Nighttime Kyoto Walking Tour

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Kyoto

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Discover Kyoto’s charm by night with our walking tour. Enjoy unlimited high-quality sake as you explore Gion and Yasaka Pagoda’s photogenic streets.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Kamogawa River - The Kamo River, running through the heart of Kyoto, is a picturesque and tranquil waterway renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The riverbanks are lined with cherry blossom trees, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) in the spring. Walking along the Kamo River, you can enjoy stunning views of traditional Japanese houses, modern cafes, and the beautiful blend of nature and urban life. It’s an ideal place to relax, take a leisurely stroll, and immerse yourself in Kyoto’s serene atmosphere.
Gion - Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and vibrant atmosphere. Walking through the narrow streets, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by the elegance of old Japan. The area is bustling with visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha) as they make their way to evening engagements.
Hanamikoji Street - Hanamikoji Street is a historic and enchanting street located in the heart of Gion, Kyoto’s famed geisha district. This picturesque street is lined with beautifully preserved traditional wooden machiya houses, many of which now serve as high-end restaurants, teahouses, and ochaya (geisha teahouses). As you stroll along Hanamikoji Street, you’ll experience the timeless charm of old Kyoto, with a chance to see geisha and maiko gracefully making their way to evening appointments.
Yasui-Konpiragu - Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, is a unique and revered Shinto shrine known for its power to sever bad relationships and bring good ones. The shrine is famous for its large “Enkiri-Enmusubi” stone, where visitors write their wishes on paper amulets and crawl through a hole in the stone to pray for breaking off bad relationships or binding good ones. The shrine’s serene and spiritual atmosphere, combined with its distinctive rituals, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese culture and beliefs. It’s a must-visit spot for those seeking to improve their personal connections and find spiritual solace.
Hokan-ji Temple - Hokanji Temple, commonly known as Yasaka Pagoda, is an iconic five-story pagoda located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. This historic temple dates back to the 6th century and is one of Kyoto’s most recognizable landmarks. The elegant pagoda rises gracefully above the traditional streets of the area, providing a stunning backdrop for photos and a glimpse into the architectural beauty of ancient Japan. Visitors can explore the temple grounds and, occasionally, enter the pagoda to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city. Hokanji Temple is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the timeless charm and spiritual heritage of Kyoto.
Sannenzaka Ninenzaka - Ninenzaka is a charming and historic pedestrian street in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, known for its traditional atmosphere and well-preserved wooden buildings. This gently sloping path is lined with quaint shops, teahouses, and restaurants, offering a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious Kyoto cuisine. Strolling along Ninenzaka, visitors can enjoy the nostalgic feel of old Kyoto, with stone-paved paths and beautifully restored machiya houses. The street leads up to Kiyomizu Temple, making it a popular route for those exploring the cultural and historical treasures of the area. Ninenzaka is an essential part of any visit to Kyoto, capturing the essence of the city’s timeless beauty.
Sanneizaka - Sannenzaka is a picturesque and historically significant stone-paved slope in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, adjacent to Ninenzaka. This charming street is famous for its beautifully preserved traditional wooden buildings, which house a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. As you walk along Sannenzaka, you’ll be transported back in time, experiencing the timeless beauty of old Kyoto. The street is especially popular for its local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional sweets, making it a favorite among both tourists and locals. Legend has it that if you trip and fall on Sannenzaka, you will face bad luck for three years. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to this enchanting pathway leading up to the iconic Kiyomizu Temple.
Nene-no-Michi - Nene no Michi, named after Nene, the beloved wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is a serene and picturesque stone-paved path in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. This charming street connects Kodaiji Temple to Maruyama Park and is surrounded by traditional wooden houses, lush gardens, and historic landmarks. Walking along Nene no Michi, visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of Kyoto’s classic architecture and natural beauty. The path is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn, when the trees lining the street create a breathtaking canopy of colors. Nene no Michi offers a tranquil and culturally rich experience, perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in the timeless elegance of Kyoto.
Yasaka Shrine - Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is one of Kyoto’s most famous and historically significant Shinto shrines. Located in the Gion district, this ancient shrine dates back to 656 AD and serves as the spiritual heart of the vibrant Gion area. Yasaka Shrine is renowned for its grand annual festival, Gion Matsuri, which is one of Japan’s most famous and largest festivals, attracting visitors from all over the world. The shrine’s beautiful grounds feature a striking main gate, elegant lanterns, and tranquil gardens, providing a serene setting for worship and reflection. Visitors can enjoy the blend of traditional architecture and natural beauty while exploring the rich cultural heritage that Yasaka Shrine embodies.

