Tours in Kyoto

As a chef, your guide is dedicated to unveiling the essence and origins behind Japan's extraordinary culinary heritage. In Kyoto, a pioneer of Japanese cuisine and craftsmanship, countless tales and culinary delights await your discovery. Embark on a journey through the Nishiki Market, Kyoto's culinary heart, where we'll unravel the secrets of Japanese cuisine and its historical roots. From fresh seafood to artisanal sweets, this bustling market offers a glimpse into centuries of culinary tradition. Explore, taste, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Our adventure continues with a visit to Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine and the allure of Gion, the Geisha district. Enjoy matcha sweets at Saryo Tsujiri Tea House before strolling along Hanamikoji Street. Discover the tranquility of Yasaka Shrine and conclude your day at the spiritual grandeur of Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, leaving you with cherished memories of Kyoto's rich heritage and flavors. See you soon!

Come with us to visit Arashiyama on foot for 4 hours! Tenryuji Zen Buddhist temple dates from the 14th century. He is a witness to the history of Japan. We begin our visit with this temple. Then we sink into the beautiful bamboo grove of Arashiyama. We are impressed by its giant bamboos! Our walk will take us to Arashiyama Park and then to the Katsura River. We can recharge our batteries in these places rich in nature. Finally, we will explore Sagano, a charming old neighborhood rich in history. Between nature and history, this tour offers a perfect blend of traditional and natural wonders of Kyoto. Come with us to immerse yourself in the beauty of Arashiyama. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

Get away from the tourist crowds in the center of Arashiyama and admire the true beauty of the area. Meet your guide in front of the ticket gate of Saga Arashiyama station and head to the iconic Togetsu Bridge. Admire the bridge and then head to the observatory of Arashiyama Park. Take a picture in front of the bamboo forest and then head to Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple with a collection of 1200 unique and whimsical statues. Continue to Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple with 8,000 stone images and pagodas. On the way to Seiryoji Temple, go through the streets of Saga Toriimoto. Admire the street view filled with traditional Japanese houses and visit some local shops including a cocoon dolls shop and Washi paper shop. Along the way, learn the history of Okusaga and Arashiyama from your guide. Finally, finish your tour at Saga Arashiyama station.

Travel through thousands of years of history and culture in a single day on this bus tour. Ride the scenic Sagano Train and visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, slip into the Edo Period and interact with ninja and samurai at Uzumasa Eigamura Theme Park, enjoy the UNESCO Site Shimogamo Shrine, and walk along the aqueduct and waterway of Nanzenji. Board the Sagano Romantic Train and take in the beautiful scenery of the Hozugawa River Valley. After arriving in Arashiyama, stop for a quick photo op in the Sagano Bamboo Forest. Be transported through history at Kyoto Uzumasa Eigamura, a town modeled after Edo period Japan. Encounter wandering ninja and samurai and be transported to the Edo period. Enter the ancient grounds of UNESCO-listed Shimogamo Shrine, dating back to the 6th century, before Kyoto became the capital. Wander the temple grounds of Nanzenji and pass the roaring waters of the Lake Biwa Dam before heading down the Keage Incline.

Why not visit Nara after enjoying sightseeing in Kyoto or Osaka? This ancient city, rich in nature and history, offers a unique charm that's different from the bustling cities. We offer small-group one-day van tours departing from Kyoto or Osaka. On this tour, you'll visit two of Nara’s most iconic cultural heritage sites: Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Our guide will share only the most interesting and engaging facts about their history—don’t worry, this isn’t a history class! In addition to temples and shrines, we’ve planned a full day for you, including a delicious lunch, cozy cafés, souvenir shops, and breathtaking views from the summit of Mount Wakakusa. Our friendly and flexible guide will ensure you have the best day in Nara. With a small group size of up to 8 people, this tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or anyone who enjoys connecting with the guide and fellow travelers.

Mt. Koya is a World Heritage site deemed by UNESCO. It is a place of scenic beauty where history, culture, and nature are concentrated. The Highlight is to visit the World Heritage site of Mt Koya, a pilgrimage route. This is a day trip from Kyoto. Also experienced guide with a strong knowladge about Koyasan. This tour Includes round trip express bus. Mount Koya is the center of Shingon Buddhism, an important Buddhist sect which was introduced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), one of Japan's most significant religious figures. A small, secluded temple town has developed around the sect's headquarters that Kobo Daishi built on Koyasan's wooded mountaintop. It is also the site of Kobo Daishi's mausoleum and the start and end point of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. ※You will use Highway bus from Kyoto Station to Koyasan. ※No guide will accompany you on the highway bus. It takes about 3 hours one way.

At Phoenix Tours & Photography, we create a personalized Kyoto experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. Here’s what sets our tour apart: Fully Customizable – Whether you’re interested in history, hidden alleyways, or street food, we tailor the tour to your interests and pace. Expert Local Guides – Our guides bring Kyoto’s history and culture to life with fascinating insights and stories. Hidden Gems – We take you beyond the tourist hotspots to discover Kyoto’s quieter, more authentic side. Balanced Exploration – The tour combines history, nature, culture, and food for a well-rounded experience. Immersive & Relaxed – With a walking tour, you can take in the details, from temple bells to charming tea houses. Personalized Recommendations – Get insider tips on where to eat, shop, and explore after the tour. Rather than just visiting Kyoto, experience it in a way that’s meaningful and unforgettable.

