Tours in Kyoto

Enjoy a late start and absolutely fall in love with Arashiyama on this amazing afternoon tour! Take a trip back in time where the very roads you ride were sub-temples of our World Heritage Tenryuji Zen Temple followed by a short hike up to the impressive panoramic view of Kyoto from Iwatayama Mountain and the accompanying Iwatayama Monkey Park. You will even experience some bamboo forest viewing and visits to some local shrines and temples not frequented by the crowds of tourists. *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.

Visit two World Heritage Sites in Nara—Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine—as well as Nara Park on this half-day afternoon course. This tour is accompanied by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter. The intensity of Todai-ji Temple's Great Buddha statue is absolutely stunning. Get to see wild deer, a rarity in Japan and elsewhere in the world, while walking through Nara Park. Enjoy the view out the window from the suburbs of Kyoto to Nara.

Discover the charm of Kyoto on a personalized private tour designed just for you. This full-day experience allows you to explore iconic landmarks or hidden gems at your own pace, with an English-speaking driver ready to cater to your preferences. Enjoy a stress-free day with convenient hotel pickup from Kyoto, Osaka, or Nara, in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Whether you're interested in UNESCO World Heritage sites or local neighborhoods, this tour gives you the flexibility to create your perfect itinerary. - Private tour tailored to your specific interests and needs - Flexible itinerary to see Kyoto your way, with no rush - Hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your hotel or accommodation - Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle for up to 10 hours.

You found the best experience in Kyoto for families! Come visit our home and let's have an every day home-cooked meal together. When you arrive, take a load off, drink some tea, and let's chat about your trip. We will segue into food talk and then we will preview the food that we will cook together that night. After that, we'll put aprons on and gather around the kitchen counter to slice, dice, and mix up the dishes. You will learn about the staples that we have from which most Japanese dishes can be made. We are a busy family, but we are foodies and love to open our doors to the world. So as long as you are ok with coming over to a family home and making a meal with the kids, the cat, and the dog, let's enjoy the time together. We open our home and hearts to you, in a setting where kids, pets, and adults can relax, eat, and talk together. Step into our house on the hill and become a part of our family for the day.

Samurai and Kyoto have always been associated throughout history. From the early Heian period to the collapse of the Tokugawa shogunate the samurai and ninja always roamed the streets of Kyoto. Now they are back! The samurai and ninja museum brings back the history and helps you to have a glimpse of these heroes’ glorious lives. What is more, you can have a hands on experience including wearing a real samurai armor, taking a katana lesson, doing a shuriken (ninja star) throw and using a ninja fukiya all in one place, all included in the tour. ！This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers！

Meeting up in front of the Minamiza Kabuki theatre. I will walk through the Gion traditional pass with you, with local insight.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is located on the outskirts of Arashiyama. There are 1200 unique and whimsical Buddhist statues there, so it is becoming a popular spot recently. Also, since the nearby Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of the most famous tourist locations in Kyoto/Japan, we decided to make a Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple & Bamboo Forest tour from Kyoto Station. It's very difficult to visit by yourself on public transport, but our tour provides a nice car for you & your family/friends to use on the way to the temple. You can also enjoy sightseeing by car on the way to the Arashiyama area! We will walk for about 45 minutes - 1 hour through the Oku Saga Area after Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, so you can feel a distinctive Japanese atmosphere there with various hidden gems before reaching the Bamboo forest. After enjoying the forest, we will finish the tour on the main street of Arashiyama. *We recommend that you bring the following in the summer: Hats & Parasols / Sunscreen / Drinks

Kyoto is famed for its shrines and temples—sanctuaries of stories that spark wonder and deepen your connection to centuries of culture. Among these living traditions is the refined world of the Geisha. Often perceived as private and elusive, it can feel hard to approach. In this experience, we open that door with clarity and care: a concise stage performance followed by elegant conversation, photo time, and an open Q&A. What to Expect (90 minutes total) Cultural Introduction (15-20min): An expert-led talk on the living traditions—roles and training, daily life, etiquette, and the evolution of Geisha arts. Geisha Show (10-15 min): “Ladies and gentlemen…” Maiko enters and performs a traditional dance, accompanied by a brief explanation of its story and gestures. Conversation, Photos & Q&A (remainder): Enjoy an unhurried dialogue with Maiko. Ask thoughtful questions, take photos, and appreciate the nuances of costume, movement, and ritual.

