All Activities in Kyoto

Bamboo Grove Temple and Garden Views Tour (opens in a new tab)

65 5 h 30 min

Meeting point at Kyoto Station, easy to find and accessible to everyone. We board the train all together and travel for less than 20 minutes. Explore the highlights of Saga-Arashiyama, Western part of Kyoto. Wander through the towering stalks of Bamboo Forest, experience the serene garden and pond of Tenryuji Temple, trek the hill gardens of Okochi Sanso and enjoy the free unlimited drinks of green teas. Visit the historical Nonomiya Shrine, stroll across the colorful pillars of Kimono Forest. Take a break for lunch, indulge your cravings with local Japanese foods and sweets. Walk through the iconic Togetsukyo bridge and hike up the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where you can observe and feed the snow monkeys. Take in and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic mountain views of Kyoto.

Private Zen Temple & Tea Ceremony Experience in German or English (opens in a new tab)

11 1 h 30 min

Discover the heart of Kyoto’s cultural heritage with an exclusive visit to a 700-year-old private Zen temple — a hidden sanctuary rarely accessible to the public. On this guided experience, you will step into a world of quiet elegance, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of historic temple architecture and carefully designed Zen gardens. As you explore the grounds, your guide will share insights into the roots of Zen Buddhism and the cultural traditions that have shaped Kyoto for centuries. The experience culminates in a traditional tea ceremony within the temple, where you will take part in a time-honored ritual that reflects the essence of Japanese aesthetics, mindfulness, and harmony. Highlights: - Exclusive access to a 700-year-old private Zen temple - Guided insights into Zen Buddhism and Kyoto’s history - Authentic tea ceremony within the temple grounds - A peaceful, intimate atmosphere away from the crowds

Private tourFree cancellation

Family Kimono Experience in the Heart of Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

1 h

Enjoy a family kimono experience at Rental Kimono Okamoto Kiyomizu Higashiyama Shop, located in the heart of Kyoto's sightseeing area! With over 1,000 kimonos available, families can choose from beautiful traditional patterns to colorful modern designs. Our friendly staff will help everyone choose their favorite kimono and provide professional dressing for both adults and children. The spacious shop offers a relaxing atmosphere and photogenic interior, perfect for family photos. Many famous attractions are within walking distance, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, Kodaiji Temple, Ninenzaka, and Nene-no-michi. Just a short walk from the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop, our shop is convenient for families with children. Explore Kyoto's historic streets in kimono and create unforgettable family memories with Rental Kimono Okamoto!

Free cancellation

Memories in Scent: Kyoto Handmade Incense Crafting (opens in a new tab)

1 h 30 min

Discover the art of incense making in Kyoto, just 10 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple. Blend natural ingredients like sandalwood and cinnamon, choose colors, and mold your incense into seasonal Japanese shapes such as cherry blossoms or maple leaves. Take home your one-of-a-kind creation as a souvenir or gift. English-friendly and perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a calm and creative cultural experience.

Free cancellation

Hanamikoji Street Kyoto Private Walking Tour (opens in a new tab)

1 h 30 min

Take a relaxing walk through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, and discover its traditional charm. Your guide will share the history of Gion, the culture of maiko and geiko, and the hidden stories of this historic area. Stroll along beautiful stone paths and admire classic wooden townhouses. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a maiko heading to her evening appointment. As night falls, lanterns light up the streets, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for photos. The tour ends at Yasaka Shrine, a beloved symbol of Kyoto with more than 1,300 years of history. Known for blessings of good fortune and protection, the shrine offers a peaceful moment to make a wish and enjoy the illuminated beauty of its grand gates. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want to experience Kyoto’s traditions, culture, and nightlife in one unforgettable evening.

Free cancellation

Kyoto Make a Metal Shuriken in a Real Ninja House (opens in a new tab)

223 1 h

・Create your own metal ninja waepons in a real ninja house in Arashiyama ・Discover the hidden weapon culture of Japan’s samurai and ninja era ・Learn the traditional casting process in a hands-on workshop ・Design the shape, prepare the mold, pour molten metal, and polish the finish ・Take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir made by your own hands

Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour Hidden Tastings and Local Insights (opens in a new tab)

3 1 h 30 min

Explore the vibrant Nishiki Market in Kyoto, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” on a guided walking tour that unveils the city's culinary treasures. Discover authentic Japanese street foods and learn about the cultural stories behind each dish from a knowledgeable local guide. This small-group experience allows for personal interactions with vendors and deeper insights into Kyoto's unique cuisine. Perfect for food enthusiasts and first-time visitors looking to step off the beaten path. - Guided tour through the historic Nishiki Market - Sample 4–6 authentic food tastings from local vendors - Learn about Kyoto’s culinary traditions and unique ingredients - Enjoy a small-group setting for a personalized experience

