Tours in Kyoto

Beyond the Kyoto Insider Sake Experience covers sake brewed with a very different concept than the ones introduced in the basic sake tours. Sake you will taste in this experience is unique and exceptional: ones brewed using ancient methods that are different from modern methods, a new type of sake that utilizes the characteristics of microorganisms, and sake that is brewed using local wood, giving it a taste unique to the region. By tasting these types of sake, you will be fascinated by the profundity of sake and the possibilities of how different tastes can be created by the sake making process. Please note that in the Advanced Sake Tasting Experience, we also cover the basics of sake production and the sake categories. Even if you have no prior sake experience, you can enjoy the Advanced course.

You'll receive direct lessons from a professional Shamisen player with 20 years of experience. It’s extremely rare to find Shamisen lessons in English within Japan. In just 30 minutes, you'll be able to play a well-known traditional Japanese song! You can also immerse yourself in a meditative Shamisen session while enjoying the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese house. We're looking forward to our session at the Shamisen Dojo!

The kimonos we provide are from the personal collection of a certified kimono dresser. All of the kimonos are made from high-quality fabrics and feature elegant, traditional designs that align with Japanese aesthetics. After the kimono dresser helps you put on the kimono, you are free to explore and take photos outside. The nearest attractions to us are Daitoku-ji Temple and Kinkaku-ji Temple. After your sightseeing, you will return to our tea room to participate in an authentic tea ceremony. This will be an unforgettable experience that immerses you in Japanese traditional culture.

Discover Osaka’s culinary delights on this immersive food tour through its vibrant neighborhoods. Visit bustling markets and hidden gems to experience the city’s best-kept secrets, from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses. Our knowledgeable local guides provide insider knowledge and ensure you savor a variety of mouthwatering dishes. This tour is perfect for food enthusiasts and adventure seekers looking to dive into Osaka’s rich gastronomic landscape. Enjoy an unforgettable journey that combines delicious food with authentic local culture.

If you have only a half day and want to optimize your experience in Kyoto, this tour is the best for you. 7 must-see spots in east and south of Kyoto, including one hidden gem!! A professional local guide shows you the most comfortable and convenient way to the spots. You can enjoy walking along with the beautiful sceneries, paths, and back alleys that only the local people know. Please enjoy the top 7 spots with the beautiful stories of your guide. *This tour uses both taxis and public transportation to save your time and energy. *We also welcome Japanese who are studying English and want to visit top 7 must-see points in Kyoto.

What You’ll Get: ✅ 30 high-resolution, fully edited photos within 24hrs (Might delay on peak season) ✅ All unedited photos for your personal use Important Information: We offer private photoshoots for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. Our journey starts at Togetsukyo Bridge and ends at a cozy café in Arashiyama, perfect for a relaxing break after the shoot. Let’s make unforgettable memories together! ✨

Nijo Castle in Kyoto stands as a key example of Edo-period architecture and history. Originally built in 1603 for shoguns, the castle features stunning structures like the ornate Ninomaru Palace and beautifully designed gardens. On this tour, explore the castle’s well-preserved rooms, intricate woodwork, and elaborate sliding doors. The serene gardens offer a peaceful retreat, enhancing your experience. Guided insights into the castle’s cultural and historical significance deepen your understanding of its role in Japanese history. Nijo Castle’s blend of grandeur and historical depth provides a memorable journey through Japan’s rich heritage.

Join our guided tour of Kyoto's top gourmet spots, where we'll introduce you to the charm of Kyoto cuisine. First, let's explore the expansive and delicious Nishiki Market, known as the "Kitchen of Kyoto," with a history spanning 400 years. With over 100 shops lining its streets, you'll experience the rich culinary culture of Japan. Wander through the market with our guide and immerse yourself in Japanese food, culture, and history. Next, we'll take you to a museum to delve deeper into the world of samurai and ninja. Marvel at the exhibits showcasing armor and Japanese swords actually used in the Sengoku period! We also offer experiences like shuriken throwing, a weapon of the ninja, ensuring you'll create wonderful memories during your time in Japan.

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 the sights of Kyoto that interest you the most on this customizable sightseeing tour. Alongside a private driver-guide, make an itinerary of your desired attractions or get recommendations to create your perfect day. Whether you want to focus on temples, culture, shopping, or Japanese history, this tour has everything covered for you. *Learn about Kyoto's history and culture from your guide *Get a comprehensive overview of Kyoto in a day *In case of traffic, extra time is given free of charge *A private tour means a personalized experience

Book your private Departure transfer from Kyoto city hotels to Osaka Kansai Int Airport (KIX). Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

This tour allows you to enjoy both World Heritage Himeji Castle and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Fondly called the "White Heron Castle", Himeji Castle takes pride in its rich history of 400 years. Experience the beauty of Japanese architecture and the ingenuity from the age of samurai. For lunch, savor a buffet prepared with local ingredients. Afterwards, visit Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the world's longest suspension bridges. From the Maiko Marine Promenade, take in the stunning scale of the bridge from up close, and behold the impressive sight of cars and boats passing by. Look forward to a satisfying tour brimming with history, modern architecture, the scenery of the sea, and gourmet cuisine.

Spend the best day in Japan with this adventurous Samurai & Ninja tour from Kyoto! Explore the birthplaces of Ninjas and find out the trues behind the mysterious shadow warriors in Japan's history Visit Iga City, home of the famous Iga-School Ninja, and explore an authentic Ninja house with hidden gimmicks like flipping doors, secret passages, and hidden sword shelters installed You will also visit a samurai castle and see the real armors and katana-swords used by historical Shoguns in real battles and learn everything about Samurais As ninjas were originally from the mountains, all the ways we drive are surrounded by beautiful Japanese nature, get covered by cherryblossoms in spring and maple trees in Autumn, so you won't have time to blink •Air-conditioned van, fully private •Full-English guide with deep knowledge •Variety of different types of vists, but all related to Ninja Book now to reveal the secrets of ninjas and learn the spirits of Japan through ancient ninja's life!

