Tours in Kyoto

Let your heart be captivated by the timeless charm of our We Love Kyoto, Kiyomizudera and surroundings. This journey invites you to explore the historic streets and temples of one of Japan's most cherished neighborhoods. Wander through the narrow cobblestone pathways called Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, where the echoes of Kyoto's storied past linger. Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera temple, a testament to Japanese craftsmanship and spirituality. As you soak in the ambiance of Higashiyama, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for Kyoto's cultural heritage. We will share stories and insights, making this tour an immersive journey into the heart of Kyoto. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking the beauty of the old world, Higashiyama will capture your heart. **Rain, shine, or a bit of both— our walking tours still go on!**

Step into Kiyomizu-dera before the world wakes up. While most visitors see the temple in the midst of crowds, this tour offers a rare chance to explore Kiyomizu-dera in the quiet, sacred light of morning. With a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, you’ll move through peaceful halls, spiritual landmarks, and hidden spots—without the rush. The cool air, the gentle sounds of nature, and the soft light on the temple’s famous wooden stage create a truly serene atmosphere that’s impossible to find later in the day. No need to worry about directions, timing, or language—just follow your guide and soak in the experience. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll connect with Kyoto’s spiritual heart in a way most travelers miss. Start your day with stillness, beauty, and meaning.

Ready to see Kyoto truly come alive? Imagine stepping into the magical world of Gion as twilight paints the sky. Our special Kyoto After Dark Tour invites you to uncover the city's most enchanting secrets once the sun sets. Stroll through the historic lanes of Gion, where the soft glow of lanterns illuminates traditional wooden machiya. This is your chance to respectfully catch a glimpse of the graceful geiko and maiko hurrying to their evening engagements, a truly iconic Kyoto sight. Then, we'll dive into the vibrant energy of Pontocho. This charming alleyway, bustling with an incredible array of restaurants and unique shops, is perfect for a little evening exploration and perhaps finding that special souvenir. Forget the guidebooks, this is your invitation to experience the authentic pulse of Kyoto's night. If you're ready for an unforgettable evening filled with beauty, culture, and a touch of magic, let's get your private after-dark adventure booked!

The recommended point of this product is ・ You can see the beautiful and emotional scenery of the boathouses lined up along Ine Bay from the sea. ・ You can see the scenery of Amanohashidate, one of the three most scenic spots in Japan. ・ You can see the village of Kayabuki in Miyama-cho, where you can meet the original scenery of Japan.

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.

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).

Discover Kyoto culture through the eyes of a vegan on our private KYOTOVEGAN walking and tasting tour! Includes meals at a delightful vegan restaurant. You will explore the city from a vegan perspective with a knowledgeable local guide. Walking through the city from a vegan viewpoint reveals a world where Kyoto's culture has developed in harmony with nature. Beyond that, the warm interactions within the local community create a truly special and memorable experience. Additionally, this tour is designed for vegans without animal inoculation, offering plant-based food walks and restaurant meals.

A captivating indoor concert awaits with a harmonious blend of koto and violin, showcasing the beauty of Japanese traditional music alongside contemporary anime and game melodies. This unique performance features young, passionate artists dedicated to passing on the charm of traditional instruments. Experience the delicate sounds of the koto and the expressive power of the violin, while also enjoying the opportunity to play the koto yourself. After the performance, engage with the artists to gain insight into their dedication and the cultural significance of their music, deepening your appreciation for this rich musical heritage. - Indoor concert featuring the koto and violin - Diverse music genres including traditional Japanese and anime tunes - Interactive experience with a chance to play the koto - Meet and interact with the artists after the concert

As a chef, your guide is dedicated to unveiling the essence and origins behind Japan's extraordinary culinary heritage. Start at Nishiki Market, where vibrant stalls offer fresh seafood, local delicacies, and artisanal crafts. Visit the serene Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine and stroll through Gion’s historic Geisha district. Wander down the picturesque Hanamikoji Street, lined with traditional tea houses. Experience the tranquil Yasaka Shrine and indulge in local specialties at a selected restaurant. Discover the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera temple, the enchanting Bamboo Forest, historic Gioji Temple, and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Conclude your journey at the majestic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, shimmering with gold leaf and rich heritage.

The sharpness of a sword is determined by sharpening! Japanese kitchen knives are very popular. What is important is maintenance. Chefs continue to carefully sharpen their own precious kitchen knives with the best whetstones to prepare their dishes. This is a kitchen knife sharpening experience by Miyakoshi Seito, which has continued to produce the most highly regarded whetstones among chefs at Kyoto's long-established ryotei restaurants. Please experience how a worn-out kitchen knife is transformed into the best sharpness through the kitchen knife sharpening. Sharpening techniques and whetstones are useful not only for professional chefs but also for home use. You will receive a Miyakoshi whetstone as a gift. Please learn how to sharpen and use them at home after returning from Japan. Miyakoshi Seito has been in business for 86 years, and its whetstones, made using a special technique called the vitrified method, are highly regarded by knife sharpeners and chefs around the world.