Free cancellation

Kyoto: Gion Geisha District Sunset Tour in Spanish and en Español (opens in a new tab)

432 2 h

Discover Kyoto’s historic Gion district on a walking tour conducted entirely in Spanish. Led by a native Spanish-speaking guide, this experience lets you explore Japan’s geisha culture without language barriers. Begin in picturesque Gion Shirakawa, a quiet canal lined with willow trees, traditional teahouses, and stone-paved streets. Walk through peaceful backstreets away from the crowds, discovering hidden shrines and beautifully preserved wooden townhouses. Learn about the fascinating world of geisha and maiko, including their training, performances, and the artistry behind their kimonos and hairstyles. Your guide will explain the customs that continue to shape this unique culture. The tour ends on Hanamikoji Street, the heart of the geisha district, where you may be lucky enough to glimpse a geiko or maiko on her way to an evening engagement. By the end, you will gain a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s iconic traditions, all in Spanish.

Kyoto: Digital Detox Tea Ceremony, Make Matcha with a Tea Master (opens in a new tab)

4 45 min

Step away from the bustle of Kyoto and enjoy a quiet moment to simply be present. Inside a 100-year-old Kyoto townhouse, experience an authentic yet welcoming tea ceremony that invites you to slow down and connect with Japanese culture through curiosity and conversation. Behind this experience is aeru, a Japanese cultural company founded 15 years ago, beginning with traditional crafts designed for children. Our mission is “Passing on Japan’s Spiritual Heritage to Future Generations.” We believe that both objects created by skilled artisans and moments shaped through tea ceremony can bring mindfulness and kindness into everyday life. It is our pleasure to share the spirit and culture behind them with guests from around the world.

Hands-on Zen Calligraphy & 150-Year-Old Kyoto Machiya Tour (opens in a new tab)

11 1 h 15 min

Beginner-friendly, chair-seated, and suitable for all ages! Learn the basics of Japanese calligraphy from a professional instructor Choose a meaningful kanji and create your own artwork to take home Enjoy Japanese tea and sweets during a guided tour of a 150-year-old machiya Step into the birthplace of Taichiro Kobayashi — a philosopher and art historian

Kyoto: Kinkakuji Behind the Gold - UNESCO Walk (Incl. Entry Fee) (opens in a new tab)

1 h 30 min

Most photos of Kinkakuji show one thing — a gilded pavilion mirrored in still water. But behind the gold leaves is a story 600 years deep: a shogun's last dream, a son's burning act of jealousy in 1950, and the temple Japan rebuilt around it. You'll see Kinkakuji in 90 minutes with a Kyoto local guide who reads what the gold is actually saying. Three floors — samurai shoin, Chinese chambers, Buddhist top — each speaking a different language of power. The reflection pond, framed as Yoshimitsu commanded 600 years ago. UNESCO World Heritage. Entry ticket included. Small group of 8 max, English-speaking Kyoto local. Bring just curiosity — the rest is in the gold. Highlights: ・90-min UNESCO Kinkakuji walking tour ・Stories the gold won't tell — shogun, jealousy, Zen ・Three-floor architecture decoded by a Kyoto local ・Entry ticket included (no extra fees on site) ・Small group (max 8), English-speaking Kyoto local guide

Kyoto: Kimono/Yukata Rental 5 Minute from Kiyomizu-dera (opens in a new tab)

2 8 h

Rental a beautiful kimono or yukata near Kyoto's famous Kiyomizu-dera and immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture. Just a 5-minute walk to the temple,

Cycling in Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

1 h – 4 h

Kyoto, a city that harmonizes ancient traditions with modern life, is one of Japan's most captivating destinations. Known for its well-preserved temples, beautiful gardens, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant cultural heritage, Kyoto offers a journey back in time. Visitors can experience the serene beauty of Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), the historic charm of Nijo Castle, and the spiritual tranquility of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic torii gate pathway. The city is also famous for its tea ceremonies, geisha district in Gion, and seasonal festivals, providing an immersive experience of Japanese culture. Whether exploring the bustling Nishiki Market or strolling through the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, Kyoto’s unique blend of history and natural beauty leaves an indelible impression on all who visit.

Kyoto Osaka Nara Same Day Luggage Delivery (opens in a new tab)

2 h – 10 h

Kyoto-born same-day luggage delivery service. Our uniformed in-house staff handle your luggage directly from pickup to delivery without outsourcing to third-party couriers. Travel hands-free while your luggage is delivered between accommodations in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Uji on the same day.