For the time and budget-conscious traveler, experience the Gion district with our government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guides. You'll start your day by meeting your guide at the Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine, the center of Gion. While exploring Gion, your guide will show you the history and culture of geisha―from their kimonos and hairstyles to rules and daily rituals. You'll walk down the cobbled streets of three Geisha areas in total―Gion, Pontocho, and Miyagawacho―while you listen to stories of Kyoto's ancient past. If you're lucky, you may even spot a geisha on the street! This short but value-packed trip is a fantastic way of experiencing a side of Kyoto that most tourists do not get to see. This private tour is a walking day tour with a guide. A private vehicle is not included.

・A full lecture by a professional calligrapher. ・Calligrapher make the customer's name in kanji characters. ・You can write it on a beautiful Japanese colored board. ・The opportunity to see an amazing performance by a calligrapher . ・A special experience of writing Kanji characters with a large brush. ・Hold an experience in a Kyoto machiya (traditional townhouse) or a hotel where you are staying.

Tired of the crowds and cookie-cutter tours? This private tour is crafted for travelers seeking Kyoto’s quieter, spiritual side—the one guidebooks often miss. We begin in Arashiyama at peaceful temples that are still considered must-visits, yet remain pleasantly uncrowded. From there, we drive into Kyoto’s northern countryside, away from the tourist map, into the deep green of forests and old villages. You'll walk shaded paths, breathe in the scent of moss and trees, and visit sacred places known for their silence more than their fame. One stop includes a tranquil garden where time seems to pause. Another, a centuries-old shrine tucked deep in the mountains, doesn’t appear on maps—and its name is deliberately kept secret. Some say it feels like entering another world. Others fall silent, moved by the stillness. This isn’t just a sightseeing trip. It’s a meditative journey into Kyoto’s sacred quiet. Special launch offer: 40% off for early guests.

This tour is a private walking tour of 4 major locations in western Kyoto with an experienced guide. Along with the Kyoto Eastern Area Tour, this is a must-visit tourist spot in Kyoto, where you can experience Japan's historic architecture, traditional gardens, and magnificent nature. We will also pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, so you won't get lost even if it's your first time visiting Kyoto.

Uncover the timeless beauty of Kyoto with a private tour meticulously designed for your interests and pace, guided by your expert local guides. Choose from two distinct options: Kyoto Essentials (4-Hour Private Tour), perfect for a focused exploration of two iconic locations like the golden Kinkaku-ji or the vermilion Fushimi Inari gates, allowing you to absorb their essence; or for a deeper dive, our Kyoto Immersion (8-Hour Private Tour) offers a comprehensive journey through three to four hand-picked sites, including tranquil Zen gardens like Ryoan-ji or the picturesque Philosopher's Walk, providing ample time to truly connect with the city's rich history and culture. Ready to explore Kyoto your way? Book your private adventure today!

Owner is a professional Koto performer, so you can learn from expert instructors. Here you can experience playing the koto, which is a traditional Japanese instrument and indispensable for formal ceremonies in Japan. A professional player of koto will teach you how to play the koto. We will teach you to play “Sakura“. Everyone from 3 years old to elderly people can play, so we encourage you to experience this with your family together. Equipment necessary for lessons, such as musical instruments and music notation are all available.

Confectionery artisans have long been responsible for developing folks’ sense of seasonal appreciation while expressing a hint of changing seasons in edible arts. This tour is hosted by a very welcoming artisan with almost 60 years of experience under his belt, who simply finds sweets making a sheer joy. Let’s join him to share the joy together.

**Guides who can explain things in a way that you can understand** [knowledgeable and experienced] Our guides are also accustomed to global history, which means that they can explain things in a way that you can understand, even if you are not familiar with Japanese history. They will be able to use comparisons to Western history to help you to understand the context of Japanese events **Guides who you can trust** [We provide personalized travel experience for individual parties (couples, families, groups)] **Here are some of the advantages of using our local guides:** 1. They have lived abroad, which gives them a unique perspective on Japan 3. They are accustomed to global history, which means that they can explain things in a way that you can understand [Private walking tour with a local guide expertise in Kyoto] Tour conductor license holder Walking Tour giving you availability(s) to see places you'll miss out on a car tour.

プ ラ イ ベ ー ト Private lessons! The instructor will support you carefully! ! 資格 Qualified instructors will support you at your own pace according to your needs. 場合 If you bring your own kimono, no troublesome return work is required! 〇Because all things related to dressing will be rented free of charge, don't you feel at ease and feel free to start the first step of the kimono? ○ On the second floor of the Kyomachiya, you can experience dressing up slowly な が ら You can enjoy the leisurely dressing experience while feeling the local life of Kyoto which is different from the sightseeing spot. * You can access Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, Gion, etc. with a single train, so please consult with the staff of more than 30 years in Kyoto planning your trip!

