Tours in Kyoto

Kyoto’s original sushi-making experience takes place in a beautifully renovated historic townhouse adorned with commissioned artwork in a traditional neighborhood near Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion. Limited to just 8 guests, this intimate class and workshop is led by an English-speaking Japanese instructor. Learn authentic techniques, from seasoning rice to crafting elegant nigiri and maki rolls using premium fresh fish and local ingredients. The serene, historic setting allows full immersion in the art of sushi-making, with plenty of time for questions, hands-on practice, and insider tips. Enjoy the sushi you create in a peaceful atmosphere reflecting Kyoto’s refined culinary culture. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and food enthusiasts seeking a memorable cultural highlight.

Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city on the island of Honshu. Take a journey through time in Kyoto, where tradition blends harmoniously with modernity. Visit Nijo Castle, its palace buildings are arguably the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture of Japan's feudal era, and the castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. Nijo Castle has witnessed some of the most important events in Japanese history in the 400 years since it was built. Marvel at the golden temple of Kinkaku-ji that shows you the best of the timeless Japanese city, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Visit the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha and explore the Arashiyama area, which includes the serene Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and the beautiful Kimono Forest. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

Immerse yourself in the charm of traditional Japanese culture with this exclusive 4-hour tour. Explore Gion on a 90-minute guided walk with a licensed guide and learn about the district’s rich history, customs, and traditions. After sightseeing, your guide will accompany you to enjoy a beautifully presented Kaiseki meal and spend time with a Geisha or Maiko in an authentic Kyoto setting. Unlike other tours with shows made specifically for overseas visitors, this tour lets you experience what it’s really like to dine with a Geisha or Maiko. There are no flashy shows or fast dances—just the wabi-sabi of real Kyoto. You can ask questions, speak with the Geisha/Maiko, and join in classic ozashiki asobi (traditional Geisha games). Important Notes: 1: Per local custom, guests are asked to purchase one drink for the Maiko or Geisha. 2: Only one Maiko or Geisha will be arranged for your experience; selection is not available. 3: Please note that music is pre-recorded and not performed live.

Get away from the crowds and spend a wonderful day in Arashiyama which will undoubtedly stand out in your mind as you think back to your time here in Kyoto. We begin with a morning stroll through the lush garden of one of Japan’s first Zen temples dating back over 1,000 years. We then head into the foothills and as we peacefully stroll back to town we visit twelve hundred stone Buddhas on a hillside, an Edo period cafe, an ancient burial ground, a temple founded by two former geisha, a working pottery studio, the villa of a silent film actor, a majestic bamboo grove, and the "shrine of love'. All this as we browse shops filled with handmade goods and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch. Important Note: Each guest is required to bring an additional 5,500 yen (cash) for admission tickets and lunch.

You will put on the traditional samurai outfit and wield a katana just like a real samurai. This is the only samurai sword experience in Kyoto where you would feel like a real samurai and have a real hands on sword experience different from some simple costume play. Many people come to Japan to learn about the history of samurai and fulfill their childhood dream of being a samurai and this is it. The lesson includes hakama wearing, wearing samurai armor and samurai helmet and posing in front of several samurai-theme backgrounds. ！Children under 3 can not enter the samurai venue. ！You can reserve maximum 4 people from Viator however we accept any other booking site and there will be more participants in your experience (About 12-14 guests)

Discover the charm of Arashiyama on our exclusive family bike tour with your infants and toddlers. Cycle at a casual and safe pace, and enjoy scenic backstreets removed from the bustle and traffic of downtown Kyoto. Our carefully curated route of about 7km is designed to keep safety a top priority for you and your children. As the only Arashiyama-based bike tour, we are excited to share the beauty of this region with your family. Pricing is based on a family of up to 4 participants. If your group exceeds 4, there is an additional fee required of 15,000 yen for each additional participant. This is a public tour. You may be matched with another family. Please inquire separately for a private experience. *You must have at least one participant who is under the age of 12 years old and is accompanied by an adult. *Height of 123 cm and under will ride in a child seat or tag along. *There is a light snack included. We cannot accommodate all dietary restrictions and allergies.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Japan's rich cultural heritage with our expertly guided one-day tour to Kyoto and Nara! This immersive experience takes you to some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, including the dazzling Golden Pavilion Temple, the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the spiritual splendor of Fushimi Inari Taisha with its thousands of vermilion torii gates. In Nara, stroll through Nara Park among friendly deer and marvel at the historic Todai-ji Chumon, the majestic gate to one of Japan's most revered temples. With comfortable transportation, expert guidance, and a carefully curated itinerary, this tour blends history, culture, and breathtaking scenery—perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike. Book now and discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto and Nara in one extraordinary day!

