Tours in Kyoto

Highlights: • Hidden Trail to Amida-ga-mine – Discover a serene hiking route known mostly to locals, just outside Kyoto’s tourist crowds.

 • Panoramic Views of Kyoto & Kiyomizu-dera – Take in unforgettable views of one of Japan’s most iconic temples and the city below.

 • Traditional Riceball Picnic – Enjoy Japanese riceballs at the top of the mountain, just like locals do on a day out in nature.

 • Visit Houkoku-byo Mausoleum – Explore a peaceful site honoring Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a key figure in Japan’s history.

 • Zen Hiking Experience – Embrace the harmony of nature, history, and simplicity – perfect for beginners seeking a meaningful escape.

 • Guided by a Local Guide– Feel at ease with an English-speaking local guide who ensures a safe and insightful journey.

 Gentle, Rewarding Hike – A comfortable route accessible for most, offering both physical refreshment and a sense of accomplishment.

A Fully Custom Kyoto Private Walking Tour Tailored to You Enjoy a one-of-a-kind Kyoto with a bilingual local student guide. Before the tour we ask about your interests, then design a route just for you—quiet indie cafés, hidden shrines, secret lanes, photogenic machiya, and other spots you won’t find in guidebooks. Examples • Café lover? Visit 2–3 cozy gems known only to students. • Photo & history fan? Combine scenic temples with classic streetscapes. Most of the tour is on foot; we’ll hop on a city bus or taxi when it saves time and avoids crowds. Meeting and drop-off points anywhere in Kyoto City are flexible, and we’ll confirm all details with you in advance. Solo travelers, couples, families, and friends are all welcome. If you want a Kyoto that perfectly matches your passions, let’s create it together!

・Dress up in a traditional kimono coat: Experience Japanese calligraphy while wearing a beautiful kimono coat that perfectly matches the streets of Kyoto. Instantly feel immersed in Japanese culture! • Create your own original artwork: With guidance from a professional calligrapher, craft a one-of-a-kind calligraphy piece. Take your masterpiece home as a unique souvenir! • Beginner-friendly: Learn the proper way to hold the brush and use ink, making it easy and fun even for first-timers. • Cultural experience & memorable moments: Not just writing—perfect for photos and creating unforgettable travel memories. • Quick and convenient: The workshop lasts about one hour, ideal for fitting into a busy travel schedule.

Basically, the theme of this tour is "Japanese religion and the emperor" We'll ride to some big shrines and temples and Kyoto imperial palace from the JR Kyoto station area. (If it rains, We will suggest you to take city bus from JR Kyoto station) You can learn about the one aspect of religious view from the Japanese guide. SI: you can ask to take some your photos to your guide, except while riding your bike. We guarantee you can bring back nice photos with your half day memory! Secondly, We'll guide you to some local shops, street-food, ride through the backstreet. Like... Matcha ice cream, small bakery, "Dashimaki", and Japanese croquet at the meat shop. You can add some small change by your request. Finally, We'll ride along the famous "Kamogawa" river on the way back. There's a flat cycling road, you can pedall 40km(25miles)/h with taking care for the safety. Let's go for fun bike ride with us!! We guarantee you the highly value and some special gift for your travel.

There are many things you want to do in Japan. But you also want to enjoy your stay in Kyoto. This tour is for you! This tour lets you fully enjoy Kyoto and Kiyomizu Temple in a short time! The tour starts at a kimono rental store in a traditional Kyoto alley. After putting on a kimono, visit Kiyomizu-dera, Kodai-dera, and Yasaka Koshindo Temples, known for their rich history and colorful decorations. Shopping at the streets in front of temples is another fun part of temple tours in Japan. Sanneizaka in front of Kiyomizu-dera is lined with souvenir and food stores, popular for photos with a Japanese atmosphere. This tour packs a lot of Kyoto's attractions into a short time, so you can enjoy Kyoto to the fullest!

Fushimi Inari Shrine's iconic Thousand Torii (Red Gate) paths have welcomed millions of visitors over the years and has consistently been one of the top sites in Kyoto. But did you know that the Inari Mountain where the shrine stands actually has around ten thousand torii gates, and even a secret bamboo forest? Go off the beaten track with your experienced tour guide to see the quaint side of Fushimi Inari. Then hike to the top of the mountain (233m) to enjoy the views of Kyoto from the south and soak-in the spirit that resides in this sacred location. Afterwards, follow the trekking route to the nearby temple complex that has maintained a royal connection for more than a thousand years and has been used as an on-set location for many films.

Step into the secret alleys of Kyoto and experience Japanese-style bars where locals gather to enjoy food and drinks. Before the tour begins, your expert guide will have a short consultation with you to understand your preferences, then take you to the bars that best match your taste. Wander through the charming backstreets of the Kawaramachi area, lined with tiny bars, traditional confectionery stands, and local food markets. For those interested, there will be chances to sample local bites as you stroll through the neighborhood. At each bar, your guide will introduce you to delicious pairings of sake and Kyoto-style side dishes. Every venue has its own unique homemade specialties — some of which you won’t find on any tourist menu. You’ll also visit a small hidden shrine and hear fascinating stories about its history. Exploring Kyoto on your own is wonderful, but with this tour, you’ll discover a whole new, authentic side of the city.

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.

A Japanese calligrapher active in Kyoto will teach you calligraphy in a completely private space very close to the former palace where the emperor lived for about 500 years (1331 – 1869). Please enjoy traditional calligraphy and foods in Kyoto while relaxing in a completely private space! Finally, I will give you a wonderful work you wrote as a souvenir, so it will be unforgettable memories. The calligrapher is in the highest-ranking 10th degree (dan) with a qualification as a master. You can learn real calligraphy without a doubt. Regarding food, we also respond to consultation of allergies and vegans according to your request.

