Meet at Gion Shijo Station, outside Exit 5, near the Izumo no Okuni Statue. Your guide will hold an orange signboard with "Magical Trip Tour." This is where the group will gather before starting the tour.
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Gion, Kyoto
Visit a cozy tea shop in the Gion area. Learn about different types of Japanese tea and their role in Kyoto's culture. Your guide will share insights into the basics of tea preparation.
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584 Komatsuchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Explore the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. Walk through its peaceful grounds and learn about its history and connection to Zen Buddhism. Enjoy the quiet and beautiful surroundings.
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Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Stop by a shop that specializes in tea utensils. See traditional tools used for tea ceremonies and learn about their importance in Japanese tea culture.
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Takadai Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Take a break from the crowds and visit a calm, lesser-known temple. Hear about its history and its ties to Kyoto’s tea traditions while enjoying its peaceful atmosphere.
4 Chome-172-7 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
End the tour with a traditional tea ceremony in a serene setting. Watch the preparation of matcha, then enjoy the tea with a small seasonal snack. It’s a perfect way to experience Japanese culture and mindfulness.
Frequently asked questions
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves moderate walking. Dress appropriately for the weather, as Kyoto's summers can be very hot, and winters can be chilly.
To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, the tour starts on time. If you are more than 15 minutes late, you won’t be able to join, reschedule, or receive a refund. It’s best to arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.
This is a small group tour, so other participants may join you. This allows for an intimate and enjoyable experience while still being able to meet other travelers.
The tour may be canceled in extreme weather conditions for safety reasons. If this happens, you will be notified in advance, and you will receive a full refund or an option to reschedule. The tour will proceed as planned for light rain, so please bring an umbrella if needed.
Experience Kyoto’s culture on this 3.5-hour tour. Visit historic temples and tea shops, and learn about Wabi-sabi before enjoying a traditional tea ceremony. Perfect for anyone wanting to explore Japanese traditions with a friendly local guide.
Tea Ceremony Experience (Match and small seasonal snack served) Entrance fee of 2 temples included An english-speaking guide Photos during a tour
Great small group walking tour with our great Hide guide! The tea ceremony is worth it and the visit to two temples is beautiful
Tamara S
October 9, 2025
Very fun!!
Really fun! The tour guide Hide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Gave us lots of information and helped us build memorable experiences. Couldn’t recommend him enough!
Lee B
October 2, 2025
Tamara S
October 9, 2025
All right.
Great small group walking tour with our great Hide guide! The tea ceremony is worth it and the visit to two temples is beautiful
Lee B
October 2, 2025
Very fun!!
Really fun! The tour guide Hide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Gave us lots of information and helped us build memorable experiences. Couldn’t recommend him enough!