Tours in Kyoto

I personalized every session with customers, the photography will be taken according to your needs. Whether you want to celebrate your relationships with friends or family or record your memory with Kyoto. I promise a high-quality photo session with you. English, Chinese, and Japanese services are available.

You'll have the pleasure of selecting your kimono from a collection at a rental shop, supported by certified kimono-fitting experts. As you wander through the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the vibrant colors of your kimono will create captivating contrasts against the serene backdrop. Each step becomes a photo-worthy experience, and our dedicated photographer will craft a visual narrative of your connection to Kyoto's culture and nature. Our experienced photographer is with over 20 years of expertise, hailing from Kyoto and fluent in English. He is familiar with all the photo spots in Fushimi Inari Shrine. This experience is designed for your convenience, with all essential kimono items provided. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Kyoto without any worries, leaving you with cherished memories and stunning photographs.

Spend the best day in Japan with this adventurous Samurai & Ninja tour from Kyoto! Explore the birthplaces of Ninjas and find out the trues behind the mysterious shadow warriors in Japan's history Visit Iga City, home of the famous Iga-School Ninja, and explore an authentic Ninja house with hidden gimmicks like flipping doors, secret passages, and hidden sword shelters installed You will also visit a samurai castle and see the real armors and katana-swords used by historical Shoguns in real battles and learn everything about Samurais As ninjas were originally from the mountains, all the ways we drive are surrounded by beautiful Japanese nature, get covered by cherryblossoms in spring and maple trees in Autumn, so you won't have time to blink •Air-conditioned van, fully private •Full-English guide with deep knowledge •Variety of different types of vists, but all related to Ninja Book now to reveal the secrets of ninjas and learn the spirits of Japan through ancient ninja's life!

Prepare to have your travel memories captured in the most creative and captivating way imaginable Seize the chance to capture your special moments in Kimono while embarking on a delightful journey through Gion Our adventure kicks off at the famous Yasaka Shrine, right in the heart of Kyoto I'll guide you through the charming streets of Gion, where tradition comes to life. Along the way, we'll show you some lesser-known, peaceful spots. You'll also get to admire the beautiful Yasaka Pagoda. Sannenzaka, Nene Street, Chionin temple and more hidden gems.

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.

"Beyond sightseeing—A journey of thought, dialogue, and rediscovery." This unique tour is led by a nationally licensed guide who is also a trained philosophy researcher. Along the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Zen Buddhism and a broad spectrum of Japanese intellectual and spiritual traditions—from ancient thought to modern philosophy. Unlike typical guided tours, this experience offers an intellectually engaging journey through contemplation and meaningful dialogue. Together—guide and guest—we explore the deeper meaning behind Kyoto’s landscapes, using philosophical inquiry to uncover layers of cultural and historical insight. Expect eye-opening conversations and new perspectives that may stay with you long after the tour ends—enriching not only your travel experience, but perhaps even your personal or professional life. Shall we walk, think, and rediscover Kyoto—through the lens of philosophy?

Journey into the heart of Kyoto, where age-old traditions and breathtaking beauty converge. Starting at the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple, embrace the city's spiritual essence while enjoying panoramic vistas. As the tour unfolds, wander through the historic alleys of Gion, witnessing the mesmerizing world of geishas. Let your senses feast at Nishiki Market, sampling flavors that have tantalized locals for centuries. Discover the serene temples of Tojijicho and step back in time in the atmospheric Higashiyama Ward. This is not just a tour—it's a tapestry of experiences, designed especially for you, the discerning traveler. Dive deep into Kyoto's heritage and let its timeless tales envelop you. Book now and become the protagonist in Kyoto's enchanting story!

At the Kyoto Shibori Museum, this traditional Japanese craft class shows you how to dye a 40cm x 40cm silk Fukusa (wrapping cloth) using the Kasamaki shibori method and Nuishime shobori method. You'll end up with a beautiful silk Fukusa to serve as a souvenir of your trip to Kyoto. Classes are usually individual and take 90 minutes to 120 minutes per class.  Start by choosing your favorite color and design, learning how to tie your fabric in a particular way and how to knot the thread. Dye the fabric and undo the thread to see the final result! While your fabric is drying (about 30 minutes), you'll learn more about shibori. Browse art pieces, tools, and samples displayed in the museum. The museum shop also sells a variety of shibori items, souvenirs, fabrics, and more.

