Tours in Kyoto

Discover Kyoto in a truly personal way on this full-day private walking tour with a local host who knows the city inside out. This isn’t a rigid sightseeing schedule—it’s a flexible, customized experience designed entirely around you. Stroll historic lanes, visit hidden shops, admire serene temples and gardens, and hear the local stories that bring Kyoto’s culture to life. Your host will craft the route to match your interests, whether you’re drawn to history, food, architecture, tradition, or off-the-beaten-path discoveries. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire about your interests. Your host will then reach out to suggest an authentic, flexible itinerary that feels like exploring Kyoto with a knowledgeable friend eager to share the city’s secrets.

Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Japanese culture with this exclusive 4-hour tour. Explore Gion on a 90-minute guided walk with a licensed guide and learn about the district’s rich history, customs, and traditions. After sightseeing, your guide will accompany you to enjoy a beautifully presented Kaiseki meal and spend time with a Geisha or Maiko in an authentic Kyoto setting. Unlike other tours with shows made specifically for overseas visitors, this tour lets you experience what it’s really like to dine with a Geisha or Maiko. There are no flashy shows or fast dances—just the wabi-sabi of real Kyoto. You can ask questions, speak with the Geisha/Maiko, and join in classic ozashiki asobi (traditional Geisha games). Important Notes: 1: Per local custom, guests are asked to purchase one drink for the Maiko or Geisha. 2: Only one Maiko or Geisha will be arranged for your experience; selection is not available. 3: Please note that music is pre-recorded and not performed live.

Welcome to Kyoto, Japan! Let’s dive into and discover Kyoto's kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. Explore as many as 10 attractions in the city on this full day tour. We take you to the must-see sights and show you the hidden gems of each location. Let’s stroll the city on foot and by bus like a local. Transportation in Kyoto is very complicated. However, all our guides were born and raised in Japan, have lived for a long time close to the area, and are well-trained expert locals. So, we can take you to so many places, within a limited timeframe. Though the tour, you can learn about our history, culture, society, values, etiquette, how to take public transportations, and everyday life. 【Highlights】 (Meet at JR Saga-Arashiyama station at 8:50) Arashiyama Area, Randen Tram Line, Ryoan-ji Temple, Conveyor belt sushi for lunch(Sushi, Vege-Sushi, Ramen, Kara-Age, Beer, Mochi too), Kinkakuji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-zaka slope, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Gion area

Discover the magic of Kyoto and Nara on this full-day guided tour from VIP Lounge Kyoto. Wander through the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), stroll under the towering bamboo stalks of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and capture scenic views at Togetsukyo Bridge. Experience the spiritual beauty of Tenryu-ji Temple, walk beneath thousands of vibrant torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, and meet the friendly deer roaming Nara Park while visiting Todaiji Temple. This Kyoto and Nara day tour is perfect for travelers seeking a seamless, culturally immersive experience from Osaka. Enjoy air-conditioned transportation, expert guidance, and insider stories that bring Japan’s history and culture to life. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour ensures a comfortable, hassle-free, and unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out! Book your spot today and explore Kyoto and Nara’s most iconic sights in one unforgettable day.

Kyoto is the most famous tourist destination in Japan with plenty of wonderful sights to see. Here we offer a luxurious tour starting early in the morning that enables you to visit five of the most iconic tourist attractions in Kyoto comfortably and efficiently while avoiding the crowds.

Experience Your Dream Tour of Kyoto with a Local Guide! Embark on a personalized journey through Kyoto, tailored just for you. Choose between a half-day (4-hour) or full-day (8-hour) private tour and customize your experience to match your interests, whether it's savoring Japanese cuisine, diving into local culture, uncovering historical sites, shopping, or any unique passion you may have. You decide the pace and style of your adventure—from a relaxed walking tour using Tokyo's world-class public transportation to a more seamless experience with a private vehicle. We will offer some inspiring ideas for exploring places during your custom-designed tour. *Please download WhatsApp or let us know your email address, so our guide can contact you! *Many stores and restaurants in Japan only accept cash payments, so be sure to have some Japanese yen cash on hand.

