Outdoor Activities in Kyoto

Kyoto Sumo Entertainment Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Geisha (opens in a new tab)

341 2 h

At Kyoto Sumo Club, immerse yourself in the exciting world of sumo and discover its rich history, traditions, and culture through an entertaining live show. ※This is a fun, family-friendly show, not a real training session or tournament The show begins with a traditional geisha dance, followed by live demonstrations of exercises, techniques, and sumo etiquette. Then, watch a best-of-three match between retired sumo wrestlers. Guests also have the chance to experience sumo firsthand by stepping into the ring and challenging one of our sumo wrestlers. ※Challenger spots are limited; if there are too many applicants, participants will be chosen by lottery Enjoy All-You-Can-Drink service with every plan. For the full sumo experience, choose a meal-inclusive plan featuring our signature Chanko hot pot and All-You-Can-Eat dining. Guests who select a plan with a meal will also receive a souvenir gift bag as a keepsake of their sumo experience.

Kyoto Private Car Tour – Full Day with Local Guide & Nara Option (opens in a new tab)

362 8 h

Planning a trip to Kyoto can be exciting, but also overwhelming. Which places are truly worth visiting? How do you get around? And how do you choose the right tour? Why travelers choose us: • Passionate local Japanese guides • Hidden local gems beyond the guidebooks • Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests • Comfortable private vehicle • Kyoto’s must-see highlights without stress • Friendly conversations, local stories, and personal recommendations We believe a private tour is not only about where you go—it’s about who you spend the day with. That’s why we focus on creating a fun, relaxed, and welcoming atmosphere. We want you to feel like you are exploring Kyoto with a local friend, not just following a guide. Every guest is different, so every tour is different. We can adjust the itinerary based on your interests, the weather, crowds, and the season. For us, guiding is our passion. We’ll do our best to make your day in Japan unforgettable.

Free cancellation

Nara Early Morning Tour Kyoto or Osaka Departure Available (opens in a new tab)

1,237 4 h 30 min

Nara becomes extremely crowded in the afternoon, making photos difficult. In our tour, we visit the main sites—Kofuku-ji, Todaiji, Nara Park, and Kasuga Grand Shrine—before the crowds arrive. ⬇︎PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY⬇︎ * Please arrive 10 minutes early. Late guests cannot be accepted and no refunds will be given. * For the Kyoto/Osaka Station Pickup option: the one-way train fare to Nara is included. The return ticket is not included. *This tour has up to 12 guests. *In this tour, we will walk about 10,000 steps. (stairs and hills included) *We will be using the public train (not a private vehicle) to go from Kyoto/Osaka to Nara which each takes around 1 hour. * Tour duration: 　– Kyoto/Osaka Departure: 4.5 hours 　– Kintetsu Nara Station Meeting: 3.5 hours Please provide a phone number that is reachable in Japan and on WhatsApp so that we have a smooth interaction before the tour date. Travel agents must enter the guest’s phone number, not the agency’s.

Kyoto E-Bike Tour of Hidden Gems Backstreets and Temples (opens in a new tab)

199 4 h

During the Kyoto Bike Tour, explore some of the best sights in Kyoto on comfortable E-bikes. This unique cycle tour of Kyoto takes you to must-see locations, avoiding the typical tourist traps and crowded areas. Experience Kyoto like a local, visiting hidden gems and peaceful spots that showcase the city's authentic charm. Whether you're seeking a relaxed ride or an adventurous way to explore, this E-bike tour of Kyoto offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and local insights.

Hidden Kyoto E-Biking tour (opens in a new tab)

2,142 3 h 45 min

This is an 8 kilometer E-biking ride that visits famous attractions as well as hidden gems in Kyoto such as the Kinkakuji, Daitokuji Temple Complex in order to visit the Koto-in and Zuiho-in, Imamiyajinja and the Kitanotenmangu Temple.

Free cancellation

Kyoto Live Sumo Show with Sumo Challenge & Photo Experience (opens in a new tab)

1,280 1 h 30 min

Experience the excitement of sumo up close with a live show in Kyoto. Watch powerful wrestlers compete while learning about the rules, traditions, and culture of Japan’s national sport from an English-speaking host. Get even closer to the action with a chance to challenge a sumo wrestler and take memorable photos together. Watch exciting live sumo matches Learn about sumo traditions and techniques Chance to challenge a sumo wrestler Take photos with the wrestlers Enjoy an authentic Japanese cultural experience in Kyoto

Kyoto:Exclusive Geisha(Maiko) Show with Dinner, Games & Open Bar (opens in a new tab)