While most tours focus on Kyoto’s ancient beauty, this one reveals its modern magic—after dark. You'll explore Kyoto Station’s futuristic architecture, including its glowing Grand Staircase and sky-high walkways, and enjoy the panoramic night view from Kyoto Tower, the city’s tallest point. Few travelers know how stunning these landmarks become at night—a hidden side of Kyoto where light, steel, and reflection create a dreamlike atmosphere. Rainy weather only adds to the effect, turning the city into a cyberpunk fantasy. Centrally located and easily accessible, this tour is a refreshing, crowd-free way to experience Kyoto’s unexpected brilliance.

This tour is led by an Italian-Japanese couple living in Kyoto and will take you to discover not only the most iconic places in the city, but also the lesser known ones, selected thanks to our direct experience in the area. We will take you through temples, shrines and historic districts, but also to small local craft shops, antiques and hidden cafes, which we discovered in our daily lives. Our look combines the point of view of the Italian traveler with Japanese sensibility, offering an authentic, curated and deeply personal experience. It is not a simple sightseeing tour, but an immersion in the real Kyoto, with the warmth of those who live and love it every day.

Discover the beauty of Japanese culture by learning the art of traditional calligraphy. You'll not only pick up a unique new skill, but also take home authentic, hand-crafted Japanese souvenirs! ● English instruction available ● Watch the video below for a glimpse of the class experience. ● Spots fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve your place today!

There are many things I want to do in Japan. But you also want to enjoy your stay in Kyoto. This tour is for you! This is a tour to fully enjoy Kyoto and Kiyomizu Temple in a short time! The tour starts at a kimono rental store located in a traditional alley in Kyoto. After putting on a kimono, let's start the tour to experience the wonderful Kyoto that you can only experience here! The destination of the tour is Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, which is introduced in guidebooks as a must-see spot and known for its mysterious atmosphere! Then there is ""Sanjusangendo,"" where you can feel the power of the 1,000 Buddhist statues lined up, and ""Kyoto Tower,"" which overlooks the ancient capital of Kyoto! You will be able to take mysterious and beautiful pictures while feeling the history! This tour packs a lot of Kyoto's attractions into a short time, so you can enjoy Kyoto to the fullest!

Through this tour, you can experience the local culture of Japan, especially Kyoto, and learn about Japanese history and its underlying religious beliefs. For those interested, we also offer cultural activities, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese way of thinking.　 Itinerary Example: This is an example of this tour's itinerary. Pass By: Kyoto Station Pass By: Tocho-ji Temple and Kushida Srine/ Sando shrine street. Pass By: Dazaifu Temmangu, 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu 818-0017 Fukuoka Prefecture See pretty, plum tree (blooming between Feb-March) -flanked Tenman-gū Shrine in Dazaifu, where university students pray for good exams’ results. Pass By: Kushida Shrine

A professional Japanese photographer will be your exclusive photographer and will take your one-of-a-kind memorable photos. There are no restrictions on where take photos, but in Kyoto we recommend Sannenzaka and Kamogawa, as photography is prohibited at some temples and shrines. Absolutely we can also travel to places like Nara Park or Osaka Castle to take photos, so please feel free to contact us. Basically, we will accompany you to the place you want to go for 2 hours and take unlimited photos. If you're looking for advice on good restaurants and things to do in Japan, we, as Japanese locals, can give you better advice. Why not make your travel memories even more wonderful with our services?

Capture Your Kyoto Memories: Beautiful & Trendy Photography Discover Kyoto like never before with a professional photographer who will turn your visit into timeless memories. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks or seeking hidden, less touristy spots, I offer personalized photo sessions that showcase the best of Kyoto’s charm. ✨ What I Offer: • Stunning photos in traditional Kyoto locations • Unique, artsy shots in trendy, off-the-beaten-path settings • Perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, and friends • Kimono photos, pre-wedding sessions, and casual tourist shoots With years of experience and an eye for capturing authentic emotions, I’ll provide you with photos that are as beautiful and unique as your trip. Don’t just take pictures—create memories that last a lifetime. Available in Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, and Shiga. Shot with a Fujifilm camera for cinematic quality. Let’s make your Kyoto adventure unforgettable. Book your session today!

###Arashiyama Highlights with Matcha Experience #### Introduction Visit the Tenryuji Temple, stroll through the Bamboo Grove, and see the Togetsukyo Bridge.After sightseeing, and receive a brief explanation of tea ceremony etiquette while enjoying matcha green tea. #### Part 1: Highlights of Arashiyama (3 Hours) We will embark on a scenic tour of Arashiyama, known for its stunning landscapes and historical sites. The tour will include visits to three must-see locations: Tenryu-ji Temple, the Bamboo Grove, and the Togetsukyo Bridge. #### Part 2: Matcha Experience (1 Hour) the experience of enjoying matcha and sweets offers much more than mere flavor. It is a moment to attune oneself to the harmony of nature, cultivate mindfulness, strengthen human connections, and discover the beauty in subtlety.