How to Plan Your Kyoto Early Bird Tour

Kyoto is known for its historical landmarks, traditional culture, and incredible cuisine, making it one of Japan’s most popular travel destinations. With over 50 million annual visitors, it’s no surprise that the city can get busy. That’s why the Kyoto Early Bird Tour is the perfect way to avoid the crowds and see more of the city in a shorter amount of time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan your own Kyoto Early Bird Tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Kyoto Early Bird Tour is a guided tour that takes you to three of the city’s top attractions – the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), and Fushimi Inari Shrine. The tour starts early in the morning, so you can avoid the crowds and make the most of your day. The tour guide will lead you to these landmarks and provide information about their history and significance as you go.

Details of the Tour

The tour includes admission fees, a guide fee, and transportation fares for the JR lines and city bus. The cost of admission to Kinkaku-ji Temple is 400 yen, which is included in the tour. The tour does not include food or drinks, so be sure to bring some of your own or purchase them along the way.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Kyoto Station. The tour starts early in the morning, so be sure to arrive at the meeting point on time. The tour guide will be waiting for you at the designated meeting spot, and from there, you’ll travel to the first attraction.

Attractions on the Tour

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a stunning natural landmark located in western Kyoto. The grove is filled with towering bamboo stalks that create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The tour starts at the grove, and you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the bamboo forest before the crowds arrive.

Kinkaku-ji Temple

Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is an iconic landmark in Kyoto. The temple is covered in gold leaf and is surrounded by a tranquil pond and garden. The tour will visit the temple right as it opens, providing stunning views of the temple in the morning light.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

The final stop on the tour is Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is famous for its thousands of torii gates. The tour will arrive at the shrine before the midday heat, allowing you to walk through the gates and enjoy the beautiful scenery without the crowds.

Book Your Tour Now

The Kyoto Early Bird Tour is the perfect way to see the best of Kyoto while avoiding the crowds. With a knowledgeable guide to lead the way, you’ll be able to experience the city’s top attractions and have the afternoon free to explore on your own. Don’t miss out on this incredible tour – book your spot today here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kyoto

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a city that is steeped in history and culture. Its temples, shrines, and traditional streetscapes have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. In this post, we will answer some frequently asked questions about Kyoto.

1. What is Kyoto known for?

Kyoto is known for its rich history and culture, which is reflected in its numerous temples, shrines, and traditional streetscapes. It is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Arashiyama bamboo forest and the Katsura River.

2. What are the must-visit temples and shrines in Kyoto?

Kyoto is home to many temples and shrines, but some of the must-visit ones include: – Kiyomizu-dera: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is famous for its stunning views of Kyoto from its veranda. – Fushimi Inari Shrine: Known for its thousands of torii gates, this shrine is one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto. – Kinkaku-ji: Also known as the Golden Pavilion, this temple is famous for its beautiful gold leaf exterior. – Ginkaku-ji: Also known as the Silver Pavilion, this temple is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.

3. What is the best time to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons, when the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are in full bloom. However, be aware that these seasons are also the busiest times of the year, so be prepared for crowds and high prices.

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

The best way to get around Kyoto is by public transportation, including buses and trains. The Kyoto City Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, and there are also several train lines that connect the city to other parts of Japan. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive.

5. What are the best places to eat in Kyoto?

Kyoto is known for its traditional Japanese cuisine, including sushi, ramen, and kaiseki (multi-course meals). Some of the best places to eat in Kyoto include: – Nishiki Market: A food market with over 130 shops and restaurants selling traditional Kyoto cuisine. – Pontocho Alley: A narrow alley lined with traditional Japanese restaurants and bars. – Kikunoi: A Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in kaiseki cuisine.

6. What are the best souvenirs to buy in Kyoto?

Kyoto is known for its traditional crafts, including lacquerware, pottery, and textiles. Some of the best souvenirs to buy in Kyoto include: – Yatsuhashi: A traditional Kyoto sweet made from glutinous rice flour and sugar. – Kiyomizu-yaki: Hand-painted pottery made in the Kiyomizu area of Kyoto. – Nishijin-ori: Traditional Kyoto textiles made from silk or other fabrics.

7. What are some off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Kyoto?

While Kyoto is known for its famous temples and shrines, there are also many off-the-beaten-path places worth visiting, including: – Tofuku-ji: A temple with stunning gardens and a famous autumn foliage display. – Kurama: A small town north of Kyoto that is home to a beautiful mountain shrine and hot springs. – Ohara: A rural village surrounded by mountains and known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful temples.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto is a city that is full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in visiting its famous temples and shrines, sampling its delicious cuisine, or exploring its off-the-beaten-path areas, there is something for everyone in Kyoto. We hope that this FAQ has been helpful in planning your trip to this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kyoto

Kyoto is a beautiful and historic city in Japan that offers tourists a plethora of things to see and do. From shrines and temples to gardens and museums, there is something for everyone in Kyoto. In this guide, we will go over some of the best ways to spend your time in Kyoto and make the most out of your trip.

1. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most popular and iconic destinations in Kyoto. This shrine is well-known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that form an impressive tunnel. Visitors can hike through the gates to the mountaintop and enjoy stunning views of the city. The hike to the peak takes around two to three hours, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and pack plenty of water.

2. Explore the Kinkaku-ji Temple

Kinkaku-ji Temple is also known as the Golden Pavilion due to its stunning gold leaf exterior. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in the beauty of the temple, which is surrounded by a peaceful pond and a picturesque garden. The temple is particularly striking when the sun is setting, as the golden exterior is reflected in the water.

3. Stroll Through the Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama

The Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama is a serene and tranquil place to visit. The towering bamboo trees create a calming atmosphere and provide a great opportunity for photos. Visitors can also stroll through the nearby gardens and temples, making for a full day of sightseeing.

4. Visit Nijo Castle

Nijo Castle is an impressive structure that was built in the 17th century. It served as the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns and was also used as an imperial palace. Visitors can explore the castle’s gardens, architecture, and artifacts, which provide insight into Japan’s feudal past.

5. Enjoy the View from Kiyomizudera Temple

Kiyomizudera Temple is another iconic destination in Kyoto. The temple is perched on the side of a hill and offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can also explore the temple’s buildings and gardens, and even drink from the temple’s famous Otowa Waterfall.

6. Sample Kyoto’s Cuisine

Kyoto is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which includes sushi, ramen, and tofu dishes. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of Kyoto’s many restaurants, or even take a cooking class to learn more about the food and ingredients.

7. Attend a Tea Ceremony

The Japanese tea ceremony is a cultural tradition that dates back centuries. Visitors can attend a tea ceremony in Kyoto to learn more about the ritual and the significance of the tea. There are many tea houses throughout the city that offer tea ceremonies, so make sure to book in advance.

8. Go Shopping in Kyoto

Kyoto is home to many unique and traditional markets, where visitors can find souvenirs and local goods. Nishiki Market and Teramachi-dori Shopping Arcade are two popular destinations for shopping in Kyoto.

9. Take in the Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossom season in Kyoto is a must-see for tourists. The blooms typically occur in late March or early April and transform the city into a pink wonderland. Visitors can take a stroll through Maruyama Park, which is known for its stunning cherry blossoms and nighttime illuminations.

10. Visit a Onsen

Onsens, or natural hot springs, are a popular attraction in Kyoto. Visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters and enjoy the serene surroundings. There are many onsens throughout Kyoto, catering to different budgets and preferences. In conclusion, Kyoto is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, nature, culture, or food, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in Kyoto. Make sure to plan ahead and prioritize the destinations that interest you the most, as there is so much to see and do in this beautiful city.