44 2 h

How This Experience Differs from Ordinary “Maiko Shows” •Not a staged tourist performance This is not a simplified show created for large crowds. It is an intimate cultural immersion that reflects the real rhythm and refinement of an authentic ozashiki evening. •Created by someone deeply connected to the hanamachi Years of trusted relationships in Kyoto’s most exclusive flower districts allow the creators to reproduce details that outsiders would not know. •Authentic interaction, not photo-op entertainment Guests are invited into the conversational, playful, and highly nuanced atmosphere of genuine ozashiki hospitality—something impossible to imitate without deep cultural knowledge. •Respect for traditional forms The dance, etiquette, and presentation follow the standards used in real teahouse settings, preserving their integrity. •Small, invitation-only format Unlike commercial venues, this program is intentionally limited in capacity to maintain the intimacy

Kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

69 2 h

Discover a side of Japan that few travelers experience. This samurai sword experience in Kyoto offers a unique blend of cultural tradition and martial arts practice. Wear authentic training gear, learn the basics of kendo, and handle safe, realistic swords in a setting inspired by real samurai training. Led by an experienced instructor who have , this hands-on activity is designed for all skill levels. It provides an exciting and respectful way to connect with Japanese history and samurai culture. A memorable experience that goes beyond sightseeing and brings tradition to life.

Kyoto Samurai Experience (opens in a new tab)

1,496 1 h 45 min

What Makes Kyoto Samurai Experience Unique This is more than just sword training—it’s a rare chance to step into the living history of the samurai. Set in a 260-year-old samurai residence, the experience is deeply rooted in Kyoto’s warrior past. What sets it apart is the balance of action, atmosphere, and insight. Alongside hands-on training, guests gain meaningful context about the samurai—understanding not only how, but why these traditions were practiced. From wearing traditional attire to practicing movements with expert instructors, each step immerses you in a way of life shaped by centuries of discipline. You’ll refine your form through sword work, then cut a target with a real iaitō. The experience ends with Zen meditation and the chance to hold an antique samurai sword—connecting body, mind, and history. Thoughtfully designed, it offers a powerful introduction to the enduring spirit of the samurai.

Free cancellation

Samurai Training with Modern day Musashi in Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

322 1 h 45 min

Why Choose Our Experience: ★ Train in an authentic dojo with a master who has over 20 years of experience ★ Enjoy a more personal experience with small groups—only 6 participants per class (Disclaimer: There may be more than 6 participants if there are only a small number of parties) ★ Witness a powerful two-katana performance by the master—something you won’t see anywhere else

Ninja 2-hour Hands-on Lesson by Japanese master in Kyoto -Medium (opens in a new tab)

251 2 h

Two hour original and unique training which cannot be found other place. You could learn some ninja techniques by hands-on training in English. Ninja training start with courtesy of the dojo and ninja meditation 'Kuji-kiri'. You could learn breath control of ninja like Yoga. Also basic walking of Japanese martial arts and Ninja walking.

Kyoto 1-Hour Ninja Training Experience with a Japanese Master (opens in a new tab)

547 1 h

One hour original and unique training which cannot be found other place. You could learn some ninja techniques by hands-on training in English. Ninja training start with courtesy of the dojo and ninja meditation 'Kuji-kiri'. You could learn breath control of ninja like Yoga. Also basic walking of Japanese martial arts and Ninja walking.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Hidden Gems Bike Tour (Early Bird) (opens in a new tab)

765 3 h – 4 h

Discover the true essence of Arashiyama with our exclusive bike tour, offering early access and a journey beyond what most visitors see. Explore Kyoto’s most naturally beautiful area, known for its blend of cultural and natural wonders, including charming rice fields, photogenic landscapes, and scenic country backstreets far removed from the city’s bustle. Ride along Kyoto’s most breathtaking roads and uncover the hidden gems of Arashiyama beyond the iconic Bamboo Forest . As the only Arashiyama-based bike tour, we’re excited to share the unmatched beauty and depth of this captivating region with you. *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.