This tour is a tour using public transportation. Kyoto is known as exotic sightseeing places and numerous historic, quaint old monuments are seen all over the town. This tour covers part of Rakutou (East district) and Central district. Visiting Rakutou, Gion, Yasaka-jinja shrine, Kodai-ji temple, Kiyomizu-dera temple are the most famous sightseeing spots in Kyoto. Particularly well known for the deity of love and marriage and consequently are often full of young couples around the year. Include Nishiki market, well known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen” that celebrates 300 years anniversary. See inclusions and excursions for what is included in the price of this tour.

This tour is designed to help you avoid crowds and immerse yourself in the serene, nature-rich environment of Arashiyama. More than just experiencing its natural beauty, the tour is crafted to allow participants to feel the breath of history through their own senses. As you explore the distinct atmosphere and unique stories of each temple, you’ll feel like a traveler bridging the past and present. Through the guide’s narrative-style explanations and hands-on experiences, the tour draws out the "serenity," "inspiration," and "wisdom" that each temple has to offer. Sagano and Arashiyama are not just tourist destinations. They are extraordinary places where the lives, faith, and culture of those who lived in the past are deeply ingrained. By joining this tour, you will not only gain a multi-faceted appreciation of the historical charm of this area but also find an opportunity to reflect on your own life in the present day. Come and enjoy a truly special moment in a truly special place.

You will learn the basic information of miso such as the making process, the variety of miso. After tasting 5 different types of miso, guests will make own miso which guests can bring back with them. It includes the tips to how to use each type of miso for daily cooking, so that guests can have more cooking variety even after they are back home. This workshop is perfect for those who love cooking and want to deepen their knowledge of miso.

Watch an atmospheric tea ceremony demonstration, beautifully lit for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the tea ceremony seated on chairs — accessible and comfortable for everyone. Casual, friendly, and fun: experience tradition without formality.

You will learn the basic information of soy sauce such as the making process, the variety of soy sauce type. Then taste 5 different types of soy sauce and experience food pairing with each. It includes the tips to how to use each type of soy sauce for daily cooking, so that guests can have more cooking variety even after they are back home. This workshop is perfect for those who love cooking and want to deepen their knowledge of Soy sauce.

1. Tranquil walk through Kyoto’s most scenic paths Explore historic stone walkways and temples away from the crowds, soaking in Kyoto’s seasonal charm. 2. Experience Zen in a serene garden at Ginkakuji Admire the elegant dry landscape garden and peaceful moss grounds that reflect traditional Zen aesthetics. 3. Enjoy local café culture with takeout coffee in hand Grab a Blue Bottle Coffee and stroll the Philosopher’s Path like a local, passing by cozy shops and nature. 4. Discover Kyoto’s famous temple exteriors Walk past iconic sites like Nanzenji’s aqueduct and Eikando Temple—renowned for their seasonal beauty. 5. Perfect for those seeking calm and reflection Ideal for travelers who prefer slow travel, nature, and cultural depth over busy tourist areas. Note: The timing of autumn leaves and cherry blossoms may vary slightly each year. Autumn foliage: Mid-November to early December Cherry blossoms: Around early April

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.

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.

Step into a 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse and enjoy a fully private cultural experience at Onishi Tsune Shoten, a renowned folding fan atelier with over a century of history. This exclusive, one-group-only program invites you to take part in the fan-painting process—one of the most artistic steps in traditional sensu making. Your hand-painted fan will be finished by skilled artisans and shipped to your home overseas, making it a truly personal and lasting keepsake. After painting, you'll try Tosenkyo, a refined fan-tossing game from the Edo period. Though simple in concept, this elegant pastime blends grace, strategy, and quiet focus. You'll learn how to play from the basics—how to hold, throw, and score—before enjoying a friendly match to test your skills. This program is conducted entirely for your group, ensuring an intimate and undisturbed encounter with Kyoto’s living traditions. Escape the crowds and enjoy a rare, hands-on cultural experience in a serene, historic setting.

This cooking class takes place every Tuesday. As a chef and nutritionist who previously ran a French restaurant serving home-style meals on the World Heritage site of Yakushima, I also focus on healthy Japanese cuisine. I will carefully teach you how to recreate the recipes at home. You will learn about culture and history using ingredients unique to Kyoto. Most of the ingredients used in class are vegan. Fish and eggs may also be used. If you have any allergies, please let me know in advance. If you would like a completely vegan diet, please also send me a message.

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).

Eliminate language barriers, put away your map, and explore Kyoto with ease on this private and bespoke guided tour. The route is tailored to your interests, and an English-speaking guide is there to make discovering the city a stress-free and easy experience. Along the way, get help with taking photos, communicating with local vendors, booking restaurants, and getting access to Kyoto's top landmarks.

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

This immersive sake tasting experience in Fushimi offers a rare opportunity to explore Kyoto’s rich sake culture in a historic setting. Guests enjoy 17 carefully selected varieties of Japanese sake, guided by local experts who share insights into brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and cultural significance. The experience takes place at Fushimi Yume Hyakushu, a charming venue housed in a former sake brewery, adding authenticity and atmosphere. Unlike typical tastings, this event engages all five senses—sight, smell, taste, touch, and sound—making it a truly memorable and educational journey. Ideal for culture lovers, foodies, and curious travelers seeking a deeper connection with Japanese tradition. 【Details】 ● Start time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (final entry time: 8:30pm) ＊You're welcome to come at any time you prefer ●Venue: Fushimi Yume Hyakush (Location：Fushimi-ku, 247, Minamihamachi, Kyoto City) ● Target: 20 years old and over ● Languages: Japanese, English

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.