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Kyoto StationCulture & history

Our most recommended Kyoto Station Culture & history

From Kyoto: Guided Day Trip to Kyoto and Nara with Lunch

1. From Kyoto: Guided Day Trip to Kyoto and Nara with Lunch

Start your journey with a train ride from JR Kyoto Station to Arashiyama, accompanied by your expert guide. The bamboo grove of Arashiyama has been a popular nature-viewing destination since the Heian Period. Take a stroll through the cool Sagano Bamboo Forest and listen to the distinct rustle of bamboo leaves as you walk. Later, drive through Kyoto proper and arrive at Kinkaku-ji: the Golden Pavilion. Admire picturesque views of the grand temple reflected in the mirror-like pond it overlooks, and then wander through the sprawling garden that has retained its original design from the 14th century. After Kinkaku-ji, board your bus again and head south to Nara. Take a short walk through Nara Park, famous for the 1,200 or so wild deer that live freely within the park. These deer are famously very friendly, and allow visitors to feed them by hand. Within Nara Park you will find the Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your tour guide will give you your train ticket to then go back to Kyoto Station.

PERFECT KYOTO 1Day Bus Tour

2. PERFECT KYOTO 1Day Bus Tour

Discover Kyoto's must-see landmarks and World Heritages on the deluxe coach in 1day! In this tour we will take you to most famous places in ancient Kyoto such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Sanju-san-gen-do Temple, Arashiyama, Sagano Bamboo Forest, Tenryuji Temple, Golden Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Departing from Kyoto at 8am. A comfortable air-conditioned coach will stop first at the Kiyomizudera Temple. Enjoying the wealthy nature from the significant terrace where you can admire panoramic views of the city below. Kiyomizudera Temple is one of the can't-miss points of interest in Kyoto. The old historic temple, reportedly opened in the year 778, is a designated world heritage site. Then we will visit Sanju-san-gen-do Temple, the Temple is also known as the temple of 33 spaces (Sanjusan means "33" in Japanese ), though its official name is Rengo-In. Its hall is Japan's longest wooden structure and consists of 35 columns that divide the building into 33 parts. Let's Say Konnichiwa to one thousand and one Kannon statue at Sanju-san-gen-do Temple, then the coach will take you to the Sagano Arashiyama area. After Explore east side of Kyoto, we will visit the other side, Sagano Arashiyama. Enjoy a Japanese buffet made with seasonal ingredients while gazing at Arashiyama's Togetsukyo Bridge.The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama's well known, central landmark. Many small shops, restaurants and other attractions are found nearby *Muslim-friendly meals, Allergy-friendly meals, lactose-free meals, etc. are not available. Please book the tour without lunch After lunch don’t forget to explore green tunnels, Sagano Bamboo Forest. The paths that cut through the bamboo groves make for a nice walk. The groves are particularly attractive when there is a light wind and the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. You can find Tenryu-ji Temple after passing through the bamboo grove. Feel the beauty of the Japanese garden throughout the four seasons at Tenryu-ji Temple, which is also registered as a World Heritage Site. Then the bus head to Kinkaku-ji(The Golden Temple) Rokuon-ji Temple, known locally as the "Golden Temple" and adore the gorgeousness and return to Kyoto with satisfaction. Finally, head to the most iconic place, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Going under thousands of Torii Red gate tunnels will be a memorable experience. You will finish the tour at Kyoto Station. The tour includes commentary from both our frendly tour guide and a Multilingual audio guide from English, French, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Thai, Indonesian, and Ukrainian. The coach is always antibacterial coating and regularly ventilation, a comfy airconditioned bus with free wifi.

