 by Hideyoshi's wife Nene in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of the great figures in Japanese history.

It is almost time to say goodbye. Our final destination is Kiyomizu temple. Its name comes from the waterfall within the complex that cascades down from a nearby hill. Shimizu means clear or pure water. This temple was founded in 778 in the late Nara period by Enchin Shonin, a monk from Nara. Many of the current temple buildings were built in 1633 by order of Tokugawa Iemitsu.

We will return to JR Kyoto Station together to say goodbye. However, if you would like to spend the rest of your day in the city centre, you are more than welcome. We will do our best to help you have a wonderful time in Kyoto.

Meetup Points

Kyoto Tower Sando Starbucks @ 09:00

Meet-Up Location: Starbucks Coffee — Kyoto Tower Sando (just outside Kyoto Tower)

Directions:

• Exit Kyoto Station via the Central (Chūō) Exit on the north side of the station.
• Walk straight ahead across the bus terminal and pass the traffic lights in front of Kyoto Tower.
• The Starbucks is on the first floor of the Kyoto Tower Sando commercial building, right beside the tower entrance.

Look for the familiar green logo at the base of the tower—we’ll be waiting there with a “Snow Monkey Resorts” sign.

Notes

• The times listed in the itinerary are for reference only and the actual tour may vary depending on actual conditions such as weather and trains.
• This is a walking tour that takes you outdoors for hours. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. Please bring sunshade and rain protection if necessary.
• If you feel uncomfortable during the tour, please let us know. We will do our best to help you.
• This tour includes free time. We will make sure you know when and where to meet again. If you get lost or forget your meeting point, please call us immediately.

Included

• Entrance fees for each spot during the tour
• Train tickets required for the tour 
• Guided tour with an English speaking guide

Excluded

• Food and drinks
• Transportation costs before and after the tour