Tours in Kyoto

Take a journey through time in Kyoto and Uji, where tradition harmoniously blends with modernity, and immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore the eight most famous scenic spots, Golden Pavilion & Kiyomizu-dera Temple & Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka & Yasaka Koshindo & Uji River & Uji Shrine & Byōdō-in Temple & Byodo-in Omotesando. Let's embark on a memorable journey with our friendly and professional guide.

This tour package will bring you to see the beautiful temple or shrine in Kyoto with a comfortable private transport. We would recommend itinerary: Arashiyama (Bamboo Forest) -> Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion) -> Kiyomizu Temple -> Fushimi Inari Taisha -> Hotel However you can also choose and customize your own itinerary

This tour is typically conducted in a small group of up to 10 people. Why don’t we accept many guests? Because we believe that if there are too many participants, the guide won’t be able to give everyone proper attention. Starting from the landmark Minamiza Theater in Gion, we first head to Hanamikoji, known as the geisha district. In this area, you will not only enjoy the traditional streets, but also learn the mysterious rules and trivia of geisha culture from your guide. If you’re lucky, you may spot a real Geisha. Also this tour offers more than just a glimpse into Geisha culture. Next, you will see a shrine for matchmaking and a beautiful Buddhist pagoda outside Geisha district, which is illuminated at night, creating an even more stunning sight. This tour is a great way to gain a better understanding of Kyoto's traditional streets and local culture. Let us help you make wonderful memories in Kyoto!

One of the most popular walking tours in Japan. As the pioneer of such walking tours, it has long been loved by people since 2007, and more than 100,000 guests have joined since then. Gion is Kyoto’s most traditional district where the culture of Kagai, the world of Maiko-san and Geiko-san is still alive. Though many tourists come to Gion, it can be difficult to grasp the magnitude and beauty of Gion completely. Your guide will explain the history of Kagai, the lives of Maiko-san and Geiko-san and even take you to the backstreets of Gion. Walk with a well-experienced knowledgeable, licensed English-speaking guide and discover the depths of the Old Capital, Kyoto.

Kyoto is the most famous tourist destination in Japan. There are plenty of wonderful sites, but it is always bustling with tourists from all over the world, so it’s hard to enjoy Kyoto's natural beauty quietly and in depth. Here we offer a luxurious tour that enables you to visit three of the most famous tourist attractions in Kyoto with fewer people in half a day till noon. After this tour there is time for  you to spend on other activities. This tour is a walking tour. Let us remind you that you'll take about 15,000 steps through this tour.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is located on the outskirts of Arashiyama. There are 1200 unique and whimsical Buddhist statues there, so it is becoming a popular spot recently. Also, since the nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of the most famous tourist locations in Kyoto/Japan, we decided to make a Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Bamboo Forest tour from Kyoto Station. It's very difficult to visit by yourself on public transport, but our tour provides a nice car for you & your family/friends to use on the way to the temple. You can also enjoy sightseeing by car on the way to the Arashiyama area! We will walk for about 45 minutes - 1 hour through the Oku Saga Area after Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, so you can feel a distinctive Japanese atmosphere there with various hidden gems before reaching the Bamboo forest. After enjoying the forest, we will finish the tour on the main street of Arashiyama. *We recommend that you bring the following in the summer: Hats & Parasols / Sunscreen / Drinks

Join from Osaka or Kyoto conveniently. Explore the cultural treasures of Kyoto with this tour, showcasing some of the city's most iconic landmarks and serene natural landscapes. Begin your day at the majestic Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, a Zen Buddhist temple adorned with shimmering gold leaf. Next, venture to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a mystical forest where towering bamboo stalks create a serene atmosphere. Wander along peaceful pathways , offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Continue your journey to Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its impressive hall housing 1,001 life-sized statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. Admire the intricate details of the historic temple grounds. Lastly, visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its wooden stage jutting out over a cliffside with panoramic views of Kyoto. Experience Kyoto's rich cultural heritage, from ancient temples to natural wonders.

Joining this tour will give you an insight into Japanese history and sake. SAKE Master will tell you the secret of excellent SAKE. You will know the difference with your tongue. Let's have fresh SAKE! You can also enjoy a set of 17 kinds of drinks compared with the top image that is famous on SNS. Why not embark on a journey to find the best sake while walking the streets of Kyoto with a local guide? Enjoy a very scenic view. Let's go together. ・Discover Fushimi's rich sake culture with a local guide. ・Visit three diverse sake breweries for tastings. ・Explore the historic Fushimi sake district, one of Japan's top regions. ・Uncover centuries-old sake-making secrets. ・Gain insights into sake production at the Gekkeikan Brewery, established in 1637.

