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.
Tour Itinerary
- 07:00 Meet at hotel
- 07:00-07:20 Travel (bus; Shijo Nishinotoin⇒Gion)
- 07:20-07:40 Visit Yasaka Shrine
- 07:40-08:55 Stroll around Gion & Pontocho (Gion Higashi―Shirakawa―Kiridoshi―Hanamikoji―Pontocho)
- 08:55-09:10 Travel (subway; Sanjo⇒Nijojo-mae)
- 09:10-11:30 Visit Nijo Castle
- 11:30-11:50 Travel (subway; Nijojo-mae⇒Shijo)
- 11:50-13:00 Stroll around Nishiki Market (Daimaru basement & Nishiki Market)
- 13:00 Disband
Title: What Is a Full-Day Private Walking Tour of Kyoto Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Gion, Nijo Castle, and Nishiki Market
The guests were friends from North America, both visiting Japan for the first time. They had taken a busy bus tour of the main sights the day before and joined this walking tour on their second day in Kyoto.
They had requested an early start, which allowed us to visit Yasaka Shrine at a relaxed pace before setting off to explore Gion and Pontocho. They are used to interacting with people of many backgrounds back home, but still found many things in Japan new and enjoyable, and they asked many questions. As we walked to Sanjo, we talked about various topics depending on where we were, from Buddhism and Shinto to the geisha districts and local restaurants.
Neither of them showed any signs of fatigue, so we moved on to Nijo Castle. While touching on the historical background of the castle, we took our time viewing the Karamon Gate and the Ninomaru Palace, which they admired as magnificent works of art. We also strolled through the grounds, climbed up to the former keep site, and enjoyed a walk in the park.
We then moved to Shijo, passing through a department store on our way to Nishiki. In the basement of the department store, they bought various souvenirs for friends, and then we headed to Nishiki Market. At Nishiki Market, we enjoyed tasting and looking at various things until it was time to part ways. They said that through today's tour they had come to understand how to use public transportation. They mentioned that in a few days they would be traveling to Hakata to board a cruise.
A notable stop on the tour was Nijo Castle. Nijo Castle in Kyoto was built in the early 17th century and served as the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa shoguns. It is famous for its ornate Karamon Gate and the Ninomaru Palace, which features "nightingale floors" designed to chirp when walked upon as a security measure. The castle and its gardens are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered a fine example of the architecture and art of the Edo period.
Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Transportation cost per person
| No. | Transportation | Route | Fare |
| Section 1 | Train | Shijo Nishinotoin／Kyoto City Bus～Gion／Kyoto City Bus | 230JPY |
| Section 2 | Subway | Sanjo (Kyoto)～Nijojo-mae | 220JPY |
| Section 3 | Subway | Nijojo-mae～Shijo (Kyoto Municipal) | 220JPY |
| Total | 670JPY | ||
Hi there, I’m MIKI! A Kobe native and a Kyoto local for more than 20 years, I’ve shared the wonders of Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka with many travelers.
Forget the stress of planning routes and timing—simply relax and enjoy the discovery of Japan with a friendly, hospitable guide. I’d love to take you to historic temples, beautiful gardens, local sake breweries, and immersive cultural activities.
Tell me about your preferences. I believe that when your ‘favorites’ and mine come together, it’s a recipe for a truly wonderful experience. I can’t wait to see you!