Book a Higashiyama Rickshaw Ride Tour in Kyoto
Overview
Book a rickshaw ride tour through Kyoto's Higashiyama district for a unique journey to iconic temples and shrines, including Kiyomizu-dera and Ginkaku-ji, and the enchanting streets of Gion, where you might even spot a geisha. Your chauffeur will share fascinating insights and stories you won’t find in any guidebook, making the experience even more special. Immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Kyoto and the timeless beauty of its cobblestone streets on this unforgettable adventure!
Highlights
- Tour on a traditional rickshaw to view the townhouses as you pass by on the traditional flagstone paths
- Enjoy a fully customizable tour that takes you wherever you wish
- Learn about amazing places to eat and about the culture and history of the city
- Reserve with a Rakuten account to earn of use points for each booking
- Your friendly rickshaw driver acts as guide, historian, cultural ambassador, and photographer too!
Key Information
Important Information
- Please arrive at the meet-up location 10 minutes before the scheduled activity time; latecomers or no-shows can't be refunded
- The operator will send you an email with a map and photograph of the meeting place
- Free for one infant (ages 0–5) per adult, as long as they will not occupy separate seats (ages 6+ are charged the adult rate)
- Storage areas are available at the venue; please contact staff on site for rates
- Expecting mothers in their first 16 weeks of pregnancy are not permitted to ride a rickshaw
- Please note the itinerary suggested is a sample; we can customize your tour within the given time frame, adjust the route and finishing points according to your interest and convenience
Description
On this rickshaw tour, you'll efficiently explore all the must-see spots in Kyoto's Higashiyama district without missing a thing. It’s the perfect pace — faster than walking, but slower than cycling — allowing you to truly soak in the sights while enjoying the gentle sway of the rickshaw. In summer, stay cool and shaded, and in winter, cozy up with warm blankets.
Choose from a 30-minute, 1-hour, or 2-hour customizable course:
30-minute course: This popular course guides you through the charming cobblestone streets of Higashiyama, showcasing iconic sights like Yasaka Pagoda and Yasaka Shrine. It’s a perfect way to experience the essence of Higashiyama in a short time.
1-hour course: Starting with the picturesque cobblestone streets, this course takes you to renowned temples and shrines like Yasaka Pagoda and Kenninji Temple, and even through the vibrant Gion district, where geiko and maiko perform. This tour packs all the charm and elegance of Kyoto’s Higashiyama district into one hour of unforgettable sightseeing.
2-hour course: This tour takes you beyond the Gion area, all the way to the historic Okazaki district. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like Yasaka Pagoda, the Great Torii Gate of Heian Shrine, the aqueduct at Nanzenji Temple, and the grand Sanmon Gate of Chion-in Temple. It’s like stepping back in time as you explore these architectural marvels. During cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons, you’ll also catch all the best seasonal spots. This course is sure to leave you completely satisfied!
Explore Kyoto from the ease and comfort of a traditional rickshaw.
Travel the streets of Kyoto's historic Higashiyama district and perhaps even glimpse a geisha in Gion.
Your friendly driver will share interesting facts as you ride...
...and is the perfect photographer to capture memories of your Kyoto tour
Venture further into the narrow streets by rickshaw!
How it works
Tour on a traditional rickshaw to view the townhouses as you pass by on the traditional flagstone paths Visiting the historic temples and shrines or enjoying the atmosphere of the traditional district from the noble perch of a regal rickshaw Enjoy a romantic rickshaw ride in the old Gion district, where you might catch a glimpse of a Geisha heading for an appointment Ask your friendly rickshaw guide for many tantalizing historical facts before dropping you off at a convenient location