Atmospheric Tour of Uji's Tea, Nature, and Spirituality

3. Atmospheric Tour of Uji's Tea, Nature, and Spirituality

Explore the nuances of Kyoto's most famous tea-producing area on an intimate tour of Uji with a native or native equivalent English-speaking guide. Learn not only about the intricacies of tea but also the engaging local history. Just a little off the beaten path (around 30-minutes by local train from central Kyoto points such as the Gion or Kyoto Station areas), Uji packs in breathtaking views of the river and mountains. Uji also houses not one, but two UNESCO world heritage sites within a 10-minute walk of each other. All of this, and with far less people than you'd typically find canvassing the well worn paths of central Kyoto. Begin your journey at the world's oldest teahouse still operating since 1160 AD. Learn how one vassal to a famous Samurai warrior became the head of a family that has run the shop for 24 generations. Then, go down the street for a special tea drinking experience with the highest grade green tea. Learn how it's grown and what makes it special before seeing how to brew it and change its flavor profile. Once you've savored a few cups, mix the remaining tea leaves with ponzu sauce and eat them as is. Afterwards, go into the lush green of the mountain to the oldest original Shinto Shrine in Japan that houses Uji's guardian deities - and also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by nature, Ujigami Shrine also houses the last remaining source of natural spring water that many tea houses still collect to brew their tea with. Step inside the stone grotto and purify yourself with the water. From there, cross the majestic river to the pilgrimage path leading to Byodo-in Temple, which is lined with tea shops going back as far as the medieval period. Immerse yourself in the sites and smells of this bustling street. In addition to tea and nature, this tour also features a visit to Byodo-in, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage temple with a superlative, modern museum (admission included), and see how all the dots with the samurai, tea shops, and religion connect at the breathtaking Phoenix Hall. Afterwards, end your tea journey back in nature by exploring Koshoji Temple, which dramatically hugs the mountains and invites you to get in some Zen before wrapping up you day.

Kyoto Highlights 7-Hour Private Guided Tour

4. Kyoto Highlights 7-Hour Private Guided Tour

During this 7-hour tour, your private guide will show you around the city of Kyoto on a visit to 4 major must-see attractions. There are 2 different routes available: a northwest-bound route and a southeast-bound route. If you choose to take both tours, you can visit 8 different locations at a relaxing pace. The tour starts out at 09:00 from the Hotel Granvia Kyoto in the JR Kyoto Station building. When booking you are requested to select either the northwest-bound or the southeast-bound itinerary. On the northwest-bound tour you’ll visit the Bamboo Grove, the Rock Garden (Ryoanji Temple), the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle or the Nishiki Market. The southeast-bound tour visits the Sake Brewery, the Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Sanjusangendo Temple, the Kiyomizudera Temple and the Ninenzaka or Sannenzaka Slope. The tour ends at 16:00 near the Gion area, the geisha district of Kyoto.

Arashiyama: Guided Walking Tour with Local Guide

5. Arashiyama: Guided Walking Tour with Local Guide

Arashiyama is renowned for its captivating natural beauty, adorned with scattered temples and shrines that have transformed it into one of Kyoto's most sought-after destinations. Our adventure begins with a visit to a Zen temple boasting exquisite gardens, followed by a leisurely stroll through the enchanting bamboo forest, culminating in a scenic riverside promenade. Join us at Kyoto Station, where our journey commences. Entrust your luggage to our station office, giving you the freedom to explore the city unburdened. Upon your return, collect your belongings or opt for convenient delivery to your Kyoto accommodations. Embark on a train voyage guided by Kyoto's official emissaries, soaking in local customs shared by your knowledgeable guide. Discover the distinguished Tenryuji Temple, a paramount Zen sanctuary, as its history comes alive through captivating narration. Continue to the bamboo forest, capturing its allure in photographs, and conclude with a serene walk to the picturesque Togetsu-kyo Bridge. Our odyssey concludes in Arashiyama, yet the memories and insights will linger. Don't forget to heed our local guides' recommendations, ensuring you make the most of Arashiyama's treasures and its surroundings.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine: Guided Walking Tour with Guide

6. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine: Guided Walking Tour with Guide

Experience one of Kyoto's premier attractions as we delve into the renowned Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Its awe-inspiring architecture and iconic Torii gates form an unforgettable spectacle. Following this enchanting shrine visit, our journey leads to a serene Zen temple with captivating gardens. Join us at Kyoto Station, where our journey commences. Entrust your luggage to our station office, giving you the freedom to explore the city unburdened. Upon your return, collect your belongings or opt for convenient delivery to your Kyoto accommodations. Embark on a train voyage guided by Kyoto's official emissaries, soaking in local customs shared by your knowledgeable guide, a beacon of sustainability through public transport. Embark on a journey to Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, where the mesmerizing Senbon Torii gates paint a path of wonder. From there, venture to the hidden sanctuary of Komyoin Temple, adorned with Zen Gardens that whisper tales of serenity. Concluding in the Fushimi Inari area or JR Tofukuji Station, don't miss the chance to gather local recommendations for further exploration.

