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Private tour in Kyoto Andrew W
The Path Less Traveled (Kyoto Full-Day Tour)
5.0
(9) reviews
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8 hours
1
Tour date
Start time
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8 hours
1
Andrew W.
5.0
Guide rating
64
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4 hrs
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This is the Kyoto you came for. The spiritual, insightful one. Travel deep into the heart of Japan for an authentic and unforgettable journey into Japanese aesthetics, history, and world view. Your whole perception of Kyoto will be profoundly different afterwards. Drawing on my 12 years of experience as a landscape designer in the U. S. A. , 5 years working in the traditional garden industry in Kyoto, and my self-studies in Eastern philosophy since as long as I can remember, I am able to provide experiences for my guests that are unique and from the heart. Living in Kyoto for 15+ years, I have come to fully understand that by limiting one's precious time here to visiting only the "must see" sites, one can hardly experience the beauty, serenity and deep spiritual nature of this town. Unless your idea of an enjoyable time is fighting through dense crowds, endless souvenir shops and noisy surroundings, I'd really recommend steering clear of most of the "must-see's" all together. By visiting lesser known but nontheless stunning sites that are far off the usual tourist route, we can immerse ourselves in the exquisite and mystical nature of Kyoto. The experience we will share will feel less like a tour and more like a meaningful day considering design, philosophy and history while visiting amazing locations of harmony and beauty. Available for half-day, full-day, and multi-day tours, I hope I can lead you on an enchanting and introspective outing while helping you to better understand this enigmatic country of Japan. Over 1,350 5-star reviews on various travel websites. Masters Degree in Landscape Architecture. 5 years experience working in traditional Kyoto garden companies. Certificate of Graduation from the Kyoto Japanese Gardener Training Program. 12 years professional experience working in garden design/ build in the U.S.A. As we travel through the town we will utilize public transportation, taxis or walk. As I am not a driver, I can arrange for a separate car and driver.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Andrew W.
"Under the vast sky, an animal leaps in the hills; leaps alone."
Overview of your Kyoto tour
In planning your trip to Kyoto, you could be mistaken for thinking that there are only a handful of sites worth visiting in this town. You've probably noticed that Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, the Bamboo Forest, Nishiki Market, and Nijo Castle and a couple other sites seem to be part of every tour that you might come across on the internet. In a town whose history spans over 1, 300 years, there are far more than just the "Top 10" that are worth visiting! Quiet Zen gardens, antique browsing, a traditional lunch, sweets, a folk art museum and the longest wooden building in Japan filled with 1, 001 Golden Buddha statues. This experience will introduce you to a world far away from the busy tourist sites, where we will spend peaceful moments getting to know the true nature of Kyoto. Note: Depending on our pace, all of the sites on this route may not be able to be visited. If the situation arises where we have to eliminate one or more of the sites the guest will determine what is eliminated.
Your Kyoto tour itinerary
Konchi-in: High-level architecture, gardens, statuary, and paintings in a very tranquil setting far away from the masses. Tenju-an: A temple containing two profound gardens, one of which when entered, gives the sensation of suddenly entering into a forest and having stumbled upon a fairy tale world Shinmonzen Antique Alley: One of the best kept secrets in Kyoto. Visiting here is like browsing through art museums without the entrance fees. And everything is for sale. The Kawai Kanjiro Memorial House: The converted home of a noted 20th century master potter, this museum is a fine example of the wabi sabi way of design and living. Chishaku-in: This hardly-visited garden will transport your mind to far-away lands. Also on display are sliding door paintings by one of Japan's most heralded painters. Kanshundo: One of the oldest tea houses in Kyoto where we can enjoy traditional sweets. Sanjusangendo: One of the oldest structures in Kyoto, home to 1, 001 jaw-dropping golden Buddha
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Transport details
Type: Walking
This is a walking experience with some public transportation or taxi usage.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
Kyoto, Kyoto, 605-0044, Japan
Outside of exit #1 of Keage Station (T9 on the Tozai Line)
Other details
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Languages
English
JapaneseActivity level
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Traveller reviews for this private tour in Kyoto
9 reviews
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8 hours
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8 hours
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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.
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