Main attractions of Kansai in one day. Daily departures. Minimum 1 person. Guaranteed departure on the day of your choice Go to Kiyomizu-Dera Temple to reminisce about the past, and encounter geisha in Gion Visit Senbon Torii in Fushimi Inari Shrine and feed the cute deer in Nara Park. No regrets left about Nara and Kyoto The local professional driver offered. Reliable and considerate service offered to get a detailed understanding of local customs in Japan Optional kimono experience. Reservations can be made in advance

This is not just a sake tasting—it’s a deep cultural immersion into Kyoto’s living heritage. Unlike tours that visit only one location, this experience brings you to two of Kyoto’s most respected and contrasting breweries: Sasaki Brewery and Matsui Brewery. Guided by a seasoned sake expert, you'll gain rare insight into the subtle differences in brewing philosophy, taste, and tradition. What truly sets this tour apart is the unhurried pace and depth of storytelling. With ample time at each brewery, you won’t feel rushed—you’ll be able to engage all five senses, ask questions, and truly connect with the heart of Japan’s sake culture. Whether you're a sake novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour offers an enriching, authentic, and memorable Kyoto experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Shrines, shadows, and old Kyoto charm—step into the quiet magic of the city after dark. Evening is when Kyoto truly begins to glow. As the lanterns flicker to life and the crowds fade away, Gion transforms into something timeless. This gentle walking tour is your chance to soak up the after-dark atmosphere of Kyoto’s most historic district—with a local guide who knows all the quiet corners. We begin at Yasaka Shrine, where golden lanterns sway softly and the scent of incense drifts on the night air. The bustle of the day fades, replaced by a sacred calm. If we’re lucky, we might spot a maiko or geiko on her way to an appointment. But this isn’t a celebrity chase—we’ll share proper etiquette for respectful encounters. Let's appreciate this world with the dignity it deserves. ✨ Highlights ⛩️ Yasaka Shrine in the evening glow The iconic Yasaka Pagoda Lantern-lit alleys of historic Gion Insight into geisha culture—with respect ️ Digital Kyoto guide with food & photo tips

Step into the spiritual side of Kyoto with a guided hike through Mount Kurama a peaceful retreat where tradition and nature meet. Birthplace of reiki (a healing technique) and home to the mythical tengu, this mountain holds a magical charm that feels worlds away from the city. Walk through serene forest paths, discover hidden temples, and soak in the calm energy of the surroundings as you make your way to the quiet mountain village of Kibune, full of scenic beauty along the way. ・Leisurely hike from Kurama to Kibune through beautiful cedar forests ・Visit sacred temples and learn about reiki and local folklore ・Experience the peaceful charm of Kyoto’s mountain countryside

Experience Zen meditation at a hidden temple in Kyoto. While Zen is globally renowned and recognised, there are few places in Japan where you can have the best Zen experience with English tour guide support. This temple is not open to the general public, and you can enjoy hidden atmosphere of the temple and authentic zen experience, Enjoy a private Zen experience, fostering a connection with the monk. Meet at the temple, where you'll learn briefly about Japanese culture and Zen. Following that, a monk will personally lecture on the principles and techniques of Zazen (seated meditation), and you'll have the opportunity to practice. Unify your mind, confront yourself, and detach from ego and worldly concerns. After zen experience, you will get the opportunity to enjoy watching beautiful traditional garden, which will make you forget hustle and bustle of the daily life. Capture photographs with the monk and within the temple, creating lasting memories for a lifetime.

Ran by @guidemejapan on instagram. Join our tour to explore the Gion district and witness a captivating Geisha show performed by a Maiko, Geisha Apprentice. You will have the time to ask questions, play a traditional Japanese game with the Geisha Apprentice. ⚠️Children under the age of 6 cannot join the tour For the first hour, we will walk through the beautiful Gion district, for around one hour. Please note that there will be walking in the first hour.

Discover the perfect blend of history and nature on a one-day tour of Kyoto. This itinerary is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.We begin with the magnificent Amanohashidate, one of Japan's "Three Scenic Views," renowned for its unique sandbar resembling a bridge to the heavens, lined with lush pine trees. The sandbar's shape is like a bridge slanting upward into the sky, hence the name "Amanohashidate." You can take a cable car to the top for a panoramic view of this natural wonder. Next, we head to Ine Village, often referred to as the "Venice of Japan," where the unique waterfront funaya houses and tranquil natural scenery captivate visitors. In Ine, you can enjoy a boat ride under the clear blue sky, feed seagulls, or rent a bike to explore the charming village at your own pace, experiencing the authentic rural atmosphere.

