Tours in Kyoto

Kyoto has been the principal home of Zen since its introduction to Japan from China at the beginning of the 13th century. Kyoto is therefore rightly famous for its Zen-influenced gardens, etc. However, the heart of Zen is the practice of meditation, for meditation is the very meaning of the word “Zen.” Given this, it is ironic there are few opportunities for short-term visitors to Kyoto to have more than a brief introduction to Zen meditation while visiting Zen temples. Thus, this workshop is unique in providing an extended, in-depth introduction to both the theory and practice of meditation (zazen) under the guidance of American-born, Sōtō Zen Buddhist priest and scholar Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Rev. Victoria will introduce you to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, employing traditional meditation cushions (or chairs if needed) in a private meditation hall. By workshop completion, participants will become confident in their ability to continue meditating on their own.

Hi, I'm Kiyoto from Kyoto! Yes, I'm named after this beautiful city - quite unusual, right? I love showing visitors the best of Kyoto, from famous landmarks to hidden gems tucked away in vibrant neighborhoods. Forget the guidebooks - let's create an unforgettable adventure together! Partnering only with passionate guides who share my philosophy, and working with a small team of guides I have personally trained and approved, I promise you the best day trip experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. If you are eager to explore off-the-beaten-path spots like local pottery shops and family-run izakayas, we've got you covered. You'll discover Japanese dishes and delicious street sweets that you might miss on your own! Immerse yourself in Kyoto's world of scenic beauty, unique customs, history, and culture through our guides' captivating storytelling. First-timer or seasoned Kyoto explorer? Either way, I guarantee a magical experience. Ready to discover the heart of Kyoto together?

Kyoto is an old capital of Japan. Kyoto had been the capital of Japan for more than 1, 000 years until 1868. Kyoto is exactly the center of Japanese history and traditional culture. There are a lot of scenic and historic sites including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto and its vicinity. I'm a licensed English tour guide and a professional driver. I will guide you around Kyoto by car. You can make a tour of Kyoto at your own pace in air conditioned comfort. My Kyoto tour is very flexible.

Samurai are most renowned for their military might and prowess while embracing a strong sense of honor, grace, and poise. Experience the artistic side of the samurai through this Kenbu experience. Kenbu, literally meaning 'sword dance', is a Japanese traditional performing art that uses a katana and folding fan to convey the culture and spiritual nature of the samurai via swordplay, dance, and poetry. In this experience, learn and practice aspects of the etiquette of samurai classes, try on traditional samurai costume, and enjoy a show performed by expert Kenbu masters. Take an opportunity to hold a katana and experience the literal weight of being a samurai. Guests will also get to take a commemorative photo of their experience.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Kyoto with our private guided tour. Visit Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo forest, Golden Pavilion, Nishiki Market to experience about Kyoto's rich culture and traditions with a local guide. Let us craft a memorable day filled with discovery and wonder as you immerse yourself in the essence of this timeless city. Meet your guide at your hotel and start your day in Kyoto! Let's explore these places to the fullest extent possible within the time available.

Embark on a pilgrimage to Koyasan, a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary where the hallowed temples murmur ancient tales and cultural rituals perform a delicate ballet. Immerse yourself in the optional live meditation experience, allowing the spirit to find peace, and join a monk-led tour that reveals the sacred secrets of this divine haven. Expert driver pick-up & drop-off service, you can choose your location. Professional tour guide shares you the culture, stories and tales.

A Master Cutler and your chef guide will invite you to sharpen your own santoku knife, which you can take home as a cherished memento at the conclusion of the workshop. Our goal is for you to not only acquire knowledge but also to carry a tangible embodiment of your time in Japan, creating lasting memories for years to come. We aim to demystify this craft and showcase the wide range of knives and tools used by both professional chefs and enthusiasts. With over a dozen different types of knives utilized in kitchens across Japan, we provide a comprehensive explanation of this unique assortment of tools.

Cultural Immersion & Expert Insights This Kyoto & Nara Park Tour goes beyond sightseeing, offering a deep dive into the rich culture, history, and spiritual beauty of Kyoto and Nara. With expert guidance, you'll uncover fascinating stories, explore iconic landmarks, and engage with local traditions in an authentic way. Skip-the-Line & Hassle-Free Travel Enjoy Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, bypassing long lines and maximizing your time at each site. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this tour lets you see the best of Kyoto and Nara without the hassle of navigating public transport. Memorable Encounters with Nature & Traditions In Nara Park, meet the friendly, sacred deer that roam freely—a unique experience for all ages. You'll also visit the majestic Todaiji Temple, home to the world's largest bronze Buddha, offering an unforgettable cultural moment.