Kyoto: Guided Walking Tour of Fushimi with Private Option

7. Kyoto: Guided Walking Tour of Fushimi with Private Option

Get to know the Fushimi area of Kyoto with a local guide. Choose between a public or private tour and visit the district's must-see highlights like the Fushimi Inari shrine. See the cherry blossom by the canal before sampling sake from local distilleries and tasting some Japanese sweet treats. Meet your guide by the Kyoto Avanti Mall and head to a local favorite food spot to try a traditional taiyaki, a fish-shaped waffle filled with red bean paste or custard cream. Learn about the history of the area from your local guide, and stop by the famous Fushimi Inari Shinto shrine. Visit the former sake distillery of Gekkeikan, the first distillery to export Japanese alcohol overseas, and hear about Japan's sake culture. Next, take in the unique beauty of the Fushimi district as you walk along the famous canal, which is lined with cherry blossoms in the spring and summer. Learn about important moments in Japanese history, including the story of the significant battle which led to the beginning of the Meiji Restoration. Continue to the Teradaya Inn and discover the story of Sakamoto Ryoma, one of the most important figures in Japanese history. Finally, explore the traditional market stalls of Ryoma shopping street. Make one last stop at a local food spot to taste some traditional Japanese sweets, get a coffee, and talk about the tour. Finish the day at Kyoto station.

Audio Guide Tour: Unveiling Kyoto Station Surroundings

8. Audio Guide Tour: Unveiling Kyoto Station Surroundings

This is a self-guided tour (audio guide) using an app. *English audio guide *You can listen to it at home, on the go, anywhere *No ticket redemption required *This is not an official audio guide *Please do not make direct inquiries to the facility regarding this audio guide *Audio guides are available for purchase regardless of facility opening hours. However, if you go to there, please check the opening hours on the official website(not GetYourGuide). ■What can you hear in the audio guide? The audio guide will introduce you to the captivating cultural landmarks surrounding Kyoto Station. Start at the station itself, a display of Japan's architectural prowess, before moving to the iconic Kyoto Tower, symbolizing the city's harmonious balance between modernity and tradition. Dive into the spiritual tranquility of Higashi Honganji and Nishi Honganji, two influential Buddhist temples, and listen to their rich histories and teachings. Find a peaceful retreat at Shosei-en Garden, a city-center oasis with its stunning landscapes. End your journey at To-ji Temple Flea Market, where spirituality, commerce, and local Kyoto culture converge. Experience Kyoto in its authentic form with us. ■HOW TO USE 1.After purchase, we will send a message to your email address registered with getyourguide. 2.From the URL in the message, please select "Listen on the app" or "Browse on Web". 3.You can listen to the audio guide. Audio guide time: 52 minutes Number of guides: 21

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What people are saying about Kyoto Station

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 396 reviews

After an already-wonderful tour of Kyoto’s Imperial gardens and Nijo Castle, knowing that Mardi was going to be our guide again meant that this was going to be another incredible trip. Once again, she actively listened and started to tweak the tour to our preferences: we skipped one of the temples in order to relax and grab some matcha soba at one of the oldest teahouses in the world, calmly overlooking a river that once provided trade access to the vivid green bounties of Uji. At Byodo-in Temple, the museum focused on Buddhist spirituality, and the powerful imagery and ancient artefacts combined with Mardi’s quiet yet enthusiastic storytelling made for a surreal experience. Once again, thanks Kevin and Mardi for fantastic service from start to finish.

The trip took us to beautiful and impressive places. We were highly impressed by our first guide Satoshi - he spoke advanced English and was quite knowledgeable and kind. The second guide Kan was very friendly and caring. The activity provider was also extremely kind and thoughtful in preparing a small surprise for my boyfriend who had a birthday on the day of our trip. The trip can be booked with a starting point Kyoto or Osaka, I think Osaka is the better option, discuss it with the activity provider.