Tours in Kyoto

A visit to Kyoto wouldn’t be complete without diving into its rich tea culture. In just 50 minutes at a charming 100-year-old machiya, you’ll not only learn the art of matcha-making but also craft a modern matcha latte. Enjoy seasonal wagashi while absorbing the serene atmosphere. The experience culminates with a chance to don authentic samurai armor for unforgettable photos that capture the spirit of Japan. Perfect for beginners and curious adventurers alike, this small-group tea ceremony invites you to savor the beauty of tradition with a modern twist.

**Must be 13+ to participate as a rider** Join Cycle Kyoto for a morning bike tour around south Kyoto's most beautiful locations. Stay safe riding on quiet backstreets, explore the mighty Fushimi Inari Shrine as well as a host of specially selected locations. Starts with a visit to the temples of central Kyoto before following the Takase Canal and Kamo River into Gion. After weaving through the backstreets of Kyoto’s famous geisha and teahouse district, we head up to the spectacular Tofukuji Temple for pictures. We then roll down to the other side of the slope and straight into Fushimi Inari Shrine (The most visited attraction in Japan!). After a stroll around the famous orange Torii gates, we head home.

Kyoto Bike Tour has you visit a whopping 5 top spot destinations of Kyoto all in one day on one epic adventure! Enjoy a stroll through the breathtaking Bamboo Forest, gaze at the glimmer of the gold as it reflects on the water at the Golden Pavilion, be inspired by one of the most iconic views of Kyoto from the mystical Kiyomizu Temple, weave through the traditional backstreets of one of Kyoto's geisha districts, take a spiritual walk through the magnificent red torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, and so much more! This is a full city tour of approximately 44km of riding and requires a moderate level of fitness. Basic bicycle riding skills and a sense of adventure is a requirement. We will travel at a leisurely pace with enough time to take in the sites and for a relaxing lunch stop. *Upgrade to a premium e-bike for an additional fee. (Limited supply available) *Please notify of any dietary restrictions or food allergies *Must be 16 years or older to participate.

This is a 2 hours walking tour in the historic area of Gion that is well known for preserving the old architecture. In Gion, you can see the traditional houses, tea houses and old streets of Gion. What makes this tour unique? 1- Within 2 hours, you can experience the historic and cultural essense beauty of of Kyoto historic area of Gion in a private tour. 2- This tour is a walking private tour and can be customized based on your request. 3- Understanding the culture and life in Japan from a foreign prospective. Tour itinerary is planned to cover the top spots of Gion. Itinerary is shown here, however, you can still customize it in arrangement with the guide. 17:00 Meeting at the pickup place (or in Gion area). 17:30 Izumo no Okuni statue and Kaboki drama explanation 18:00 Shinbashi street, Geisha and Maiko explanation, Chionin temple gate 18:30 Maruyama Park and Yasaka shrine 18:45 Hanamikoji Street, Teahouse, Geisha and Maiko spotting areas 19:00 Pontocho and tour finish

Come and experience sake’s history and production on a 3 hour tasting tour. Tasting arond 10 variety of different sakes, you will surely find your favorite one! Embark on this sake adventure. I welcome you to my sake tasting experience in Kyoto. Fushimi area is famous not only Fushimi inari but also sake production. Kyoto is 2nd biggest production in Japan. Basically Kyoto's sake tastes sweet because of soft water. We'll explore two of my favorite breweries, sake museum and local bar. I'm passionate about sake, and I’d like to share with you the process of sake making, comparing different kinds and brands. You will taste the differences between sakes—the highest quality, unfiltered, unpasteurized, and many other seasonable sakes. We help to find your favorite type of sake!

Recently matcha green tea has become popular all around the world. Matcha plays an important role in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. However, learning about Japanese tea ceremony means much more than just learning to make matcha. Why was this a necessary practice of samurais and monks in times past? Why is the "ceremony" still carried on today? Come, step into the world of profound spirituality and set your soul free. 1. Introduction: You will learn the basic concepts and ideas of tea ceremony. You will also learn how to behave in a tea room and appreciate its decoration. 2. The Way of Tea: You will watch a demonstration of the way of tea. We think you will enjoy the quiet and serene atmosphere. 3. Hands-on: Make your own tea! We will tell you how to drink it, and also serve you a specially selected Japanese cake. *Please arrive on time. We cannot allow latecomers to join a session once it has started. *Please refrain from bringing children under the age of 6.

- Discover Kyoto's special streets with their quaint atmosphere, as if you had time-slipped into ancient times. Kiyomizuzaka is the name of an area that is composed of several streets with a traditional feel of Kyoto. In the area, we also take you to the most colorful temple in Kyoto called Yasakakoshindo. - A variety of local street foods will take you to Kiyomizu-Dera After that, we'll enjoy local snacks and foods there! We'll then visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. We'll also visit Otowa Waterfall, which brings you good luck. Let's try the Japanese way of worshipping together. - Lead yourself into a world of an elegant and peaceful Tea Ceremony Enjoy traditional-style tea ceremony with Japanese sweets in a sophisticated room surrounded by tea utensils. Magical Trip is a local tour operator with the TripAdvisor certificate of excellence that offers various types of small-group tours throughout Japan! Check out our Trip Advisor Page for more tours and our reviews!