Embark on a journey to the beautiful areas of Kyoto and Nara. Admire the exquisite Kinkakuji Temple, covered in gold leaf, and stroll through its surrounding garden, reflecting on the still pond. In Arashiyama, walk through the jade bamboo forests illuminated by sunlight and cross Togetsu-kyo Bridge for panoramic views of the Katsura River. Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and stroll through its 10,000 torii gates. In Nara Park, encounter adorable deer amidst lush forest views and visit Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. Treat yourself to this day tour of Kyoto and Nara, exploring historic temples and picturesque natural hotspots.

Kyoto's crown jewel, Kinkaku-ji, or the Golden Pavilion, epitomizes the city’s rich heritage. Built in the 14th century by the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, this dazzling temple signifies the end of a turbulent era and highlights Kyoto’s cultural elegance. On this tour, visitors—whether history lovers, nature enthusiasts, or families—will experience the enchantment of Kinkaku-ji up close. Admire the temple's golden facade and its stunning reflection in the surrounding pond, while uncovering its historical and architectural significance. With insights from your knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Kinkaku-ji’s role in Japanese culture. Explore this iconic site and immerse yourself in the splendor of Kyoto’s golden heritage, creating a memorable journey through Japan's cultural past.

Discover the world of sake with Kenji, a certified international sake sommelier who spent many years working at a sake brewery in Hyogo. During the two-hour tasting, you'll have the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of sake production from a professional insider. We’ll cover how to order and enjoy this quintessential Japanese beverage while we taste several different kinds of sake. Please join Kenji for sake and snacks at a very cool standing bar in central Kyoto! Group size: 2 - 4 people

We are located in the heart of Kyoto, just a 12-minute walk from Kyoto Station and a 2-minute walk from Nishi Honganji Temple. Our facility is a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese house that dates back 130 years. We have transformed it into a classroom where we provide an authentic Japanese cultural experience for overseas visitors to Japan, aiming to offer a genuine taste of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. Inside the historic house, you will find a majority of antique furniture and artifacts that are over 110 years old. With this setting, along with traditional Japanese music, we strive to create an immersive cultural experience that takes you back to Kyoto as it was 130 years ago. Our teachers are all local to Kyoto and possess a deep understanding of Japanese culture. They are passionate about sharing their knowledge and providing you with an enriching experience.

Step into the enchanting world of old Kyoto and immerse yourself in the magic of Gion and Shirakawa on this unforgettable evening walking tour. As twilight falls, lanterns flicker to life, casting a warm glow over cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old teahouses. The soft rustle of kimono-clad geisha passing by, the distant notes of a shamisen drifting through the air—this is Kyoto at its most mesmerizing. Wander through historic alleyways where time seems to stand still, discovering the hidden corners of Kyoto’s legendary geisha districts. Along the way, savor a few local delights— Each bite tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.

Experience a Sound Bath with Japanese musical instruments called "Singing Ring" made by Japanese traditional craft techniques. Singing Ring is one of the few acoustic instruments in the world that emits as many harmonics as can be measured by measuring equipments. Enjoy the world of "the one and only" sound that can only be experienced in Japan. You will experience the beauty and the depth of Japanese sounds. Experience a transformative sound journey that blends the therapeutic benefits of sound baths with the immersive qualities of ethnic music. Lie back and allow yourself to be enveloped by a rich soundscape that will transport you to a state of deep relaxation and inner peace. The sound bath session will be conducted for approximately 60 minutes. Following the session, participants will have the opportunity to experience playing the instruments. This experience filled with delicate and solemn sounds that reflect the spirit of Japan will surely be a lifetime memory of your trip.

In order to closely feel the local atmosphere of Kyoto, this tour will use public transportation so that you can experience the everyday life of Kyoto locals, unlike other tour groups hastily hopping from one location to another on chartered buses. During the 7-hour tour, your guide will show you around the city covering four major must-see locations. There are two different courses: one northwest-bound and the other southeast-bound. If you participate in both tours, you can efficiently cover eight locations at a relaxing pace. For both courses, you can chose from private option, non-private option and non-private option with apprentice guide (reduced rate). Even if you chose non-private option, we guarantee that the total number of guests will be less than 9 people.

