Experience the Best of Kyoto on a Free Walking Tour
Kyoto, Japan, is a city that has managed to preserve its ancient traditions while at the same time embracing its modern advancements. The city is full of beautiful temples, stunning gardens, and delicious cuisine that are sure to captivate any traveller. With so much to see in Kyoto, it can be overwhelming to explore the city on your own. That’s why I strongly recommend taking a free walking tour – an excellent way to dive into the city’s culture, history, and charms.
1. Discover Kyoto’s rich history
Kyoto has over 1,000 years of history, and a free walking tour is an excellent opportunity to learn more about it. A tour guide will take you through the historic streets and landmarks of Kyoto and impart their local knowledge, insights, and anecdotes. You’ll visit revered temples such as Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Kiyomizu-dera, World Heritage sites, crowded markets, and hidden alleys while exploring the city’s ancient architecture and traditions. The guide will ensure you don’t miss any of the stories and histories behind the city’s iconic locations and make sure you get the most out of your time in Kyoto.
2. Experience Kyoto’s food culture
Kyoto is famous for its unique culinary delights, including kaiseki, traditional Japanese cuisine that involves a series of small, carefully crafted dishes that are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and to showcase the flavours of the season. A free walking tour introduces you to some favourite local eateries that many tourists may not find on their own. You can sample local rice balls, traditional sweets, matcha green tea, or wagashi-dough creations that are available on storefronts along the tour route.
3. Make new friends
If you’re travelling solo, a Free Walking Tour Kyoto is an excellent opportunity to make new friends. Many first-timers to Kyoto prefer to take tours, connecting with like-minded visitors who share similar interests. It can be reassuring to have company on your journey, and the possibilities are endless. Who knows! You might end up discovering a few hidden gems with your new friends that are not listed in your guidebooks.
4. Get off the beaten path
Kyoto is not just about temples and shrines. The free walking tours can also help you get off the beaten path to explore hidden gems, such as the serene Japanese gardens, the busy shopping arcade, and the local businesses owned by families for generations. You’ll have more opportunities to ask questions and find out about the historical significance of these inspiring locations. The tours are usually customizable and can be tailored to suit the preferences of tourists, which means you get a firsthand look at the city’s local customs and routines.
5. Budget-friendly
One of the best reasons to take a free walking tour is that it won’t cost you anything apart from tips for the guide. You get to experience a guided tour for free and can adjust your budget elsewhere in your travels. The free tours are conducted on several schedules throughout the day, allowing you to pick the times that work best for your itinerary.
In short:
Kyoto’s charm, history, and culture are appealing to visitors all over the world, and taking a free walking tour is a fantastic way to see the city. From its centuries-old architecture to its beautiful gardens and culinary delights, Kyoto is captivating on its own. However, with a knowledgeable local guide, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Book a free walking tour today and become immersed in the rich culture and history of Japan’s former capital.