Tours in Kyoto

The feeling that you’re visiting a local friend in Kyoto — not a tour. This is yummy sweets making and a cultural exchange: learning, laughing, cooking, and connecting. You don’t just make sweets — you get a glimpse into daily life in suburban Kyoto, away from the crowds.

Noto’s Blessings, Weaving the Future A special dish where food and craftsmanship harmonize. With hopes for recovery from the Noto Peninsula Earthquake, Noto’s rich ingredients and traditional crafts will spread nationwide. Through this special dish, we weave the future of Noto. The Noto region suffered severe damage from the Noto Peninsula Earthquake. Amid continued declines in tourism, chefs and artisans from across Japan unite to support recovery through the power of food, tradition, and culture. Our goal: “Sustainable Recovery” through a new form of tourism—“Travel to Support Noto.” - Savor a culinary feast blending Noto ingredients and Kyoto cuisine - Enjoy an unforgettable evening where food and craftsmanship harmonize - Learn about Wajima lacquerware from a certified artisan - Experience the rich flavors of the Sea of Japan and Satoyama - Support the recovery of the Noto region through this special event

Discover the food culture of Kyoto. Enjoy a modern, healthy lunch at a restaurant specializing in fermented foods. Savor a tasting of three Japanese sakes within a traditional sake brewery. Admire the majestic beauty of the famed Byodoin Temple (Phoenix Hall). Learn the art of preparing and savoring matcha at a historic tea shop.

Enjoy the fresh air and pristine water of Takashima City in Shiga Prefecture. This area treasures the natural flow of water from the mountains to Lake Biwa, and is home to stunning sights such as the majestic Metasequoia tree-lined avenue and Shirahige Shrine, famous for its iconic torii gate floating in the lake. Tour Notes -This tour will be conducted in English. -Children of elementary school age or younger are not allowed to participate. -Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

This experience is built around one kanji character you choose—not your name. During the session, you handwrite that character with brush and ink on an authentic washi postcard. Afterward, a professional Japanese typography & logo designer professionally refines your handwritten work into a finished kanji-style logo and sends it as digital data (the final logo is not completed on-site). Your original postcard can be posted from Japan during the experience, allowing you to receive it at home after your trip.

Experience real indigo dyeing inside a hidden Kyoto atelier—guided by true artisans, using natural fermented indigo rarely seen by the public.

Discover Kyoto’s iconic sights efficiently on a half-day tour using an electric bike. This tour covers the best of the Higashiyama area from the imposing Sanmon Gate of Chion-in to the UNESCO-listed Kiyomizu-dera, the charming stone paths of Ninenzaka, and the serene beauty of Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji. Your guide will share the history and culture behind each location, making the experience rich and engaging. We also include time for photos at scenic spots and opportunities to explore on foot, making the tour ideal for beginners, couples, friends, and families. ・Enjoy a refreshing e-bike ride through Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, visiting must-see spots such as Kiyomizu-dera, Yasaka Shrine, and Ginkaku-ji ・Stroll the atmospheric stone-paved lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (includes 40 minutes for visiting Kiyomizu-dera) ・Access charming narrow lanes and photogenic hidden spots unreachable by car ・Beginner friendly: includes riding instruction and safety guidance

Explore Kyoto's most famous and hidden gems in the serene early morning hours with this private luxury tour. Begin your adventure with early hotel pickup, enjoying iconic sights like Fushimi Inari and Kinkakuji before the crowds. Your expert guide, Craig — with over 15 years of experience living in Kyoto — tailors the experience to your interests, adjusting the itinerary if you've already visited certain locations or prefer to skip them. Travel comfortably in a 2025 Toyota Alphard luxury van with reclining seats and air conditioning, ideal for couples, families, or jet-lagged travelers. -Early morning pickup from your Kyoto hotel for the quietest experience -Visit top attractions like Fushimi Inari and Kinkakuji before crowds -Itinerary is flexible — feel free to request substitutions or skip locations -Comfort of a luxury van with bottled water provided

We offer fully licensed private transportation with our own fleet of green-plate vehicles. Enjoy a safe, reliable, and comfortable ride with a professional driver, flexible itineraries, and transparent pricing. No shared passengers, no hidden fees—just seamless door-to-door service throughout Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe.

