Tours in Kyoto

You may have heard of Japan's famous "Keirin racing," now an Olympic sport, which is a bicycle race that is paced in the first laps by a motorized vehicle. The boat races on Lake Biwa are a kind of aquatic version of Keirin racing — but with high-powered, high-tech speedboats instead of bicycles. Boat racing offers locals — and visitors — an exciting and completely legal way to place wagers. These races originated in Japan and are overseen and operated by the government. The boats are high-powered, state-of-the-art machines, and the races are thrilling to watch — and maybe even a bit more exciting if you place a small bet! Kenji, with 20 years of experience in these races, will give clear, easy-to-follow instructions on enjoying the sport and placing wagers. We'll make a brief stop at a local supermarket where you'll get to choose your favorite snacks and drinks — including beer, sake, or a Japanese highball — for a delicious picnic at the races. Group size: 2 - 4 people

Everyone who comes to Kyoto must visit this cool and fantastic bamboo forest to take pictures. It is said to have been a vacation home for aristocrats in the Heian period (794-1185). On sunny days, the sun shining through the trees is pleasant, and on sunless days, it is dim even during the daytime. Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple, is a quieter place to visit than other temples, allowing you to calmly enjoy the lovely gardens and decorations of the temple grounds. Also, this temple is recognized as a World Heritage Site. This is an important experience that will add color to your trip, as you will be able to see up close the garden, a nationally designated historic site and special place of scenic beauty. Enjoy the area's history, shopping, and photo opportunities at various locations to color your day unforgettable.

Enjoy the elegance of Ozashiki-asobi in a private setting - an authentic Japanese cultural experience. Ozashiki-asobi is a traditional form of entertainment featuring lively games, music, and dance, typically performed by geiko or maiko in tatami-mat rooms during banquets. This engaging and interactive atmosphere offers a rare opportunity to connect with Kyoto’s refined heritage. We invite you to savor this special experience at our elegant venue!

Embark on a captivating cycling adventure from Snow Peak LAND STATION KYOTO ARASHIYAMA, where we'll equip you with a cafe set and a comfortable bicycle! As you pedal away, you'll soon find yourself immersed in the idyllic countryside scenery of Okusaga, a cherished hidden gem of Arashiyama that the locals themselves rave about. Our journey includes a delightful stop for a special lunch at the serene Hirosawa Pond. Afterward, we'll continue through picturesque rice paddies towards the magnificent Daikakuji Temple, a historical landmark boasting 1200 years of captivating stories. The charming Toriimoto area, with its traditional thatched-roof houses, offers a tangible sense of history that you can feel in the very air. And as our adventure winds down, we'll treat your feet to a relaxing soak in a soothing foot bath.

This is a unique opportunity to learn from experts about rare Japanese teas and enjoy unique confectionaries that have been crafted to complement the teas. The small group setting limited to 6 persons is held in our beautiful tea house which is specially privatized for this experience, making it exclusive and memorable. All dishes are 100% plant-based and seasonal. During this experience, you can interact with the hosts who are experts in tea and in confectionary arts.

Explore Kyoto Like Never Before: A small group Half-Day Tour Discover the best of Kyoto, blending famous landmarks with hidden gems, on Sparrow travel’s exclusive half-day tour through the city's historic east side. A Perfect Day in Kyoto From Shinto shrines to geisha culture, Buddhist temples to beautiful gardens, this walking tour offers a perfect mix of Kyoto’s past and present. Why follow the crowds when you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture at your own pace? Let us show you the hidden side of Kyoto, and share its stories with you in a way no one else can. If you’re interested in a private tour or pick up, please let us know via message.

Visitors can immerse themselves in authentic Japanese culture, going around Wazuka with a rental bicycle while enjoying the serene beauty of this historic tea-producing region. Participants can join a hands-on tea picking experience, allowing them to learn about the traditional methods of harvesting tea leaves. This activity provides insight into the meticulous process behind the famous Japanese matcha tea production in the city of Wazuka, Kyoto. In addition to tea-related activities, this tour offers an engaging culinary workshop where participants can try their hand at preparing various Japanese dishes: ・Soba (buckwheat noodles)・Tempura (battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables) This interactive cooking experience allows visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese cuisine and culinary traditions.