Forget the Ordinary — This Is Your Journey! Tailored to your interests, your Kyoto adventure takes you to iconic sights like the Golden Temple, Kiyomizu-dera, the Bamboo Forest, and Fushimi Inari Taisha… and that’s just the beginning. The best part? You call the shots! Want to add more places? I’m all ears. Have questions? I've got the answers. Together, we'll create unforgettable memories — your way. Personalized Service, Your Language Our guides come from all over the world — Japan, the US, and Spanish-speaking countries. Tours are typically conducted in English, but if you’d like a guide who speaks your native language, we can arrange it for an additional fee. Convenience Without Hidden Costs We don’t charge for a car — we’ll use taxis as needed for comfort and efficiency. This way, you only pay for the actual transportation used. Explore the Hidden Beauty of Kyoto — A Tour Like No Other! Let’s make your adventure in Japan truly one of a kind.

- Great for those who have a JR pass. So, if you’re short on time, you can actually visit Hiroshima as a daytrip from these cities. This is tour schedule: 7:30 Meet customer at Kyoto Station, (Shinkansen Central Gate ) 8:00 Hikari 533 Kyoto Station → Hiroshima Station (Customer use JR pass by Own) 7:30 Meet customer at Shin-Osaka Station (Shinkansen Central Gate) 8:04 Sakura 545 ShinOsaka Station → Hiroshima Station (Customer use JR pass by Own) 9:33 Arrival Hiroshima Station from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima Miyajima sightseeing (Itsukushima shrine) Lunch (Free lunch time take lunch by customer Own) 13:00 Miyajima to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park Peace Memorial Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome 17:00 Hiroshima Station (Customer can buy Bendo Box at here) 【Osaka】 17:52 Sakura 564 Hiroshima Station →19:21 Shin-Osaka Station End of tour 【Kyoto】 18:33 Sakura 566 Hiroshima Station → 19:59 Shin-Osaka Station transfer 20:21 Hikari 666 Shin-Osaka Station→20:34 Kyoto Station End of tour

Step off the beaten path and explore the real Kyoto with a knowledgeable local guide who knows every corner of the city. This 3-hour guided bike tour takes you through quiet backstreets far from the tourist crowds, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of Kyoto’s residents. As you pedal through narrow alleyways, each twist and turn brings a shift in atmosphere—the scents, the light, the sounds—immersing you in the city’s hidden charm. Then, just as suddenly, you’ll emerge onto a bustling main street, reconnecting with the familiar Kyoto of guidebooks and postcards. Our guides are professionally trained through our original program, ensuring not only a deep understanding of Kyoto’s culture but also full proficiency in traffic safety, group cycling techniques, and local etiquette. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Join us and experience Kyoto not just as a visitor, but as if you were part of the city itself.

Tour itinerary is planned based on hiring a car/van for 8 hours in Kyoto. Transportation fee -Cash to the driver in tour day: Up to 5 : ¥100,000 ,if more than 5 please let me know in advance. The tour covers the top sightseeing spots of Kyoto and long enough to cover them all. 1- As you only have 1 day in Kyoto, I can show you the best spots in Kyoto visitors enjoy that others would need at least two days to see. 2- Understanding the culture and life in Japan from a foreign prospective. Itenerary is shown here, however, you can still customize it in arrangement with the guide. 09:00 Meeting at your hotel in Kyoto 09:30 Bamboo forest and Tenryuji temple garden. 11:00 Kinkaku-ji temple 12:30 Nijo castle 14:00 Lunch break/ Nishiki Market 15:30 Fushimi Inari shrine 17:00 Hanamikoji street in Gion area-Geisha district 18:00 Tour Finish

Come with us to visit Himeji Castle and the city of Kobe in one day on foot and by public transport! This tour begins with a visit to Himeji Castle. Here we have one of the 12 authentic Japanese castles. The keep dates from 1618. The ensemble offers us a glimpse of Japan's feudal past. We have a great history lesson! Then we go to Kobe. Mountain and sea meet proudly. We discover downtown Sannomiya, Nankinmachi Chinatown, and finally the port, with Harborland. Kobe is a pretty modern city. It is full of contrasts and charm. You're bound to like it. After this day, you will learn more about the History of Japan! You will also have had plenty in your eyes of the dynamism of Kobe. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

