My name is William and I have now lived in Japan for a combined total of 8 years. I love travelling, meeting new people, and creating lasting memories. I am also passionate about Japan and its finer aspects and charms. Hopefully, by introducing these to you, I hope that you too can create wonderful memories in this unique country!
Welcome to my guided tour of the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, an area famous for its numerous temples, shrines, and panoramic views of the city. With the seemingly endless number of wonderful spots to visit in Kyoto, it can be difficult to decide where to visit. With that in mind, I designed this route with the aim of offering an introduction to the history and culture of the area through my knowledge and an understanding of Kyoto and Japan, in a lighthearted and relaxing environment.
- Our journey begins with a visit to Nanzen temple, one of the most important Zen Buddhist temples in Japan. While bearing huge importance in the history of Japanese Buddhism, the area also offers an interesting look at Kyoto's more recent history, with a stunning aqueduct built in the Meiji period.
- Following on, we will visit Yasaka shrine. With a history of over 600 years, the shrine offers us a fantastic opportunity to experience Japan's indigineous religion, Shintoism, in a classic yet effortless Japanese Shinto environment.
- We will continue south towards the Sanenzaka area, where there will be opportunities to experience local snacks and drinks, for which tips and recommendations will be provided.
- Finally, our journey will finish at Kiyomizu temple, one of the most iconic settings in Japan. For an entrance fee of just 500 yen we have access to an architectural wonder that offers an opportunity to experience the Japanese aesthetic in all its forms.
Along the way, I will help you identify unique points of interest, the best photo spots, and provide recommendations for souvenirs and snacks!
I will be waiting at the Nanzenji Sammon Gate, which can be found with the location pin below. Please arrve 10 minutes before the tour starts. https://maps.app.goo.gl/jwYMf74YK8JATjLEA?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy
Free tours do not have a set price, instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).