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All Activities in Kyoto

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950 tours & activities

3-Hour Kyoto Insider Sake Brewery Tour with Tastings & Pairings (opens in a new tab)

1,062 3 h

This is not just a sake tasting — it’s a 3-hour experience that will completely change how you understand and choose sake in Japan. Led by a sake specialist, you’ll go beyond “sweet or dry” and learn how sake is actually made, why flavors differ, and how to identify your own preferences with confidence. Visit the historic Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, then enjoy a guided tasting of multiple styles of sake paired with traditional snacks — with clear, practical explanations you can use anywhere in Japan. By the end of the tour, you will know which type of sake you truly like and how to select it without hesitation - enjoy sake not just during your travels, but as part of your life. Date full? Visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum on your own, then join our 1.5-hour session to learn how to choose sake you’ll love.

from$85.98

Kyoto Traditional Kintsugi Workshop in Gion Gold Repair Art (opens in a new tab)

2,177 1 h 30 min

Experience the traditional Japanese art of Kintsugi in a quiet workshop near Gion and Kawaramachi in Kyoto. In this hands-on experience, you will repair cracked or chipped ceramic pieces using lacquer and gold powder, transforming broken pottery into something beautiful and unique. With guidance from an experienced instructor, you will carefully work on bowls or plates while learning the basic techniques of Kintsugi. Rather than hiding imperfections, this traditional method celebrates them as part of an object’s history and character. During the workshop, you will also learn about the history of Kintsugi and the Japanese philosophy that values imperfection and mindfulness. Your finished piece will become a one-of-a-kind souvenir and a meaningful reminder of your time in Kyoto, offering a calm and authentic introduction to Japanese culture.

from$18

Kyoto and Nara Customizable Private Tour (Local Licensed Guide) (opens in a new tab)

69 6 h – 8 h

Limited to **2 Groups per Day** We only provide **Local English-Speaking Guides** We have experience guiding Hollywood actors, including **Lance Gross** All of our team members were born and raised in Japan, giving us an in-depth understanding of Japanese culture, history, and traditions. This allows us to introduce you to Japan's hidden gems and authentic experiences that only locals know about. We also provide complimentary Japanese-language assistance in case of emergencies. In recent years, concerns have grown over safety incidents involving unlicensed or inexperienced drivers in the tourism industry. We set ourselves apart by prioritizing safety, professionalism, and reliability through our experienced local English-speaking guides. Our strong local connections allow us to arrange exclusive experiences, including access to invitation-only Ocha-ya (traditional geisha establishments) and private performances by geisha or maiko. We Are a Tour Guide Service Company

from$249

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.

from$103

Kimono Tea Ceremony Experience at Kyoto Oritzuruya, Nishiki (opens in a new tab)

159 1 h 30 min

・Combine multiple integral aspects of Japanese culture at once. ・Experience a traditional tea ceremony in an authentic setting. ・Wear a beautiful kimono to elevate your cultural journey. ・Small group experience limited to ten people for personalized attention. This immersive cultural tour in Kyoto offers you the chance to participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, complete with kimono dressing and optional calligraphy lessons. Perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with Japan’s heritage, the experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts and families. Guests will don a beautifully selected kimono, receive complimentary hair styling, and learn the graceful art of matcha preparation. The tour also includes pairing matcha with exquisite sweets from a century-old confectionery. For an added layer of tradition, participants can opt to learn Japanese calligraphy and create a personal souvenir.

from$49.78

Kyoto Customized Private Tour See Top Attractions in 1 Day (opens in a new tab)

461 4 h – 8 h

Take control of your sightseeing itinerary by booking this customised tour. Whether its a minimum of 4-hour or a full day trip consisting of 8 hours, visit all the sights you wish with a professional guide. Choose from an enormous range of cultural and historical landmarks and tick off your desired attractions all in one day! Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavillion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu temple and Gion district are just a pocketful of destinations out of countless others. Wherever you request, we will do our best to accommodate you as well as possible. Hotel meet-up and drop-off are included to ensure you receive a totally stress-free experience.

from$129

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

from$162

Kyoto Bus Tour: Sagano Railway & Hozugawa River Boat Ride (opens in a new tab)

42 7 h

This bus tour lets guest enjoy quick access to the popular scenic Sagano trolley train as well as an exciting river descent down the Hozugawa river in Kyoto, both of which are popular attractions in high demand and perfect for groups, families, and individuals who have limited time in Kyoto. These activities allow guests to appreciate the natural scenery of Kyoto's four seasons at any time of the year from both the train and boat. From cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, the changing leaves of autumn, or the snowy fields in winter, this tour will provide guests with unforgettable experiences and imagery. After the tour, guests will have time to explore the Arashiyama bamboo grove and surrounding area. Visit local souvenir and snack shops at this iconic Kyoto locale before getting back on the bus to head back to Kyoto Station.

