Upcoming Cruise Shared Tours
| Cruise | Date | Group Size (Pax) | Price |
| HAL Westerdam | Feb 13 2025 (08:00 - 17:00) | 16 | $190 USD |
Please Note:
- If you’re looking for other dates, simply complete the Inquiry Form below. We’ll promptly send you clear and helpful information via email based on your request.
Full Itinerary
Welcomed by our local guide and driver on your arrival at Kyoto port, head west to Arashiyama Area to see the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to start your Kyoto shore excursions. Being one of Kyoto’s most photographed sights with soaring stalks of bamboo, the bamboo grove seems to let you get lost in another world. Stand in the midst of this sprawling bamboo forest and feel the palpable sense of otherness that is quite unlike that of any normal forest you know about.
Take a scenic drive through Togetsu-Kyo Bridge to visit Kinkakuji Temple (the Golden Pavillion) whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. This was the former retirement villa of the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, then it was the inspiration for many temples built in a few decades later. Overlooking a large pond, Kinkakuji Temple boasts an impressive architectural style that echoes the extravagant Kitayama culture that developed in the wealthy aristocratic circles of Kyoto during Yoshimitsu's times. It was set on fire numerous times throughout its history, and the present structure was reconstructed in 1955. Walk to the temple’s garden holding a few other spots of interest such as the Anmintaku Pond that said to never dry up, and statues people throw coins at for luck. Outside the exit are souvenir shops and a small tea garden in which you can enjoy matcha tea and sweets.
After Kinkakuji, head to Nijo Castle, famous for its beautiful gardens and the Ninomaru Palace. Explore the palace’s stunning interior with its famous “nightingale floors” that chirp as you walk, designed to prevent intruders. The castle offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past and the power of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
Next, visit to Kiyomizu-Dera Temple – one of Japan’s most celebrated temples. Kiyomizu-Dera literally means Pure Water Temple derived from the pure water from the Otowa Waterfall in wooded hills east of Kyoto. From the famous wooden stage jutting out from the main hall, enjoy a great view of the countless cherry and maple trees below that erupt in a sea of color in spring and fall, as well as the view of the city in the distance. Step into the main hall housing the temple’s primary object of worship, a small statue of the eleven-faced, thousand-armed Kannon.
Conclude your Kyoto tour with a visit to the Gion District, Kyoto’s historic geisha quarter. Wander through its narrow lanes, where traditional wooden machiya houses and teahouses line the streets. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko on their way to an engagement. This charming district perfectly captures the essence of Kyoto’s old-world charm.
Inquire about this tour now with Japan Shore Excursions - Your local experts in unforgettable journeys!
Real Guest Moments from Our Kyoto - Kobe - Osaka Shore Excursions
Captured during our curated shore tours from Kobe or Osaka port - Comfort, Culture and Connection.
Robert Miller –
We used this company for excursions off our cruise n Japan. It was the only company I found that was willing to pick us up and drop us off at the pier. I worked with Felix online. We hit all the big spots mentioned in the brochures. Gion was lovely, though we didn't spot any Geisha (it's mostly luck!). The group size was manageable, and the bus was air-conditioned and comfortable.
David & Elena Rossi –
Felix was amazing. He paid close attention to what we were interested in and created great shore excursions. Everthing went smoothly and efficiently. Each guide was terrific, entertaining and knowledgeable and we accomplished everything we expected and more. We have no hesitation in recommending Japan Shore Excursions and would happily work with them again.
Mark Henderson –
We recently toured Japan on a cruise but do not like to do excursions with busloads of people. Lara was our amazing agent and planned individual guides and drivers for us in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The guides just could not have been nicer, spoke good English, and the drivers were extremely competent while driving impeccable and comfortable vans. Both of our outstanding guides took us to local restaurants that they recommended, and we gladly bought them lunch for the experience of enjoying real local food and not touristy places.
Sarah Jenkins –
We toured Asia in Jan/Feb and did several tours with Japan Shore Excursions. They did not disappoint! Every tour was managed extremely well. We worked with Sammy, who helped us plan and followed thru on all the details. This is our second year of doing tours with them, and we plan to do more next year.
Linda B –
Thanks to Fiona for arranging our Excursions so expertly we had the most amazing tours in kyoto and Tokyo. Couldn't fault anything. Worth every penny
James Choi –
As someone who used both HAL Westerdam and private shore excursions, this was much better value than the one offered directly by the cruise line. The guide spoke perfect English and shared great anecdotes about the Nijo Castle. Highly recommended.
Michelle Wong –
We went on a cruise to Japan with 16 family members. We were looking for shore excursions not related to the cruise ship and found Japan Shore Excursions online. We worked with Felix Tran and he arranged these amazing tours for us. Our English speaking tour guide was informative and made the experience very memorable. I would highly recommend Shore Excursions Asia for anyone looking for a great adventure.
Anita Desai –
This Kyoto tour exceed our expectations. Our guide was very mindful of the time, ensuring we didn't miss our departure from the port. The view from the wooden stage at Kiyomizu-dera is something I’ll never forget. I would definitely recommend using this company for shore excursions.
Brigitta H –
We were very delighted about the service provided by Lara Nguyen and our Kyoto Tour. Our guide Chiyomi was very charming, spoke a very good English and provided us with very much interesting information. The booking procedure was easy and reponse times from Lara always very short! We can only recommend Japan Shore Excursions.
Chris Hackett –
What is the cost of this tour? On cruise in October when ship docks at Kobe. Thank you
Tessa Pham –
Hi Chris Hackett, thanks for reaching us
We've sent you the detail itinerary and quotation via your email address. Please take a look.
Best Regards,