Purify your mind, body, and spirit. Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session in a serene temple, followed by a wholesome tofu lunch and a walking tour of hidden spring water sources. Highlights - Enjoy a private morning yoga session in a spacious hall within a temple near Kyoto Station. - Explore the city's natural beauty on a guided walking tour to three unique spring water sources, sampling the water at each location. - Indulge in a nourishing tofu set meal. - Conclude your day with a relaxing break at a traditional Kyoto confectionery, where you can enjoy sweets and matcha made with spring water. Please note that our tour requires a minimum of 2 participants to operate. If we don't reach this minimum number, unfortunately, we'll have to cancel the tour. You'll be notified of any cancellation 4 days before departure, and a full refund will be issued.

This exclusive night food tour takes you deep into the hidden alleys of Pontocho, one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric and historic dining districts. With a local expert guide, you’ll discover authentic izakayas and hidden gems that most tourists never find. Enjoy seasonal dishes and local sake while learning about Kyoto’s rich culinary culture and the stories behind each spot. Perfect for food lovers, culture seekers, and curious travelers who want a truly local experience in Kyoto.

Kyoto, a city that harmonizes ancient traditions with modern life, is one of Japan's most captivating destinations. Known for its well-preserved temples, beautiful gardens, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant cultural heritage, Kyoto offers a journey back in time. Visitors can experience the serene beauty of Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), the historic charm of Nijo Castle, and the spiritual tranquility of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic torii gate pathway. The city is also famous for its tea ceremonies, geisha district in Gion, and seasonal festivals, providing an immersive experience of Japanese culture. Whether exploring the bustling Nishiki Market or strolling through the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, Kyoto’s unique blend of history and natural beauty leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.

Kyoto was the capital for over a thousand years, home to many artisans who crafted goods for its imperial palaces, temples and shrines. These crafts have been passed down through generations of family businesses, preserving traditional techniques for many years. On this tour you will be able to visit long-established stores that are not open to first-time customers and explore their history and cultural significance. The tour includes a 1-hour hands-on experience in traditional paper printing called Karakami. Start your tour by visiting a paper shop where you will learn about the history and techniques of Karakami. Here you will create your own picture postcard with a woodblock print that has been in use for many generations. After the experience explore long-established shops with products such as traditional lacquerware, calligraphy products, lanterns and even a pigment and paint shop that focuses on natural pigments used in Japanese-style paintings.

Unlike typical sword shops, this shopping experience offers direct access to a dojo where real Kenjutsu is practiced and taught. You’ll be guided by a martial arts expert and assisted by Let's ask Shogo, a popular YouTuber with over 1.8 million followers and 10+ years of Iai (katana budo) experience. The katana you’ll see are hand-selected by a master—some crafted over 600 years ago. Whether you’re a collector, martial artist, or simply fascinated by samurai culture, this is a rare chance to discover a katana with true soul and history. *The ¥3,000 fee for this experience will be refunded if you purchase a katana. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable if you decide not to make a purchase.

Enjoy making your own felt 'Bento box' with selecting and packing your favorite ingredients! You can also choose to make a Noodles display instead!

Kyoto, with its historic cityscape, is a bustling place full of people. Escape the hustle and bustle for a quiet and magical trip of your own. Due to the depth and profundity of its history, we assure you that your trip will be better by knowing the explanation of this Fushimi Inari. Pass through 1,000 torii gates, learn about the history, follow the hidden places of interest, and enjoy the time travel.

While most visitors search for ramen in tourist hotspots, your tour takes you to Ichijoji, a hidden gem known among locals as Kyoto’s “Ramen Battleground.” Here, within a few blocks, you'll find some of the most creative, flavorful, and beloved ramen shops in the entire country. You’ll visit two carefully selected ramen spots, each with its own story, style, and devoted fanbase. With a local ramen expert guiding the way, you’ll skip the guesswork, avoid the language barrier, and dive straight into bowls you might never have discovered on your own. Ichijoji isn’t just about eating—it’s about connection: to Kyoto’s student culture, to ramen history, and to the proud shop owners who pour their passion into every steaming bowl. If you're a true ramen lover, this tour offers something no guidebook can: authentic discovery, one unforgettable slurp at a time.

Embark on a seamless Kyoto and Nara day tour, exploring Fushimi Inari Shrine, Gion, Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and UNESCO-listed Horyu-ji Temple. Travel in comfort with a private vehicle and driver, eliminating transfer hassles. A professional guide brings history to life, sharing insights as you admire Kyoto’s vermillion torii gates and feed Nara’s friendly deer. No need to worry about planning—admission fees and lunch (excluding beverages) are covered, ensuring a stress-free experience. Perfect for families, couples, groups, and solo travelers, this all-inclusive tour offers convenience and cultural depth. Enjoy flexible itineraries suited for all ages and dietary needs. With hotel pickup and expert guidance, this tour guarantees a day of unforgettable discoveries in Kyoto and Nara.