Fushimi Inari Shrine: Explore the 1,000 Torii Gates on an audio walking tour (opens in a new tab)

8 1 h – 1 h 15 min

Fushimi Inari Taisha has welcomed worshippers since 711 AD, founded by the Hata clan after a poor rice harvest. It's now the head shrine of roughly 30,000 Inari shrines across Japan, dedicated to the god of rice, sake and business success. Join me on this self-guided audio tour to learn why merchants have donated its vermilion gates since the Edo period — each one a thank-you for a wish granted — and stroll at your own pace through the famed Senbon Torii ("thousand gates") corridor and beyond, into forest most day-trippers never reach. The landmarks include: • The fox statues guarding the shrine — Inari's messengers, not the god itself • The Senbon Torii, an unbroken corridor of vermilion gates donated by grateful businesses • The Omokaru ("Heavy-Light") Stone, where a wish's fate is judged by its weight Take the walk fewer visitors finish, and discover what 1,300 years of gratitude looks like. Beat crowded tour groups & enjoy the tour on your own at your own pace.

Free cancellation

Kyoto Japanese Tea Blending Workshop with Take-Home Tea (opens in a new tab)

1 h

Join a small-group, hands-on tea blending workshop in Kyoto. Guided by our staff, you'll taste a selection of Japanese teas and herbs, learn about their flavors, and combine them to create your own blend. Brew and taste your creation, adjust it to your liking, and take home 30g of your original tea in tea bags.

Fushimi Inari Deep Shinto Shrine Tour while Hiking with Expert (opens in a new tab)

1 2 h 30 min

Let's take a deep dive into Shinto and Japanese traditions while exploring the World Heritage site, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The expert guide will take you on a memorable journey through the famous torii gates and beyond, while unravelling the mysteries of ancient Japan. The tour includes a detailed explanation of all the important features of the main shrine complex. The tour route includes passing through the famous red torii gates for excellent picture opportunities. The tour includes hiking up the full courses of the sacred Mt. Inariyama.

Kyoto Full Course Tour: Explore 10 Must-See Sights & Hidden Gems (opens in a new tab)

28 9 h 30 min

Welcome to Kyoto! Dive into the heart of Japan's ancient capital and discover Kyoto’s timeless kaleidoscope of sights and traditions. On this immersive full-day tour, we will guide you through AS MANY AS 10 ICONIC ATTRACTIONS, blending the "must-see" landmarks with the secret hidden gems only locals know. One of the best parts? You will master the city by foot and bus/train, navigating Kyoto’s history just like a local. --- Why Choose Us? --- Kyoto’s complex bus network and hidden alleyways can be overwhelming, even for residents. However, all our guides are BORN-AND-RAISED JAPANESE EXPERTS with deep local roots. We ensure you see the most of Kyoto at the perfect time, maximizing every minute of your stay. --- Perfect for Your First Day in Kyoto --- Beyond the sights, we provide an "insider’s manual" to Japan. You will learn about our history, culture, and values, plus essential practical tips -- from shrines and temples etiquette to everyday local life.

【OKADA】Kyoto Japanese calligraphy experience (shodo) (opens in a new tab)

5 1 h

Unleash your inner artist through the timeless beauty of Japanese calligraphy in the heart of Kyoto! first offers an immersive and beginner-friendly calligraphy experience specially designed for international travelers. In this hands-on workshop, you will: • Learn the history and meaning of kanji characters • Practice writing with a traditional fude brush and sumi ink • Receive guidance on proper posture, brush technique, and stroke order • Create your own original calligraphy on a shikishi board (which you can take home as a unique souvenir) Optional add-ons include writing on a traditional sensu folding fan (+¥1,500) or uchiwa flat fan (+¥800)—perfect for gifts or keepsakes! All instruction is available in English. No prior experience needed—just curiosity and creativity. ※Kimono is not included in the plan. Come and experience a peaceful, artistic moment in Kyoto’s historic district, and leave with a piece of Japan made by your own hands.

Kyoto Gion Backstreets and Geisha Traditions Tour (opens in a new tab)

638 2 h

Discover the timeless beauty and cultural elegance of Kyoto through our Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour. This immersive experience takes guests through the historic streets of Gion, one of Kyoto’s most iconic districts, known for its traditional machiya houses, tea houses, and enduring geisha culture. During the tour, guests will explore famous cultural landmarks such as Yasaka Shrine, Hanami Koji Street, Gion Shinbashi, Tatsumi Bridge, and the historic Minamiza Kabuki Theater while learning about Kyoto’s rich history, traditions, and artistic heritage. The tour also offers opportunities to experience the atmosphere of old Kyoto and discover hidden local spots away from crowded tourist areas. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this experience combines history, storytelling, traditional culture, and scenic beauty, making it ideal for travelers seeking a deeper and more authentic understanding of Kyoto and Japan.