• Kitano Tenmangu Shrine - Start your day at one of Kyoto’s most historic shrines, dedicated to the deity of learning. Wander through Kamishichiken, Kyoto’s oldest geisha district, where tradition thrives.
• Kamishichiken Street - Adjacent to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kamishichiken is Kyoto’s oldest geisha district, originating in the 15th century. The name “Upper Seven Houses” refers to the seven tea houses initially constructed with leftover wood from the shrine’s reconstruction.

Today, Kamishichiken remains a serene and graceful neighborhood where geiko (geisha) and maiko (apprentice geisha) continue to perform traditional dances and tea ceremonies. Unlike the bustling Gion area, this district provides a peaceful, authentic atmosphere — a unique opportunity to witness the refined side of Kyoto’s entertainment culture.

• Ginkakuji Temple - Constructed in the late 15th century by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa, Ginkaku-ji — the Silver Pavilion — is one of Kyoto’s most exquisite Zen temples. Initially designed as a tranquil mountain villa, it later became a hub of Higashiyama Culture, influencing Japan’s art, tea ceremony, and garden design.

In contrast to the golden splendor of Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji embodies simplicity, quiet beauty, and “wabi-sabi” — finding beauty in imperfection. Surrounded by moss gardens, raked sand, and scenic paths, it offers a serene, contemplative experience that captures the essence of Kyoto.

• Philosopher’s Walk - The Philosopher’s Path, or Tetsugaku-no-michi, is a delightful stone walkway that follows a canal lined with cherry trees between Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Nanzen-ji Temple. It’s named after the renowned philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who used to walk this route daily while reflecting on life and nature.

In spring, the path is adorned with soft pink blossoms; in summer, it’s shaded by green leaves; and in autumn, it glows with vibrant colors.

Today, it’s one of Kyoto’s most peaceful spots — an ideal escape from the crowds, where visitors can slow down, reflect, and appreciate the quiet beauty of Japanese simplicity and Zen spirit.

• Kennin-ji Temple - Founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai, Kennin-ji is Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple and a cornerstone of Japan’s Rinzai Zen tradition. Eisai was the monk who introduced both Zen Buddhism and green tea from China to Japan.

Inside the temple, visitors can admire the masterpiece “Wind and Thunder Gods” by artist Tawaraya Sotatsu and the stunning Twin Dragon ceiling painting.

Located at the edge of Gion, Kennin-ji offers a tranquil contrast to the bustling streets outside — a perfect place to experience the harmony of spiritual calm and artistic beauty that defines Kyoto.

• Gion Shimbashi Bridge - The Gion District is Kyoto’s most renowned and picturesque geisha quarter, situated between Yasaka Shrine and the Kamo River. With its preserved wooden teahouses (ochaya), narrow stone lanes, and gentle lantern light at dusk, Gion feels like stepping back in time.

Here, geiko (Kyoto-style geisha) and maiko (apprentices) continue to perform graceful dances and tea ceremonies, upholding centuries-old traditions of elegance and hospitality.

Strolling through the Hanami-koji or Shirakawa area in the evening, visitors can experience the refined atmosphere of old Kyoto — a world where culture, beauty, and serenity quietly converge.

• Nanzen-ji Temple - Established in 1291 by Emperor Kameyama, Nanzen-ji is one of Japan’s most significant Zen temples and the head temple of the Nanzen-ji branch of the Rinzai sect. Originally built as an imperial villa, it became a symbol of Zen philosophy, simplicity, and discipline.

The temple complex features the iconic Sanmon Gate, elegant rock gardens, and the renowned Suirokaku Aqueduct — a red-brick waterway from the Meiji Era that still carries water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto today.

Nanzen-ji beautifully merges ancient spirituality with modern engineering, offering a peaceful balance of tradition, nature, and innovation in the heart of Kyoto.

• Nanzenji Suirokaku - Nestled within the grounds of Nanzen-ji Temple, the Suirokaku Aqueduct is one of Kyoto’s most remarkable and unexpected sights. Built in 1889 during the Meiji Era, this red-brick structure was part of the Lake Biwa Canal Project, designed to transport water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto for power, irrigation, and daily use.

With its elegant Roman-style arches blending seamlessly into the temple’s tranquil greenery, the aqueduct perfectly symbolizes the fusion of tradition and modernity.

Even today, real water still flows through it — a living testament to Kyoto’s evolution from ancient capital to modern city.

• Private transportation
• Entrance fees
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Surcharges on fuel
• Parking fees

• Lunch/Personal Expenses
• Tips/Gratuities is welcomed

Experience the serene charm of Kyoto on a private full-day tour, exploring hidden temples, tranquil gardens, and local streets. Begin your journey at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and the traditional Kamishichiken district, then proceed to the elegant Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and the Philosopher’s Path.

Savor a local lunch before visiting Nanzen-ji Temple and its beautiful Suirokaku Aqueduct, where Zen tradition harmonizes with Meiji-era design. Conclude your tour at Kennin-ji Temple and Gion, where geiko and maiko continue to uphold Kyoto’s timeless culture.

This is a peaceful, personalized experience for travelers seeking the authentic and spiritual essence of Kyoto.

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