Tours in Kyoto

Explore the wonderfully atmospheric Gion district at night Gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s culture and traditions from a friendly and knowledgeable guide Wander around traditional backstreets, visit offbeat temples and shrines, and even get to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko (apprentice geiko) Book at any time – last-minute bookings are accepted! Enjoy the intimacy of a small group tour (no more than 9 people)

Enjoy a culturally enriching tour of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, including Fushimi Inari Temple and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, and Arashiyama. In just one day, you can see the result of hundreds of years of history, architecture, and cultural practices! Experience the best of Kyoto in a convenient and comfortable way Be entranced by the famous vermillion gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine Explore the gorgeous golden Kinkaku-ji and its immaculate well-preserved gardens Stroll through Sagano Bamboo Forest - listen to the leaves rustle in the wind

During the Kyoto Bike Tour, explore some of the best sights in Kyoto on comfortable E-bikes. This unique cycle tour of Kyoto takes you to must-see locations, avoiding the typical tourist traps and crowded areas. Experience Kyoto like a local, visiting hidden gems and peaceful spots that showcase the city's authentic charm. Whether you're seeking a relaxed ride or an adventurous way to explore, this E-bike tour of Kyoto offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and local insights.

We want your time with us to be a rich and enjoyable one, and to that end we encourage guests to not only participate but actively ask any questions they might have about Japan and tea ceremony. Our small team, fluent in English, are here to help make your time a memorable and authentic one. Tea ceremony is the perfect way to enjoy Japanese culture and experience a taste of Kyoto. Inclusivity is very important to us, and all are welcome. Chairs and tables are available for those that have difficulty sitting on the floor. All our sweets are vegan, nut free and gluten dress. Although we offer kimono rental, you do not need to wear kimono and please dress as you feel comfortable. Unfortunately children under 6 years old cannot participate in shared or private tea ceremonies. Feel free to take photos throughout the experience (please be mindful of other guests and please turn off the flash).

Discover Nara's must-see landmarks on the deluxe coach tour and try to make Matcha tea at Uji in Kyoto, the birthplace of matcha. We will drive pass Fushimi Castle and Heijokyo Palace on the way to Nara. We will visit Todaiji Temple, a house of the Great Buddha of Nara and it is one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. Meet about 1,400 deer at Nara Park, you can even feed them rice crackers. Then we visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine where 3000 magical stone lanterns enlighten you. After lunch, we go to Uji area in Kyoto and try making Uji matcha tea! Spot the Byodo-in Phoenix Hall depicted on the back of the 10-yen coin at Uji. ・Cover Nara's must-see destinations and 3 World Heritages in a day! ・A Professional English-speaking guide leads this tour ・On top of that, multilingual audio guidance is available in EN, FR, IT, ES, DE, PT, UK ・Greet large Buddha at Todaiji Temple ・Enjoy cute deer at Nara Park ・Learn about Authentic tea while making it yourself in Uji, famous for matcha

Kyoto is a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and well-preserved traditional Japanese culture. Our tours are designed to help visitors explore and appreciate the beauty of Kyoto while enjoying a fun and memorable experience. As Kyoto’s famous landmarks are spread out—often requiring extensive walking, navigating hills, and locating hidden spots—a private tour by car offers a more comfortable and efficient way to explore the city. Led by our knowledgeable guide, Riku, and organized by a dynamic young team, this tour is dedicated to creating unforgettable memories for every guest. For tours departing from Kyoto, we will visit Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, Gion, and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. For tours departing from Osaka, the itinerary includes Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. *Kindly be advised that the customer is responsible for covering the tour guide's entrance fees to the attractions, as well as any meal expenses, including lunch.

Discover the timeless charm of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district on this immersive walking tour. Begin with a peaceful visit to the historic Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning Zen gardens, followed by a stroll through the enchanting Bamboo Grove. Step back in time at the tranquil Nonomiya Shrine before enjoying a refreshing cup of authentic matcha tea. Cross the scenic Togetsu-kyo Bridge, a beloved symbol of the area, and cap off your adventure with a short hike to Monkey Park Iwatayama, where playful macaques and sweeping views of Kyoto await. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and local flavor—all in one unforgettable day.

Watch a real Maiko, an apprentice Geisha, perform up close. With only about 40 Maikos left in Kyoto, seeing one is a rare and special experience. Kyoto is the only place where you can experience the authentic world of Geisha—don’t miss this chance! To begin the show, the Maiko will perform a traditional dance lasting around 10 minutes, the usual length of most Maiko performances. After 2 dances (each about 5 minutes), there will be time for a Q&A, photo-taking, and a chance to play a traditional Japanese game with her. *IMPORTANT*: In Geisha/Maiko culture, performances are intentionally short to preserve the art’s exclusivity and grace. Please note that the Maiko will not be performing continuously for one hour. *IMPORTANT* Please note that we have two options for this tour, and they are different tours. Please read carefully when booking.

