KTIC Friends Kinkakuji Temple Walking Tour and Maiko Dance Show

Tour Description

The journey begins with a leisurely walk around the Kinkakuji Temple, where you can take in stunning views. During its renovation from 1986 to 1987, the temple utilized 200,000 gold leaves, weighing 20 kg (44 pounds), to refurbish the 2nd and 3rd floors. You will spend about 45 minutes admiring the temple and its picturesque grounds.

Next, the tour will lead you to "Kotobuki-kai" at the Kamishichikenkaburenjo for an authentic experience of traditional Geisha and Maiko performances.

History of "Kotobuki-kai"

In 1734, Shinchi Nijo established a teahouse named Kamishichiken on the eastern side of the Nijo River. However, it was closed down in 1887. At that time, teahouses would display the characters "寿" (Kotobuki), "栄" (Sakae), "東" (Higashi), and "泉" (Izumi) on their noren (shop curtains) during the day and on lanterns at night to signify their official licensing. Following the war, the Onshukai (a traditional performing arts event) was promptly revived. To adapt it for a new era, the name "Onshukai" was selected by incorporating the character "寿" from "Kotobuki Nakama" (the Kotobuki group), thereby reestablishing the Onshukai.

All transportation will be conducted by walking or public transport. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and being prepared for any weather conditions.

KTIC Friends are staff members from the Kyoto Tourist Information Center. An English-speaking staff member will accompany you from the departure point at the Kyoto Tourist Information Center. This is a Non-licensed assisted walking tour.

Information about tour

• Place of departure and destination: From Kyoto Tourist Information Center to Kinkakuji Temple and Kamishichikenkaburenjo
• Number of days of travel: 1 Day
• Means of transportation: Bus and walking
• Name of bus company:
• Meal(s): 0
• Minimum number of passengers to operate: 2
• Number of GUIDE: 1

Tour Operator Information

• Company Name: H.I.S. Co., Ltd.
• Department Name: Inbound Travel Division DMC Business Department West Japan Group Kansai Team
• Address: Mainichi Intecio 15F 3-4-5 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8215, JAPAN
• Tel: +81- 50-1745-1444
• Registration No.: No. 724 by the Commissioner of Japan Tourism Agency
• Membership: Full Member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)

Contact Information

• Department Name: Inbound Travel Division DMC Business Department West Japan Group Kansai Team
• Address: Mainichi Intecio 15F 3-4-5 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8215, JAPAN
• Tel: +81- 50-1745-1444
• Opening hour: 10:00~18:00 (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays)

General Travel Services Manager: Eri Tomiyama

*The Tour Operations Manager is responsible for all transactions related to your travel at the sales office managing your arrangements. If you have any inquiries or concerns regarding the information provided by the staff about this travel contract, please feel free to reach out to the aforementioned Tour Operations Manager.

Please review and understand the Terms and conditions below.

• Travel Terms and Conditions: Domestic Package Tours https://www.his-j.com/japan-tourist/pdf/terms-conditions/travel-domestic-package.pdf
• Travel Agency Terms and Conditions: Section of Package Tour Contract https://www.his-j.com/japan-tourist/pdf/terms-conditions/travel-agency-domestic-package.pdf

Highlights

• Tour is available exclusively from 2026/11/12 to 2026/11/18.
• Experience a complete 90-minute performance featuring the Maiko and Geiko (Geisha) dance of "Kotobuki-kai".
• Stroll through the renowned Kinkakuji Temple.
• Relish the experience of using public transportation.
• The tour is supported by KTIC Friends staff who speak English.

Itinerary

• Meet KTIC Friends staff at Kyoto Tourist Information Center, located 1st floor of Kyoto Mitsui Building.
• Departing from Kyoto Tourist Information Center.
• Catch city bus from Shijo-karasuma to Kinkakuji-michi. (Fare is included - 30 min)
• Visit Kinkakuji-temple. (45 min/Admission included)
• Catch city bus from Kinkakuji-michi to Kitanotenmangu-mae. (Fare is included - 30 min)
• Visit Kitanotenmangu Shrine. (15min/Free Admission)
• Walk to Kamishichikenkaburenjo. (5 min)
• Enjoy watching Kotobuki-kai performance. (Admission is included - 90 min)
• Catch city bus from Kitanotenmangu-mae to Shijo-karasuma.(Fare is included- 35 min)
• Arrive at Kyoto Tourist Information Center. Tour ends here.

Price Details

Included

• Admission to Kinkakuji-temple
• Kotobuki-kai ticket
• City bus fare
• English speaking assistant from Kyoto Tourist Information Center (KTIC)

Not included

• Beverages
• Food
• Personal Expenses

Important Information

Customer Guidelines:

1. You will receive a final information email from KTIC titled:【Tour Date】- Booking Confirmation & Important Notice - HIS【Tour Reservation Number】.

Please read it carefully and ask questions if necessary.

1. Please arrive at the meeting location 10 minutes prior to the departure time.

1. IMPORTANT: The tour will depart according to the schedule and will not wait for late arrivals.

1. Please be aware that weekends, holidays, and event days may experience high levels of congestion.

1. The schedule is subject to change without prior notice.

1. Due to traffic or other reasons, the duration of visits at each destination may be shortened, and arrival times may be delayed.

1. Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).

1. In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.

1. Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.

1. Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions when you book. especially if the tour includes lunch.

Note: These guidelines are provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Thank you for your cooperation.

Purchase Notice

• This is not a private tour; you will enjoy the tour with other guests.
• Maximum number of participants is 10 people.
• Minimum number of participants is 2 person.
• All participants must be 7 years old or older.
• Lunch is not included.
• Drinking alcohol during the tour is not allowed.
• The admission tickets for Kinkakuji Temple and Kotobuki-kai are included in this price.
• Please note that some of the buildings at the temple may look different or you may not be able to see them due to constructions.
• The order of the itinerary may be partially changed.
• This tour will use of a combination of train and bus.
• Bringing large luggage to the tour is not allowed.

How to Use

Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.

Cancellation Policy

• 11 or more day(s) before the activity date: 0% cancellation fee
• Between 8 and 10 day(s) before the activity date: 20% cancellation fee
• Between 2 and 7 day(s) before the activity date: 30% cancellation fee
• 1 day(s) before the activity date: 40% cancellation fee
• On the activity date: 100% cancellation fee