Tours in Kyoto

Use fresh fish! We use fresh fish purchased on the morning of the experience day, ensuring the highest quality ingredients. Learn about traditional seasonings! You'll also get to experience the fantastic flavors of traditional Kyoto condiments like soy sauce and miso, allowing you to delve into Japan's culinary culture. Enjoy drinks and dessert after your meal! We offer handmade desserts typical of Kyoto. You can also take away. Accommodates dietary restrictions! Vegetarian menus are also available. If you would like a menu with different ingredients, please let us know in advance.

If you want to visit as many cities as possible during your limited stay in Japan. In such cases, private car tours are recommended. Avoid crowded buses, tedious train transfers, and expensive taxies. I will cover all major sightseeing spots in Kyoto and Osaka in one day in comfort! Please make your reservations well in advance, as rental cars must be arranged. The fee includes rental car, insurance, gasoline, highway tolls, and parking. No further transportation fees are required! For up to 4 people, I will use Toyota Roomy. For up to 6 people, I will use Toyota Noah. The itinerary is just an example, destinations can be changed according to your needs. More than you think, English is not spoken in Japan. To enjoy a trouble-free trip, please contact me!

Discover Kyoto's vibrant nightlife with a local bartender. Enjoy sake, whisky, craft beer, and homemade food in the city's best bars and izakayas. Unforgettable experiences await! Itinerary: - Start at Matsukawa for a first drink. A liquor store at Nishiki market's western entrance turns into a bar in the evening. Popular among students and politicians, it's a spot where all walks of life gather. - Head south for an izakaya experience with locals' favorites. Tachinomiyas (standing bars) offer a welcoming setting and fast-paced service, ensuring a great night out. - Then the choice is yours! Downtown Kyoto has much to offer, from high-quality craft beer and top cocktail bars to serious sake shops.

Because it's a private tour, you can ask the local Japanese everything you want to know, everything you want to ask! While it is fun enough to simply stroll around Kyoto on your own, having a tour guide will make everything you see more interesting. If you want to try to eat some but doesn't know the name, ask your own guide:)! If you want to know more info about Kyoto, where to eat, what to do, ask your guide!:) If you have a place you would like to visit, please contact us in advance and we can make arrangements.

At the Kyoto Shibori Museum, this traditional Japanese craft class shows you how to dye a 40cm x 40cm silk Fukusa (wrapping cloth) using the Kasamaki shibori method and Nuishime shobori method. You'll end up with a beautiful silk Fukusa to serve as a souvenir of your trip to Kyoto. Classes are usually individual and take 90 minutes to 120 minutes per class.  Start by choosing your favorite color and design, learning how to tie your fabric in a particular way and how to knot the thread. Dye the fabric and undo the thread to see the final result! While your fabric is drying (about 30 minutes), you'll learn more about shibori. Browse art pieces, tools, and samples displayed in the museum. The museum shop also sells a variety of shibori items, souvenirs, fabrics, and more.

Embark on a pilgrimage to Koyasan, a tranquil Buddhist sanctuary where the hallowed temples murmur ancient tales and cultural rituals perform a delicate ballet. Immerse yourself in the optional live meditation experience, allowing the spirit to find peace, and join a monk-led tour that reveals the sacred secrets of this divine haven. Expert driver pick-up & drop-off service, you can choose your location. Professional tour guide shares you the culture, stories and tales.

〇 It's a luxurious private live! A performer will play the traditional Japanese instruments just for you. Please enjoy the sounds of Koto-Japanese harp and feel the world of Koto up close. 〇 Sit in a chair and enjoy yourself. You can sit on a chair and relax in the shop which is a renovated Kyomachiya-traditional Japanese house. Why don't you hold a hidden concert just for you in the atmosphere of local Kyoto, which is different from the tourist spots? 〇Enjoy the sounds of authentic Japanese musical instruments. Why don't you feel the splendor of traditional Japanese music at your leisure?

Nagoya area pick up available Say goodbye to crowded buses and trains. Feeling tired from walking? Our service ensures that you will walk less, as we will drop you off and pick you up as close as possible to your destination. This way, your group can enjoy exploring without the fatigue. Your comfort is our priority. Enjoy a hassle-free journey in Japan. Our itinerary is flexible and customizable. You can skip or add any destinations you'd like, allowing you to explore Kyoto at your own pace and comfort. We can also create a customized itinerary featuring the best photo spots in Kyoto. You will visit only the most beautiful locations, perfect for capturing memorable pictures. Our private car service ensures a comfortable and efficient journey between each site, allowing you to make the most of your sightseeing time. There is no rush and no fixed schedule — it is your time to fully enjoy Kyoto at your own pace. You decide how long you want to spend at each stop.