Experience the essence of Japan in one unforgettable day! Discover sacred Shirahige Shrine’s floating torii, ride Japan’s fastest ropeway to breathtaking Lake Biwa views, explore the hidden Zen beauty of Sanzen-in Temple, and visit the floating Ukimido Hall at sunrise. Indulge in local sweets at La Collina, a fairytale village designed by famed architect Terunobu Fujimori. Perfect for families, friends, and culture lovers seeking stunning scenery, tradition, and local flavors — this tour is a journey through Japan’s heart and soul.

*The photos of Ieshima Island are of Courtesy of Himeji City Discover the tranquil beauty of Ieshima Island on this one-day tour from Kyoto. Just a short boat ride from Himeji Port, Ieshima offers an authentic escape into rural Japan, where you can savor fresh local seafood and enjoy the serene landscapes. After lunch, enjoy 90 minutes of free time to explore a sacred shrine surrounded by untouched woods. - Journey from Kyoto includes deluxe bus ride and ferry to Ieshima - Savor a fresh seafood lunch at a local restaurant - Enjoy 90 minutes of free time to explore the island's charm - Includes train tickets from Himeji JR Station back to Kyoto or Osaka JR Station

The tea ceremony goes in a small group. The maximum number of people are 6 for each session.But during peak seasons, it will increase to a maximum of 8 people. Experience an authentic tea ceremony, which is near the Zen buddhist monastery Daitoku-ji Temple in Kyoto. Daitoku-ji had many famous priest graduates in the history and has a close relationship with tea ceremony culture which has given a major influence to Japanese culture. We are also not far from the World Cultural Heritage site, the Golden Pavilion Temple. (Kinkaku-ji)It's only four stops away by bus. You’ll be provided with a tea container, tea bowl, tea scoops and whisks, and instruction on how to make matcha. You’ll also enjoy two bowls of matcha and two kinds of Japanese sweets. Tea ceremony is a learned experience, and it leads to enlightenment, similar to Zen’s understanding of realizing the truth through self-discovery.

Located just a 4-minute walk from Sanjo Station (Keihan Line), Kyoto Kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Line), and Sanjo Keihan Station (Subway), we offer a cozy and clean environment with private rooms equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems and an extensive song library, including international tracks. Our special package, designed specifically for tourists, is offered at a fixed price, so you can enjoy your karaoke experience without worrying about the cost. How to Use the Special Package Ticket: 1. Present your ticket at the reception. 2. Enter your room and use the touch panel to order from our all-you-can-drink menu. 3. Select your favorite songs using the Joypad controller. How to Use the JoyPad (Karaoke Touch Panel Controller): 1) Select the “Foreign 中文繁體/简体 한글 English” button. 2) Choose your language. 3) Search for songs by name or artist. 4) Select a song and tap the “SEND” button.

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.

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.

Perfect for groups and individuals (from 145cm!) looking for a unique perspective on the city, this e-bike tour explores the highlights of south and east Kyoto. We meet bright and early for a short orientation before heading south to enjoy the majestic Fushimi Inari Shrine before the crowds arrive. From here we will catch the splendour of Tofukuji Temple before stopping for a morning coffee. The next part of our journey takes us up the Kamo river and over to the UNESCO listed Ginkakuji Temple. After Ginkakuji, we will roll slowly south down the iconic Path of Philosophy and into the grounds of Nanzenji Temple (complete with traditional gardens, ornate religious buildings and even a red brick aquaduct). After a sit down lunch (provided), the last leg of our journey takes us south along the Shirakawa Canal and through the streets of Gion before returning to base. * Must be 13+ to participate as a rider

This experience is highly recommended for beginners. The costs of taking a Kyudo lesson are usually very high. In this class, all the necessary equipment for Kyudo is prepared for you. All you need is passion and comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely! Our teacher will assist you from A to Z. Let's dive into real Japanese cultural experiences with us.