Higashiyama area, the center of Kyoto tourism, is a difficult place to visit without a guide, as it will be crowded. With an E-Bike and a local guide, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy only the wonderful scenery, such as the old town, the roads along the canal, the vast temple grounds, and the bamboo groves. The tour is completely private and is a special luxury tour that includes everything, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, sweets recommended by the guide, and temple entrance fees.

You will experience a special authentic Kyoto culture in Kyoto. While there are many kimono rental salons in Kyoto that cater to tourists, Umesakura is a kimono rental store that offers an authentic kimono dressing experience that is well-loved by Kyoto locals. We will professionally coordinate and dress the dress to suit the season and the customer, so it will be a wonderful memory. After coming in kimono, the staff will guide you to a matcha café located about 50 meters on foot, where you can enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets. Ninshu pottery gallery & matcha cafe, a matcha café, has a Zen garden (dry landscape garden) where customers can draw sand patterns. Zen garden can be seen in Kyoto, but it is rare to find a place where one can experience it. Wearing an authentic kimono, eating matcha and Japanese sweets, and enjoying the Zen garden is a wonderful experience for both memory and photographic documentation.

This is the original Fushimi hidden route tour. This is a 3-hour 30-minute hiking lead by locals. Soba noodle Lunch is included. You will experience the holy mountain of Fushimi through an alternative off-beaten path. This experience includes: 1) Sightseeing of the main shrine and thousands of red gates, with an explanation of their history and cultural background. 2) Easy walking through a peaceful bamboo and cedar tree forest path, visiting authentic holy spots (worship stones & waterfall) and a factory. 3) Going up a forest route to the summit shrine (20 min). The summit is 233m high, and I will show you around the shrine. 4) Photo-shooting part. On the way down, I will show you lots of photogenic spots that are usually less crowded. 5) Snack & drink, and the breathtaking panorama view of Kyoto city from the viewpoint. 6) Lunch at the best soba restaurant. Vegan options are available but tell us IN ADVANCE.

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.

Join one of our hosts to immerse yourself in the delicious world of traditional Japanese wagashi - sweet confections. Japanese culinary pursuits are precise and packed with extraordinary flavor, and wagashi is no different. Visit Nishiki Market, a food market as well as a traditional tea house to find the staple ingredients of Kyoto’s cuisine and try some of the yummy sweets. You won’t know whether you should devour or Instagram these beauties. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.

Have you ever tried Japanese calligraphy or Japanese picture letters on iPad? As part of this workshop, you will be introduced to both traditional and digital calligraphy as well as how to make Japanese picture letters called Etegami, in a traditional setting.Come experience an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind art experience, whether you are traveling alone, with friends, or with your family!This workshop is led by Ami and her team of professional artists and creators. About Ami ・ Studied digital art in the UK ・Her Youtube channel named amity_sensei, introduces creative uses of iPad, which currently has over 340,000 subscribers ・Founded Japan's first creative school in 2020 called iPadmate kids, helping kids unlock their creative potential through iPad Check our studio's video! We are all looking forward to meeting you here in Kyoto!

Pedaling along the backstreets, you can uncover the little-known treasures of Kyoto on 3 hours electric assisted bike tour with an authorized English speaking guide. Kyoto is full with historical and culture. In such a city, ancient traditional daily practices are remained in the backstreets, where usually not put in guide book.  Getting around by bike is very comfortable, you can enjoy with no traffic jam even in a busy tourist season. Put your kickstand up, and let’s cycle on quiet backstreets and find the real Kyoto with a guide who provides historical and cultural insight about Kyoto. No show will be regarded as cancellation, and it will be impossible to refund the fee or alteration of the booking.