Why Choose Our Experience: ★ Train in an authentic dojo with a master who has over 20 years of experience ★ Enjoy a more personal experience with small groups—only 6 participants per class (Disclaimer: There may be more than 6 participants if there are only a small number of parties) ★ Witness a powerful two-katana performance by the master—something you won’t see anywhere else

Begin your journey from Osaka or Kyoto, and step into Japan’s most iconic sights. Start at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where sunlight filters through towering stalks, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional meal at Kyoto Wasabi, a 120-year-old townhouse preserving the charm of old Kyoto. Choose from Kobe Beef Shabu-shabu, Pork Shabu-shabu, or Vegetarian Curry. Continue to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. Stroll through Nara Park and visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the world’s largest wooden structure, marvel at the 15-meter Great Buddha, an awe-inspiring symbol of Japan’s heritage. Conclude at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a striking path up Mount Inari. This unforgettable sight is among Japan’s most photographed landmarks. At day’s end, relax on your bus ride back, with the flexibility to return to Osaka or Kyoto.

Take control of your sightseeing itinerary by booking this customised tour. Whether its a minimum of 4-hour or a full day trip consisting of 8 hours, visit all the sights you wish with a professional guide. Choose from an enormous range of cultural and historical landmarks and tick off your desired attractions all in one day! Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavillion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu temple and Gion district are just a pocketful of destinations out of countless others. Wherever you request, we will do our best to accommodate you as well as possible. Hotel meet-up and drop-off are included to ensure you receive a totally stress-free experience.

Take a tour of Kyoto's famous Gion district and learn all about the mysterious geisha traditions of the area. Your local guide will tell you about the traditions from an insider perspective about Geisha culture. At the same time you'll explore Gion's beautiful streets, temples, shrines, and shops, for a comprehensive overview of historic Kyoto. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, but on my experience ･In the first half we will walk in Gion and discuss the living traditions, their lifestyle and history. ･In the second half we will meet an apprentice geisha, Maiko. First we will talk with and ask her questions. Also we will watch her dancing, having one of these, a cup of tea or lunch or dinner together. *Picture and filming of Geisha is fine but not allowed to post it in public.

Join this delicious walking food tour through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous traditional district, and experience 15 authentic local dishes at hidden eateries loved by locals. Your knowledgeable guide will take you to small restaurants and food stalls where you can taste a variety of Kyoto’s best dishes, such as freshly grilled yakitori (chicken skewers), flavorful sushi made with seasonal fish, crispy tempura, and other unique local flavors. Each place has been carefully selected to give you a true taste of Kyoto’s culinary culture. As you walk through Gion’s charming streets, your guide will also share stories about Kyoto’s traditions, food history, and daily life, making this tour not only delicious but also culturally enriching. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to go beyond tourist restaurants and eat like a local. Come hungry and leave with a full stomach, unforgettable memories, and a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s food culture.

We offer a rare "Sushi Making Experience". Join our class and create unforgettable memories in lively Kyoto! ■COURSE 　ーNigiri Sushi Course：9 Nigiri + 3 Gunkan-maki 　ーTemari Sushi Course：9 Temari Sushi + 2 Gunkan-maki 　ーSushi Roll Course (Vegetarian Option Available) ：12 Sushi Rolls + 3 Gunkan-maki ■SCHEDULE 90-min. session. After a lecture on the history of Japanese cuisine and Sushi, you'll get hands-on experience making Sushi, and then enjoy eating Sushi you've made! ■LOCATION Just a 5-min. walk from Kyoto Kawaramachi Sta. on the Hankyu Kyoto Line! ■OUR STAFFS Our staff is the friendliest in Kyoto! ！Important Notes！ ・We only accommodate shrimp and crab allergies. 　(octopus and squid can be substituted). ・For only Sushi Roll course, we will replace the fish with vegetables. Please indicate the number of guests requesting this change in the "Special Requirements" section. ※We are unable to changes to the course content on the day※

“Experience the Art of Authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony in a tranquil environment with Elegance” Step into a serene world of refined hospitality and cultural depth. At Omotenashi Tea Ceremony 南茶道教室, we offer an intimate and a sophisticate tea ceremony experience exclusively for discerning travelers who are seeking the essence of Japanese tradition. Hosted by a tea master in a private, elegant atmosphere, an experience that combines timeless rituals where you will enjoy flavoring an exquisite traditional Japanese seasonal sweets, and a premium matcha, sourced from Kyoto’s finest producers. Whether you are a cultural connoisseur or a first-time guest, you will discover the heart of Omotenashi—the spirit of selfless hospitality—in every detail. Ideal for couples, VIP guests, and private small groups up to ten who appreciate exclusivity, heritage, and depth.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Japan with our exclusive Kyoto and Nara tour. This meticulously crafted experience invites you to immerse yourself in the rich culture and storied history of these two ancient cities, where the past seamlessly blends with the tranquil beauty of nature. Visit Todai-ji, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, a testament to the enduring legacy of Japanese Buddhism. Stroll through Nara Park, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by gentle deer, believed to be messengers of the gods, offering a unique and peaceful connection with nature. Discover the grandeur of Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, shimmering against a backdrop of lush greenery and reflecting its splendor in the calm waters below. This tour offers a rare opportunity to experience the essence of Japan, from its profound cultural traditions to its serene and tranquil landscapes. Join us and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Discover the true essence of Arashiyama with our exclusive bike tour, offering early access and a journey beyond what most visitors see. Explore Kyoto’s most naturally beautiful area, known for its blend of cultural and natural wonders, including charming rice fields, photogenic landscapes, and scenic country backstreets far removed from the city’s bustle. Ride along Kyoto’s most breathtaking roads and uncover the hidden gems of Arashiyama beyond the iconic Bamboo Forest . As the only Arashiyama-based bike tour, we’re excited to share the unmatched beauty and depth of this captivating region with you. *AGE REQUIREMENT: Children must be at least 10 years old to participate. Please book our "Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Family Bike Tour (Infants & Toddlers)" for families with children under 10 years of age.

