Nanzen-ji Temple Attractions & Things to do

Take control of your sightseeing itinerary by booking this customised tour. Whether its a minimum of 4-hour or a full day trip consisting of 8 hours, visit all the sights you wish with a professional guide. Choose from an enormous range of cultural and historical landmarks and tick off your desired attractions all in one day! Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavillion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu temple and Gion district are just a pocketful of destinations out of countless others. Wherever you request, we will do our best to accommodate you as well as possible.

Hotel meet-up and drop-off are included to ensure you receive a totally stress-free experience.
Duration: 4 to 8 hours.

You can explore hidden parts of Kyoto and you can customize your joinery as your wish. specially we focus to cover following places. You can select 4 places below 6.
(This is tour has not include detailed historical information about sights but we will help you and assist throughout your journey )
Nanzenji
Fushimi Inari
Arashiyama bamboo forest
kinkakuji Temple
Ryon ji Temple


Duration: 8 to 10 hours.

During the Kyoto Bike Tour, explore some of the best sights in Kyoto on comfortable E-bikes. This unique cycle tour of Kyoto takes you to must-see locations, avoiding the typical tourist traps and crowded areas. Experience Kyoto like a local, visiting hidden gems and peaceful spots that showcase the city's authentic charm. Whether you're seeking a relaxed ride or an adventurous way to explore, this E-bike tour of Kyoto offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and local insights.
Duration: 4 hours.

The Japanese garden defies quick and easy understanding. As we move in awe through one of these masterpieces we can feel that there is something deeper than just the physical beauty that surrounds us. This experience is designed to go to the heart of that "something deeper".

While occupying 3 temples of the Nanzen-ji Monastery, you will hear in-depth explanations and insights into the world of Japanese gardens that you would never learn about otherwise. The Japanese garden will be revealed to you as an expression of profound art.

As you will undoubtly visit at least several temples and gardens while you are here, this experience will equip you with all the tools you need to help make your experience in Kyoto one that will form a lasting impression on your heart.
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes.

Enjoy two days of private 6 hours tours with one of our guides in Kyoto! Our guides are licensed, experienced, and speak English! By choosing this tour course, you will have the same guide for both days.

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto!

Note*1: The booking is for two consecutive days only.

Note*2: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. You can choose 3 to 4 sites from the list on each day. You can also mix and match the lists.
Duration: 2 days.

Perfect for groups and individuals (from 145cm!) looking for a unique perspective on the city, this e-bike tour explores the highlights of south and east Kyoto. We meet bright and early for a short orientation before heading south to enjoy the majestic Fushimi Inari Shrine before the crowds arrive. From here we will catch the splendour of Tofukuji Temple before stopping for a morning coffee. The next part of our journey takes us up the Kamo river and over to the UNESCO listed Ginkakuji Temple. After Ginkakuji, we will roll slowly south down the iconic Path of Philosophy and into the grounds of Nanzenji Temple (complete with traditional gardens, ornate religious buildings and even a red brick aquaduct). After a sit down lunch (provided), the last leg of our journey takes us south along the Shirakawa Canal and through the streets of Gion before returning to base.

* Must be 13+ to participate as a rider
Duration: 6 to 7 hours.

Join us for a fun and scenic bike ride through Kyoto’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and charming streetscapes. This tour offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and classic Kyoto charm even if it's been years since you've been on a bike!

Imagine yourself embarking on a delightful bike tour through the heart of Kyoto, where ancient traditions and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Feel the joy as you pedal your way to serene zen gardens, finding peaceful havens perfect for a moment of reflection. The journey continues along the picturesque Path of Philosophy, a charming route lined with cherry trees and quaint temples. Each turn of the wheel reveals new wonders, filling you with a sense of awe and excitement. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that captures the timeless charm of Kyoto and leaves you feeling inspired and rejuvenated. Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned visitor, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the best of Kyoto!

Duration: 4 hours.

Hi, I am Kiyoto from Kyoto!, named after Kyoto city!
...which is absolutely unusual.

I really enjoy hosting people from all over the world, letting them WOW by wandering through vibrant neighborhoods and discovering hidden gems of the city as well as its renowned sites.
Please leave behind guidebooks and immerse yourself in an unforgettable adventure!

With my passion, your local experience will turn into a magical journey.
Why not explore narrow alleys you wouldn’t venture into alone or discover delicious local foods you might otherwise just pass by without noticing?

