My sisters and I will be in Kyoto for about 2 1/2 days in November 2023. None of us have ever been to Japan before and none of us speak Japanese. We are interested in an organized tour in Kyoto. Specifically to see some of the sites other than those along the Philosophers Path. Can anyone recommend a tour company or guide?
Posted by
Bay Area, California
1832 posts
I cannot recommend a guide, because I never hired one. However, it's a good idea to hire a private guide. Perhaps check Japan Customs Tour, who is a regular contributor on Tripadvisor?
Also, check japan-guide.com. Touring around Kyoto on your own is not difficult, but you will be there during foliage season (think crowds and lines). Don't be afraid of using taxis, they are not expensive and can save you tons of your precious time. Buses will be very packed and slow.
Posted by
9378 posts
We did a three day tour of Kyoto and Nara from Tokyo in 2015 and loved it. I don't remember the name of the tour company, but use the internet, you will find tour. The tour included the high speed train RT.
There are a plethora of temples and sites to see in Kyoto, it would take a week to see them all. Suggest doing some research on which ones you want to see.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Products-g298564-a_contentId.1175378777810163+268262891-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html
https://theworldtravelguy.com/kyoto-temple-shrine-japan/
Best Overall Kyoto Temples
Nanzen-ji Temple
One of the best temples in the Northern Higashiyama district, Nanzen-ji Temple is a sprawling Zen paradise surrounded by lush green hills.
Tofuku-ji Temple
One of the most attractive temples in Kyoto, Tofuku-ji Temple also has the advantage of not being very crowded unless you come during the fall foliage season.
Honen-in Temple
Honen-in is our favorite temple in all of Kyoto, and that’s saying a lot in a city with over 1600 temples.
Ginkaku-ji Temple
Ginkaku-ji temple, the famed “Silver Pavilion”, has magnificient halls and gardens. It’s predictably popular so best visited in off-peak times
Daitoku-ji Temple
Not just a temple – a world of temples. Daitoku-ji Temple is home to some of my favorite Zen gardens in Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Kinkaku-ji, the famed “Golden Pavilion,” is Kyoto’s most iconic sight. It’s well with a visit, just try to pick a time when the crowds aren’t there.
Chion-in Temple
Sometimes called the Vatican of Pure Land Buddhism, this vast temple is one of the most and popular temples in the city. It’s highly recommended.
Posted by
Bay Area, California
1832 posts
I just wrote a trip report and posted it in the Trip Reports section of this forum. Hope you find it useful.
Posted by
NYC
385 posts
Japan has an entire network of local guides who are delighted to show people around for free. You simply pay their expenses for the day. Learn more here: https://www.japan.travel/en/plan/list-of-volunteer-guides/
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you all for the great information. Especially Barkinpark and Astorienne. The info about the national network of tour guides is a game changer!
Posted by
3 posts
A great decision by getting a guide, most especially if it is your first time, and to maximize your stay here. Language barrier is a big thing. I would recommend https://gowithguide.com/japan/kyoto, and I believe they offer day trips as well.
Just a tip, download Google Translate on your phone. This will help you translate through camera, photos, voice, and text. I survived living here because of it :D