Each season in Kyoto brings a unique charm. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around Kiyomizu-dera and Maruyama Park, drawing crowds of visitors. Summer features the vibrant Gion Festival, full of tradition and excitement. In autumn, Arashiyama and Tofuku-ji are painted with fiery red maple leaves. Winter adds a quiet elegance, especially when the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) is dusted with snow. Kyoto is also the birthplace of many traditional arts such as the tea ceremony, kimono dressing, and flower arrangement (ikebana). Walking through the stone-paved streets of Gion in a kimono feels like stepping back in time. Whether you're a history lover, a cultural explorer, or someone seeking tranquility, Kyoto is a city that will leave a lasting impression.

Experience the essence of Kyoto with our 90-minute guided tour of Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping Arcade, and Nishiki Market. Start at Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, a revered Shinto site dedicated to Tenjin, the deity of learning and business prosperity. Explore its historical significance and tranquil atmosphere. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant Teramachi Kyogoku Shopping Arcade, a lively retail hub blending traditional charm with modern flair. Discover a diverse range of shops offering everything from unique crafts to contemporary fashion. Finish your tour at Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto’s Kitchen" for over 400 years. This bustling market features stalls selling fresh seafood, local produce, Kyoto pickles, and more. Enjoy the rich culinary heritage and lively ambiance that make Nishiki Market a highlight of Kyoto’s food culture. Join us for a memorable blend of tradition, shopping, and gastronomy.

Visit a non-public area of a Zen temple and learn about its garden from a garden expert. Become familiar with Zen Buddhism while engaging in Zazen meditation, a popular form of Buddhist seated meditation. After meditating you can enjoy a traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine prepared for Zen monks called Shojin Ryori.

Ryōan-ji, renowned for its famous rock garden, is one of the most serene landmarks in Kyoto. Experience this UNESCO World Heritage site with an 80-minute tour guided by a friendly guide.

Embark on a day trip to Kyoto from Osaka. Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Higashiyama District, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Gion District.

【About your local guide】 I was born and grew up near Fushimi Inari Taisha. I am not a foreigner. So I have known the Fushimi Inari shrine since I was a boy. Now Fushimi Inari shrine is one of the most popular places to visit, but there are too many people around and it is like an amusement park. I would like you to feel the nature and peace here as the locals used to. I am a local who knows this mountain's courses very well and many beautiful hiking paths are hidden, they are not on the official map. If you like to know places that are not crowded in Kyoto, feel free to ask me. Welcome any questions about Japan, Shinto, and Zen Buddhism as well. I also own my tour agency, Tour Bench Inc. since 2011. Consider coming on my Tour of Kyoto. I offer a variety of tours. 【How much exercise 】 Fushimi Inari shrine is a super big mountain so we have to take the stairs or a hilly way to reach the top. The height is about 200 meters so it is not quite a high mountain. Bring some water:)

Traverse bustling streets alive with the scents of traditional eateries and street stalls, tantalizing your senses. Your journey unfolds amidst the tranquil environs of Kennin-ji Temple Garden, where Japan's oldest Zen temple sets the stage for sampling Kyoto's delicacies: Japanese pepper ice cream and gyoza sticks, each bite a tribute to the city's culinary legacy. Continuing to Hanamikoji Street's historic milieu, immerse yourself in the ambiance of traditional machiya houses, savoring a curated selection of local specialties that unveil Kyoto's gastronomic traditions. Enriching your experience are visits to Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, where cultural significance intertwines with culinary exploration, deepening your understanding of Kyoto's food culture. Conclude your odyssey with a reflective moment, cherishing the flavors and memories crafted on this epicurean journey.

During this experience, you can rent and get dressed in a furisode (long-sleeved Kimono) in the Gion District of Kyoto. Furisode is a very formal long-sleeved kimono that, culturally, is for younger, unmarried women. Then, you will have a chance to walk around the city and see the sights in this traditional attire.

Spend a relaxing morning in Arashiyama, enjoying the vivid and lush nature. Discover the green and refreshing temples as well as unique ones. Find out why the Japanese are so fond of the Shinryoku (deep green; as in green leaves on trees and bushes). * Please note: this is a seasonal private tour, available from late spring to early summer.