Tours in Kyoto

What sets this experience apart is the combination of Kyoto’s hidden beauty and a genuine cultural encounter. As a local, I’ll guide you through quiet backstreets and shrines that most visitors miss — places full of history and stories passed down through generations. After the walk, we’ll visit a long-established sake shop where the staff will introduce you to rare regional varieties and the meaning behind them. You won’t just taste sake — you’ll understand its role in Kyoto’s culture. This is more than sightseeing; it’s a deeper, more personal way to experience the heart of the city.

Explore the enchanting Gion district in Kyoto—renowned for its vibrant Geisha culture—on a 2-hour walking tour led by a local expert, where you’ll stroll picturesque streets, visit landmarks such as Yasaka Shrine, and learn about the traditions, history, and daily life of Geishas and Maikos. Designed for solo travelers and small groups, the tour is limited to 15 participants for an intimate experience, begins at Ben’s Cookies on Shijo, and concludes at the Statue of Izumono Okuni. Comfortable footwear is recommended, and please note that food and drinks are not included.

Step into the magic of Kyoto’s cherry blossom season away from the crowds, where the true spirit of Hanami unfolds under delicate pink petals in serene, hidden corners of the city. This evening walking tour takes you outside the usual tourist paths and into the charming Demachiyanagi district, where local traditions and flavors come alive beneath the blooming sakura trees. As you stroll through peaceful temples, tucked-away gardens, and historic shrines, let the beauty of spring in Japan set the mood. Wander through a vibrant Shotengai (local shopping arcade), where the scent of delicious food drifts through the air and friendly shopkeepers greet regulars with warm smiles. Here, you’ll taste seasonal treats and local specialties, savoring Kyoto’s spring flavors just as the locals do.

Discover the Timeless Beauty of Nara – Private Walking Tour Step into Japan’s rich cultural heritage with a fully customized private walking tour of Nara. Whether you're interested in ancient temples, sacred deer, hidden gems, or local food, this experience is tailored entirely to your interests. You’ll enjoy the flexibility of setting your own meeting point and time, and we'll help create the perfect itinerary just for you. From visiting famous landmarks like Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha to strolling through peaceful parks or shopping streets, every moment is designed around what you want to see and do. We’re also happy to assist with advance reservations for lunch or cultural experiences, so you can relax and enjoy a smooth, unforgettable day in Nara. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or small groups!

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.

This photo tour is more than just a typical souvenir photoshoot. We’ll explore famous landmarks together while I capture your natural smiles and candid moments. I’ll also introduce you to local hidden gems that you won’t find in guidebooks! I love talking, so let’s have fun chatting throughout the shoot—it’ll make the experience even more memorable! You’ll receive at least 100 beautifully edited photos to remember your Kyoto adventure—sometimes even more, depending on how much we shoot!

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.

Immerse yourself in a sensory journey through Kyoto with our meticulously crafted tour. Experience the tranquility of ancient shrines like Shimogamo-jinja Shrine, coupled with the vibrant pulse of the Gion district, where traditional geisha culture enchants. Listen to the subtle rustle of silk kimonos and the distant chime of temple bells. Savor the rich flavors of local delicacies at Nishiki Market, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," where each bite unravels a story of the city’s culinary heritage. Inhale the scent of incense drifting through ancient corridors and the fresh aroma of street food that permeates the bustling lanes. Touch the centuries-old wood of temple gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. This tour is designed for those eager to experience the profound cultural tapestry and sensory delights that have defined Kyoto for centuries.

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.

Nara awaits with its rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty, just a short drive from Kyoto. This private 6-hour tour invites you to explore Nara Park, where you’ll encounter friendly deer roaming freely. Visit the historic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha, and marvel at the stunning architecture. Enjoy panoramic views from Nigatsu-do Hall and wander through the enchanting Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its striking vermilion corridors. If time permits, admire the iconic five-story pagoda at Kofuku-ji Temple for a complete cultural experience. - Private tour with comfortable vehicle transport from Kyoto - Encounter friendly deer at Nara Park, a city symbol - Visit significant landmarks like Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine - Hotel pick-up and drop-off included for convenience

Summary Discover Kyoto’s traditions in this premium half-day tour. Create your own chopsticks and Kyo-Yuzen case, enjoy a Kyoto-style lunch, and visit Sasaki Sake Brewery for a tasting of award-winning sake. Experience Kyoto’s Timeless Traditions in an Exclusive Small-Group Tour Step into the heart of Kyoto’s cultural heritage with this premium half-day experience. Craft your own Kitayama cedar chopsticks and hand-dye a Kyo-Yuzen patterned case in a historic workshop dating back over 350 years. Savor a healthy Kyoto-style lunch in a hidden machiya townhouse before visiting Sasaki Sake Brewery—Kyoto’s only central brewery since 1893—for an intimate tour and tasting of their gold award-winning sake “Jurakudai.” With a small-group size and personal guidance, every detail is designed to give you an authentic, memorable, and truly premium Kyoto experience. Priced at USD 141 to reflect the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and exclusivity of this experience.