Taiko is a traditional musical instrument that anyone can enjoy right away. The experience of practicing together, playing one song, and becoming one with others is one of the most valuable experiences in Japan. This studio's drums are made in the traditional way, by hollowing them out of a large single tree and they are very rare. You can enjoy real Japanese drums. The Taiko experience is not only an enjoyable musical experience, but it is also a full-body workout that relieves stress. The experience is suitable for all ages and levels of ability, so everyone can enjoy it. Since ancient times, Taiko has been deeply connected to the lives of the Japanese people. Through Taiko, you can learn about Japanese culture and history, as well as the spirituality of the Japanese people.

Stroll through the glowing torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine and the geisha districts of Gion, as well as the historic streets of Higashiyama, discovering Kyoto’s serene and magical evening charm. Your local guide will share hidden stories, take plenty of photos, and handle all the details for an unforgettable night in Kyoto!

Hi I'm Kosuke Let me show you around my home town. Feel free to contact me and let me know dates and places of your interest. Please book me two days at least if you really want to enjoy Kyoto! Thank you very much

A Discreet Kyoto Retreat — Trusted by Dignitaries and Cultural Figures Step inside Sakura Experience Japanese Culture, a serene home near Nijo Castle where privacy meets artistry. Trusted by dignitaries, cultural figures, and visiting museum curators, our wide tea room now hosts ikebana and calligraphy classes, surrounded by Kyoto craftsmanship. Feel the texture of custom-made tea bowls commissioned from Kiyomizu and Raku potters, savor premium matcha sourced directly from tea gardens in Uji City, and enjoy seasonal confections created by one of Kyoto’s historic wagashi houses. In our authentic tea rooms, Koma and Hiroma, certified masters invite you to experience the quiet elegance of Japan’s traditions in an intimate, respectful setting.

Discover the best of Kyoto in a single day with our exclusive bus tour! Unlike other tours, we take you to all the must-see landmarks, from the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion, and even the iconic Fushimi Inari Taisha with its endless red torii gates. With seamless transportation and a professional guide, you'll explore Kyoto's rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes without the hassle. From the serene beauty of Nijo Castle's gardens to the panoramic views at Kiyomizu-dera, this tour offers a complete and unforgettable experience. *Please note due to circumstances beyond the tour operator’s control, it is possible that Nijo Castle may not be accessible for the visit. In such cases, the tour will instead include a visit to Sanjūsangen-dō Temple.

You will put on the traditional samurai outfit and wield a katana just like a real samurai. This is the only samurai sword experience in Kyoto where you would feel like a real samurai and have a real hands on sword experience different from some simple costume play. Many people come to Japan to learn about the history of samurai and fulfill their childhood dream of being a samurai and this is it. The lesson includes hakama wearing, wearing samurai armor and samurai helmet and posing in front of several samurai-theme backgrounds. ！Children under 3 can not enter the samurai venue. ！You can reserve maximum 4 people from Viator however we accept any other booking site and there will be more participants in your experience (About 12-14 guests)

Take a deep dive into traditional Japanese culture and history during this full-day trip to Kyoto and Nara from the center of Kyoto or Osaka. Enjoy the atmosphere of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district and admire the beautiful grounds of the Kinkaku-ji temple. Then head to Nara and see the wild deer of Nara Park. Multiple pickup points and lunch upgrade options are available.Explore traditional Kyoto and Nara during a day trip from the center of Kyoto or Osaka Marvel at Kyoto sights like the Arashiyama district and Kinkaku-ji templeOptional upgrade with choice of buffet or Beef Shabu Shabu set lunchNo need to organize car transport and schedule; entrance fee included.

Ran by @guidemejapan on Instagram. Please check our Instagram for visual examples of our wonderful guides! Start your morning with the magic of Kyoto—before the crowds arrive. This small-group tour (max 8 people) takes you on a peaceful journey through Fushimi Inari’s famous thousand torii gates, the stunning Byodoin Temple from the 10 yen coin, and Ujigami Shrine, Japan’s oldest. It’s the perfect blend of iconic sights and hidden gems, led by a local English-speaking guide who brings each place to life. Quiet, authentic, unforgettable.

Let's explore the Shogun's Nijo Castle together in this insightful and entertaining 3 hour walking tour. We will guide you through the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Samurai while we explore the World Heritage site. You will have fun experiencing Nijo-jo Castle in a way not possible on your own or with large tour groups. The top guide will answer all your questions in detail and share insightful knowledge not available elsewhere. Morning or Afternoon starting time slots (book at your convenience!) Private tour Includes all admission tickets Top guide will share fun insights that you can't get on your own or other tours