What's Included

Walking tour with a guide
My secret list of recommended restaurants
Snacks that pair well with the sake
Adults (20 years old or older) only. Please enjoy responsibly and be mindful not to be too noisy at night.

What's Not Included

Dinner
Gratuities

Additional Information

• This is a night-time walking tour in the Gion area. You will learn about Kyoto’s geisha culture, Shinto beliefs, and Buddhism. Our local guides will also share their recommended spots to enhance your journey.

• We will walk through photogenic areas of Kyoto, such as Gion, Yasaka Pagoda, and Yasaka Shrine.

• At night, there are fewer people, allowing you to enjoy the Japanese atmosphere comfortably.

• We provide Kin-Kame, a celebrated sake known for its fruity aroma and smooth taste.

Experience the magic of Kyoto like never before with our exclusive night-time walking tour. Enjoy the serene and enchanting streets of Kyoto, illuminated by gentle lights. Explore the historic Gion, Yasaka Pagoda, and Yasaka Shrine, capturing the beauty of Kyoto’s nightscape.

We offer Kin-Kame, a renowned sake from Shiga Prefecture. We selected two types of Kin-Kame with popular polishing ratios of 60% and 80%, allowing you to compare their distinct and exquisite flavor profiles.

Participants must be 20 years old or older.
This tour includes the provision of alcohol, so please drink responsibly.
This tour involves a lot of walking. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Since we will be walking through residential areas at night, please enjoy yourselves with respect for the local residents by keeping your voices down.

Location

Kikunoi Roan

Please look for a guide holding an Otatrip board next to the McDonald's near the small river (Takase River). Details about the guide will be sent to you via message after your reservation is confirmed. If you do not arrive by starting time without contacting us, your reservation will be canceled.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

4.7

(19 Ratings)

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Nived_k

Jul 4, 2024

Worth the time - Shumpei took us to through the roads only a local will know. It was fun to walk through the alleyways at night.

Review provided by Viator

Safari12330597823

Jul 3, 2024

Best sake ever - I had good time with the guide. When I attend this tour, I was the only one participant. He showed me a lot of places and talked a lot about Japan and his business. He is interesting person and I recommend this tour. The sake he gave me was actually the best for me.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Marc_l

Jun 23, 2024

Great walking tour with Sake - Our tour guide had a fantastic knowledge of the historical district or Kyoto and shrines. The Sake and snacks were great and the photo opportunities amazing. Thanks again!

Review provided by Viator

Coastal40222332267

Jun 12, 2024

Japanese Sake Walk - I participated with friends! The selection of sake was good and everything was delicious! The night view of Kyoto was refreshing, especially Yasaka Pagoda. I recommend this tour.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Takeyoshik2024

Jun 11, 2024

A charming Kyoto night - Strolling around Kyoto at night with a drink in hand felt like another world. Kyoto's old-fashioned streets and people walking around in kimonos create an extraordinary atmosphere. Kyoto is a familiar place to me, but the Kyoto I visited on this tour showed me a special side of the city that is different from usual. Our guide was very kind and performed his duties carefully. He was a very reliable travel partner. It was a wonderful experience that was not flashy but touched my heartstrings. Thank you very much.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Hiroa569

Jun 8, 2024

Wonderful local experience! - It was a unique experience, quite different from the typical package tours offered by regular travel agencies. We visited the historic temples and shrines of Kyoto and enjoyed an evening walk accompanied by local sake. Our guide, Shunpei, is a very personable individual. He holds a PhD in astrophysics from Kyoto University, and he shares his knowledge of not only Kyoto’s culture and history but also topics of interest upon request. Through interactions with local Japanese people, it was a great opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Japanese spirit. This experience is recommended for those who are tired of rushing through tourist spots listed in guidebooks:)

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Getaway38031880134

Jun 7, 2024

I was able to rediscover the charm of Kyoto. - I've been in Kyoto for a long time, and I heard that they would take great photos at shrines and temples, so I made a reservation. The photos were taken in a fun atmosphere throughout. The guides were very friendly, so even those who are nervous about interacting with others should be fine. They also have tours with magic and all-you-can-drink sake, so I'm thinking of joining again with friends. I hope that foreign visitors can experience the great things about Kyoto♡ And I think Japanese people should try them too♡ As a Kyoto lover myself, I highly recommend this great tour company!!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

120ais

Jun 6, 2024

It was an experience that could only be experienced in Kyoto. - The sake from Kyoto had a high-quality taste and was truly delicious. The charming streets of Kyoto at night were soothing! I'd like to participate again if I have the opportunity!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

John_l

Jun 3, 2024

Awesome Experience! - An absolutely unforgettable experience. Kyoto at night is surreal and being able to do it while tasting some great sake super awesome! 100% worth every penny.

Review provided by Viator

James_g