Kyoto World Heritage Walk: Shimogamo Shrine & Manga Souvenirs
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2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the hidden gems of Kyoto on this engaging walking tour of the mystical Shimogamo Shrine and the iconic Kamogawa Delta, complete with a personalized Manga-style souvenir.
Along the way, we’ll capture fun, cinematic photos of your journey. Using these shots, we provide a unique twist: a custom-made Manga page featuring you as the main character. It’s the perfect, one-of-a-kind memento to remember your Kyoto adventure—no drawing or artistic skills required from you!
Highlights:
World Heritage Discovery: A guided stroll through the lush grounds of Shimogamo Shrine and the historic Tadasu-no-Mori forest.
Scenic & Iconic Locations: Visit the Kamogawa Delta, a picturesque spot famous for its appearance in numerous Japanese animations.
Professional Direction: Enjoy a fun atmosphere as your guide helps you find the best photo spots and poses.
A One-of-a-Kind Gift: Receive a physical Manga-style print of your tour highlights—the ultimate personalized Kyoto souvenir.
Available options
Drawing Manga and Walking Tour
Walking Tour
What's included
Walking Tour with a Guide around Shimogamo Shrine
Digital Data: High-resolution data for your social media.
Your Original Short Manga
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Kamo River, running through the heart of Kyoto, is a picturesque and tranquil waterway renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance. The riverbanks are lined with cherry blossom trees, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing) in the spring. Walking along the Kamo River, you can enjoy stunning views of traditional Japanese houses, modern cafes, and the beautiful blend of nature and urban life. It's an ideal place to relax, take a leisurely stroll, and immerse yourself in Kyoto's serene atmosphere.
2
The Kamogawa Delta in Kyoto is where the Kamo and Takano Rivers meet, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. A highlight is the stepping stones ("tobiishi") that let visitors hop across the river. It's a popular spot for walks, picnics, and enjoying nature. The delta is also great for bird watching, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
3
Demachi Masugata Shopping Street, located in Kyoto's Demachi area, is a charming covered arcade known for its nostalgic atmosphere and local flavor. Lined with shops selling fresh produce, traditional sweets, and local specialties, it offers a warm and welcoming experience with friendly shopkeepers. Close to the Kamo River, it's a perfect spot to explore the daily life and culture of Kyoto.
4
Tadasu no Mori, or Tadasu Forest, is a sacred woodland located within the grounds of the Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto. This ancient forest, covering approximately 12 hectares, has remained largely untouched for centuries, offering a serene and mystical atmosphere.
Known for its lush greenery and towering trees, some of which are over 600 years old, Tadasu no Mori is a place of natural beauty and tranquility. The forest plays a significant role in Shinto beliefs, symbolizing purity and the untouched nature of the divine.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the forest paths, experiencing the calming sounds of nature and the historical ambiance. Tadasu no Mori is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a cultural treasure that connects the past with the present, embodying the spirit of Kyoto's rich heritage.
5
Stop 5
Shimogamo Shrine, one of Kyoto's oldest Shinto shrines, dates back to the 6th century. Located at the confluence of the Kamo and Takano Rivers, it's part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is known for its beautiful grounds, including the ancient Tadasu no Mori forest. It hosts the famous Aoi Matsuri festival in May, featuring a grand procession in traditional Heian attire. With its stunning vermilion-lacquered buildings and rich history, Shimogamo Shrine is a cultural and spiritual landmark in Kyoto.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This tour involves a lot of walking. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Meeting point
Please look for a guide holding an Otatrip board. Details about the guide will be sent to you via message after your reservation is confirmed. If you do not arrive by the time the tour starts without contacting us, your reservation will be canceled.
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.
Top Attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.
Religious
2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike)
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.
Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)
Gion
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).
Cultural
1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event)
Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaiseki Ryori
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
Dinner
Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.
Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Obanzai
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Cycling through the countryside
Rafting on the Hozu River
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic walks in gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional tea ceremonies
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.
15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn)
59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited/Rare
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train
Kyoto Station
By bus
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gion
Higashiyama
Arashiyama
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Day trips
Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th)
Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd
Aoi Matsuri • May 15th
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
- Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
- Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
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per person
Price varies by option
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