Tours in Kyoto

Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Kyoto with our captivating day tour, perfect for those who love cultural immersion and natural beauty. Begin your journey at the stunning Kinkaku-ji, where the golden pavilion shines even brighter against the backdrop of autumn's vibrant foliage. Explore the historic districts around Kiyomizu-dera, where you can don a traditional kimono and stroll leisurely through picturesque streets like Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. Surrounded by traditional wooden tea houses and the gentle bustle of ancient Kyoto. Marvel at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousand red torii gates, offering a tranquil and spiritual escape. This tour provides a deep dive into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery, making it an unforgettable experience for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Descubra la magia de Gion como pocos lo hacen Durante el día, Gion, el legendario distrito de geishas de Kioto, se llena de turistas y cámaras, haciendo difícil apreciar su verdadera esencia. Este tour nocturno a pie ha sido diseñado para quienes buscan algo diferente: un recorrido íntimo, en grupo reducido, por las elegantes calles de Gion cuando cae la noche y la multitud desaparece. ✨ Por qué este tour es especial: Descubra el mundo secreto de las geishas en su ambiente real. Disfrute de la calma de Gion después del anochecer, cuando la magia se siente en cada rincón. Viva una experiencia más cercana y personalizada en un grupo pequeño (máximo 15 personas). Atrévase a conocer la cara más genuina de Gion en una noche que, sin duda, guardará en su memoria.

Kyoto is known to have about 2000 temples and shrines but did you know that Kyoto has about 12000 restaurants among which 110 are Michelin Stars. In Kyoto there is a time to pray and then there is a time to eat. With Secret Food Tours and your host,we will focus on the second part. Our local guides will teach you the traditions and social functions of Japanese food and how it is important to the Japanese. They will share with you their knowledge about the local food with some unique flavours and textures. Eating in Kyoto is more than providing substance for the body, it also includes an appreciation for custom and tradition for how the food is sourced, prepared, and enjoyed by the local Japanese people. By booking our Kyoto Karasuma to Gion Food Tour, our food experts will take you on a journey with delicious and mouth-watering local delicacies. As with all our tours, there is a secret dish, which you will only find out about on the day of the tour.

Recently matcha green tea has become popular all around the world. Matcha plays an important role in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. However, learning about Japanese tea ceremony means much more than just learning to make matcha. Why was this a necessary practice of samurais and monks in times past? Why is the "ceremony" still carried on today? Come, step into the world of profound spirituality and set your soul free. 1. Introduction: You will learn the basic concepts and ideas of tea ceremony. You will also learn how to behave in a tea room and appreciate its decoration. 2. The Way of Tea: You will watch a demonstration of the way of tea. We think you will enjoy the quiet and serene atmosphere. 3. Hands-on: Make your own tea! We will tell you how to drink it, and also serve you a specially selected Japanese cake. *Please arrive on time. We cannot allow latecomers to join a session once it has started. *Please refrain from bringing children under the age of 6.