Your local host Masayo, a professional chef who attended one of the most famous culinary schools in Japan and has been teaching cooking for over two decades, will welcome you into her beautiful cafe with a warm smile and a cup of freshly brewed Japanese tea. Hear about your menu for the day as you enter her cafe kitchen for your hands-on Japanese cooking class! Your homemade Japanese feast may include traditional meat dishes such as chicken meatballs with teriyaki sauce, ginger karaage, or ginger pork, Japanese egg rolls, an organic vegetable salad, miso soup, rice and dessert. Masayo harvests almost all her vegetables from a close friend's an organic farm in Kyoto. She takes prides in using the freshest, highest quality ingredients from seaweed to bonito sourced from local producers. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to experience traditional Japanese food, culture and way of life with a professional cook in her cafe!

Start with just flour and water, and learn to knead, roll, and cut chewy udon noodles by hand with guidance from a local udon master and English-speaking guide. No experience? No problem—it's all about having fun and learning by doing! Next, prepare classic Japanese rice dishes like onigiri and inari sushi, and try your hand at frying crispy, golden tempura. Friendly instruction and hands-on practice make it easy and enjoyable for everyone. After cooking, enjoy everything you’ve made—fresh udon, sushi, and tempura—paired with a mini sake tasting. You'll also receive easy English recipes to recreate these dishes at home.

Please come and try Traditional Japanese Calligraphy! You can learn a new skill and get some great authentically Japanese Souvenirs to take home! You can experience calligraphy after sightseeing in Kyoto or before dinner, so you can use your time effectively. Check out the video below for an example of the class, and make a reservation ASAP! (*English Instruction Included) We also have activities for young children, so please bring them along! *Due to popular demand, we have increased the number of time slots for the experience! You can now choose from 3:00PM, 4:00PM, 5:00PM, and 6:00PM. Other times also possible. Please ask!* Souvenirs you will recieve for taking part in our class (included in the cost): 1. Your name written on calligraphy paper in kanji, hiragana, or katakana 2. A folding fan with your favorite word or name written on it 3. A postcard with your favorite word or name written on it & 4. A gift envelope OR 5. A photo frame *Please choose one.

In this tour, we start early to beat the crowds. Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto! Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 2 to 3 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!

Discover the magic of Kyoto and Nara on this full-day guided tour from VIP Lounge Kyoto. Wander through the shimmering Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), stroll under the towering bamboo stalks of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and capture scenic views at Togetsukyo Bridge. Experience the spiritual beauty of Tenryu-ji Temple, walk beneath thousands of vibrant torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, and meet the friendly deer roaming Nara Park while visiting Todaiji Temple. This Kyoto and Nara day tour is perfect for travelers seeking a seamless, culturally immersive experience from Osaka. Enjoy air-conditioned transportation, expert guidance, and insider stories that bring Japan’s history and culture to life. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour ensures a comfortable, hassle-free, and unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out! Book your spot today and explore Kyoto and Nara’s most iconic sights in one unforgettable day.

◼︎Drink like a local! Bar hopping in the backstreets of Pontocho◼︎ To start this All-in-one bar hopping walking tour that Drinks & Foods are all included, our local guide will take you to an izakaya bar (a local tavern) on Pontocho street, one of the most well known night streets, full of local izakayas. We will be taking you to places only the locals know and recommend, making for a one and only experience! ◼︎Various drink and izakaya food tastings◼︎ We'll continue bar hopping walking around in the backstreets of Kyoto. You can try some authentic izakayas that serve yakitori or sashimi with crisp, cold draft beer. If you're a sake-lover, we will help you navigate through a sake standing bar that serves Kyoto-made sake. You can enjoy the night like a local! Magical Trip is a local tour operator with the TripAdvisor certificate of excellence that offers various types of small-group tours throughout Japan! Check out our Trip Advisor Page for more tours and our reviews!

Camellia Garden’s striking surroundings make ours one of the most beautiful locations to experience tea ceremony in Kyoto. The traditional Japanese house, which sits amongst stunning gardens, is now 100 years old. Once a private property, providing tea ceremonies is a way to preserve this important house and give visitors a taste of authentic Kyoto. Located close to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ryoan-ji, Ninna-ji and Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), we offer an accessible experience that offers an oasis of calm and complete privacy for guests. We look forward to welcoming you for a unique, personal and unforgettable experience.

Rather than trailing between Osaka Kyoto and Nara attractions in a large group, enjoy a customized experience tailored to your specific interests and needs. This private tour of three city offers the flexibility to adjust the itinerary and pace according to your preferences, whether you want to spend your time admiring three city UNESCO-listed landmarks or exploring its bustling neighborhoods. A personalized experience Flexibility to adjust the itinerary to your interests : See Kyoto your way Hassle-free Kyoto hotel pickup and drop-off

Discover a side of Kyoto most tourists never see! Ride along quiet alleys, serene shrines, and hidden temples on an easy, eco-friendly e-bike. Your guide will craft a route tailored to your interests, whether it is photography, history, or local culture, and share fascinating stories at every stop. Explore more of Kyoto comfortably while enjoying scenic streets and off-the-beaten-path spots. This small-group, personalised tour offers countless photo opportunities, insider tips, and a truly authentic experience, perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike. Book now for a private, scenic, and unforgettable Kyoto adventure!

