Tours in Kyoto

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).

Have you ever wanted to wear a traditional Japanese men’s kimono with confidence? Join Shogo, the face behind the popular YouTube channel Let’s Ask Shogo (1.8 million+ subscribers), who has been living in kimono daily for nearly 10 years. In this hands-on session, he’ll share everything you need to know—perfect for beginners and culture enthusiasts alike. The experience is held inside a real men’s kimono store in Kyoto, operated by a trusted company with over two decades of experience. You’ll also receive expert guidance if you’d like to purchase your own kimono, making this the ideal first step into the world of traditional Japanese clothing. Whether you’re curious or serious about kimono, this is the perfect place to start your journey. ★What if you're traveling with a female partner/friend? One guest can watch for free per booking. Or for an extra fee, Shogo’s wife Harumi can dress or teach women too—feel free to ask after booking.

Embark on a profound spiritual pilgrimage with our Nara and Fushimi Inari, The Sacred Heart of Japan tour. This journey takes you to the very essence of Japan's spirituality. Begin your day in Nara, where history and nature intertwine seamlessly. Explore the majestic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, and wander through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely. Transition to Fushimi Inari and enter a mesmerizing world. Pass through thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates that lead to the inner sanctuary, a place of profound reverence and beauty. We will share the rituals of these sacred sites, providing insights into Japanese spirituality and cultural heritage. Whether you seek divine blessings or a deep connection with Japan's soul, this tour promises a transformative experience.

In this 150-minute tour you will visit Kyoto's Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi factory, which refines over 70% of Japan's domestic urushi lacquer, see how lacquer has been used inside a prominent Buddhist temple and eat lunch using the traditional Kyoto "asagi-wan bowl" lacquerware. This is a unique opportunity to discover traditional and modern applications of Japanese urushi lacquer in contemporary Kyoto. In addition to the tour of the factory, you will also learn to apply lacquer on chopsticks and take them with you as a present. - Enter the private area of Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi factory and see how lacquer is refined - See urushi lacquer on modern-day goods such as surfboards, skateboards and bicycles - Apply lacquer to chopsticks during a workshop and take them with you as a present - Visit Bukkoji Temple and discover the traditional use of lacquer in Japan's temple architecture - Enjoy lunch with Kyoto ingredients using a lacquerware bowl

Discover a quieter side of Kyoto on this magical evening walking tour. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of vermilion torii gates glow as the sun sets. Walk through this iconic shrine during the calm, golden hour—perfect for stunning, crowd-free photos. Next, explore the lantern-lit streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, historic stone-paved alleys lined with traditional townhouses. Visit Yasaka Shrine, where soft lights and centuries of history create a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. End your walk in Gion, at Hanamikoji, Shirakawa Canal, and Tatsumi Shrine, where Kyoto’s timeless beauty comes alive at night. Led by a local guide, this tour offers both breathtaking views and hidden stories.

With over 50 years of experience in the wedding industry, we helps over 40,000 couples each year create unforgettable moments. Inspired by the beauty of kimono weddings from the Edo period, we founded our company to share this tradition with the world. Based in Kyoto, we offer authentic special experiences and virtual backgrounds of Japan’s stunning landscapes for a modern touch. Our passionate team is dedicated to celebrating Japanese culture and supporting each couple with warm hospitality.

Unlock the traditional flavors of Kyoto through this cooking lesson！We will introduce how to make traditional plant-based Buddhist cuisine (Shojin Ryouri) using fresh, seasonal ingredients directly sourced from local farmers. Make fresh rice and miso soup from scratch, the traditional way! For those with a sweet tooth, our cooking menu includes instructions on how to make two flavors of Kyoto-style mochi, Yatsuhashi.

Would you like to experience Japanese traditional culture through the art of tea ceremony? Ms. Kakizaki has a deep appreciation for Japan's heritage and shares its beauty and depth through the practice of tea ceremony. Her expertise and experience have been highly regarded by media outlets like Vogue. We invite you to savor the richness of Japan's traditions and beauty by joining Ms. Kakizaki for an enchanting tea ceremony experience! The experience is held in one of the hidden location in Kyoto, where tourists and even Kyoto locals can rarely experience a tea ceremony. Encounter quiet Kyoto and Authentic Japanese Culture. Discover the beauty of tea ceremony served by Junko Sophie Kakizaki, a native of a samurai family with nearly 900 years of history. You can add an option to enjoy the Kaiseki lunch based on the recipe of Myodo Murase, a nun who was highly praised by the founder of a famous Japanese restaurant "Kitcho”.