If you want to find ENGLISH-UNFRIENDLY restaurants, we have the best tour for you!! This is a highlight tour in downtown with FOOD experience. Try some local delicacy. In the city center of Kyoto, Gion, we will enjoy night walk in nice traditional settings, learning some histories and culture on your way. Then we will swiftly move to the restaurant since we are hungry :) We choose different restaurants for every tour. You may unlock the new food style and taste during the tour, such as Katsu, Ramen, or Izakaya. After some walk, we sit and the guide will slect the best dishes at each place. Then talk to your guide. Takashi and Natsuki are very thrilled to share stories with you! Takashi is professional one that also offers a car tour in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka. His life is dedicated to offer great tips for your trip. Ask anything from Geisha, pagoda to the geography of Kyoto. He's a big foodie. His ramen place recommedation is must-check, which blows your mind. See you on the tour!

Explore the sights and the sounds of modern day Kyoto with a local. Admire the beauty of the local community. Enjoy a traditional Japanese snack. Also receive a nice geisha chocolate. Experience the sights and sounds of the local area and explore the local community and see how the local traditional people. still live.

Arashiyama area in western Kyoto is one of the most beautiful places to visit especially in the cherry blossom season and the foliage season in Japan. The combination of the traditional culture with the great nature will be spectacular..

This experience offers participants the opportunity to improve their cooking skills while immersing themselves in the charm of Japanese culture. It’s more than just a cooking class—it’s a chance to enjoy preparing traditional Japanese dishes like “dashi-maki,” “yakitori,” and “onigiri” in a warm and lively setting with friends and family. Participants begin with a traditional “kanpai” (cheers) and work together to create a variety of dishes. After cooking, everyone gathers to enjoy the meal they prepared, sharing a fun and interactive moment. This class provides an authentic Japanese culinary experience, combining the joy of cooking with the richness of traditional Japanese culture.

Experience authentic Japanese culture in historic Gion district with this exclusive evening tour. Watch traditional performing arts at Gion Corner including Kyoto dance, tea ceremony, and seasonal bunraku or noh performances. Stroll through atmospheric streets illuminated by paper lanterns in the preserved historical district. Enjoy a unique candlelit tea ceremony in a traditional ryokan courtyard, followed by authentic Zen-style vegetarian dinner reflecting Buddhist culinary traditions. Your National Government Licensed English Guide provides expert cultural insights throughout this immersive 4-hour experience.

This private Kyoto walking tour is designed as the perfect introduction to the city. With a flexible, personalized approach, you'll explore at your own pace while your guide tailors the route to match your interests. Visit famous sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine or the historic lanes of Gion, or focus on the neighborhood where you're staying to get insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and explore. Your guide will share local stories, cultural insights, and practical recommendations to help you feel confident navigating Kyoto on your own. After booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests and preferences, ensuring your experience is carefully crafted for a truly memorable start to your Kyoto adventure.

As you only have 2 days in Kyoto, I can show you the best spots in Kyoto visitors should see. The tour includes visits to some of the top spots of Kyoto. What makes this tour unique? Tour itinerary is planned to cover the top sightseeing spots of Kyoto and long enough to go around the cultural and historic places too. Itinerary is shown here, however, you can still customize it in arrangement with the guide. Day-1 09:00 Meet at your hotel in Kyoto 09:30 Nijo castle 11:00 Kinkakoji temple 12:30 Ryoanji Temple 14:00 Lunch break (Kyoto station) 15:30 Fushimi Inari shrine 17:00 Tour finish Day-2 09:00 Meet at your hotel in Kyoto 10:00 Bamboo forest, Nonomiya Shrine and Tenryu-ji temple garden 11:30 Hozu-gawa river and Togetsu bridge 12:00 Monkey's park 14:00 Lunch (Kyoto station) 15:30 Kiyomezu dera temple and Gion area 17:00 Tour finish

