Kyoto Gion & Higashiyama Free Walking Tour with a Japanese Local Guide
Overview
First time in Kyoto? This tour is the perfect introduction.
Discover the real Kyoto beyond temples and tourist spots with a local guide.
Many travelers say this was the highlight of their Kyoto trip.
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Explore Gion & Higashiyama while learning the meaning behind what you see — history, traditions, and Japanese culture in a simple and engaging way.
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About Your Guide
Led by Kazu Ashida, who has guided 7,000+ guests from 70+ countries.
Clear, easy-to-understand explanations. Interactive — ask anything.
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Geisha & Maiko Culture
Learn the real story behind geisha and maiko — history, training, and traditions without myths.
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❗ Important Note
This is NOT a geisha spotting tour.
Daytime tour → sightings are rare.
Focus: cultural understanding.
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Why Join
✔️ Perfect for first-time visitors
✔️ Simple cultural explanations
✔️ More than sightseeing
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What We Visit (2h)
* Shijo Bridge & Kamo River
* Minamiza Kabuki Theater
* Hanamikoji Street
* Yasaka Shrine & Maruyama Park
* Chion-in Temple
* Gion Shirakawa
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Understand Kyoto — not just see it.
This activity includes:
- Hanamikoji Street
- Minamiza Theater
- Maruyama Park
- Yasaka-jinja Shrine
- Chion-in
- Chionin Sanmon Gate
- Tohka Saikan - Main Shop
- Kankame Inari-jinja Shrine
- Kyoto Downtown Intersection (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
- Gion Komori
- Tatsumi-jinja Shrine (Tatsumi Dai-myojin)
- Otokozaka (Slope for Gentleman)
- Tatsumi Bridge
- Gion Shinbashi Bridge
- Takashimaya Kyoto S.C.
- Edion - Kyoto Kawaramachi Main Store
- English Speaking Guide
Our Guides
On arrival
The meeting point is the 2-B entrance of Hankyu Railway Kyoto Kawaramachi Station.
There is a 2-B entrance on the ground at the southeast corner of the intersection of Shijo-dori and Kawaramachi-dori.
The landmark is a large store called EDION.
The Japanese guide in charge will be waiting for you, holding a red cloth or other landmark.
Things to note
Tours will continue as scheduled, even in the event of bad weather.
However, please note that if the guide determines that it is dangerous to proceed due to thunderstorms, heavy snow, or other natural disasters on the day of the tour, we may prioritize the safety of all participants and cancel the tour.
Cancellation policy
You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.