Let yourself dive into local life by taking a walk with a well-informed local guide, satisfy your appetite with fine cuisine, encounter traditional performance and craftsmanship. In exclusive, smoothly combined three different experiences. We welcome you in Kyoto's unique and traditional townhouse called “machi-ya,” where you can enjoy a cosy, special feeling that is different from an ordinary trip. Our local hosts offer you "ichi-go ichi-e," a once-in-a-lifetime meeting, in an elegant setting. Our machi-ya house is located in the neighborhood of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you can enjoy each of the different four seasons of Japan.We devoted ourselves to maximize the "value" of staying in Kyoto. Our all-in-one plan offers you to travel like a local with three special experiences. ※The cost for a group of four is 528,000yen. There is an additional charge of 132,000yen per person. Please understand that this is a valuable 5-hour cultural experience.

This full-day adventure takes you to three of Japan’s most iconic and breathtaking landmarks. Start your journey at the majestic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hillside with sweeping views of Kyoto. Wander its historic wooden terrace, explore sacred halls, and enjoy the charm of the nearby Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets—perfect for traditional snacks and souvenirs. Next, head to the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its endless path of bright red torii gates winding through a mystical forest. This Shinto shrine is one of Japan’s most photographed spots—and for good reason. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and learn about the deep cultural significance of this spiritual site. Your final stop is Nara Park, home to friendly, free-roaming deer and the world-renowned Tōdai-ji Temple. Feed the deer, stroll through beautiful park grounds, and marvel at the Great Buddha inside one of the largest wooden buildings on Earth.

Enjoy an authentic Maiko dinner experience at Nishiki Orizuruya, a 100-year-old traditional tea house just 1 minute from Kyoto’s Nishiki Market. This special evening includes a delicious Japanese kaiseki dinner with sake, accompanied by a Maiko—an apprentice geisha known for her graceful dance, elegant kimono, and warm hospitality. Watch her traditional performance up close and enjoy direct conversation in an intimate, elegant setting. For those selecting the Kimono Plan, begin your night by dressing in a beautiful kimono to enhance the experience. A minimum of 4 guests (combined) is required to operate. Due to its popularity, early booking is recommended. Don’t miss this rare chance to experience Kyoto’s refined culture in a setting usually unavailable to the public.

Get on an e-bike and let our experienced English-speaking tour guide show you the legacy of the Shoguns that still exists throughout Kyoto after more than a millennium. The full-day tour takes you from Kyoto Station to the wonderfully quiet Philosopher's Path, and southwards along the eastern part of the city. Lunch and all listed entry fees are included in the tour fee.

This experience is dedicated for people who want to go beyond Matcha and know about the world of Japanese tea. This small group activity is offered for the first time to allow guests to discover marvelous and unique products that exist only in Japan. Tea was introduced to Japan from China for the first time in the 9th century, making it the second oldest culture of tea in the world. Since then, Japanese have developed their own teas and perfected their techniques, resulting in gems that you can discover in the presence of an expert. This experience has been created and is delivered by the founder of the Mandaracha Tea House in person. English or French languages are available for this experience.

Participants will experience making traditional Kyoto-style Temari Sushi and also taste side dishes that Japanese people eat everyday.

You'll discover Japanese style bars in hidden alleys of Kyoto where usually only locals enjoy food and drinks. Expert guide will have a brief consulting before you start the program. Then, the guide will lead you to appropriate bars according to your taste. Discover small streets flooded with small bars and shops like Japanese confectionery stand, small bars and local food-markets in the Kawaramachi area of Kyoto. For those who are interested, there are chances to try local food as you're walking around. At the bar, your guide will help you to find out good pairings of Sake and local side dishes. There are several types of bars and each bar has unique homemade Kyoto style dishes. We also offer opportunities to taste local Kyoto food which are not normally on tourist menus. You also get a chance to visit a small shrine in a hidden area, you'll hear interesting history behind it. Walking around Kyoto alone is joyful, but we assure you'll see different sides of Kyoto.

Make your Kyoto adventure hassle-free with Kyoto Gorilla's convenient luggage solutions! Located at the iconic Kyoto Tower, we offer both secure storage and reliable delivery services in English, Japanese, and Chinese. Choose Your Service: 1. STORAGE SERVICE (¥1,000/item) Secure same-day storage Perfect for exploring Kyoto hands-free Prime location at Kyoto Tower Easy access from Kyoto Station 2. DELIVERY SERVICE (¥2,000/item) Convenient luggage delivery Perfect for smooth hotel check-in/out Professional handling Stress-free sightseeing Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Daily Location: Kyoto Tower: Nishiki Uoriki - Kyoto Tower Sando 721-1 Higashishiokōjichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216 Why Choose Kyoto Gorilla: Trilingual staff (English/Japanese/Chinese) Professional and secure service Perfect for: Early check-out/late check-in Day-trip visitors Shopping enthusiasts Temple and shrine hoppers Travelers with hotel transfers

Discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto on this exclusive private tour, guided by an English speaking driver. This carefully curated itinerary takes you to some of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Ryoanji Temple, Admire Japan’s most famous rock garden, a masterpiece of Zen simplicity and tranquility. Nijo Castle, Step into the world of the Tokugawa shoguns at this UNESCO listed site, renowned for its exquisite interiors and "nightingale floors. Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Marvel at the shimmering golden reflection of this iconic Zen temple on the serene pond. Kiyomizu dera Temple, Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from this historic temple, known for its wooden stage and sacred Otowa Waterfall. Experience the essence of Kyoto in comfort and style with our private vehicle service, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey.