Just 1 hour! You can make Osaka's soul food, takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Easy to join during or after sightseeing in Kyoto. Attend this class and you will learn how to make takoyaki and okonomiyaki from scratch! Would you like to experience it for yourself? Not a demonstration! First, the instructor explains and then you will start by cutting the ingredients. It is a simple recipe that even children can follow, so even those who are not experienced cooks can try it. Learn cooking methods that you can easily imitate at home. Fun for any one person, for friends, couples, and families with children. Gluten-free/Vegan/Halal-friendly/allergy-free OK! Please let us know when you apply.

Discover the beauty and tradition of Japan’s iconic kimono on this private, customizable cultural tour through Kyoto, featuring stops at a local shrine such as Heian Jingu, the Kyoto Museum of Crafts, and authentic kimono shops. Whether you're an adventure-seeking traveler, culture enthusiast, or first-time visitor looking for a deeper connection with Japan, this immersive experience offers hands-on insight into how kimono are worn, styled, and cherished in daily life and ceremony. Learn directly from a knowledgeable local guide who will help you understand the craftsmanship behind each garment — from elegant full kimono to more practical options like haori jackets or nagajuban robes. Try on fabrics, explore hidden artisan boutiques, and enjoy enriching conversations about tradition and personal style. Optional add-ons like wearing a kimono or trying traditional dyeing techniques make this a truly unforgettable and personalized experience.

Tour various locations to learn about the production of seasonal vegetables in Kyoto. Visit a restaurant that incorporates local produce and SDG vegetables for local consumption. Tour the Depachika (basement in department stores where food is sold) in Daimaru and learn about the current popular food trends in Japan. Explore Nishiki Market, a local market with over 400 years of history and the heart of Kyoto's kitchen. Learn about the history, varieties and importance of local vegetable cultivation methods. After learning more about Kyoto's vegetables, experience making your own vegan temari sushi with edible flowers. Use the same techniques and create your own version of ball-shaped sushi at home with locally sourced ingredients!

Looking for a truly authentic Japanese experience beyond the typical tourist spots? Join us for a unique cultural journey into the heart of Japan’s bathing tradition! Just like the tea ceremony, bathing in Japan is a deeply rooted cultural ritual. But how do you bathe the Japanese way? What are the dos and don’ts? Our bathing specialists will guide you through the fascinating etiquette and health benefits of Japanese baths—and then you’ll get to try it for yourself! You’ll learn the history and meaning behind Japanese bathing culture, complete with a take-home guide to proper bathing techniques. A chance to experience Japanese culture with all five senses. Great for travelers interested in wellness, mindfulness, and local traditions.

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!

The first of the Grand Shrines of the Government after Ise Jingu Shrine. When welcoming royal families and other distinguished guests from around the world, as well as government dignitaries, a priest will escort them to this special place. They will guide you to places that are not open to the public on a daily basis, such as the throne in the Shimbuden, where the Emperor sits when he arrives, the “Ura-Kairo” where you can see the main shrine from the back, the main shrine, the O-takuden, and other places, or conduct special formal visits. This tour offers VIP treatment, with a priest guiding you through the shrine with commentary. After purifying ourselves at the water closet, we will go up to the Reiden (prayer hall), read out the names of the participants to God, and pray only for the tour participants. At the end of the tour, tea and sweets will be served at a rest area, and a souvenir called “omodori” will be offered as part of our original special plan.

【October & November Only - Limited Autumn Special Tea Ceremony】 Discover the taste and beauty of Japanese autumn through traditional sweets and tea bowls inspired by colorful leaves. The tea ceremony is a traditional Japanese practice of serving matcha, where every movement, utensil, and space encourages mindfulness and respect for the moment. It's located just a 5-minute walk from Subway Karasuma Oike Station. *This plan is a group session with other guests.

If you have only one day in Kyoto and want to see many recommended spots, this tour is the best for you! There are two options for this tour: 1. Fixed itinerary-If you choose this option, please check on tour details! 2. Free itinerary-If you choose this option, you can arrange the itinerary with the tour guide on the day! Private Group is up to 8 People. The price for this option is for a group price (entrance fee is not included).