This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- 13:00 Meet in the hotel lobby
- 13:30 Nanzenji Temple
- 14:30 Heian Shrine
- 15:30 Gion
- 16:00 Stroll through Pontocho
- 16:30 See off the taxi from Sanjo and finish
Tour Itinerary in Detail
From there the group visited Nanzenji Temple at 13:30, Heian Shrine at 14:30, Gion at 15:30, Stroll through Pontocho at 16:00 and See off the taxi from Sanjo and finish at 16:30.
Title: What Is a Rainy-Day Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
I guided a group visiting from North America. Because of the rain, during the itinerary briefing I suggested visiting Nijo Castle, which allows indoor sightseeing, instead of the largely outdoor Heian Shrine, but the guests said they were used to the rain, so we proceeded with the original plan as scheduled. At Nanzen-ji, the guests climbed the Sanmon gate, and although the distant views were somewhat hard to see, they were deeply moved by the scenery of the fresh green of the Higashiyama hills glistening in the rain. At Heian Shrine, they were amazed by the size of the great torii gate and enjoyed taking photographs. In the shrine garden, although few flowers were in bloom, they enjoyed seeing the white herons and the views from the bridge. Afterward, since there was some extra time following our visit to Gion, at the guests' request I showed them Pontocho. They expressed interest in sukiyaki and shabu-shabu and said they wanted to try them during their stay. As they needed to return to their hotel by 17:00, I saw them off as they boarded a taxi from Sanjo, and the tour concluded.
Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Half-Day Tour with Licensed Local Guide
Hello! My name is Umi. I was born and raised in Kyoto, and I still live here today.
I have always loved traveling. When I visit another country, I enjoy learning about its history, culture, and way of life from local people. Talking with locals helps me understand a place much better than simply visiting famous sights. That’s why I became a tour guide.
Through my tours, I hope to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Japan. In addition to its beauty and traditions, I am also happy to talk about modern life in Japan. My goal is for my guests to leave Japan with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation of the country.
I’m looking forward to meeting you!
Jun 29, 2026
U3009CHlaurad
Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Umi was a great tour guide, very…
Jun 29, 2026
U3009CHlaurad
Kyoto 4 Hour walking Tour
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Umi was a great tour guide, very friendly, personable and was very insightful! We had a wonderful morning exploring Kyoto and seeing some of the great historical castles, palaces, shrines and temples. Umi also showed us around the famous Nishiki markets, and shared with us some great hidden local restaurants! Would definitely recommend booking this tour, and would definitely recommend Umi as a tour guide!
May 9, 2026
Adventurer745194
Lovely intro to Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a lovely morning guided by Umi.…
May 9, 2026
Adventurer745194
Lovely intro to Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
We had a lovely morning guided by Umi. We appreciated her thoughtful help in planning the tour and she was extremely flexible and responsible to our questions and interests. She was a pleasure to work with and be with and we were grateful that she introduced us to Kyoto most graciously.
Apr 30, 2026
jonathangG3501FZ
4 hour private tour in Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Umi was a lovely tour guide…
Apr 30, 2026
jonathangG3501FZ
4 hour private tour in Kyoto
Tripadvisor review: Kyoto 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Umi was a lovely tour guide for a half day private tour around Kyoto. She worked with us in
advance on the itinerary to match our interests and was very informative and gracious
during the tour itself. I highly recommend her!
Apr 27, 2026
Jennifer_S
Wonderful, thoughtful guide
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Umi was absolutely wonderful. She…
Apr 27, 2026
Jennifer_S
Wonderful, thoughtful guide
Viator review: Private Kyoto Tour with Licensed Guide & Vehicle (Max 15 persons)
Umi was absolutely wonderful. She worked with us on a customized plan that included adapting for a member of our family that uses a wheelchair. The sites she recommended were perfect and gave us a nice touch of Kyoto. We particularly loved the final temple and the experience we had there. The lunch spot we ended up choosing was an excellent Japanese meal. She was extremely knowledgable about the sites, Kyoto in general, Japan’s history, and more. You could tell she loves what she does.