Free cancellation

Full Day Biking Tour Exploring the Best of Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

553 7 h – 8 h

For those short on time and high on energy, join us for a one day all-you-can-Kyoto bike tour! Experience the tranquility of one of world's largest wooden buildings, learn about the history of Kyoto at the Imperial Palace Park, reflect on life at the stunning Golden Pavilion, enjoy a traditional sit-down lunch, capture the essence of Kyoto in the Gion geisha district and discover the majesty of the mighty Fushimi Shrine. Our shop is a 2 minute walk from Kyoto central station, our groups are small, our bikes are top quality 'Giant' hybrids, and our guides are relaxed, bilingual, experienced and safe! Sit back and let Cycle Kyoto show you around town! * Must be 13+ to participate as a rider

Kyoto Hozugawa River Boat Sagano Romantic Train Tour (opens in a new tab)

38 8 h

Let's have a special experience taking the Sagano Romantic Train and Hozugawa River Boat Ride with English guide! - Enjoy the beautiful scenery from the Sagano Romantic Train and - Hozugawa River Boat Ride. - Experience the thrilling Hozugawa River Boat Ride. - Travel with an experienced guide with deep knowledge about Kyoto.

Become a Samurai Movie Star in Kyoto by Filming with a Real Actor (opens in a new tab)

143 1 h 10 min

Myokaku-ji Temple, a historic main temple of the Nichiren sect once visited by the legendary warlord Oda Nobunaga, provides the majestic setting where GOAT Trip offers a truly unique samurai experience. Within its majestic grounds, learn authentic samurai sword fighting directly from an active samurai actor. Practice real sword techniques and be filmed by a professional actor, becoming the star of your own period drama. Even if you’re a bit shy or don’t usually like being in the spotlight, this experience welcomes you with a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of history while acting out a scene from a movie. Create unforgettable memories in Kyoto with this one-of-a-kind samurai experience.

Kyoto Sumo Live Show with Photo (opens in a new tab)

9 1 h

Step into the exciting world of Japan's national sport with an unforgettable sumo experience in the heart of Kyoto. Your journey begins with an engaging introduction to the history, traditions, and rules of sumo. Learn why wrestlers perform ceremonial rituals, discover the meaning behind their techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for this centuries-old sport. Then, enjoy an action-packed live sumo show featuring powerful demonstrations by former professional sumo wrestlers. Watch incredible techniques, traditional ceremonies, and even some of sumo's famous forbidden moves, all explained in an entertaining and easy-to-understand way. The excitement doesn't end there! After the show, you'll have the rare opportunity to step into the ring and challenge a real sumo wrestler yourself. Experience the power, size, and skill of these incredible athletes in a fun and safe match that you'll never forget.

Kyoto Sword Experience - includes Museum Ticket/Ninja Experience (opens in a new tab)

252 2 h

Authentic Dojo Environment in a Convenient Location: Train in a traditional dojo setting that transports you back in time, all while being easily accessible from the heart of the city. Free History Tour at the Samurai & Ninja Museum Included: Enhance your experience with a complimentary tour that delves into the rich history of the Samurai. Explore authentic Samurai armor and sword exhibits. Ninja Star Throw Experience: Enjoy an additional thrill with a free Ninja star throwing session. Test your aim and add an extra layer of excitement to your day. ！Children under 7 are not allowed to enter the samurai dojo venue.！ ！There will be up to 22 guests per session !

Kyoto, Osaka and Nara Customized Private Car tour (opens in a new tab)

9 8 h

Take a deep dive into traditional Japanese culture and history during this full-day trip to Kyoto and Nara from the center of Kyoto or Osaka. Enjoy the atmosphere of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district and admire the beautiful grounds of the Kinkaku-ji temple. Then head to Nara and see the wild deer of Nara Park. Multiple pickup points and lunch upgrade options are available.Explore traditional Kyoto and Nara during a day trip from the center of Kyoto or Osaka Marvel at Kyoto sights like the Arashiyama district and Kinkaku-ji templeOptional upgrade with choice of buffet or Beef Shabu Shabu set lunchNo need to organize car transport and schedule; entrance fee included.

Free cancellation

Kyoto Samurai Experience + Professional Photo Shoot (opens in a new tab)

14 1 h

Samurai Armor & Cinematic Photo Experience in Japan ! Step into the world of the samurai and become a warrior for a day. In this unique experience, you will wear authentic samurai armor and hold traditional weapons such as swords and spears while a professional photographer captures dramatic, cinematic photos. Our studio creates a powerful atmosphere using professional lighting and fog effects, making you feel like you are in a scene from a samurai movie. Whether you love Japanese culture, samurai history, or simply want unforgettable travel photos, this experience will be a highlight of your trip to Japan. Highlights Wear authentic samurai armor Hold traditional weapons such as swords and spears Professional cinematic-style photo shoot Dynamic studio effects including fog for a dramatic atmosphere Unique souvenir photos from your trip to Japan Create unforgettable memories and experience the spirit of the samurai. We look forward to welcoming you to our studio! ⚔️

Free cancellation