This special adventure offers the best highlights of Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe and Nara region in a single/multi-day plan. You'll experience the energetic cityscape of Osaka, the serene beauty of Nara with its famous temples and friendly deer, the traditional charm of Kyoto's historic sites and temples, and finally nostalgic Kobe, famous for Kobe beef and Nunobiki falls. Nature lovers looking for reprieve from the bustle of the city can also opt for excursions into the tranquil countryside to experience authentic local lifestyles in farm visits, fishing villages where they can enjoy fresh produce while taking in picturesque sceneries including the beautiful Kyoto’s coast, that will create them unforgettable memories in Japan. A single booking is for 2 days of unlimited excursions in two of the 4 destinations. The 4-day sample itinerary is a glimpse the full 4-day trip, which can be arranged according to the travelers’ interests & inquiries for additional booking(s) at discounted rates.

Experience Kyoto beyond the guidebooks. Our exclusive food tour takes you on a delectable journey through the Gion district, exploring the distinct atmospheres of the left and right banks of the Kamogawa River. A Tale of Two Riversides: On the left bank, you’ll delve into the essence of Gion. Explore captivating teahouses alongside hidden havens brimming with local character. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds at a meticulously chosen restaurant, showcasing authentic Kyoto cuisine. Across the scenic Kamogawa River lies a different side of Kyoto’s culinary scene. Pontocho and Kiyamachi districts, offer innovative interpretations of classic dishes. Kyoto’s cuisine is renowned for its focus on seasonality and meticulous preparation. Expect a chorus of delicate, pure flavors, often lighter than other regional styles. From the melt-in-your-mouth artistry of kaiseki cuisine to the comforting warmth of simmered stews, each bite promises a unique culinary experience.

The biggest attraction is that you can make IKEBANA works using rare antique vessels. You'll discover traditional Japanese culture and learn techniques that can easily be repeated at home. You can watch IKEBANA performance taking place in a Japandi-style alcove. You'll get a hands-on training from a licensed instructor. You can learn “moribana”and“nageire” techniques. We'll work together to create a total of 5 to 6 ikebana works. You can go up to the roof and see the Daimoji and view of Kyoto. You can also learn how to make petit bouquet too. You can deeply learn the sense of the seasons and the spirit of hospitality that we Japanese cherish.

★English or Spanish speaking guide supports you from Osaka or Kyoto. ★You can enjoy a 2-day trip by Shinkansen 'bullet train' between Shin-Osaka or Kyoto and Okayama for about 1 hour & an island cruise from Uno port to Naoshima Island by ferry! ※excluding the JR train's tickets, this tour is for travelers with JAPAN RAIL PASS!! ★You can enjoy going around Naoshima island by bicycle (with power-assisted bicycle, e-bike) with a Private English or Spanish Speaking guide for 2 days & you can stay in a hotel on Naoshima island for 1 night. ★The entrance ticket "Benesse House Museum" and "Lee Ufan Museum" "ANDO MUSEUM" and "Art House Projects" is included in this price. * "Chichu Art Museum"-Ticket excluded (on request with an additional fee of 2800 JPY per pax) * ''Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery: Time Corridors''-Ticket excluded (on request with an additional fee of 1600 JPY per pax)New Open!!

Embark on a walking tour in the Fushimi district of Kyoto, renowned for its many local sake breweries. The area’s high-quality water has led to the establishment of numerous sake producers. Learn about traditional sake production methods and enjoy a tasting session. Stroll down Ryoma Street which is associated with the end of the Edo period, where you can savor amazake, a sweet fermented rice drink, and take home a small bottle of special sake. Conclude your tour with an exclusive whisky and gin tasting curated by a whisky advisor. Each sip will be perfectly paired with matching snacks.

This tour is not just about seeing famous sights. It’s a journey into two very different expressions of Japanese beauty and philosophy. You’ll start at the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji, where gold leaf shimmers across a still pond, and finish at Ginkaku-ji, where moss gardens and Zen design invite quiet reflection. Along the way, your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will share rich stories, historical context, and hidden details that bring each temple to life. With efficient travel between sites, no crowds to navigate alone, and plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere, this experience makes the most of your time in Kyoto. Gold and Silver. Grandeur and simplicity. In one morning, explore both sides of Kyoto’s soul.

Get off the beaten path and discover the real Kyoto — where the lanterns glow, the sake flows, and the streets come alive after dark. This is more than a walking tour — it's a cultural deep dive into Kyoto’s nightlife, guided by a local who knows all the hidden spots. We'll explore lantern-lit alleyways, visit cozy izakayas (Japanese pubs), chat with friendly locals, and taste traditional food and drinks that tourists often miss. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, you'll feel like you're out with a local friend — not on a tour.