Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nishiki Market — Guide Harumi

Title: What Is a Private One-Day Kyoto Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu-dera, and Arashiyama

The guests were a group visiting from North America. Since I had received information that they were interested in photography, I wanted to take them to many photo spots, so at Fushimi Inari Taisha I guided them to the Omokaru-ishi stones and the Negai-no-Matsu pine. They also showed interest in souvenirs and did some shopping, and then we headed to Kiyomizu-dera. I explained the stage and the Thousand-Armed Kannon statue in the main hall and we took photos. Since rain was forecast, I decided to save Nishiki Market for last and we headed to the Bamboo Grove Path in Arashiyama. They were very pleased with the bamboo grove and took many photos. At Tenryu-ji, not many flowers were in bloom, but when I explained that the garden remains in its original form, they became interested, and we went to peek at the dragon painting on the ceiling. In the end it was hard to see well, and we all had a good laugh. Since we had time to spare, we decided to see Nishiki Market before returning to the Hotel, but they wanted to stay a bit longer at Nishiki Market and then walk on their own to Pontocho and Gion, so I had the driver head back. I explained how to get from Nishiki Market to Gion, and that concluded the tour.

A notable stop on the tour was Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's most celebrated temples, founded in the 8th century and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its large wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering sweeping views over the city and the surrounding hillsides, especially striking during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The temple's main hall enshrines a statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon, and the site takes its name from the pure waters of the Otowa Waterfall, where visitors traditionally drink for health, longevity, and success.

Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide

Tour Report by Harumi

Hello, my name is Harumi, and I am a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter in Japan. I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for many years, sharing my passion for Japanese culture and history. As a kimono dressing instructor, I can provide hands-on kimono experiences and guide tours. Additionally, I have extensive knowledge of sumo wrestling, making my tours ideal for those interested in this fascinating sport. I am also well-versed in Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings (Jūdenken) and can introduce historical townscapes dating back to the Edo period. If you are interested, I would be happy to show you around the sake brewing process in the Nada region.