Our experienced staff and drivers will support your travel, all of our professional drivers are Japanese citizens. With our van available for up to 9 passengers, you can travel with your friends, family, and co-workers. You don't need to worry about the amount of luggage, you won't need to walk between stations, or need to wait for a train or bus to come. You can contact your driver in advance. It's okay if your itinerary is changed on the day according to your situation. Our professional team will make your tour the best. We have experienced private tour over 300 times for Mt. Fuji, Tokyo city and Kyoto. Especially Kyoto, public transportation is very complicated and sometimes inconsistent to access multiple locations in one day. Huge benefit to choose private tour is you don't need to worry about your transportation, making plans, visiting tourist attractions efficiently.

During this private, 2-hour experience, enjoy an authentic Japanese-style full-course dinner and a private party with a Maiko and Geiko at an Ochaya tea house in Kyoto. Most Ochaya tea houses are not open to the public, so this is a truly unique and authentic experience. This course includes a Mai dance performance, traditional game, and an opportunity to take photos/videos of Maiko and Geiko . You can enjoy talking with a Maiko and Geiko with your licensed translator guide.

In this tour, you will enjoy Japanese nature including animals and landscape at the foot of Mt. Arashiyama which is located on the west side of Kyoto and famous for its scenic beauty. Once this district was open only to the nobles. Located not so far from central Kyoto, this natural environment has been very well maintained up to the present day. That’s why you can interact with wild monkeys very closely. In the afternoon, you will visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji Temple), one of the most famous Zen temples in Japan that you won’t forget for the rest of your life.

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.

You'll have the pleasure of selecting your kimono from a collection at a rental shop, supported by certified kimono-fitting experts. As you wander through the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the vibrant colors of your kimono will create captivating contrasts against the serene backdrop. Each step becomes a photo-worthy experience, and our dedicated photographer will craft a visual narrative of your connection to Kyoto's culture and nature. Our experienced photographer is with over 20 years of expertise, hailing from Kyoto and fluent in English. He is familiar with all the photo spots in Fushimi Inari Shrine. This experience is designed for your convenience, with all essential kimono items provided. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Kyoto without any worries, leaving you with cherished memories and stunning photographs.

A Special Experience of Traditional Japanese Soba Making Soba has been enjoyed in Japan since the Jomon period. In this hands-on experience, you will make, cut, and cook soba noodles yourself. Exploring the different ways to enjoy soba is part of the fun. You can savor it cold and refreshing, warm and comforting, pair it with various condiments, or change up the dipping sauce—the possibilities are endless. This is a rare opportunity to deeply connect with traditional Japanese cuisine—especially the unique flavor of dashi and soba.

Discover the captivating and iconic Shinto shrine known as Fushimi Inari Taisha Marvel at the thousands of bright red torii gates Opt to hike along the trails of Mount Inari and take in the breathtaking views Learn historical facts and tidbits from a friendly and knowledgeable guide Book at any time – last-minute bookings are accepted!

Prepare to have your travel memories captured in the most creative and captivating way imaginable Seize the chance to capture your special moments in Kimono while embarking on a delightful journey through Gion Our adventure kicks off at the famous Yasaka Shrine, right in the heart of Kyoto I'll guide you through the charming streets of Gion, where tradition comes to life. Along the way, we'll show you some lesser-known, peaceful spots. You'll also get to admire the beautiful Yasaka Pagoda. Sannenzaka, Nene Street, Chionin temple and more hidden gems.

I personalized every session with customers, the photography will be taken according to your needs. Whether you want to celebrate your relationships with friends or family or record your memory with Kyoto. I promise a high-quality photo session with you. English, Chinese, and Japanese services are available.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Kyoto with our private guided tour tailored to your preferences. Explore the historic streets, majestic temples, and serene gardens while learning about Kyoto's rich culture and traditions from a local guide. Let us craft a memorable day filled with discovery and wonder as you immerse yourself in the essence of this timeless city. Meet your guide at your hotel and start your day in Kyoto! Let's explore these places to the fullest extent possible within the time available, such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkakuji, Bamboo forest.