Samurai Photo Experience – Now Accepting Reservations! Create unforgettable memories in Japan with our Samurai Photo Experience! Wear a kimono and take photos with a katana or a wagasa (Japanese umbrella). We also offer kimonos for women, babies, and children. After the photo shoot, enjoy a fun shuriken (throwing star) experience! Come and give it a try!

Remember to try the “crotch view”. Not only will you be able to better understand the origin of the name “Amanohashidate”, but the scenery will also become more beautiful! In addition, you can also take the opportunity to relax in the hot springs or visit surrounding attractions and facilities. Finally, take a cruise on Ine Bay to admire the unique wooden architecture on the water at Ine Funaya and experience the quaint charm of one of the most beautiful villages in Japan.

Discover Kyoto beyond the crowds on this full-day journey through tranquil shrines, elegant architecture, and timeless Zen spaces. Your first stop is the Mitsui Kamogawa Villa, a beautifully refined traditional residence set within a peaceful garden. This elegant villa offers a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship and aesthetics of classical Japanese architecture. From there, wander into the ancient serenity of Shimogamo Shrine, a "huidden" UNESCO site. This shrines is wonderfully calm, with mossy paths and towering trees all around. After a short bus ride, continue to Imamiya Shrine, a quiet and charming spot beloved by locals for its blessings of health and longevity. Your final highlight is the Daitoku-ji Temple Complex, a vast “maze” of Zen sub-temples. You’ll focus on Daisen-in, home to one of Japan’s most celebrated dry landscape gardens. Simple, profound, and deeply meditative, it's the ideal place to conclude your cultural immersion before you part ways nearby.

Step into the heart of Japan’s heritage with a journey through Kyoto and Nara, where centuries-old traditions meet breathtaking natural beauty. This experience is designed for those who want to witness Japan’s most iconic landmarks while discovering the hidden stories behind them. The Golden & Red Icons of Kyoto: Stand before the shimmering Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and walk through the seemingly endless tunnels of thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Arashiyama’s Dreamlike Nature: Wander the world-famous Bamboo Grove, where sunlight filters through towering green stalks to create a serene, otherworldly atmosphere. Experience the unique charm of Nara Park, where approximately 1,300 wild deer—considered divine messengers—roam freely and bow to visitors for a treat. Behold the Great Buddha: Visit the massive Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing a 15-meter bronze Buddha statue within the world’s largest wooden building.

Ethical rescue-cat retreat for travelers who avoid typical animal cafés, set in a traditional wooden Kyoto townhouse. Quiet, small-group time with rescued cats, mindfully whisking your own matcha.

Discover the best of Kyoto in one perfectly organized day with this comfortable and efficient guided tour. Instead of navigating complex transport and scattered sights on your own, relax as we take you smoothly between Kyoto’s must-see temples, shrines, and scenic districts. Travel by air-conditioned coach, enjoy included admission tickets, and experience iconic highlights such as historic hillside temples, tranquil Zen gardens, atmospheric bamboo groves, and vibrant shrine pathways. With expert guidance and a well-paced itinerary that maximizes sightseeing while minimizing travel time, this tour is the ideal way to experience Kyoto’s rich culture, history, and beauty—stress-free and unforgettable.

Explore the best of Kyoto and Nara on this full-day tour from Osaka or Kyoto! Visit the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, stroll along the historic streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, and admire the vibrant Yasaka Shrine. Then, experience the unforgettable beauty of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine with its famous thousand torii gates. Finally, wander through Nara Park, meet the friendly deer, and marvel at the impressive Todai-ji Temple and Great Buddha. This tour combines history, culture, and stunning scenery, making it a perfect day trip for first-time visitors to Japan.