Myokaku-ji Temple, a historic main temple of the Nichiren sect once visited by the legendary warlord Oda Nobunaga, provides the majestic setting where GOAT Trip offers a truly unique samurai experience. Within its majestic grounds, learn authentic samurai sword fighting directly from an active samurai actor. Practice real sword techniques and be filmed by a professional actor, becoming the star of your own period drama. Even if you’re a bit shy or don’t usually like being in the spotlight, this experience welcomes you with a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of history while acting out a scene from a movie. Create unforgettable memories in Kyoto with this one-of-a-kind samurai experience.

This private car tour takes you comfortably from Kyoto to Nara—with no tour buses, no tight schedules, and no crowds. Unlike group tours, everything is fully customizable. Want to spend more time taking photos? Traveling with kids? Stop at a cozy café? Skip a spot if it's too hot? Try a specific local lunch? Just let me know. I’ll tailor the pace and itinerary to fit your interests, energy, and mood. As an independent private guide, I offer the kind of flexibility and personal care that big group tours simply can’t match. So don’t hold back on your requests—this day is all about you. And I’m not just your guide for the day. If you need help during your entire stay in Japan—whether it’s restaurant advice, translation help, or travel tips—I’ll be there. Let’s make your visit to Nara truly special—relaxed, memorable, and entirely your own.

Step into the hidden world of Kyoto’s geisha culture on this unforgettable tour. Begin with a guided walk through the atmospheric streets of Gion, where maiko and Geiko live, train, and perform. Your local guide will unveil the deep history and customs of this mysterious world, enriching your understanding before the main experience begins. In the second half, gain ultra-rare access to a private Ochaya (teahouse) — a place so exclusive that even most Japanese people are never allowed to enter. There, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a maiko and a former Geiko. Enjoy a graceful live performance, take photos, and engage in personal conversation. The true highlight is hearing their candid stories and cultural insights — a rare, authentic connection with Japan’s living traditions.

Join us for a fun and scenic bike ride through Kyoto’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and charming streetscapes. This tour offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and classic Kyoto charm. Imagine yourself embarking on a delightful bike tour through the heart of Kyoto, where ancient traditions and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Feel the joy as you pedal your way to serene zen gardens, finding peaceful havens perfect for a moment of reflection. And all with the ease of an E-bike, these fun little bikes that give you a boost up the gentle hills that surround the city. For group tours, you can choose between the East Side course which visits the Ginkakuji Temple, with its stunning zen gardens, the Heian shrine with an incredible garden and the amazing Philosopher's Path (3.5hrs) Or be more adventurous by exploring the West Side with visits to the top hitters, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, The Golden Pavilion and the amazing Ryoanji Rock Garden (6hrs).

These tours go beyond sightseeing—they’re immersive experiences filled with history, culture, and hidden gems. I bring stories to life, making every destination more meaningful and engaging. Safety and comfort are my top priorities. As a skilled driver and tour guide, I ensure smooth, stress-free journeys, allowing guests to relax and fully enjoy their adventure. Every tour is personalized, creating unique and unforgettable moments. Whether it's exploring iconic landmarks or discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures, I make sure each trip is special, memorable, and one of a kind.

Step into the heart of Kyoto’s old-world charm with this guided food tour. As the sun sets, your local guide will lead you through atmospheric lantern-lit alleys and past teahouses where geisha still entertain. Along the way, stop at several carefully selected eateries to taste seasonal Kyoto delicacies—ranging from delicate obanzai dishes and freshly made yuba (tofu skin) to delicious snacks, local sake, and sweet treats. You'll also learn about the history of Pontocho Alley, the role of geisha in Japanese culture, and the culinary traditions that define Kyoto’s refined cuisine. This intimate experience combines culture, history, and flavor into one unforgettable evening in one of Japan’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Avoid the hassle of crowded buses and trains. Our private car ensures a smooth and efficient journey between sites, giving you more time to soak in the sights. With no fixed timetable, you can spend as long as you wish at each stop. We adapt to your pace, making your experience truly personalized. Additionally Our vehicles are equipped with comfortable seating and easy accessibility features to accommodate the needs of older travelers, ensuring a smooth and pleasant ride. We design our tour itineraries to include a balanced mix of activities and rest periods, taking into consideration the energy levels and preferences of all family members. Thank you for choosing us. We look forward to making your family trip unforgettable.