【This experience is offered by MagicalTrip, proud winner of the Tripadvisor Best of the Best Award】 This is an authentic "Sushi Making Experience". ■COURSE ー9 Nigiri Sushi, Roll sushi ーTempura set ーTwo Drink ー Sake tastings ー Matcha Experience ー Japanese sweets Embark on a flavorful journey in Kyoto, beginning with a visit to a local shop for traditional Japanese sweets, guided by a friendly expert. Then, step into an authentic sushi restaurant and meet a professional Taisho chef. Watch as he showcases precise knife work and the elegant craft of making nigiri. Learn to roll sushi yourself—an impressive skill to share back home! Next, make your own sushi under the Taisho’s careful guidance. Enjoy freshly made tempura by the chef, followed by a sake tasting with pairing tips to elevate each bite. To end your experience, unwind in a peaceful Kyoto-style garden. There, your guide will teach you how to whisk matcha, which you’ll enjoy with the sweets you picked earlier.

As you enter the factory store "Und.", specializing in selling items and tools for lacquerware artists, you will immediately feel the ambience of a millennial culture that has been carefully preserved by generations of artisans. Your guide will explain the entire process of collecting sap from the Japanese lacquer tree and the following process of its refinement until it can be used by craftsmen. During the tour of the factory you will see some of the well-kept secrets of refining and coloring lacquer for the needs of local craftsmen. This is a rare and unique opportunity which will give you insight into the elaborate work of Japanese artisans. Following the factory tour you will visit the workshop area at the top floor and apply lacquer on a pair of chopsticks using the traditional "fuki-urushi" technique. You will take them with you as a present and a memory from this factory visit. The entire tour takes about 90 minutes and is conveniently located in the center of Kyoto.

There are many great photographers with top-notch gear out there, but if you're looking for something unique, creative, and a relaxed shoot where you can truly be yourself, you've definitely come to the right place. Kyoto photography service at Gion, blends local expertise, personalized experiences, and high-resolution results to create lasting memories of your visit. With a deep understanding of Kyoto's hidden and iconic spots, our photographers ensure stunning backdrops that match your style. We offer flexible location choices and schedules, letting you customize your session for a relaxed experience. All photos are high-resolution, capturing each moment with clarity, and we specialize in authentic, candid shots, guiding clients who may need help with posing. 30-60 minutes for photoshoot. 15-30edited/retouch. Get all original picture (.jpeg) in same day!

"Beyond sightseeing—A journey of thought, dialogue, and rediscovery." This unique tour is led by a nationally licensed guide who is also a trained philosophy researcher. Along the way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Zen Buddhism and a broad spectrum of Japanese intellectual and spiritual traditions—from ancient thought to modern philosophy. Unlike typical guided tours, this experience offers an intellectually engaging journey through contemplation and meaningful dialogue. Together—guide and guest—we explore the deeper meaning behind Kyoto’s landscapes, using philosophical inquiry to uncover layers of cultural and historical insight. Expect eye-opening conversations and new perspectives that may stay with you long after the tour ends—enriching not only your travel experience, but perhaps even your personal or professional life. Shall we walk, think, and rediscover Kyoto—through the lens of philosophy?

Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Journey into the heart of Kyoto, where age-old traditions and breathtaking beauty converge. Starting at the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera Temple, embrace the city's spiritual essence while enjoying panoramic vistas. As the tour unfolds, wander through the historic alleys of Gion, witnessing the mesmerizing world of geishas. Let your senses feast at Nishiki Market, sampling flavors that have tantalized locals for centuries. Discover the serene temples of Tojijicho and step back in time in the atmospheric Higashiyama Ward. This is not just a tour—it's a tapestry of experiences, designed especially for you, the discerning traveler. Dive deep into Kyoto's heritage and let its timeless tales envelop you. Book now and become the protagonist in Kyoto's enchanting story!

【About your local guide】 I was born and grew up near Fushimi Inari Taisha. I am not a foreigner. So I have known the Fushimi Inari shrine since I was a boy. Now Fushimi Inari shrine is one of the most popular places to visit, but there are too many people around and it is like an amusement park. I would like you to feel the nature and peace here as the locals used to. I am a local who knows this mountain's courses very well and many beautiful hiking paths are hidden, they are not on the official map. If you like to know places that are not crowded in Kyoto, feel free to ask me. Welcome any questions about Japan, Shinto, and Zen Buddhism as well. I also own my tour agency, Tour Bench Inc. since 2011. Consider coming on my Tour of Kyoto. I offer a variety of tours. 【How much exercise 】 Fushimi Inari shrine is a super big mountain so we have to take the stairs or a hilly way to reach the top. The height is about 200 meters so it is not quite a high mountain. Bring some water:)