Are you interested in a classical tour visiting famous spots? Absolutely, I'm 100% confident!
Whether you're a Kyoto enthusiast eager to explore every nook and cranny, or someone who's never set foot here before, I promise you an unforgettable experience on my tour!

This private/group tour is not just sightseeing; it’s a chance to connect deeply with Kyoto's culture and charm. Ready to embark on this adventure?
Duration: 3 hours.

- Start this historical sights tour by learning about Gion & Geisha and Zen culture in Japan in UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple, Kennin-ji in Gion district. Get ready to feel the world of Zen in traditional Zen temple with Japanese Rock garden called Karesansui.
After seeing the Kennin-ji temple, get ready to cycle again for a nice ride to the Nanzen-ji temple where your guide will give you some insights about Zen and the old days of Kyoto!

- Breeze through beautiful local streets in historical city and enjoy a delicious lunch at a Japanese tea house!

- Enjoy the local Kyoto oasis that is Kamogawa river with a relaxing cycle along it’s riverbanks to finish the tour off!

Magical Trip is a local tour operator with the TripAdvisor certificate of excellence that offers various types of small-group tours throughout Japan! Check out our Trip Advisor Page for more tours and our reviews!
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes.

Let's explore must see sightseeing cherry blossoms spots in Kyoto city and watch a performance of Miyako Odori (gei-maiko dance performance)
Discover Kyoto's cherry blossom gems like Keage Incline, Nanzenji Temple, and Eikando Temple with a Japanese lunch, Yasaka Shrine and Gion exploration, and a tea ceremony with geiko and maiko, all guided by an expert in Kyoto's cultural heritage.
Duration: 9 hours 30 minutes.

Kyoto photography service at Gion, blends local expertise, personalized experiences, and high-resolution results to create lasting memories of your visit. With a deep understanding of Kyoto's hidden and iconic spots, our photographers ensure stunning backdrops that match your style. We offer flexible location choices and schedules, letting you customize your session for a relaxed experience.

All photos are high-resolution, capturing each moment with clarity, and we specialize in authentic, candid shots, guiding clients who may need help with posing.

30-60 minutes for photoshoot.
40edited/retouch.
Get all original data in same day!
Duration: 1 hour.

Explore Kyoto at your own pace with our self-guided tour app, immersing yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Begin at the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning Zen temple covered in gold leaf, then venture to the Fushimi Inari Shrine to walk through thousands of vibrant orange torii gates. Admire the serene beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before strolling through the charming Gion district, where you might spot a geisha or maiko. Experience local flavors at the bustling Nishiki Market, Kyoto's "kitchen," then marvel at masterpieces of Japanese art and architecture in the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Visit the Nijo Castle in the city center to see the power that the Shoguns wielded over the emperors. Continue to the picturesque Philosopher's Path for a peaceful retreat, lined with hundreds of cherry trees.

Duration: 5 hours.

Kimono is the beautiful traditional dress of Japan. This 6 hour Kyoto walking tour includes wearing a Kimono experience! You will be dressed by a professional and have your hair done in a simple hairstyle.

It will take about one hour to change for one group (including a simple hair set for women). Afterward, you can walk around the old capitol, Kyoto.

The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city waring a Kimono can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries.

Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 2 to 3 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests.
Duration: 6 hours.

Private photo shoot. Choose your favorite location and leave the photos to me, memories for life! Professional photos by a photographer with over 8 years of living in Kyoto, who knows all the secret spots, hidden streets and with techniques to avoid crowds.

Only photo shoot in Kyoto that includes:
All photo data!
All photo data edited!
3 professional retouched photos of choice!
Digitally sent by Google Drive.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes.

We are Kyoto ECO Trip, a rental bicycle company based in the heart of Kyoto and our aim is to raise awareness of the brilliance of riding a bicycle in the beautiful Kyoto. Bicycle rides help us find the hidden beauty of Kyoto that most tourists are likely to overlook and we hope this tour helps you see things you are not able to see when you take public transport like subways, buses, and taxis.

The type of bicycle we use on this tour is an Electric Pedal-Asist bike with a basket in front. Pedal-assist e-bikes help you padal more smoothly and easily, and they work much like conventional bikes and should be easy to ride for those who are used to cycling.