**Must be 13+ to participate as a rider** Join Cycle Kyoto for a morning bike tour around south Kyoto's most beautiful locations. Stay safe riding on quiet backstreets, explore the mighty Fushimi Inari Shrine as well as a host of specially selected locations. Starts with a visit to the temples of central Kyoto before following the Takase Canal and Kamo River into Gion. After weaving through the backstreets of Kyoto’s famous geisha and teahouse district, we head up to the spectacular Tofukuji Temple for pictures. We then roll down to the other side of the slope and straight into Fushimi Inari Shrine (The most visited attraction in Japan!). After a stroll around the famous orange Torii gates, we head home.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kyoto's cultural treasures with our exclusive guided tour. Discover the hidden gems of Fushimi Inari Taisha, where a sea of vermillion torii gates leads you on a path of blessings and prosperity. Feel the spiritual energy as you explore Kiyomizu-dera, standing tall for over a thousand years, offering breathtaking views and sacred waters believed to grant health and longevity. Stroll down the enchanting streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, where time seems to stand still amidst traditional teahouses and artisan shops. Our knowledgeable guides will regale you with fascinating tales of Kyoto's rich history, immersing you in the soul of this ancient city. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience Kyoto's beauty and spirituality in the company of seasoned experts. Book now and let us unlock the secrets of this cultural wonderland, leaving you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Join us as we explore a traditional wooden machiya (traditional Japanese townhouse)! Your guide will lead the way. Machiya have many unique features, such as narrow corridors and hidden staircases. These strategically constructed homes are a Japanese architectural technique that makes limited space feel spacious. It's rare to find a house with its interior structure preserved intact, and this 160-year-old house offers a unique experience. The itinerary is as follows: 1. Your exploration of the machiya begins at the front desk. Your guide will explain the architecture while escorting you to your room on the third floor. 2. On the third floor, you can enjoy the following experiences: - Have your photo taken in a kimono. - Choose your favorite antique tea bowl and have matcha prepared for you. 3. Return to the front desk via the long corridors and hidden staircase. At the end of your journey, the guardian spirit of the building, a white snake, will see you off.

Experience making hand made rings by hammering the texture using the japanese traditional style called "Tankin". You Will choose your favorite material, thickness, shape and texture. Then, using special hammers and tools by customizing your own ring. lt will takes around 60 minutes for the whole prosess. Staff will carefully explain the prosess and will help you taking commemorative photo. Highly recommended for a good quality gift and souvenir. Embrace your creativity and enjoy our unique experience in japan.

The world of Geisha is shrouded in mystery, but your host’s personal stories and deep local knowledge will unlock the history, culture, and traditions of Kyoto’s iconic Gion district. This is not just a tour—it’s a personalized journey designed to immerse you in the city’s rich cultural tapestry and hidden corners. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire to share your interests and preferences. Your host will contact you personally to plan the day, ensuring an experience that’s tailored to your pace, passions, and style for an unforgettable Kyoto adventure.

This Kyoto Bike Tour will take you on a wonderful yet challenging cycling route that will take you beyond the city lines of North Kyoto and into the hills that make the backdrop of beautiful Kyoto. The tour is for intermediate to advanced cyclists that hit an elevation 400 metres, however, beginners are also welcome. The main goal of the tour is to discover the amazing nature and cycling routes that are easily accessible from Kyoto city. The route takes in a variety of cycling that quickly passes through the popular Arashiyama area before tackling the progressive climb that leads to the way to the forested areas of Takao and Yamanaka. There is the option to stop at the secluded Kosanji Temple. The scenery is spectacular with the sound of white water ebbing its way down to Kyoto, on both the outbound and inbound legs of the route. The winding roads up the mountain are a cyclist's dream and not to be missed.

Travelers can see and learn shibori (the oldest dyeing method in Japan) and will have deeper appreciation of Japanese hand crafts.

Take a stroll through Kyoto in a traditional Kimono !! You can walk until five o'clock. Hair set free. We keep luggage for free. There are many famous sightseeing spots in the vicinity. We have various kimonos of design, so you can enjoy it with your favorite kimono. At our shop you can call a rickshaw before the shop. Walking around the city of Kyoto with a rickshaw is wonderful. If you are interested please contact us.

Visit inspiring forest mountain vistas, charming temples and shrines. Capture Instagram-worthy moments in the enchanting Sagano Bamboo Forest. Immerse yourself in captivating stories shared by our friendly and well-informed guide. Flexible booking – even last-minute reservations are welcomed! Select from a variety of start times that suit your schedule. Experience the warmth of a small group adventure, with no more than 9 explorers.

We offer expert guidance from a professional photographer with local knowledge who will lead you to the best locations, angles, and lighting for stunning photos. During the tour, you’ll receive personalised education on camera settings, composition, and other techniques to enhance your skills. As locals, we know the top spots and hidden gems in Kyoto, ensuring you capture magical images. Our private tours allow you to go at your own pace, tailored to your skill level. Maximise your time and photographic opportunities, improve your skills, and explore new locations with expert guidance, making this activity unique and enriching.