Your guide, Ai, is a government-certified English tour guide interpreter since 2015, an award-winning and a magazine-covered photographer, and holds graduate degrees, MA in Japanese Pedagogy at Columbia University in the City of New York (Class of 2025) and MBA in tourism and hospitality management from Kyoto University (Class of 2020). Ai: This is a private, customizable tour by taxi that will visit UNESCO World Heritage sights-KinkakuJi Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Kiyomizu Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine (with thousands vermillion Torii gates).　Our itinerary can be quite flexible upon your requests. For lunch and/or dinner, I will arrange the best Tempura or Kobe Beef restaurant in Gion.　 Since all transportations and entrance fees are included in the tour price, the only additional cost on the tour day would be your meals. Pick up and drop off at Kobe/Osaka Cruise Port, Kyoto Station, and any hotels in Kyoto/Osaka/Kobe/Nara City are available.

Perfect for those seeking a genuine Kyoto experience—or for returning visitors looking to escape the usual crowds—this tour offers a deeper, more intimate connection to the city’s rich culture and history.

Nara was the capital of Japan in the 8th century prior to Kyoto and is located within an hour’s train ride from Osaka or Kyoto. In this tour we will stroll around a 19th century town area in the morning, and then visit a solemn shrine hidden in the forest and a huge temple, both of which were founded in the 8th century. In addition to that, we will have interesting encounters with the wild but friendly deer roaming around Nara Park. In this tour you will be able to appreciate the difference between Nara and Kyoto, the development of culture, architecture and lifestyles in these two periods in Japanese history. We will pick you up at Osaka or Kyoto so there will be no problems with the transfer to Nara.

Together with the No.1 sightseeing spot of Japan, Fushimi Inari Taisha in the fresh morning air, you can enjoy visiting representative spots of Nara as well. This tour offers you a glimpse at the highlights of both the two ancient capitals!

Experience the tranquil beauty of Arashiyama as you venture beyond the iconic Bamboo Forest Immerse yourself in the practices of Zen Buddhism as you learn the art of meditation and sacred chants from a qualified monk Trek to the mountaintop temple of Daihikaku Senkoji and marvel at panoramic views of Kyoto, Arashiyama, and the Hozu River valley Delight in a traditional tea ceremony amidst the serene surroundings Explore the Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, and Randen Keifuku Arashiyama station

When it’s comfort time to leave Japan to return your home, end your trip the easy way with this departure transfer by shared transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) from your hotel in Kyoto city. Your driver will pick you up from your Kyoto city hotel, help with your luggage and drive you directly to the airport in a comfortable our van/coach. It’s that easy! Book a seat in this shared ride door‐to‐door transfer for a comfortable ride.

Spend an hour strolling through Kyoto with a professional photographer to capture the best possible images of your tour. You'll learn about local monuments and get a photo shoot with your loved ones; this activity is kid-friendly and can accommodate your groups. After the session, you'll receive professional quality images that you can cherish. ・Local photographer guide takes photos of you and your group in Kyoto ・Receive edited images via email after the session ・Perfect souvenir of your trip

Receive a warm welcome to Kyoto on a private tour that will kick off your time in the city in the best way possible! In only 2 hours, a local guide will get you acquainted with Kyoto to help you enjoy the rest of your stay to the fullest. Discover where to find Kenninji temple and Yasaka Shrine, and how to explore them away from the crowds. And what about that unique family owned restaurant or that amazing local hotspot? We got you covered; the local guides are experts in the subject! Forget about touristy traps; on this city kickstart tour, your guide will point you in the right direction. Private City Kickstart Tour: Kyoto is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Embark on the ultimate tailored adventure with our customized tours! Mainly travel by taxi, but sometimes, due to rush on the roads, we opt for trains to save time. Discover new destinations with local experts, and explore at your own pace. While we can't cover all locations due to closing times, we'll make the most of your journey, aiming to visit as many spots as possible before lunch and after. Book now for an unforgettable experience!

Experience Kyoto’s timeless charm on our tour of three iconic geisha districts: Pontocho, Gion Shirakawa, and Gion Hanamikoji. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and history buffs, this tour immerses you in Kyoto’s flower street culture. Begin in Pontocho, a lantern-lit alley known for its traditional teahouses. Next, enjoy the tranquil beauty of Gion Shirakawa, with its serene streams and lush greenery. Conclude in Gion Hanamikoji, where you might spot a geisha amidst the beautifully preserved machiya houses. This tour offers a rich cultural journey through Kyoto’s historic districts, providing memorable encounters and deep insights into local traditions.

Explore Kyoto’s cultural richness on a full-day private car tour with a fully customizable itinerary. Enjoy the freedom to design your perfect day, choosing top landmarks or hidden gems at your own pace. Add a local guide for deeper insights. After booking, connect with the provider to plan your itinerary. Start with hotel pickup in Kyoto or Osaka, then set off with your private driver and guide, if selected. Visit iconic spots like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-dera, Gion District, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Fushimi Inari Taisha. Walk Hanami-koji in a kimono or make a blessing at Yasaka Shrine. Extend your adventure to Nara and explore Nara Deer Park, Todai-ji Temple, Nigatsudo, Horyu-ji, Wakakusayama Hill, and more. Other possible stops include Sanjusangendo, Ginkaku-ji, Nishiki Market, Nijo Castle, Samurai & Ninja Museum, and hidden Zen temples.