First, you get to exlpore the famous thousands of the torii gates in Fushimi Inari Shrine. Next, the popular gion area and the beautiful Nanzen-ji Temple are also our stop. There are a few of the popular spots you make a quick stop during our stop such as Sanjusangendo Templeand the Heian-Jingu Shirne.
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes.

This tour offers an immersive cultural experience, providing deep insights into Kyoto’s rich heritage and traditions. The insider knowledge from your driver enhances your understanding of the history and culture of each site. With flexible departure options and hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour is convenient and hassle-free. You will also capture unforgettable moments and create lasting memories at each stop, making your visit to Kyoto truly special. The well-planned route maximizes your sightseeing experience, allowing you to spend more time exploring and less time navigating. This activity is ideal for adventure seekers, families with children, and cultural enthusiasts looking for a unique and enriching way to experience Kyoto.
Duration: 9 to 10 hours.

Discover Kyoto’s iconic landmarks as you see must-visit attractions including the Heian Jingu Shrine, Nanzenji Zen Temple, Philosopher’s Path, Kamogawa River, Biwako Canal, Kyoto University, and more!

Kyoto is renowned for its bicycle-friendly streets, and cycling is a quintessential part of everyday life for locals. Join the ranks of Kyoto’s cyclists as you navigate mostly flat paths with a few gentle slopes as you discover the city’s iconic landmarks and must-visit sights on a “Mama-chari” bike tour!
Duration: 4 hours.

There are couple of must-checkout spots in Kyoto that we think to feel the vibe of the city.
①Fushimi Inari ②Nijo castle ③Ginkaku-ji ④Nanzen-ji
This tour ensures you to visit these above and stroll through nice traditional areas and some nice food stands, while we customizing your tour based on your preference.

【We are startup!!】
Here's the biggest things to set this tour apart.
All our tours are deliverd by local JAPANESE guide with English.
Regrettably, I've heard many travelers joined tours with the help of foreigners who speak good English. And it is right considring the fact that most of Japanese people have poor sense of English ability. However, we love that you would discover uniqueness of Japan powered by local team. Well-trained guide with excellent English background will be assigned to your tour!! We all are excited to entertain you the most.
In addition, this is an exclusive private tour. Talk to us and share ideas on what we will see together on the tour!
Duration: 8 hours.

Discover Kyoto's traditional culture with the Kimono/Yukata(summer kimono) experience!
Gion is such a great traditional Japanese vibe.
You can enjoy Japanese culture more by wearing a kimono or yukata at a tea ceremony & festival!

We offer a wide selection of kimonos, ranging from traditional patterns to modern designs, with experienced staff to assist you with dressing.
The package includes the kimono itself, sash belt (obi), Japanese clutch, sandals, and socks. Don't worry, hairstyling is available at an additional cost.
If it's not too busy, the dressing process can take less than an hour, and you can set off on your adventure.

Now, have a fantastic time exploring Japan!
Duration: 1 to 7 hours.

This tour is a slow cycling tour with BROMPTON bicycles around the quiet waterside of Kyoto's Higashiyama area and the tranquil temples and shrines, allowing you to learn about the history and culture of Kyoto, a city that lives with water (distance: approx. 12 km).

・The tour is a great way to visit places that are otherwise inaccessible by riding with a navigator who knows the local area inside out.

・Slow cycling is an easy way for people who are not confident about their physical fitness to take part.

・All equipment for riding is provided, so you don't need to bring anything.

・The tour is also a great way to enjoy local food at speciality shops.

・The tour course can be arranged according to your wishes.

・You can take photos with your stylish BROMPTON bike.
Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

Come with us to visit the Silver Pavilion and its surroundings for half a day!

We start by walking along the Suirokaku Viaduct. We have here one of the symbols of the opening up and modernization of Japan in the 19th century. The hand of man has joined nature.

We then visit the Nanzen-ji Buddhist temple, a few steps away. This magnificent 13th century Buddhist temple with its peaceful peaceful Zen garden is ideal for rejuvenating.

We then take the picturesque Path of Philosophy, prized by the philosopher Kitarô Nishida, our link Nanzen-ji to the Silver Pavilion. We finally arrive at the Silver Pavilion, a 15th century temple famous for its simplicity, architecture, Zen garden and breathtaking views of the city.

You will have a perfect mix of history, tranquility and natural beauty. Don't miss this unforgettable experience. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!
Duration: 4 hours.

