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

  • 8:30 Gather at Genji Kyoto
  • 9:00 Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge
  • 9:30 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove walk ~ Tenryu-ji Garden
  • 10:20 Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple
  • 11:00 Kinkaku-ji Temple
  • 12:00 Lunch at Gontaro Kinkaku-ji branch
  • 13:25 Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
  • 14:30 Disband at Token Kaiyodo

What's a Private Family-Friendly Kyoto Day Tour Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

Today I guided the guests, a group visiting from North America. Some of the guests had their own cameras and the whole group took many photos together, which made them a lovely group to be with. Early in the morning, the Togetsukyo Bridge was not crowded, and they enjoyed taking photos. On the driver's recommendation, we visited Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, and I was very surprised to find it overflowing with international visitors. Kinkaku-ji was relatively uncrowded today, which made it easy to get around, and that was a pleasant surprise. At the lunch restaurant, they were delighted because they enjoyed udon broth. At Fushimi Inari Taisha, some of the guests earnestly counted the number of torii gates, which was charming. Since they planned to visit a sword shop afterward, I took them there directly and we parted ways. I believe they enjoyed the tour.

Thank you very much for choosing JGA experience, and please allow me to briefly introduce myself. I’m Kaeko Tanigawa, your tour guide, and I have been showing tourists from abroad around mainly in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka areas. Every year I’ve guided my guests through those areas for over 80 times. I always try to do my best to help my guests explore and enjoy our unique and attractive locations, and I’ve been lucky enough to receive so many 5-star reviews from the guests I hosted. I’d like to help make your visit to Japan one of the most wonderful memories in your life. I’m really looking forward to seeing you soon. Thank you very much.

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