from$133

Traditional Tea Ceremony with Matcha and Sweets in Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

196 1 h

Our tea ceremony experience is designed to be welcoming, approachable, and meaningful. While the traditional tea ceremony is often seen as formal and solemn, we aim to share its beauty in a comfortable and accessible way. Guests enjoy the experience seated on chairs, allowing anyone—including those unfamiliar with floor seating or with limited mobility—to participate with ease. Throughout the session, you will explore the history of tea in Japan, learn how Zen philosophy shaped the heart of the tea ceremony, and observe authentic techniques performed up close by a tea master, allowing you to appreciate the subtlety and refinement of this art. In the second half, you will savor carefully selected traditional sweets from long-established artisans and make your own bowl of matcha using premium tea sourced from a family-run farm. We conclude with a Q&A session to deepen your understanding. We hope this experience becomes the beginning of your journey into Japanese tea culture.

from$25.86

Kyoto Gion Cultural Walk & Geisha Show with Dining Options (opens in a new tab)

519 3 h

Take a tour of Kyoto's famous Gion district and learn all about the mysterious geisha traditions of the area. Your local guide will tell you about the traditions from an insider perspective about Geisha culture. At the same time you'll explore Gion's beautiful streets, temples, shrines, and shops, for a comprehensive overview of historic Kyoto. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, but on my experience ・In the first half we will walk in Gion and discuss the living traditions, their lifestyle and history. ・In the second half we will meet an apprentice geisha, Maiko. First we will talk with and ask her questions. Also we will watch her dancing, having one of these, a cup of tea or lunch or dinner together. *Picture and filming of Geisha is fine but not allowed to post it in public.

from$94.64

Kyoto Private Car Tour with Local Japanese Guide – 3 Options (opens in a new tab)

78 6 h – 8 h

No rush. No public transport. No other groups. Explore with a local Japanese guide born and raised in Kyoto. I’ll accompany you inside the temples and shrines, sharing their history and culture along the way. Choose from 3 private tours: • Kyoto 1-Day Highlights • Kyoto & Nara • Kyoto & Osaka →Sample itineraries for each tour are shown in photos 5, 6, and 7. All tours start and finish in Kyoto. Select your preferred option when booking. • Your own private car and English-speaking guide • A flexible route planned around your interests and the time available • A comfortable pace, with breaks when needed • Photos of your group along the way • My personal list of recommended Kyoto restaurants, shared before your tour • Kyoto City hotel pickup and drop-off included You don’t need to have every detail planned before booking. Once you’ve booked, we can discuss your preferences, pickup details, and itinerary by message.

from$185

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

323 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

from$129

Hiroshima and Miyajima Full Day Tour by Bullet Train from Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

150 13 h 20 min

Embark on a full-day guided tour to Hiroshima and Miyajima, two of Japan’s most iconic destinations. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate, and the Atomic Bomb Dome, a symbol of peace. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea and stroll through Miyajima’s charming shopping street, where wild deer roam freely. Lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to savor local specialties like oysters and okonomiyaki. At the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, gain deep insight into the city’s post-war history and the importance of peace. Travel comfortably in a fully air-conditioned and heated bus, accompanied by a licensed English-speaking guide. Select your preferred Shinkansen experience with either Ordinary Class or First-Class Green Car seating.

from$391

World Heritage Kyoto & Nara Uji Authentic Matcha Experience (opens in a new tab)

2,933 8 h 30 min

Discover Nara's must-see landmarks on the deluxe coach tour and try to make Matcha tea at Uji in Kyoto, the birthplace of matcha. We will drive pass Fushimi Castle and Heijokyo Palace on the way to Nara. We will visit Todaiji Temple, a house of the Great Buddha of Nara and it is one of the world’s largest wooden buildings. Meet about 1,400 deer at Nara Park, you can even feed them rice crackers. Then we visit Kasuga Taisha Shrine where 3000 magical stone lanterns enlighten you. After lunch, we go to Uji area in Kyoto and try making Uji matcha tea! Spot the Byodo-in Phoenix Hall depicted on the back of the 10-yen coin at Uji. ・Cover Nara's must-see destinations and 3 World Heritages in a day! ・A Professional English-speaking guide leads this tour ・On top of that, multilingual audio guidance is available in EN, FR, IT, ES, DE, PT, UK ・Greet large Buddha at Todaiji Temple ・Enjoy cute deer at Nara Park ・Learn about Authentic tea while making it yourself in Uji, famous for matcha

from$126

Amanohashidate & Ine Boathouse Full-Day Tour from Kyoto or Osaka (opens in a new tab)