Step into the elegant world of Shodō, Japan’s traditional art of brush writing. In this completely private lesson, held inside a welcoming Kyoto home, you’ll be guided by a calligraphy master with over 55 years of experience. No other guests will join your session, allowing you and your companions to enjoy an intimate and authentic experience in a calm, homely atmosphere. Learn the proper brush techniques, feel how the calligrapher’s state of mind shapes each stroke, and create your own beautiful kanji. Choose a favorite character from a wide selection and add your name in Japanese beside it — a unique keepsake of your time in Kyoto.

This is not just a sightseeing tour — it’s a spiritual journey through Kyoto’s sacred heart. On this exclusive 5.5-hour guided experience, you’ll visit six remarkable temples dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. From quiet, hidden sanctuaries to world-famous landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera and Sanjūsangen-dō, each temple reveals a different form and story of Kannon’s mercy. Unlike typical temple visits, this tour gives you deep insight into Buddhist beliefs, legends, and symbolism, all brought to life by a knowledgeable local guide. You'll walk through Kyoto’s history while discovering how Kannon has shaped faith and daily life for centuries. With all admission fees included, this thoughtfully curated tour offers a rare chance to reflect, learn, and be inspired — an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking meaning beyond the surface.

お寿司を作ります 手を洗います •握り寿司のシャリを作ってみましょう •ネタをのせます •お好みでわさびをつけます •シャリにネタを乗せて、一つ完成です •次は巻き寿司です •巻いたお寿司は大将が切ってくれます •軍艦巻きも作りましょう •それぞれに海苔の大きさが違います •卵やエビのアレルギーがある方は事前にお知らせください。 •作ったお寿司を並べたら、【いただきます】をしましょう ランチタイム •お寿司、天ぷら、赤だし、お漬物、ソフトドリンクでランチタイムです

This tour offers an exquisite blend of Kyoto's breathtaking landscapes and cultural immersion. With an optional ride on the renowned Sagano Romantic Train, you can witness Kyoto's vibrant maple season scenery. Explore significant sites like the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and the serene Tenryu Temple, and enjoy a delightful street food stroll, sampling Kyoto's unique culinary offerings. The picturesque views at Togetsukyo Bridge and the tranquil Arashiyama Park complete this unforgettable experience.

This studio is located one minute away from Shimogamo Shrine, a World Heritage Site. There are many restaurants around the studio. You can easily get there by bus from Kyoto Station. This experience allows you to give shape to your free ideas. The experience of making rugs using specialized machines is very valuable and fun. Professional staff will teach you carefully, so even beginners can feel at ease. You can make a one-of-a-kind rug as a memento of Kyoto. This experience is also recommended for families with children and couples.

Experience the art of ikebana and add a touch of Japanese elegance to your life! Join us at "Sogetsu WEST," the premier ikebana space in Western Japan, where you'll learn the basics of flower arranging. What sets my experience apart is that you can create various ikebana styles even without special flowers or vases after you return home. Discover the history, philosophy, and secrets of ikebana, along with diverse techniques. Under my guidance, craft your own unique ikebana masterpiece and immerse yourself in Japan's aesthetic beauty. Receive session slides by email upon request. Capture your creation in photos and unwind with post-session conversation. Curious about Japanese food, culture, or traditions? Just ask! I look forward to meeting you.

Perfect for groups and individuals (from 145cm!) looking for a unique perspective on the city, this e-bike tour explores the highlights of south and east Kyoto. We meet bright and early for a short orientation before heading south to enjoy the majestic Fushimi Inari Shrine before the crowds arrive. From here we will catch the splendour of Tofukuji Temple before stopping for a morning coffee. The next part of our journey takes us up the Kamo river and over to the UNESCO listed Ginkakuji Temple. After Ginkakuji, we will roll slowly south down the iconic Path of Philosophy and into the grounds of Nanzenji Temple (complete with traditional gardens, ornate religious buildings and even a red brick aquaduct). After a sit down lunch (provided), the last leg of our journey takes us south along the Shirakawa Canal and through the streets of Gion before returning to base. * Must be 13+ to participate as a rider

Why Choose This Experience: ★ This is NOT an activity for tourists but real katana training done for local students ★ Train in an authentic dojo with a master who has over 20 years of experience ★ Witness a powerful two-katana performance by the master—something you won’t see anywhere else

Private experience for 1–4 people — always your group only. Enjoy a relaxed and authentic experience in the heart of Kyoto. 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. Kenji will guide you through how to order, enjoy, and appreciate Japan’s national beverage — while tasting several hand-selected sakes from across the country. Please join Kenji for sake and snacks at a very cool standing bar (no seats) in central Kyoto! Group size: 1 - 4 people

Explore the town of Kyoto by electric bicycle. It's a cycling journey where you can feel nature and learn about its history. This tour is conducted in a small group, allowing you to discover the local side of Kyoto while listening to the guide's stories at a relaxed pace.You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Kyoto by visiting iconic spots such as Nishi Honganji, Gion Shirakawa, Heian Shrine, and Nanzenji Temple. The experience includes refreshing moments by the Kamo River and a stroll through the lively Kiyamachi Street. A memorable and special adventure is waiting for you.With friends and family, you will be able to have an amazing experience together. ※Some guides can speak German, Dutch, Bangladeshi, Hindu, and Urdu. If you have a language preference, please contact us before making a reservation.

