Backstreets of Higashiyama
Discover Higashiyama - Kyoto's Cultural and Historical Heart
* Spend the day exploring the backstreets of Higashiyama, home to some of Kyoto's finest temples and gardens * Visit Japan's longest wooden building and its incredible 1,001 Kannon statues * Get lost in the cobbled streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka and step back into the Japan of old * Marvel at the impressive wooden architecture and inner zen gardens of Chion-in and Nanzen-ji temples * Learn the history behind Heian shrine and its deep connection to Kyoto * Explore Suirokaku, an ancient aqueduct that has provided Kyoto's water for over a century * Soak up the beauty of the Philosopher's path and meet its friendly local artisans
Filled with the highest concentration of temples, shrines and gardens of any part of the city, Higashiyama has been charming visitors for centuries. If you only have one day to explore Kyoto, this guided walk comes highly recommended.
We begin the day by exploring Sanjusangendo, one of Kyoto’s most fascinating temples, to learn about its unique relationship with both Hinduism and Buddhism while marvelling at the 1,001 Kannon statues housed in Japan’s longest wooden building – a truly impressive sight!
From there we make our way through the beautiful cobbled streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, home to Kyoto’s best preserved neighbourhood, to learn about its captivating history while taking time to appreciate Yasaka pagoda, the surrounding artisans shops and also sample some of Kyoto’s tastiest street food. We then take the quiet backstreets to Maruyama park, particularly pretty in cherry blossom season, before calling in to Chion-in to discover its imposing gates and exquisite inner temples.
After taking lunch, we head to Heian shrine to experience the special connection this area has with the city then make our way to Nanzen-ji temple complex to explore its incredible architecture and beautiful zen gardens. The views of the nearby sub-temples and lush Higashiyama mountains from the top of Nanzen-ji’s 17th century gate are always a highlight, particularly in spring and autumn! We also take in Kyoto’s most famous aqueduct, a true engineering phenomenon, before finishing with a stroll along the picturesque Philosopher’s Path to discover the area’s traditional craft shops and meet the friendly store owners.
Tour Pricing & Inclusions
- Accommodation meet and greet
- Expert bilingual private guide
- World Heritage temples and gardens
- Local spots and hidden gems
- Option to customise
The above price is the private guide fee for up to 5 people, not per person. For groups of 6 or more, please enquire
The price does not include transportation or temple and garden entrance fees for guests and the guide
We can provide an estimate of these costs and any customised options upon request
Lunch is additional and we will recommend some excellent local options to suit your tastes and dietary requirements
As this is a private walking tour, we can adjust the pace and duration to suit your needs, but please let us know of any mobility issues
Please note our cancellation policy under ‘FAQs’ and we ask all guests to have comprehensive travel insurance
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