Experience the enchanting allure of Kyoto with our exclusive Private Luxury Day Tour. Discover the essence of Japan's ancient capital through an 8-hour customizable journey aboard a private vehicle, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Delve into the city's hidden gems and rich culture alongside a knowledgeable local guide, as you select 3-4 sites from our curated 'What to expect' list. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Kyoto's seasons, from the vibrant blooms of spring to the fiery hues of autumn foliage and the tranquil serenity of winter. Let us create a personalized tour experience that captures the essence of Kyoto's rich history and culture, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Japan's ancient capital. Additionally, we offer the flexibility of starting the tour 1 hour earlier for guests coming from Osaka.
Duration: 8 to 9 hours.

Discover the beauty and the history of Kyoto with Akira! I will supply you a private Kyoto day tour by car. This tour is completely flexible and can be customized to match your preferences. My tour is not only for simple sight seeing, but also focusing on the history background and the culture of Kyoto and Japan. Most of the spots are designated as [Special Historic Site ] and [Special Scenic Spots] of Japan. I will offer special walking guide on historic sites.
Duration: 6 to 9 hours.

Through this tour, you can experience the local culture of Japan, especially Kyoto, and learn about Japanese history and its underlying religious beliefs.
For those interested, we also offer cultural activities, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese way of thinking.　

Itinerary Example: This is an example of this tour's itinerary.

Pass By: Kyoto Station

Pass By: Tocho-ji Temple and Kushida Srine/ Sando shrine street.

Pass By: Dazaifu Temmangu, 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu 818-0017 Fukuoka Prefecture

See pretty, plum tree (blooming between Feb-March) -flanked Tenman-gū Shrine in Dazaifu, where university students pray for good exams’ results.

Pass By: Kushida Shrine
Duration: 3 to 5 hours.

Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto!

Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Duration: 6 hours.

As an off the beaten path tour, first we walk along Philosopher's Path to Honen-in Temple. Next, we walk through The Silver Pavilion (Ginkakuji Temple) where we view the Zen Garden. Then, we walk up near the top of Mount Daimonji to see a wide view of Kyoto and the Imperial Palace. Next, we walk along a mountain trail to Nanzeji Temple. Then, we walk to Heian Jingu Shrine which is in the Kyoto Museum District.
Duration: 8 hours.

This tour will focus on the northern part of the prefecture. The Kitayama district, nestled in the northern part of Kyoto, is renowned for its rich heritage and distinct Kitayama culture. This traditional atmosphere is palpable in the serene temples, timeless tea houses, and meticulously maintained gardens that dot the landscape. One remarkable aspect of Kyoto’s cultural tapestry is the enduring bamboo tradition. Bamboo, a symbol of strength and flexibility, is intricately woven into Kyoto’s history. From tea utensils to craftwork and architecture, the city embraces bamboo in various forms, showcasing its versatility and aesthetic appeal.
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes.

Discover the captivating appeal of famous destinations in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Kobe with private tours tailored to your interests.

Enjoy your trip in style with the perfect blend of professionalism and fun. Travelers will be introduced to famous places, including the hidden gems that are far away in quiet countryside, such as Amanohashidate and Ine no funaya village in northern Kyoto; Mt. Rokko adventure in Kobe e.t.c.

Travelers can follow the plan made in advance, or decide on the most interesting expeditions during the tour.

Tourists can also explore amazing spots in different cities away from the visited one. For example, while living in Osaka you would visit Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe during the day, and then retire to the bustling nightlife of Osaka.

We are also open to moving travelers from one city to another, such as pick up in Kyoto, visits to Nara, and drop off in Osaka at the end of the trip.

Providing travelers with memorable experiences is our top priority.
Duration: 4 days.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto's autumn season with our exclusive private tour, guided by a local expert who will provide you with insider knowledge and personal insights. Begin your adventure with a visit to the tranquil and picturesque Nanzenji Temple, a place of peace and reflection amidst the changing leaves. Experience the subtle charm of Tenjuan Garden, a hidden gem offering a serene escape from the bustling city.

Continue to the captivating streets leading to the iconic Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion), where historical elegance and autumnal colors create an unforgettable scene. Conclude your tour with a scenic walk along the approach to Ginkakuji, filled with traditional shops and tea houses, perfectly capturing Kyoto’s blend of culture and natural beauty.

This private tour is designed to provide a unique and immersive experience of Kyoto’s fall splendor, combining tranquility and inspiration with the convenience of public transport.
Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes.