The Kyoto Early Bird Tour is a must-do experience for travelers wanting to explore Kyoto’s beauty and tranquility without the crowds.
With over 50 million annual visitors, Kyoto is a popular destination in Japan, but this tour offers an early start to maximize the day and avoid the masses.
You’ll visit iconic sites like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Kinkaku-ji temple before the tour groups arrive.
With a knowledgeable guide and positive feedback from previous participants, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Kyoto.
Great News! You can reserve your spot for free with Viator. You can easliy cancel any time up to 1 day before without paying anything.
Quick Takeaways
- Kyoto is a popular travel destination with over 50 million annual visitors.
- The tour offers an early start to avoid crowds and maximize the day.
- The itinerary includes visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- The tour includes a guide fee and admission fees for Kinkaku-ji temple, but food, drinks, and transportation fares are not included.
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Overview and Itinerary
The itinerary includes visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before tour groups arrive. The towering bamboo stalks create a unique atmosphere that’s truly enchanting.
Exploring Kinkaku-ji temple right as it opens is another part of the itinerary. Kinkaku-ji temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is an iconic landmark in Kyoto. Its golden exterior reflects beautifully on the surrounding pond, creating a breathtaking sight.
To make the most of your visit to Kyoto, it’s important to plan your trip during the best time to visit. Kyoto is a city that offers different experiences throughout the year. Spring, with its cherry blossoms, is a popular time to visit, while autumn, with its vibrant fall foliage, is equally stunning.
As for must-see attractions in Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a serene and picturesque spot that shouldn’t be missed.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Visitors should note that food and drinks are excluded from the tour, but the guide fee and admission fees for Kinkaku-ji Temple are included.
While exploring Kyoto on the Early Bird Tour, you will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, and the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.
However, it’s important to plan for food and drink options separately, as they aren’t provided during the tour.
Plus, transportation expenses, such as the fare for JR Lines and City Bus, aren’t included in the tour package.
It’s advisable to budget for these expenses in order to fully enjoy the tour without any inconvenience.
Meeting and Cancellation Policy
Can participants cancel their reservation and receive a full refund if they notify the tour company more than 24 hours in advance?
The meeting location for the Kyoto Early Bird Tour is at Kyoto Station Building, specifically in front of the central ticket gates of the JR lines on the ground floor. It’s conveniently located on the north side of the station, near Kyoto Tower.
As for the refund policy, participants are allowed to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. However, if the cancellation is made less than 24 hours before the start time, no refund will be given.
This policy ensures that the tour company can adequately prepare for the tour and allocate resources accordingly.
Traveler Photos and Reviews
Travelers’ photos and reviews provide valuable insights and recommendations for those considering the Kyoto Early Bird Tour. With a total of 164 reviews and an overall rating of 5.0 based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the tour has received positive feedback and recommendations from previous participants.
Reviews are categorized into 5 stars, 4 stars, 3 stars, 2 stars, and 1 star, providing a comprehensive range of opinions. Traveler photos can be seen on the website, allowing potential participants to get a visual sense of the tour.
Previous participants have praised the tour guides for their excellent care, knowledge, and patience. Misae, Naoko, Seiya, Kaz, and Satomi have all been mentioned as providing exceptional experiences.
Tour Guide Experiences
Although participants have praised Misae, Naoko, Seiya, Kaz, and Satomi for their exceptional tour guide experiences, each guide brings their unique knowledge and style to the Kyoto Early Bird Tour.
- Misae stands out for her excellent care and hydration for the group, ensuring everyone stays comfortable throughout the tour.
- Naoko impresses with her extensive knowledge and ability to provide interesting and insightful information about the attractions visited.
- Seiya’s patience and willingness to answer all questions make him a favorite among participants who appreciate his dedication to ensuring a fulfilling experience.
- Kaz’s expertise shines through as he expertly navigates the tour, ensuring that all highlights are covered and participants get the most out of their visit to Kyoto.
- Satomi’s helpful and caring nature make her a valuable addition to the tour, as she goes above and beyond to ensure everyone’s needs are met.
Feedback from participants highlights these guides’ exceptional qualities and their ability to enhance the tour experience.
Tips and Recommendations
Participants rave about the helpful tips and recommendations provided by the tour guides, enhancing their overall experience of the Kyoto Early Bird Tour.
One of the main benefits of starting early is avoiding the crowds and making the most of the day. The tour offers the opportunity to visit popular attractions like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji temple (Golden Pavilion), and Fushimi Inari Shrine at the best times.
By arriving before tour groups, participants can fully enjoy the serene beauty of the bamboo grove and have uninterrupted views of the famous Golden Pavilion. The early start also allows for a peaceful walk through the torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine before the midday heat.
These tips and recommendations from the tour guides ensure that participants have a memorable and enjoyable experience of Kyoto.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Kyoto Early Bird Tour Last?
The duration of the Kyoto Early Bird Tour depends on the specific itinerary and activities included. The start time of the tour is typically early in the morning to avoid crowds and make the most of the day.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for participating in the tour. Early morning tours have the advantage of avoiding crowds, maximizing the day, and experiencing popular attractions before they get too busy.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?
The tour is suitable for people with limited mobility. However, it’s important to note that there may be some accessibility concerns at certain attractions. If needed, there are alternative tour options available for those with mobility restrictions.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. There are no age restrictions mentioned regarding bringing outside food, but it is always recommended to check with the tour operator for specific guidelines.
Are There Restrooms Available Along the Tour Route?
Restroom availability along the tour route is important for participants. It is essential to consider accessibility for disabled individuals. Detailed information about restroom locations and accessibility can be found on the tour website.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the Kyoto Early Bird Tour offers an incredible opportunity to explore the beauty of Kyoto without the crowds. With carefully planned itineraries and knowledgeable guides, you can visit iconic sites such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine before the tour groups arrive.
This tour has received positive feedback and recommendations from previous participants, making it a must-do experience for travelers seeking a tranquil and unforgettable exploration of Kyoto.