95 10 h

Discover the perfect blend of history and nature on a one-day tour of Kyoto. This itinerary is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.We begin with the magnificent Amanohashidate, one of Japan's "Three Scenic Views," renowned for its unique sandbar resembling a bridge to the heavens, lined with lush pine trees. The sandbar's shape is like a bridge slanting upward into the sky, hence the name "Amanohashidate." You can take a cable car to the top for a panoramic view of this natural wonder. Next, we head to Ine Village, often referred to as the "Venice of Japan," where the unique waterfront funaya houses and tranquil natural scenery captivate visitors. In Ine, you can enjoy a boat ride under the clear blue sky, feed seagulls, or rent a bike to explore the charming village at your own pace, experiencing the authentic rural atmosphere.

from$61.41

Kyoto Ramen and Gyoza Cooking Class with Professional Chefs (opens in a new tab)

543 2 h 30 min

Join a tour by MagicalTrip, proud winner of the Tripadvisor Best of the Best Award. Each experience is led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity. Step into Kyoto’s culinary world with a hands-on ramen cooking class. Learn to make ramen from scratch, along with crispy gyoza and flavorful fried rice—three staples of Japanese cuisine. Suitable for beginners and food lovers alike, this fun and easy experience teaches skills you can recreate at home. Discover ramen’s rich history, from its origins in 1697 to today’s 24,000+ shops across Japan. Perfect for couples, families, friends, or solo travelers, the class includes two complimentary drinks and step-by-step guidance from a ramen master. Come hungry and enjoy cooking, eating, and connecting through food.

from$93.74

From Osaka or Kyoto: Full Day Sightseeing Tour of Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

73 9 h

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. Marvel at Kinkaku-ji, the golden temple known as the Golden Pavilion, which showcases the beauty of this timeless city. Visit Nijo Castle, celebrated for its palace buildings, which are among the best surviving examples of castle palace architecture from Japan's feudal era. The castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994. Explore the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, and visit 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.

from$65

Kyoto Private Customizable Tour with English Guide & Hotel Pickup (opens in a new tab)

127 8 h – 10 h

Discover the timeless allure of Kyoto on a private day tour tailored just for you. Explore iconic sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove at your own pace in a luxurious vehicle. Your experienced English-speaking driver will provide valuable insights and assist in crafting a personalized itinerary that includes famous landmarks and local favorites alike. Enjoy the convenience of all-inclusive logistics, allowing you to focus solely on the beauty and culture of Japan’s ancient capital. - Private tour lasting 8–10 hours with flexible scheduling - Visit must-see attractions like Kinkaku-ji and Nishiki Market - Relax with an English-speaking driver and all logistics handled - Ideal for families, couples, and small groups with customizable itineraries

from$356

Elegant Tea Ceremony While Wearing Kimono Experience in Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

55 2 h 30 min

Enjoy a world of quiet elegance at Nishiki Orizuruya. All plans include kimono rental (with free hair styling for women) and are guided in English. 1. Authentic Tea Ceremony: After a captivating demonstration, learn to whisk your own matcha using a traditional bamboo whisk. Your prepared tea is paired with exquisite, seasonal Wagashi (traditional sweets) sourced from a celebrated 100-year-old Kyoto confectionery shop. 2. Tea Ceremony & Calligraphy: Combine the meditative art of tea with the flow of brush and ink. After savoring your matcha and sweets, learn to write your favorite kanji using a brush and ink. A great chance to create a personal keepsake. 3. Tea Ceremony & Guided Nishiki Market Tour: Enjoy the complete tea ceremony experience, then set out on a culinary adventure. Explore the bustling stalls of "Kyoto’s Kitchen" (Nishiki Market), hidden local shrines, and ancient specialty shops to discover the deep roots of Kyoto's food culture.

from$49.78

Kyoto Night Taiko Drum Show near Gion by Expo Performers (opens in a new tab)

66 45 min

Your days in Kyoto are full of temples and shrines. Make your evening something different: 45 minutes of live taiko by EN, top-level Japanese drummers with experience at the 2025 World Expo and on international tours. Rated 5.0 on Google with over 500 reviews, it is a highlight of the trip for many guests. Made for your Kyoto evening: the show is short enough to fit even after a long day of sightseeing or before an early start. Choose the 6 PM show before dinner or the 8 PM show after (a 3:30 PM show runs on selected days). The venue is in the heart of Kyoto, a 3-minute walk from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station, between Gion and Pontocho, in a comfortable air-conditioned indoor hall, so rain or shine your plan stays the same. The show is non-verbal and fun for all ages, and children 6 and under watch for free. One guest is invited on stage to drum with the performers, and you can take photos with the performers after the show.

from$32.32

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