SKYHOP Bus(Kyoto)

Must Do Experiences

• Hop off at Kinkaku-ji to witness the breathtaking Golden Pavilion reflecting beautifully on its surrounding pond.

• Enjoy a panoramic, unobstructed view of Kyoto's skyline and historic streets from the open-air top deck.

• Hop off near Kiyomizu-dera and explore the charming, traditional shops and street food stalls of the Higashiyama district.

• Use the in-car audio guide to learn fascinating historical stories as you pass by the majestic Nijo Castle.

Hidden Gems

• The top deck offers a rare, elevated perspective of Kyoto's seasonal foliage, making it an incredible secret spot for viewing autumn leaves or spring cherry blossoms without the ground-level crowds.

• Listen closely to the audio guide for lesser-known historical anecdotes about the samurai and shoguns who once walked the streets near Nijo Castle.

• Hop off at the lesser-known intermediate stops to discover quiet, traditional Kyoto cafes and local artisan shops that most express-tour tourists miss.

What Makes it Special

• The open-air double-decker design provides an unobstructed, 360-degree view of Kyoto's stunning cityscape and historic architecture.

• The flexible hop-on hop-off system allows you to completely customize your itinerary, spending as much time as you want at your favorite temples or food markets.

• Complimentary free Wi-Fi and a multilingual in-car audio guide ensure you stay connected and deeply informed throughout your entire journey.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to ride is early morning to beat the crowds at major temples and enjoy the crisp, clear light for photography. Spring and autumn are the most spectacular seasons to ride the open-top deck, offering stunning views of cherry blossoms and vibrant red maple leaves. Avoid midday during the peak summer months of July and August, as the open-air top deck can become quite hot and humid.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Sit at the very front of the open-air top deck to capture sweeping, unobstructed photos of Kyoto's streets and approaching landmarks.

• The golden hour just before sunset provides magical, warm lighting for photographing the city skyline and the distant Higashiyama mountains from the moving bus.

• Remember to hold your camera or phone securely with a wrist strap while on the top deck to prevent accidental drops while the bus is in motion.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When hopping off to visit temples and shrines, remember to bow slightly before passing through the torii gates and speak in hushed tones to respect the serene atmosphere. Tipping is not customary in Japan, so a simple thank you to the bus staff and drivers is the best way to show your appreciation. Please queue orderly at the bus stops and avoid eating or drinking on the bus to maintain cleanliness.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Ride the bus during the Gion Matsuri in July to catch glimpses of the massive, ornately decorated festival floats being paraded through the central streets.

• Experience the magical Gozan Okuribi in mid-August, where giant bonfires are lit on the mountainsides surrounding the city, visible from the bus route.

• Enjoy the spectacular illuminations during the winter light-up events at temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Nijo Castle, which are easily accessible via the hop-on hop-off stops.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always remain seated while the bus is in motion, especially on the open-air top deck, to avoid losing your balance on turns.

• Hold onto the handrails firmly when climbing the stairs to the top deck or when disembarking at your chosen stop.

• Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen if you plan to spend most of your day on the exposed upper deck during the warmer months.