This private experience takes place in an authentic Kyoto townhouse, offering a rare chance to step inside a real Japanese home. Guests can learn sushi making (nigiri and rolls) and enjoy seasonal home-style dishes that reflect everyday Japanese life. The experience also includes a simple tea ceremony where guests can whisk their own matcha. Located just 5 minutes from Kinkaku-ji, this home-visit program combines authentic culture, warm hospitality, and the intimate atmosphere of a private session with a local host.

With the flexibility to choose your departure time and itinerary, this tour is perfect for those who want to explore specific locations at their own pace or for those who want to explore at their own pace. Enjoy a personalized experience on this private tour. Explore hidden spots and local alleyways that tourists won't find. Enjoy a private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

This tour takes you through three of Kyoto’s most atmospheric spots, starting in Gion’s famous Hanamikoji Street. You’ll walk through its historic wooden townscape, experiencing the charm and elegance of one of Kyoto’s best-preserved traditional districts. Your next stop is Kodaiji Temple, illuminated only in the autumn season. Here you can enjoy a stunning night view of glowing maple leaves, artistic light displays, and the serene bamboo path that creates a quiet, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Finally, you will visit Hōkanji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda), one of Kyoto’s oldest landmarks. While the area is crowded during the day, visiting at night lets you admire the five-story pagoda in peace. Its softly lit silhouette and calm surroundings create a mystical and tranquil experience unavailable in daylight. Throughout the tour, your guide will also take professional photos. After the tour, you will receive the images taken with a camera—perfect for remembering your night in Kyoto.

Have you ever wondered how to wear a kimono that is longer than you are? Putting on a kimono is difficult, and even Japanese people have a hard time putting it on by themselves, but with our professional techniques, we will dress you beautifully. It can be difficult to move in and difficult to wear for long periods of time, but in a short amount of time you can look great in a kimono, take photos, and combine them into your favorite images. So you can go to the beach or into space in a kimono, and the photos will look amazing! This experience is perfect for any day, rainy or stormy, hot or cold.

Discover the serene beauty of Kyoto on this day trip, featuring the tranquil Sanzen-in Temple and the picturesque Arashiyama district. Explore the lush gardens and ancient trees of Sanzen-in, where seasonal blooms create a stunning backdrop for reflection. Then, roam the iconic Bamboo Grove and visit the famous Tenryu-ji Temple in Arashiyama, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy free time to savor local cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, or relax in the peaceful surroundings. Visit Sanzen-in Temple, known for its stunning pond gardens and cultural significance. Explore Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple at your own pace.

Discover the world of Japanese sake on this exclusive brewery tour in Kyoto. Visit a historic sake brewery blessed with pure underground water and centuries of tradition. Learn the brewing process directly from the toji (master brewer) and explore the secrets behind rice polishing, koji-making, and fermentation. As you walk through the brewery, feel the aroma of fermentation and the warmth of steaming rice. After the tour, enjoy a guided tasting of 4–5 kinds of freshly brewed sake, from crisp junmai to refined ginjo. Learn how to pair sake with food and discover Kyoto’s deep sake culture through this immersive experience.

Kyoto’s Only Night-Exclusive Cultural Experience Enjoy authentic Japanese culture at night, away from daytime crowds. Experience Japan in a calm, intimate setting with a small group. Traditional Mochi Pounding Experience Use real glutinous rice with an authentic mortar and pestle to make mochi the traditional way. Hands-On Tea Ceremony Experience Learn by using real tea utensils such as the chasen, chashaku, natsume, and kensui while preparing matcha. Touch Real Japanese Swords and Bows Feel the weight of a real Japanese sword and the flexibility of a traditional bow—no glass cases, just the real thing. Enjoy Freshly Made Mochi Taste the warm mochi you made yourself, served immediately. Cultural & Historical Storytelling Learn the history and cultural background of mochi, tea ceremony, swords, and archery in a clear and engaging way. Commemorative Group Photo Finish with a memorable group photo around the mortar to capture your Kyoto experience.

With flexible departure times and itineraries, this tour is perfect for those who want to explore specific locations at their own pace. Enjoy a personalized experience on this private tour. Explore hidden spots and local alleyways that tourists don't find. Enjoy a private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off included.