Step into the Matcha capital, Uji, and experience the heart of Japan's finest green tea. Walking through the famous Byodo-in temple, known for its appearance on the 10-yen coin, you will grind tea leaves into matcha powder and drink your fresh matcha tea. A must-try experience for matcha lovers! ⚠️ Prior to the tour, please ensure that WhatsApp is available for easy communication. Our tour guide will use these platforms to contact you. ⚠️ Please wear a mask during the Matcha making workshop. ✅ English Guided Tour – Explore Uji City with our friendly and knowledgeable guide. ✅ Hands-on Matcha Experience – Grind your own matcha powder using a traditional stone mill, then enjoy your freshly made tea with your choice of Japanese sweets or matcha ice cream. ✅ Visit Byodo-in Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its stunning architecture featured on the 10-yen coin. ✅ Learn the History of Uji Tea – Discover why Uji is known as Japan’s top region for high-quality green tea.

Naoshima, commonly known as Japan's art island, is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea and is one of the most popular places in Japan. Departing from Osaka or Kyoto, you can enjoy the charm of Naoshima for two days. ・You can enjoy to go around Naoshima island by bicycle (with power-assisted bicycle, e-bike) with Private English Speaking guide. ・Chichu Art Museum (excluded entrance ticket's fee : 2100 JPY and you should buy the online tickets) ・Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery: Time Corridors(excluded entrance ticket's fee : 1500 JPY and you should buy the online tickets) *there is possible to take a time to visit more 2 spots.

This isn’t your typical Kyoto walking tour. With a host who shapes the day around your curiosity, you’ll explore both the city’s iconic landmarks and its tucked-away corners — from lantern-lit alleys and sacred temples to foodie markets and riverside hideaways. Whether you’re drawn to spiritual stories, seasonal flavors, or artisan crafts, your route flows entirely at your pace. After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire so we can match you with the ideal host. They’ll then create a flexible, fully personalized itinerary designed just for you.

Get away from the crowds and spend a wonderful day in Arashiyama which will undoubtedly stand out in your mind as you think back to your time here in Kyoto. We begin with a morning stroll through the lush garden of one of Japan’s first Zen temples dating back over 1,000 years. We then head into the foothills and as we peacefully stroll back to town we visit twelve hundred stone Buddhas on a hillside, an Edo period cafe, an ancient burial ground, a temple founded by two former geisha, a working pottery studio, the villa of a silent film actor, a majestic bamboo grove, and the "shrine of love'. All this as we browse shops filled with handmade goods and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch. Important Note: Each guest is required to bring an additional 5,500 yen (cash) for admission tickets and lunch.

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.

In this tour, you will visit Katsura Imperial Villa , unchanged for 400 years popular circular gardens, and experience a tea ceremony in a 100-year-old traditional Japanese house wearing an antique kimono. ◯Japanese aesthetic Katsura Imperial Villa Katsura Imperial Villa was built in 1615 as an imperial villa with a circular garden and a tea ceremony house. Although it has undergone numerous renovations, it has remained almost completely unchanged over the past 400 years and can still be seen today. It is also famous that the world-renowned German architect Bruno Taut praised the beauty of the Katsura Imperial Villa. Visitors to this place will discover how important the Japanese sense of beauty and the tea ceremony were to the Japanese people. ◯We will take care of all the troublesome arrangements. Only those who have permission to visit Katsura Imperial Villa are allowed to see the garden during limited hours. Only for customers who have chosen our plan, the owner will prepare the hard-to-obtain numbered admission tickets. In order to obtain them, you must be familiar with the rules of admission and apply for them. We will take care of this complicated work for you. Our store is located about 5 minutes by car from Katsura Imperial Villa, and we will pick you up and drop you off on the day of the tour. Also, please be assured that Tokusaburo, the owner of the store, will be responsible for accompanying you on the tour. ◯An antique kimono and a tea ceremony experience in a tranquil setting After the visit, you will experience a tea ceremony in a 100-year-old traditional Japanese house. Due to our location near Katsura Imperial Villa, you will be able to enjoy the hospitality of the tea ceremony in a much quieter and calmer atmosphere than in the city. In this tea ceremony experience, you will wear a rare and valuable antique kimono from the early Showa period. The fourth generation owner will help you coordinate the kimono and our staff will dress you in it. This is a unique experience where you can learn the tea ceremony while wearing a rare and valuable antique kimono.