This scenic riverside ride will take you on a wonderful cycling route along the quiet Uji and Yamashina Rivers before looping back into the historic and temple-filled Higashiyama district of Kyoto. The route deliberately avoids the crowded areas of Kyoto so the wheels can keep turning and you enjoy a nice 30km leisurely cycle ride. We explore beautiful Kyoto neighborhoods and vistas, as we ride up to the peaceful and secluded Sennyuji Shrine. A great ride for cyclists with a small window of opportunity for cycling while in Japan.

Experience the beauty of Kyoto's Gion district with a knowledgeable guide who is familiar with every corner of these historic streets. Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto exudes a sense of refinement and cultural significance. Gion, a district within Kyoto, is a world unto its own, steeped in geisha culture and traditional elegance. During this experience, you will be transported into the fascinating world of skilled artists who perform intricate dances accompanied by traditional instruments, telling stories of history and mythology.

This tour offers a rich blend of Kyoto’s spiritual, cultural, and culinary highlights—crafted into one immersive 2.5-hour walking experience. Rather than rushing from place to place, you’ll explore each iconic location with care. Starts with a meaningful visit to Yasaka Shrine, continuing through the atmospheric lanes of Gion, and ending at the lively Nishiki Market. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll gain deep insights into Kyoto’s living traditions—from sacred rituals to geisha culture and local flavors. Plus, with three curated food tastings included, you won’t just see Kyoto—you’ll taste it. Perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers looking for a deeper connection to the city.

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 experience the best tour of Nara and kyoto. In Nara we visit many temples located in Todai-ji, home of the great Buddha and the troll located in Nara Park, famous for its friendly deer, in Kyoto, we explore many sites like the Fushimi inari shrine having thousands of red tori gates, auntie golden pavilion, a stunning temple covered by golden leafs. This will provide your blood history and culture that is unforgettable

Experience the “shibori” of scarves under the direct guidance of internationally renowned traditional craftsman Terukazu Matsuoka. You will observe traditional craft techniques ranging from classic Japanese techniques to the latest methods using 3D printers. Participants will create a design, tie and dye a high quality silk scarf. You will also get to take home the finished product. Kyo-kanoko-shibori is a tie-dyeing technique used for kimonos and obis. It is a traditional craft. ⚫︎Traditional Craftsman "Kiichi Matsuoka" A traditional craftsman is an engineer engaged in the manufacture of traditional crafts designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, who meets certain conditions and maintains a high level of skill and technique. Kiichi Matsuoka (trade name “Kisen”) was certified as a traditional craftsman in the dyeing category of Kyo-kanoko-shibori.

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.

Discover the magic of Kyoto on a captivating walking tour that begins at the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha, home to thousands of vermilion torii gates, and continues through the scenic wonders of Arashiyama. Wander through the peaceful gardens of Tenryuji Temple, stroll beneath the towering stalks of the Bamboo Grove, and enjoy unforgettable views from the Togetsukyo Bridge. This small-group or private tour is led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide who will show you hidden gems and share local stories along the way. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups, this immersive experience combines cultural insight, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path moments—making for an unforgettable day in Kyoto.

Applications can be made for 1 to 8 people. Let's make your own Shigaraki pottery by drawing pictures or writing letters on unglazed raccoon dogs. At the Ninja Village in Koga, you can try on ninja clothing, try throwing shuriken, and become a real ninja. Enjoy a lunch of Shiga's specialty "Omi beef" Admire the garden and the underwater torii gate Enjoy shopping in an open space surrounded by nature

A day trip to Hikone offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the historic Hikone Castle to the tranquil Genkyū-en Garden and charming streets, it’s an ideal destination to experience the beauty of Japan’s past. This tour is great for any types of travelers , such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.

Explore Kyoto's iconic landmarks on a private 5-hour guided tour. Start your adventure at Fushimi Inari Shrine, renowned for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, where you can stroll through the paths and snap memorable photos. Next, visit Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and delve into its rich history with your knowledgeable guide. The journey concludes at the stunning Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), where you can admire its golden reflections on the serene pond. Ideal for first-time visitors and photography enthusiasts, this tour offers insider stories and insights into Kyoto's cultural heritage. - Private 5-hour tour of Kyoto's top attractions - Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Kyoto on a guided tour - Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine and its thousand vermilion torii gates - Discover the history of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Admire the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and its reflection in the pond

Discover the enchanting beauty of Arashiyama on this private tour that showcases Kyoto's hidden gems and rich history. Begin at Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its serene gardens, before wandering through the iconic Bamboo Grove Path. Cross the historic Togetsukyo Bridge, enjoying views of the Oi River, then hike to Iwatayama Monkey Park for an intimate encounter with wild Japanese macaques. With expert insights from your local guide, experience the culture, nature, and culinary delights of Arashiyama like never before. - Explore the stunning gardens of Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Walk through the captivating Bamboo Grove, a must-see Kyoto landmark - Cross Togetsukyo Bridge and enjoy picturesque river views - Hike to Iwatayama Monkey Park and learn about the local monkey population

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.

Zazen takes place in a reserved tatami room where participants can practice in an exclusive environment. Participants gain understanding of Zen. This is recommended for beginner participants.