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
- ①7:00 Meet at the hotel, travel on foot
- ②7:45 Kiyomizu-dera → Sannenzaka → Ninenzaka → Yasaka Pagoda → Kodai-ji (bamboo grove only)
- ③9:30 Chion-in, travel by taxi
- ④9:50 Nanzen-ji, travel by taxi
- ⑤10:20 Honen-in
- ⑥11:10 Ginkaku-ji, travel by taxi
- ⑦12:10 Disband at the hotel
Title: What Is a Private Early-Morning Walking Tour of Kyoto's Higashiyama Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
The guests were a group visiting Japan for the first time from North America, who had traveled from Tokyo to Kyoto the previous day. Some of the guests stayed and rested at the hotel, while the rest joined a private walking tour of the Higashiyama area with a [Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.)](https://www.j-g-a.org/) guide. The weather was fine, and since the tour started early in the morning, each site was still uncrowded, allowing the guests to enjoy a comfortable and energetic walk. At Honen-in Temple in particular, the quiet atmosphere and the beautiful fresh greenery seemed to be exactly the Kyoto they had hoped to see, and it appeared to be their favorite spot. Since they planned to reunite with the rest of the group who had remained at the hotel and have lunch together, I saw them off at the hotel a little earlier and we parted ways.
Click here for more details: Kyoto Customized Private Tour in 1 Day with Licensed Guide
Hello! I am Osamu Kitagawa , National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter(English). Please call me SAM.
I love Japanese culture, history, and visiting historical places, scenic spots, and fashionable spots as well. I can guide you all over Japan as I have ever visited all prefectures in Japan. I have a global experience in international banking business including residing in Hong Kong and Jakarta. So I’m able to have daily conversations in Indonesian language, too. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!
Certification
Certified Travel Services Manager
Authorized Tour Conductor
Kyoto Expert Certification
Jul 23, 2026
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