Experience Kyoto’s highlights in a day on this immersive tour, perfect for culture enthusiasts and families. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, walking through thousands of red torii gates up Mount Inari. Next, visit Kiyomizu-dera to admire its iconic wooden stage with panoramic city views. Wander down Sannenzaka, a charming street leading to the historic Gion district, known for its traditional wooden buildings. Explore Nijo Castle’s Edo-period architecture and serene gardens before concluding at the stunning Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. This tour offers a rich blend of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable exploration of Kyoto.

The Kyoto Imperial Palace, once the residence of Japan's imperial family before the capital moved to Tokyo in 1869, is located in Kyoto's Gyoen National Garden. Known for its traditional Japanese architecture and scenic gardens, the palace complex includes several buildings, such as the main hall (Shishinden) and various other structures used for ceremonies and official functions. Explore stunning traditional architecture, serene gardens, and historical landmarks with our expert guide. An insightful journey through Japan’s royal past awaits you here.

Do you really like temples and gardens? If so, Nara is the place for you! Close to Osaka and Kyoto, this quiet area is full of beauty...and deer! Why so many deer in Nara? Deer are messengers from the heavens, so they have free reign over the city of Nara that is filled with religious importance. Come and learn about Japan’s temples and religious history in Nara! Once your reservation is made, a guide will contact you to plan your personalized tour. Choose 3 to 4 spots from ‘Tour Details’ to visit. Don't know where to go? Ask the guide to send you their recommendations. We hope to guide you soon! * Maximum 7 participants per tour. * If you have a child or children in your group, please let us know the number and their age.

If you have only a half day and want to optimize your experience in Kyoto, this tour is the best for you. 7 must-see spots in east and south of Kyoto, including one hidden gem!! A professional local guide shows you the most comfortable and convenient way to the spots. You can enjoy walking along with the beautiful sceneries, paths, and back alleys that only the local people know. Please enjoy the top 7 spots with the beautiful stories of your guide. *This tour uses both taxis and public transportation to save your time and energy. *We also welcome Japanese who are studying English and want to visit top 7 must-see points in Kyoto.

Hi I'm Kosuke Let me show you around my home town. Feel free to contact me and let me know dates and places of your interest. Please book me two days at least if you really want to enjoy Kyoto! Thank you very much

Discover the captivating allure of Kyoto with our meticulously curated guided tour, designed to immerse you in the rich cultural tapestry of Japan's ancient capital. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this unforgettable journey promises to unveil Kyoto's hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Why Choose Our Tour: Expert Guidance: Led by experienced local guides fluent in English and knowledgeable about Kyoto's history and culture. Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personalized tour experience with small group sizes, ensuring intimate access to attractions and personalized attention from your guide.

Like the tea ceremony and calligraphy, sento (public baths) are one of the most important traditional cultures in Japan. What is the correct way to take a bath? Are there any bathing etiquette? Our bathing specialists will answer any questions you may have about bathing, and then you will actually try bathing! This experience is a new experience that traces the history of sento (public bath) culture and allows you to experience it for yourself, and it can also help you become healthier. Orientation will be held at a cafe that used to be a sento (public bath). During the orientation, we will explain the 1300-year history of Japanese public bath culture and give you a paper summarizing recommended bathing methods, so you can deepen your understanding of public bath culture and bathing methods. After that, you will practice the bathing method we explained to you at Funaoka Onsen. Why not experience Japan's sento culture, which boasts a rich tradition, with all your senses?

In this class, you will experience making home-style ramen and homemade gyoza from scratch using simple ingredients in a home environment. Not only will you get to enjoy a fun cultural experience during your Japan trip, but with the skills you learn, you can actually try and cook these dishes once you return home. My guests often tell me that they're surprised how simple it is to make and how delicious the food turns out. After my class, you will hopefully have the confidence to cook some delicious Japanese food for your loved ones at home.

Kyoto is known to have about 2000 temples and shrines but did you know that Kyoto has about 12000 restaurants among which 110 are Michelin Stars. In Kyoto there is a time to pray and then there is a time to eat. With Secret Food Tours and your host,we will focus on the second part. Our local guides will teach you the traditions and social functions of Japanese food and how it is important to the Japanese. They will share with you their knowledge about the local food with some unique flavours and textures. Eating in Kyoto is more than providing substance for the body, it also includes an appreciation for custom and tradition for how the food is sourced, prepared, and enjoyed by the local Japanese people. By booking our Kyoto Karasuma to Gion Food Tour, our food experts will take you on a journey with delicious and mouth-watering local delicacies. As with all our tours, there is a secret dish, which you will only find out about on the day of the tour.