Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine) Tours

Host to Japan’s most famous festival, Gion Matsuri, Yasaka Shrine is located in the heart of Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine dates back to the 7th century, when it was known as Gion Shrine for its location near the Gion district, famous for the geisha that live and work there. The shrine consists of several buildings. The main hall houses an inner sanctuary and a secondary hall. One of the most prominent features of the shrine is a large stage out front lined with hundreds of lanterns. One of the most popular times to visit the shrine is in the evening or at night, when the lanterns light the stage.
The annual Gion Matsuri festival began more than 1,100 years ago at Yasaka Shrine. In modern times, it takes place every July. Originally, the festival sought to expunge the city of illnesses. Today, the festival celebrates craftwork. Intricate fabrics, textiles, and sculptures adorn floats that men carry through town. Music, costumes, and street food contribute to the festive atmosphere. Yasaka Shrine is also a popular place to visit during the Japanese New Year and during cherry blossom season.
Practical Info
Yasaka Shrine can be reached by public bus in Kyoto. It is located near the Gion bus stop, which can be reached from Kyoto Station on city buses number 100 or 206. By train, the closest stop is Gion Shijo Station. The shrine can also be reached by a beautiful 25-minute walk from Kiyomizudera.
Address: 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan
42 Tours and Activities to Experience Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)
Sort by:Featured

Explore The Culture & History of Kyoto With A Local: Private & Personalized 8Hrs
This personalized full-day Kyoto tour with a local is ideal for first-time visitors to the "City of Temples". You won’t waste a moment visiting places that don’t interest you as this tour is fully customizable based on your interests. Choose the neighborhoods you’d like to visit, and see many of Kyoto’s top sites. Exploring the city with a guide means you won’t get lost, and you'll learn lots of local tips that you wouldn’t discover otherwise.
…More
From
$178.17
Price varies by group size
From
$178.17
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Kyoto Late Bird tour
Explore three important tourist attractions in Kyoto on a half-day tour that starts in the afternoon. Go to Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, and Kennin-ji Temple, and see rows of torii gates, well-preserved old wooden buildings, and the first zen temple in Kyoto. You’ll also stroll through the Gion district, and have time for other activities before the tour begins.
…More
From
$98.55
Price varies by group size
From
$98.55
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Lonely Planet Experiences: Small-Group or Private Kyoto Walking Tour
Experience the glowing lanterns and lively atmosphere of Kyoto after dark on this evening walking tour with a small group. Experience the ancient Japanese capital after dark as you stroll the city’s serene back streets and visit city landmarks like Yasaka Shrine, the Pontocho restaurant district, and a ‘tachinomiya’ stand and drink shop for included food and drink samples.
…More
From
$110.88
Price varies by group size
From
$110.88
Price varies by group size
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms

Kyoto Geisha Private Tour with a Local
Kyoto’s charm is a combination of geisha culture, ancient temples, and age-old traditions that are still preserved and revered in the ex-capital of Japan. On this private tour, you can experience an authentic Kyoto.
Join your local host and visit the renowned geisha district, Gion. See geishas in traditional kimonos and powdered white oshiroi makeup strolling through historic streets. Check out from old tea houses to textile shops and artisanal boutiques housed in wooden townhouses. Hear stories of their life-long training, learn the intricacies of the art of geisha entertainment, and step briefly into their high-cultured flower and willow world.
Go in-depth inside Kyoto’s roots and visit inspiring pagodas and shrines built centuries ago, each bearing a unique story featuring deities, monsters, and heroes.
On this private tour, the host will introduce you to the history of Kyoto and help you understand Japanese religion and the way of life.
…More
From
$74.33
Price varies by group size
From
$74.33
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

4 Hours In Kyoto With A Local: Private & Personalized
It can be daunting as a first-time visitor to Japan to cope with language barriers and navigate around a new place. On this Kyoto half-day tour, take the stress out of travel planning by having a local host plan your day. Explore one or two neighborhoods of your choice, walking past multiple top attractions and learning about Japanese culture from your guide. By traveling with a local, you learn about hidden secrets off the beaten track that tourists wouldn’t usually visit.
…More
From
$111.36
Price varies by group size
From
$111.36
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Kyoto Photogenic Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
Kyoto Photogenic Tour is a unique tour for you to get to Kyoto's famous photo spots and take some pictures for unforgettable memories. This tour will take you to Kifune Shrine, Okazaki Shrine, Yasaka Shrine, Hokanji Temple, Bamboo Forest and Kimono Forest.
…More
From
$41.75
From
$41.75
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Gion Evening Highlights Tour with Nationally-Licensed Guide
Exploring the narrow alleyways of Kyoto’s Geisha District—Gion can be daunting for a first-time visitor. Eliminate the worry of getting lost by going on a guided tour. It’s a great way to discover hidden places that locals love, and to hear about Kyoto’s ancient past. Highlights include learning about Geisha culture and rituals, and visiting Gion, Pontocho, and Miyagawacho.
…More
From
$31.08
Price varies by group size
From
$31.08
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