A visit to Kyoto wouldn’t be complete without diving into its rich tea culture. In just 50 minutes at a charming 100-year-old machiya, you’ll not only learn the art of matcha-making but also craft a modern matcha latte. Enjoy seasonal wagashi while absorbing the serene atmosphere. The experience culminates with a chance to don authentic samurai armor for unforgettable photos that capture the spirit of Japan. Perfect for beginners and curious adventurers alike, this small-group tea ceremony invites you to savor the beauty of tradition with a modern twist.

Accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced multilingual guide, explore the area of Arashiyama and Sagano, where aristocrats once unwound in their villas more than 1,000 years ago. The highlights of this tour include the scenic countryside views from Togetsukyo bridge; Tenryu-ji temple with its beautiful traditional gardens; the enchanting world from within the Bamboo Grove; and Jojakko-ji Temple with its breathtaking green moss. During the tour you will also visit some secret spots unfamiliar to the usual tourists. Enjoy the walk and delicious food while learning about Japanese culture and history. Our guides are looking forward to arranging a tour that’s best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

Start your morning with two of Kyoto’s most iconic sights — the peaceful torii gates of Fushimi Inari and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. By beginning early, you can experience their beauty in a calm, uncrowded atmosphere before the daytime rush. Then, visit Monkey Park, where you can feed the monkeys and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Kyoto. Throughout the tour, your English-speaking local guide will share fascinating stories about the city’s history and culture, capture beautiful photos, and ensure a smooth and unforgettable half-day adventure!

This is a 2 hours walking tour in the historic area of Gion that is well known for preserving the old architecture. In Gion, you can see the traditional houses, tea houses and old streets of Gion. What makes this tour unique? 1- Within 2 hours, you can experience the historic and cultural essense beauty of of Kyoto historic area of Gion in a private tour. 2- This tour is a walking private tour and can be customized based on your request. 3- Understanding the culture and life in Japan from a foreign prospective. Tour itinerary is planned to cover the top spots of Gion. Itinerary is shown here, however, you can still customize it in arrangement with the guide. 17:00 Meeting at the pickup place (or in Gion area). 17:30 Izumo no Okuni statue and Kaboki drama explanation 18:00 Shinbashi street, Geisha and Maiko explanation, Chionin temple gate 18:30 Maruyama Park and Yasaka shrine 18:45 Hanamikoji Street, Teahouse, Geisha and Maiko spotting areas 19:00 Pontocho and tour finish

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-jo Castle has witnessed some of the most important events in Japanese history in the 400 years since it was built. Explore the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and visit the Arashiyama area, which includes the serene Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House and the beautiful Kimono Forest. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

◼︎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!

Get introduced to a real Maiko or Geiko (Geisha) of Kyoto for a rare chance to learn, indulge the senses, and be charmed. Watch her dance, interact, ask questions, and take commemorative photos. - Highlights - ・ Great view of Maiko's Traditional Dances ・ Brief introduction on Maiko ・ Question and Answer Time ・ Commemorative Photo Session with your own camera or smartphone camera

Enjoy a unique, private photo tour at Kyoto’s most famous and beautiful locations like Gion, Fushimi Inari, and Arashiyama. I will personally guide you through each spot, helping you with simple, natural poses so you look your best. Along the way, I’ll share interesting cultural tips and stories about the places we visit, making your experience both fun and meaningful. Usually, I offer this tour in Gion, but if you prefer, we can change the location to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or Fushimi Inari. You will receive 30 carefully edited photos delivered to you quickly via Google Drive within two days. Whether you choose to wear a kimono or your own clothes, I’ll help you feel relaxed and confident throughout the shoot. Book now for a private, memorable photo experience that combines beautiful scenery, personal guidance, and cultural insight — all tailored just for you.