As you enter the factory store "Und.", specializing in selling items and tools for lacquerware artists, you will immediately feel the ambience of a millennial culture that has been carefully preserved by generations of artisans. Your guide will explain the entire process of collecting sap from the Japanese lacquer tree and the following process of its refinement until it can be used by craftsmen. During the tour of the factory you will see some of the well-kept secrets of refining and coloring lacquer for the needs of local craftsmen. This is a rare and unique opportunity which will give you insight into the elaborate work of Japanese artisans. Following the factory tour you will visit the workshop area at the top floor and apply lacquer on a pair of chopsticks using the traditional "fuki-urushi" technique. You will take them with you as a present and a memory from this factory visit. The entire tour takes about 90 minutes and is conveniently located in the center of Kyoto.

Step into the heart of Fushimi, one of Japan’s most renowned and oldest sake regions, where centuries of craftsmanship and passion flow like the clear, pristine waters that give life to its legendary brews. Guided by a local expert, you’ll wander through charming streets and modern tasting rooms, each with its own story to tell. As you explore, breathe in the fragrant aroma of fermenting rice, a scent that has lingered in the air for over 400 years. Listen to the tales about dedicated brewers who have perfected their craft through generations, their hands shaping each batch with precision and care. Visit a variety of sake breweries, both historic and contemporary, and uncover the delicate balance of art and science behind Japan’s beloved national drink. Prepare your palate for an unforgettable tasting experience, sampling a range of sake styles, from crisp to luscious and aromatic.

Experience hassle-free travel between the vibrant cities of Kyoto, Osaka and Nara with our private transfer service. Say goodbye to the stress of navigating public transportation or finding taxis, as your licensed driver will pick you up directly from your hotel. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of traveling in a private vehicle exclusively for your group, ensuring privacy and flexibility in your journey. Book now and let us take care of your transportation needs, so you can focus on enjoying your time in Japan!

Join us for an unforgettable half-day deluxe coach tour through Nara’s most iconic landmarks! On your journey, you’ll pass historic sites like Fushimi Castle and Heijokyo Palace, before arriving at Nara Park, where you can interact with over 1,400 friendly deer! Then head to Todai-ji Temple, home to the awe-inspiring Great Buddha and one of the world’s largest wooden structures. The tour culminates at the stunning Kasuga Taisha Shrine, where 3,000 mystical stone lanterns illuminate your path. ・Make the best of your morning at Nara with us! ・A Professional English-speaking guide leads this tour ・On top of that, multilingual audio guidance is available in EN, FR, IT, ES, DE, PT, UK ・Greet large Buddha at Todaiji Temple ・Enjoy cute deer at Nara Park

This tour is accompanied by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter. See Osaka, the commercial center of western Japan, on this wonderful 1-day round-trip tour departing from Kyoto! Visit some of Osaka's most iconic sights, and experience both traditional and modern Osaka. Enjoy panoramic views of Osaka at the Floating Garden Observatory at the top of the Umeda Sky Building, which is also popular among international travelers for its unique architecture. Be in awe of Osaka Castle's grandeur. Revel in the superb scenery from the castle tower. Take a riverboat cruise for a breathtaking view of Japan's water city, Osaka.

Join Midori in her cooking studio for a traditional Japanese cooking lesson. You can choose one of the five set menus she offers. Midori teaches you Japanese dishes with simple and easy recipes that can be easily reproduced at home. You will watch Midori prepare local dishes using seasonal and traditional ingredients. - Japanese cooking class in Kyoto with a local - Learn to cook traditional Japanese dishes from scratch - Discover Japanese ingredients and cooking styles - Get insight into Kyoto's best restaurants and shopping recommendations - A fun and relaxing, cultural and culinary experience

This 6 hours walking tour includes 60 min Japanese Archery experience at Enzan Archery Dojo. Before your Japanese Archery experience, you will go on a walking tour with our licensed guide! Your guide will drop you off at Enzan Archery Dojo after a 5 hour walking tour. Start time: Your start time for the experience may vary. The estimated time for the experience will be about 5 hours from the start of the tour. You can customize your tour directly with the guide after placing your reservation. Please craft your itinerary by choosing 2 to 3 spots on the ‘what to expect’ or ‘itinerary’ list. Start time: Your start time for the experience may vary. The estimated time for the experience will be about 4 hours from the start of the tour.