Discover the Timeless Art of Japanese Calligraphy! With clear, step-by-step English instruction, you’ll master the brush techniques and create your own stunning masterpiece. Plus, take home authentic Japanese souvenirs as a memorable keepsake of your experience!

Usually, Zen garden is something to be appreciated, and there are not many places where it can be experienced. This experience allows gests to create their own unique design using sand for Zen garden, albeit in a small garden. There are no hard movements, so everyone can enjoy it, from small children to the elderly. You can take pictures of yourself eating Matcha and Japanese sweets in front of the Zen garden you have made, which will be a wonderful memory of Kyoto culture. You can also buy handmade pottery as a souvenir of Kyoto at the store. Since they are dishwasher and microwave safe, they are popular even among people from overseas.

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 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.

Highlights of Your Visit: Thatched-Roof Architecture Marvel at the iconic kayabuki roofs, made of natural materials such as straw and reeds, carefully maintained by the local community. Miyama Folk Museum Learn about traditional tools, customs, and the history of the village at this charming local museum housed in an old thatched home. Local Experiences Try hands-on activities like traditional paper making, soba noodle workshops, or enjoy seasonal festivals that celebrate the local culture. Nature & Tranquility Surrounded by forests and rivers, Miyama offers peaceful walks and stunning views year-round—especially beautiful in spring cherry blossoms and snowy winter scenes.

Starting from the Starbucks Kyoto Sanjo Karasuma Building, we will visit a series of iconic Kyoto landmarks, beginning with a peaceful visit to Rokkakudo Temple. From there, we will head to Yaoyaichi, a local market that showcases Kyoto’s seasonal produce and unique ingredients. Along the way, you’ll explore the bustling Daimaru Department Store's basement, where you can experience the offerings of Kyoto’s gourmet scene. Then, we will wander through Nishiki Market, famously known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” where diverse and flavorful goods await. At Yaoyaichi, Daimaru, and Nishiki Market, you’ll have the opportunity to sample 6-10 different items. Finally, we will conclude the tour at the serene Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine. Itinerary: 10:00 AM: Meeting at Starbucks Kyoto Sanjo Karasuma Building, Visit Rokkakudo Temple 10:30 AM: Stop at Yaoyaichi (local market) 11:30 AM: Daimaru Department Store's basement 12:30 AM: Nishiki Market 2:00 PM: Tour ends at Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine

The Railway Museum, one of Japan's largest, proudly displays a diverse and precious collection of rolling stock, from steam locomotives to Shinkansen trains, including 53 cars that played a vital role in the modernization of Japan (you can find the list of train cars in Japanese). The museum's theme is "Look, Touch, and Experience," and visitors can explore numerous intricate exhibits.

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.

We are the experience-based facility in Kyoto where you can customize your own sake. The aim is to broaden the ways to enjoy sake through "blending". At the Kyoto-Kawaramachi facility, after getting basic knowledge of sake in a space with Japanese elements, you can taste eight types of sake, choose and mix your favorite from them. When you decide one from two prototypes, it will be your My Sake recipe! Our staff will ready your My Sake with 200ml bottle to take out.

Arashiyu, a Japanese-style relaxation salon located just off Arashiyama Station. It is a shop where you can heal your tired feet slowly. You can enjoy drinks and tea pastries while you are immersed in footbath, and then enjoy foot massage.

We welcome both first-time visitors and repeat guests.
This is a rare opportunity to experience traditional Japanese craftsmanship that you won’t find on typical Kyoto tours.
During the factory visit, you'll observe expert artisans at work, and in the workshop, you'll become a craftsperson yourself by creating a one-of-a-kind goshuincho.
After the experience, we encourage you to enjoy Kyoto’s temples with your personally made stamp book in hand.