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

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Japan's only Imperial Household temple, Sennyuji, with an exclusive incense ceremony led by a master of the Senzan Goryu school.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Arashiyama on this captivating day tour from Kyoto. Begin with a visit to the whimsical Kimono Forest, where vibrant patterns line the paths, followed by a serene retreat at Yusai-tei, perfect for reflection. Stroll across the historic Togetsukyo Bridge with stunning river views, then venture into the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Explore the UNESCO-listed Tenryu-ji Temple and enjoy a delightful lunch amidst its tranquil gardens. Finally, relax at Okochi Sanso Villa, soaking in its meticulously designed gardens and breathtaking vistas while wnjoying a cup of Japanese Tea. - Visit the colorful Kimono Forest and serene Yusai-tei - Walk over the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and through Bamboo Grove - Enjoy lunch at the peaceful Tenryu-ji Temple - Explore the beautiful gardens and views at Okochi Sanso Villa

53 Full-Scale Trains on Display – From early steam locomotives like the JGR Class 1070 to Shinkansen stars including the 0 and 500 series Historic Roundhouse – A rare 20-track reinforced-concrete roundhouse from 1914, now a protected cultural heritage structure Hands-On Exhibits – Operate signal controls, switch tracks, pilot simulators, and walk under locomotives for close-up mechanics Flexible and Independent Experience – Perfect for travelers who prefer freedom over group tours. It is not possible to skip the security lines. There could be a line at the entrance and is mandatory for all visitors.

Spend a moment to soothe your mind through tea at the Noh stage of Hyakusenshukan, where Kyoto's history and culture live on. By focusing on each gesture in silence, you can escape from the everyday and experience the comfort of facing yourself. The gestures in tea ceremony are not just movements, but meaningful actions to calm the mind. Under the guidance of the instructor, you will focus on your inner self through movements such as how to handle the tea bowl, how to breathe when making tea, and how to keep your mind in order. Feel your mind naturally calming down as you move slowly. We offer seasonal Japanese sweets from a Kyoto confectionery. Enjoy the delicate flavors of the sweets and the rich aroma of matcha, using all five senses to savor the moment. Take your time to enjoy a cup of tea while also appreciating the beauty of the sweets. Optional kimono dressing (+¥5,500 per person) is available by reservation before the program.

Capture your unique journey through Japan with a personalized photography session that tells your story against the backdrop of the country’s stunning landscapes. Each photoshoot is designed to blend your narrative with the charm of locations like Kyoto’s serene temples and Osaka’s vibrant streets. Whether it’s a solo portrait, a couple’s romantic shoot, or a family gathering, sessions include hundreds of images that reflect your chosen style. With professional editing and an emphasis on authenticity, your memories are transformed into visual treasures. No overbooking, no middleman, no late arrivals, delivery on time.

Enjoy an efficient, two-day tour of Kyoto accompanied by a same government-licensed and experienced English Speaking guide! Kyoto keeps traditional arts and beauty alive, but the busses and subways can be confusing and provide challenges for those with walking limitations. We want everyone to experience Kyoto so we are happy to provide this customizable, private guided tour with a vehicle! Join us on a tour of Kyoto to see Kiyomizu Temple as it towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. The bamboo forest of Sagano and the gardens, shrines and temples in Kyoto will provide you with a window into old Japan. There is much in this city that you don’t want to miss! Please choose 3 to 4 sites to see per day from the itinerary/what to expect list. Please inform your guide post booking of the sites you would like to see. Maximum 7 participants per tour.

What makes this tour unique is not merely the accumulation of curious sights, but the invitation it offers to experience Kyoto through the lens of strangeness and human desire. In wandering through chaotic stores, photobooths, and cat cafés, we confront the peculiar ways in which people seek delight, companionship, and spectacle. The lantern-lit alleys of Gion, with their whispers of history and shadows of concealed power, stand beside neon-lit maid cafés and Purikura booths, reminding us that culture is rarely coherent, often contradictory, and endlessly fascinating. Here, the bizarre is not a frivolity but a lens through which we perceive the subtle, unspoken rhythms of everyday life—its rituals, its excesses, and its quiet obsessions—offering both amusement and reflection in equal measure.

Kiyomizu Temple. This temple, one of Kyoto's most popular tourist attractions, is one that you should definitely visit with a guide. This temple has a history that dates back to before Kyoto became the capital, and it is also a temple that constitutes the pilgrimage culture of Japan. The distinctive stage where tourists now take pictures has a deep Buddhist meaning. Of course, simply visiting this temple is a wonderful experience. But if you visit the temple with a guide and learn the meaning of each architectural feature, your visit to Kiyomizu-dera will be even more memorable.

Step beyond sightseeing and discover the true heart of Kyoto. This private tour invites you to experience the city’s living traditions, where elegance, craftsmanship, and Zen spirit quietly endure. Begin at Kyogofuku Miyashita, a fourth-generation kimono shop, with a serene Yabunouchi-style tea ceremony. Here, you’ll experience ichigo ichie—the Zen idea of treasuring each encounter as once in a lifetime. Then, visit artisan workshops preserving Kyoto’s beauty through weaving, dyeing, or other crafts. Meet the makers, feel their dedication, and see how centuries-old techniques continue today. To complete your day, your guide will take you to the most beautiful place of the day — a hidden temple, a seasonal garden, or a local festival. Limited to one private group per day, this is not a checklist tour, but a tranquil journey into Kyoto’s authentic spirit, crafted with respect, beauty, and heart.

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.

Store's opening time: 09:00~18:30 ・Our store offers a variety of styles of kimonos, so you can rent it according to your personal preferences. ・Inject some styles into your vacation photos with a kimono rental will be a fun experience for families. ・Our store is very close to Higashiyama District, a sightseeing spot in Kyoto. You can put on your kimono and go to Kyoto's popular attractions to create unforgettable travel memories. ・Our experienced service staff will assist you in dressing up on site, you will enjoy attentive and high-quality service. ・Also, makeup, hair and photography services are available. (Not for free) ・If there are special circumstances, the clothes can be returned before 20:00, please tell us in advance.

Introduction to the Japanese character bento culture Step-by-step lesson: rice balls, egg rolls, vegetable cutting, and seaweed art Create and decorate your own kawaii lunchbox Taste your handmade bento or take it away for later Family-friendly experience (kids 6+ welcome) English-speaking instructor with easy instructions