From Feudal to Formidable: Kyoto’s Architecture Self Guided Tour

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From Feudal to Formidable: Kyoto’s Architecture Self Guided Tour

By VoiceMap Audio Tours

Free cancellation available

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Features

Free cancellation available
1h 30m
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation

Overview

On this self-guided tour, discover how Kyoto’s architecture reflects Japan’s transformation from a feudal society to a modern nation. Led by historian Gavin James Campbell, the tour explores the blend of traditional and contemporary design throughout Kyoto’s streets. You’ll learn about the city’s transition and see buildings influenced by Western styles like Queen Anne and Art Deco. As you explore Pontocho District, you'll gain insight into the architectural trends and cultural shifts that shaped modern Kyoto.

Activity location

亰都市道路元標
- 9 ９
- 604-8136, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

亰都市道路元標
- 9 ９
- 604-8136, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Check availability

From Feudal to Formidable: Kyoto’s Architecture Self Guided Tour in English

1h 30m
Opening hours: Thu 12:00am-11:59pm
English

Travelers

Language options: English

Price details

$19.99 x 1 Adult$19.99

Total

What's included, what's not

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Smartphone and headphones (please bring your own)
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation

Know before you book

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
The route is an easy walk but there are steps so it isn't wheelchair accessible

Activity itinerary

The Museum of Kyoto (Pass by)

As you pass this museum, hear about its role in preserving Kyoto’s heritage and housing important exhibits on the city’s cultural history.

Kikusui (Pass by)

This striking Art Deco-style restaurant captures the essence of European expressionist architecture. You’ll admire its exterior as you pass by.

Minamiza : The Kabuki Theater of Kyoto (Pass by)

Passing this iconic theater, you’ll learn about its long-standing association with Kabuki performances and its place in Kyoto’s entertainment history.

Tohka Saikan - Main Shop (Pass by)

You’ll pass by this building designed by famed architect Tohka Saikan, whose work left an indelible mark on the city.

Pontocho Park (Pass by)

Strolling through this small park, you’ll hear stories about the area’s rich history as part of Kyoto’s famous geisha district.

Pontocho Kaburenjo (Pass by)

Walk past this theater, slightly out of place amidst wooden buildings, and hear how it remains a hub for traditional Japanese performing arts.

Sanjō Ōhashi Bridge (Pass by)

Cross this famous bridge while discovering its place in the shogunate’s brutal history, including stories of executions along the Kamogawa River.

Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade (Pass by)

You’ll pass this bustling shopping street, reflecting the blend of modern and traditional commercial life in Kyoto.

1928 Building (Pass by)

Admire the façade of this vibrant, modernist building, as Gavin explains how newspapers influenced its construction.

Yabetoku Clock Store (Pass by)

Passing this clock store, you’ll learn how businesses in Kyoto embraced Western architectural styles to advertise their modernity.

Location

Activity location

亰都市道路元標
- 9 ９
- 604-8136, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

亰都市道路元標
- 9 ９
- 604-8136, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

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