The Heart of Kyoto & The Nijo Castle Private Tour
There is no city like Kyoto, with its alluring blend of deep-rooted traditions and dramatic history. Home to centuries-old temples and shrines as well as being the birthplace of the intriguing geisha culture, Kyoto is a fascinating destination! On this private tour, get ready to discover everything this city has to offer, from its hidden gems to famous landmarks, all with your favorite local.
Travel back in time to the feudal era by visiting the Higashiyama Area and tour the famous Nijo Castle, built for the first shogun of the Edo period.
Get up-close with Kyoto’s heritage at the Yasaka Pagoda and discover a folk faith connected to monkeys then explore the Kiyomizu Temple, a revered world heritage site. Witness and participate in age-old rituals by sipping from a holy stream.
Quench your thirst with some warm Matcha. The local hosts are wonderful storytellers, each one with a different background ranging from arts to history an they are looking forward to showing you their city.
…More
From
$152.38
Price varies by group size
From
$152.38
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Discover Kyoto's Geisha District of Gion!
No trip to Kyoto is complete without a trip to the old preserved district of Gion, and it's no surprise why it's such a popular place to visit. It is one of the only places in the world where you can see a real-life "geisha" walking along the beautiful alleyways. Join our Gion Night Walk and we can tell you all about the mysterious lives of the geisha as we walk along these charming cobblestoned streets all lit up with lantern light. Let these places some to life with a fun and friendly guide to tell you what happens behind the closed doors of Gion.
…More
From
$45.48
From
$45.48

Nighttime All-Inclusive Local Eats and Streets, Gion and Beyond
Get an insiders' eye perspective on Kyoto on this walking tour that combines a food tour with anthropological insight. Wander through the city's streets and understand the nighttime entertainment scene, from geiko (geisha) to hostesses. Afterward, sample regional specialties accompanied by included drinks at standing bars/restaurants.
…More
From
$104.00
Price varies by group size
From
$104.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Guides required to regularly wash hands
![KYOTO Walking Tour [Customize Your Itinerary]](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-360x240/07/b3/2b/02.jpg)
KYOTO Walking Tour [Customize Your Itinerary]
Private VIP Tour in KYOTO allows you to “Customize Your Itinerary” to fit your specific travel expectations.
You have your own private tour guide for approximately 8 hours.
Our team assists you to manage the tour, give recommendations, make reservations and check information.
<<< You customize your own Day Trip in KYOTO >>>
STEP1: We propose list of famous destinations while you share with us your travel desires and special requests.
STEP2: With careful communication and planning, we share and exchange our draft detailed itinerary.
STEP3: We revise/finalize the itinerary.
***You can always change the itinerary even on the day while traveling with the tour guide. Please feel free to reach our team and tour guide for recommendation at any time.
***Extra charges will be applied for over time service.
…More
From
$429.58
per group
From
$429.58
per group

Gion Photography Tour in Kyoto
I will take you to photogenic places in central Kyoto area!
If you are looking for Kimono shoot, I can recommend you a few places so please let me know.
We meet up and start shooting while I walk you through the area and create your awesome memories of Kyoto.
*I do night portrait sessions as well, please let me know if you are interested in doing the shoot at night.
What You Will Get:
・1 and half hour shooting time
・About 50 professionally retouched images (*Digital files only. Delivered by Dropbox/Google Drive etc.)
I will deliver the images through an online platform within 4 days.
Please feel free to contact me before you book if you have any questions!
Looking forward to creating awesome Kyoto experiences of yours!
…More
From
$59.13
From
$59.13
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Total Kyoto - Full Day Kyoto by Day and after Dusk Small Group Tour
On this small group tour, you’ll save time researching Kyoto highlights by having a guide to show you top attractions (such as Tofukuji Temple), as well as hidden sites that locals love. You’ll cover a lot of ground, and see multiple districts, including Kyoto’s Geisha district—Gion. Kyoto comes to life at night with lantern-lit streets, so this tour makes sure you don’t miss out on that by having an ‘after dusk’ section too.
…More
From
$182.82
From
$182.82
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms

Discover The Traditions of Geisha Gion with a Local: Private & Personalized
For outsiders, Japanese culture can be difficult to grasp but this guided tour offers the chance to get a locals' eye view of one of the most traditional of Japanese settings. Accompanied by a guide, stroll through the historic streets of Kyoto's Gion district, famed for its scenic cobbled streets lit by paper lanterns, traditional architecture, and association with geiko and maiko culture. Visit Pontocho alley, one of Japan's oldest nightlife areas, and stroll by geisha teahouses as your guide offers insights into local culture.
…More
From
$83.52
Price varies by group size
From
$83.52
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Lonely Planet Experiences: Lanes & Lanterns Private Evening Culture Tour
Many people believe Kyoto is most beautiful at night, as this is the time that the narrow lanes are lit-up by lanterns. Enjoy a private evening tour with a guide to take you to special places that you wouldn’t find alone. Try delicious local snacks, and avoid crowds by taking secret shortcuts. You’ll see beautiful buildings, temples, and shops with guide commentary along the way.
…More
From
$197.10
Price varies by group size
From
$197.10
Price varies by group size
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms

Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems: Best of Kyoto Private Tour
Get ready to experience Kyoto the local way. Enjoy the city to the max and hear more about the origin,history, and culture of Kyoto. Go back in time to the feudal era as you wander around the Higashiyama Area and learn how samurais used to rule Japan. See and touch Kyoto's history at the Yasaka Pagoda,built almost 1500 years ago,and tour the Kongoji Temple to discover a folk faith linked to monkeys.
Follow your local host through Kyoto's districts and neighbourhoods. Explore the Kiyomizu Temple,a world heritage site,and its landmarks of wooden terraces and waterfalls offering streams which visitors can drink from. Stroll through the vibrant Gion District where geishas entertain clients in traditional teahouses and step into Nishiki Market to taste local delicacies and shop for quirky souvenirs.
Feeling thirsty? Why not some treats! Learn the art of Matcha making and savour the jade green tea.
The local hosts are natural storytellers and they cannot wait to show you all around Kyoto.
…More
From
$90.44
Price varies by group size
From
$90.44
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Private Tour - A Nightlife Tour to Explore the Town with a Taste: Gion
Since Kyoto has many temples and shrines, it is quiet during the night. However, Gion is an amusement district where you can hang out till morning! You will visit this area especially shops located on a photogenic street!
Imagine walking in an area with traditional Japanese houses, Japanese paper lantern, and stone paving under your feet. That will be the kind of tour you will experience on this tour!
You will have traditional Kyoto nibbles and drinks at each of the spots you visit. make sure not to eat and drink too much if you want to hop several bars we have prepared for you!
Don’t forget to book your tour to experience the Gion nightlife, with your otomo guide!
…More
From
$103.48
From
$103.48
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands

Private Tour - KAWAII Kyoto! Explore Geisha District in a Kimono!
"Kyoto in a Kimono" - admired by all Japanese. Why don't you take a once in a lifetime experience with this plan?
Choose your favorite kimono, and walk to Yasaka Shrine. Next, we will visit photogenic Japanese mansion gardens!
After visiting the trendy temples you will visit a popular touristic spot "Ninenzaka." Popular to the ladies, the road is filled with Kyoto cosmetics, Ghibli, Hello Kitty, Starbucks in Japanese buildings and tasty food stalls! By the time you realise, you will reach Kiyomizu Temple. Make a wish to the god of marriage!
This tour is packed full of photogenic shots! Share them with your friends via SNS later!
…More
From
$123.19
Price varies by group size
From
$123.19
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands

Dark Kyoto Tour
The yang of the bright and beautiful side of the city's 1200 year history is paralleled by the yin of the macabre, the bizarre and the bloody aspects of the story of Japan's old capital. Starting at Yasaka Shrine we will weave our way south through the back streets of Gion to Kiyomizu Temple, then descending through the Toribeno cemetery, one of the oldest and largest burial grounds dating back to the founding of the city. We pass through the shrine for cutting off bad relationships, stop by a 500 year old haunted candy shop, peek at the well that is said to have been used as a portal to the underworld by a famed Japanese sorcerer, and visit 'the hill of ears' monument.
Although the 'dark' will be highlighted in this experience, I also aim to impart an understanding of Japanese religious and cultural beliefs, and you will end the day with a more intimate understanding of Kyoto and a more balanced and realistic view of one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.
…More
From
$80.86
From
$80.86

Exploring Kyoto - (Rakutou) East
This tour is a tour using public transportation.
Kyoto is known as exotic sightseeing places and numerous historic, quaint old monuments are seen all over the town. This tour covers part of Rakutou (East district) and Central district. Visiting Rakutou, Gion, Yasaka-jinja shrine, Kodai-ji temple, Kiyomizu-dera temple are the most famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto. Particularly well known for the deity of love and marriage and consequently are often full of young couples around the year. Include Nishiki market, well known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” that celebrates 300 years anniversary.
See inclusions and excursions for what is included in the price of this tour.
…More
From
$278.37
per group
From
$278.37
per group

SnapKyoto's Photo Shoot and Tour
Snapkyoto offers two unique things:
1. Pro-level photography (30-50 photos).
2. Guide in English about Japan, Kyoto, its people, culture and history.
Explore Kyoto with your very own photographer who will show you around & snap your photos in Kyoto's most beautiful sites. The next day you will receive some amazing photos to share among friends and family or on social media.
Gion/Higashiyama is famous for its geishas dressed in kimono, tea houses, colourful shrines and zen temples.
Other photo tours by public transport:
*Half-Day Tour: 2 epic areas (3.5 hours) 100 photos:
*Full-Day Tour: All Kyoto's epic areas (7 hours) 200 photos.
*Epic areas: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Golden Pavilion and Gion/Higashiyama. Instagram is snapkyoto.
if your prefered time is not available, please get in touch. I will create one. I also offer cycle photo tour, please check it out.
…More
From
$64.06
From
$64.06

Kyoto Tea Ceremony & Kiyomizu-dera Temple Walking Tour
- Discover Kyoto's special streets with their quaint atmosphere, as if you had time-slipped into ancient times.
Kiyomizuzaka is the name of an area that is composed of several streets with a traditional feel of Kyoto. In the area, we also take you to the most colorful temple in Kyoto called Yasakakoshindo.
- A variety of local street foods will take you to Kiyomizu-Dera
After that, we'll enjoy local snacks and foods there! We'll then visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. We'll also visit Otowa Waterfall, which brings you good luck. Let's try the Japanese way of worshipping together.
- Lead yourself into a world of an elegant and peaceful Tea Ceremony
Enjoy traditional-style tea ceremony with Japanese sweets in a sophisticated room surrounded by tea utensils.
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!
…More
From
$96.97
From
$96.97
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Your Private Vacation Photography Session In Kyoto
Capture your visit to Kyoto with a 1.5-hour photo session conducted by a professional photographer. Choose the locations and types of images you want, and receive 50 edited images after your private photo shoot. You’ll also receive suggestions from your photographer about places to see in Kyoto, along with an overview of Kyoto’s history and culture.
…More
From
$310.81
per group
From
$310.81
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers

Kyoto Traditional Heritage One Day Walking Tour
Kyoto prospered as the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years. During that time, the emperor, the aristocrats and generals all lived here, and a rich culture developed. Even today, these traditions remain alive.
In this tour we will explore the local traditional food, a venerated shrine, temples and a geisha quarter.
In Kyoto the public transport network is not well developed because of the need to preserve the cultural assets. Though this tour involves quite a bit of walking, it provides the opportunity to get to know the traditions of Kyoto and to feel its charm and beauty.
…More
From
$133.04
Price varies by group size
From
$133.04
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Things to do near Kyoto
- Things to do in Kansai Prefecture
- Things to do in Osaka
- Things to do in Izumisano
- Things to do in Nagano
- Things to do in Kamakura
- Things to do in Kawagoe
- Things to do in Tokyo
- Things to do in Musashino
- Things to do in Chiba
- Things to do in Busan
- Things to do in Seoul
- Things to do in Incheon
- Things to do in Osaka Prefecture
- Things to do in Nagano Prefecture
- Things to do in Kanagawa Prefecture