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

  • 9:15 Meet @ Hotel Grand Pia Kyoto
  • 10:00  @ Nijo Castle
  • 11:00 @ Kinkaku-ji Temple
  • 12:00 @ Ryoan-ji Temple
  • 13:00 Disband @ in front of Doshisha University

What Is a Private Kyoto Walking Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report on Nijo Castle and Ryoan-ji

The guests were quite knowledgeable about Japan and asked eagerly about its history and culture. We had in-depth conversations about the film SHOGUN and old folk tales they had heard long ago, and it was a truly enjoyable time for me as a guide as well. The guests were deeply impressed by the fusuma paintings and decorations in the Ninomaru Palace of Nijo Castle, and they listened attentively to even the finest details of my guiding. Ryoan-ji had fewer visitors than the other two sightseeing spots, so the guests were able to enjoy its relaxed atmosphere. At the end, the guests wished to visit Doshisha University, where one of them had studied for a short two-month program the previous year, and we said our goodbyes in front of the university entrance.

Transportation cost per person

No.TransportationRouteFare
Section 1TrainKyoto~Nijojo-mae260JPY
Total260JPY

I was born and raised in Osaka and now I live in Nara where the history of Japan began, so I am familiar with historic sites such as shrines, temples, castles, traditional wooden townhouses, and so on. I like to guide historic and cultural places such as Kyoto, Nara, Koyasan, Himeji which were designated as world heritage sites. I am a trainee of chado, tea ceremony so I am knowledgeable about Japanese traditional culture related to zen.
I also like to introduce Japanese food culture in Nishiki in Kyoto or Doubonbori in Osaka. I have guided Nishiki and Kuromon market many times and many guests enjoy a food tour with me.
I try to make you feel comfortable and enjoyable during the tour. I hope you’ll have a great time with me and enjoy Japan!