Got exhausted walking around Kyoto? Then we are here to help you! You can have relaxing time at the private salon and it will refresh and let you enjoy the trip of Kyoto again. Soft touch head massage based on brain science idea works well on jet lag, insomnia and nervous system. You may choose which part you would like to do, or do both of body massage and head massage in 120min as well.

This is the ideal plan for independent travelers that want to discover Nara’s highlights on their own, but would like the comfort and ease of traveling in a private vehicle. Avoid the potential confusion of public transportation system and relax while your English-speaking chauffeur takes the wheel. Nara's proximity to Kyoto, and its rich collection of traditional sites, make it an ideal destination for a day trip from Kyoto. You can visit the beautiful temples of this ancient Japanese city and meet the friendly deer that are sacred to the area.

Tour itinerary is planned based on hiring a car/ van for 9 hours to cover (cash to the driver):5 passengers: ¥110, 000, 7 passengers: ¥140, 000,more than 7 please let me know in advance) Within a day from Tokyo, you can have the chance to explore both top temple and shrine in Kyoto and Nara deers park and Todaiji temple . Itenerary (customizable): 08:30(In case of Tokyo station meeting,extra ¥60,000, please notify the guide 2 days before the tour about the meeting point wether Tokyo or Kyoto) Tokyo Station (Gin-no-Suzu Square -Silver Bell Square-, the most well-known meeting place in Tokyo Station),help you to buy the bullet train tickets and heading to Kyoto using bullet train/Shinkansen 11:00 Meet at Kyoto station and move to Nara 12:30 Nara deers park 13:00 Todaiji temple 14:30 Back to Kyoto 15:30 Kinkakoji temple 16:30 Lunch break 17:30 Fushimi Inari shrine 18:30 Back to Kyoto station,take bullet train to Tokyo 21:30 Arrive Tokyo and tour finish

Step back in time on our Gion Walking Tour, where Kyoto’s rich traditions come to life. Wander through stone-paved alleys and charming streets lined with preserved wooden teahouses. Learn about the world of geisha (called geiko in Kyoto) and maiko as we explore hidden corners and historical landmarks. With stories of samurai, tea culture, and centuries-old rituals, this tour offers an unforgettable journey into Kyoto’s most elegant district. 1. Calm and easy-paced walking. 2. Stroll through narrow alleys lined with old wooden townhouses and hidden tea shops. 3. Chance to see geiko and maiko. 4. Learn about Kyoto's rich history and culture.

In end your trip the easy way with this departure transfer by Private taxi type charter transfer. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel in  Kyoto city to Osaka Itami International Airport. And also your driver will choose the right way to go to the Osaka Itami international airport to make sure the customer will get to the airport on time. We will completely disinfect the vehicle and places a free hand sanitizer on all the seats. Your driver will keep an appropriate distance with you who will assist with luggage and guide you to your vehicle will give you a comfortable, safety, health ride.

[Highlights] ・Tokugawa Shogun’s political base in Kyoto ・Garden admired by the Shogun ・Shogun vs. Emperor rivalry ・Chirping corridor for intruder detection This is the castle of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogun who established the 260-year-long era of the samurai. Learn its history and architecture as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Step into the spiritual side of Kyoto with a guided hike through Mount Kurama a peaceful retreat where tradition and nature meet. Birthplace of reiki (a healing technique) and home to the mythical tengu, this mountain holds a magical charm that feels worlds away from the city. Walk through serene forest paths, discover hidden temples, and soak in the calm energy of the surroundings as you make your way to the quiet mountain village of Kibune, full of scenic beauty along the way. ・Leisurely hike from Kurama to Kibune through beautiful cedar forests ・Visit sacred temples and learn about reiki and local folklore ・Experience the peaceful charm of Kyoto’s mountain countryside

Delve into Kyoto's vibrant culinary scene with an exclusive night food tour in the iconic Kiyamachi neighborhood. This all-inclusive experience invites you to savor local delicacies while immersing yourself in the cultural traditions that shape Kyoto's gastronomy. With a small group capped at six, you’ll enjoy personalized insights as you wander the charming streets, hear captivating stories, and taste dishes unique to the area. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll visit three carefully selected restaurants, each offering a distinct flavor of Kyoto—from traditional Kyoto-style tapas to seasonal specialties and locally brewed drinks. This journey through history and flavor ensures an unforgettable evening. All-inclusive tour: Dinner and three drinks provided Visit three local restaurants with unique Kyoto-style menus Small group size (maximum of 6) for an intimate experience Explore Kiyamachi's rich food culture and history Meet at the Family Mart near Gion-Shijo Station