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Private tour in Kyoto Shafi N
Introduction to Kyoto City (Half-day)
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4 hours
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4 hours
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Shafi N.
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I believe every traveler deserves to experience Kyoto in a way that’s authentic, meaningful, and stress-free. My goal is to make your time here unforgettable; filled with local stories, hidden gems, and the peaceful charm that makes Kyoto so special. I’ve been proud to call Kyoto my home since moving with my family five years ago. Originally I came here to pursue my Master’s degree at Doshisha University, a renown private university in the north side of Kyoto with a campus full of beautiful architecture. I’m now a Ph.D. student at the same university researching culture, governance, and society. Living and studying in Kyoto has allowed me to see the city not just as a visitor, but as someone who truly understands its rhythm, traditions, and people. Before coming to Japan, I worked for nearly seven years in various public service and government roles, where I learned the value of communication, hospitality, and understanding different cultures. Those experiences now help me connect warmly with visitors from around the world.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Shafi N.
A quick introduction to the development of Kyoto as thousand year capital city
Overview of your Kyoto tour
In this tour, intended for first time visitors, I will introduce you to the city which had been the capital of the Japanese Empire for over a thousand years. In going so we will visit the two political centres of Kyoto, the Imperial Palace and its beautiful park and private gardens, followed by a visit to the seat of the Samurai government in Nijo Castle. To get to the first item on our itinerary we will walk from the closest station to the palace by passing through a university campus, which just so happens to be the one where I am currently pursuing my PhD. I look forward to sharing all the stories connecting the two together! In between our visit to the palace and the castle we will have a short break at one of two establishments with a personal link to the imperial family, allowing you a chance to enjoy products similar to those enjoyed by the emperors of old.
Your Kyoto tour itinerary
Start - Meet at Imadegawa Station near the Imperial Palace. 1 Hour, 30 Min - Visit the Imperial Palace. 30 Min - Break at a nearby establishment related to the Imperial family. 1 Hour, 30 Min - Visit the Nijo Castle.
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Transport details
Type: Public Transportation / Category: Train
During the tour we will be using the subway. I can assist you in purchasing tickets if you do not have a subway card or 1-day-pass.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
Kyoto, Kyoto, 602-0032, Japan
Meeting point is at the North Ticket Gates of Imadegawa Station on the Karasuma Subway Line. Alternatively, I would be happy to meet you at the lobby of your hotel. However, please note that travel time will be deducted from the duration of the tour. Please be sure to let me know in advance.
- You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
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4 hours
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4 hours
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.