All Activities in Kyoto

TAIKO, Japanese Drum Experience from Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

106 2 h 30 min

Taiko is a traditional musical instrument that anyone can enjoy right away. The experience of practicing together, playing one song, and becoming one with others is one of the most valuable experiences in Japan. This studio's drums are made in the traditional way, by hollowing them out of a large single tree and they are very rare. You can enjoy real Japanese drums. The Taiko experience is not only an enjoyable musical experience, but it is also a full-body workout that relieves stress. The experience is suitable for all ages and levels of ability, so everyone can enjoy it. Since ancient times, Taiko has been deeply connected to the lives of the Japanese people. Through Taiko, you can learn about Japanese culture and history, as well as the spirituality of the Japanese people.

Arashiyama from Kyoto: Private & Personalized with a Local Guide (opens in a new tab)

47 6 h

This private Arashiyama walking tour is a flexible, personalized day trip from Kyoto that offers a unique alternative to standard sightseeing. Instead of following a rigid schedule, you'll explore at your own pace with an itinerary thoughtfully tailored to your interests. Experience Arashiyama’s highlights and hidden corners in a way that feels dynamic and engaging. Stroll beneath towering bamboo groves, visit tranquil temples off the beaten path, and wander atmospheric streets lined with artisan shops. Along the way, enjoy captivating stories, discover local traditions, and appreciate the distinctive character that makes Arashiyama so memorable. After booking, you'll receive a brief questionnaire to share your interests. Your guide will then create a customized, flexible itinerary to ensure your experience is truly immersive and tailored just for you.

Free cancellation

Sushi - Authentic Japanese Cooking Class - the best souvenir from Kyoto! (opens in a new tab)

94 2 h

Welcome to Kaori’s kitchen! You can make sushi with Kaori in her beautiful kitchen at home. This hideaway is located in a back alley in the center of Kyoto. She is an experienced instructor who has been holding cooking classes for over 15 years, rather than a temporary instructor hired part-time. You will learn: ・ how to cook authentic Japanese dishes in English ・ Japanese table manners ・ the culture of Japanese cuisine ・ and much more! Japanese cooking class Roujiya gives you more than just cooking lessons. Kaori would like to show Japanese cultures and customs as well. In addition if you know table manners even a little, you can feel much more relaxed in Japanese restaurants! She'll be happy to assist you and give some hints and information about variations of the recipes using different ingredients when you return home. You will be treated as if you were invited to her home. Why not join her class? It's fun and tasty! A real cultural experience!

Tailored Full Day Private Experience of Kyoto for 1 Day Visitors (opens in a new tab)

30 4 h – 8 h

Tour itinerary is planned based on hiring a car/van for 8 hours in Kyoto. Transportation fee -Cash to the driver in tour day: Up to 5 : ¥100,000 ,if more than 5 please let me know in advance. Pick up & drop off at Kobe port/Osaka port is extra ¥20,000 With just one day in Kyoto, this private tour offers an immersive journey through the city's iconic landmarks, providing a glimpse into its rich history, culture, & natural beauty. As Japan’s former capital, Kyoto boasts some of the country’s most significant temples, shrines, & traditional streets. Despite limited time, you’ll experience highlights that usually take two days to explore. What Makes This Tour Unique: 1-In a single day, experience the essence of Kyoto's history, culture & natural beauty. 2-Tailored exclusively for you, the itinerary is fully customizable to suit your preferences & pace. 3-Gain valuable insights into Japanese culture & everyday life from a unique foreign perspective, enriching your experience.

Free cancellation

Kyoto Private Food Tours with a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized (opens in a new tab)

20 3 h

You’ll join one of our Kyoto hosts to taste the city’s most delicious meals and street food. Kyoto is a city rich in cultural heritage, and this has directly influenced its culinary tradition. Keep things moving with a quick trip to a 100-yen sushi bar and have a draft beer in an intimate izakaya. At this small local bar, you’ll share small plates of local specialties your local Host will be happy to introduce you to. And for a uniquely Kyoto experience shared with your local insider, enjoy a steaming bowl of Nishin-soba and a cold drink as the sun sets over the Kamo River. Before you meet, you'll receive a short Personalization Form so we can tailor the experience to your interests and pair you with a licensed local guide. The true luxury is having their expertise and undivided attention, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace and focus on what interests you most.

Free cancellation

Osaka & Nara in 1-Day by Private Van with Local Expert Guide (opens in a new tab)

92 6 h 30 min – 7 h 30 min

Have your best and most unforgettable day trip in Japan, guided by a local specialist to tour two unique cities, ancient Nara and urban Osaka, efficiently in a comfortable air-conditioned car! You will first visit Nara, “Deer" Park, the sanctuary of super-friendly wild Japanese deer, and see the most ancient, significant and biggest temple in Japan, Todaiji Temple, with the biggest Buddha Statue in Japan. After visiting ancient Nara, you will move to the most urban area of Osaka and take a cruise by car to see the most iconic landmarks of Osaka, including Osaka Castle and Dotonbori, walk some unique streets of Osaka and eat the best Osaka local foods! This tour includes an optional "dark tour" into a ghetto area of Osaka, the "Airin Area" and one of the most historical red-light districts in the world, Tobita-Shinchi. (omittable) Your friendly and flexible local guide will explain everything about those two cities in a comfortable car! Book Now for a Perfect Day!

Free cancellation

Private Kyoto Family Tour with a Local – 100% Personalized (opens in a new tab)

10 3 h – 4 h

This isn’t your typical Kyoto family tour. With a host who shapes the day around your family’s pace and preferences, you’ll explore both the city’s iconic sights and its quieter, playful corners—from golden temples and traditional markets to peaceful parks and hidden cafés where kids can recharge. After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire so we can match you with the ideal host. They’ll then create a flexible, fully personalized itinerary designed just for your group.

Free cancellation

Your Private Vacation Photography Session In Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

113 1 h – 1 h 30 min

This is your private vacation photography session in Kyoto. Kyoto is one of the most popular destination of the vacation trip. The unique culture, delicious food, and fabulous scenery will be waiting for you. You would feel like to capture each the best moments in your trip in Kyoto with your partner or family. Then you can join this photography service. We are all local photographers. So we will not only take beautiful photography of you, but also give you why Kyoto is the best, some history and culture, and tips that help you enjoy Kyoto more.

Free cancellation

Highlights & Hidden Gems With Locals: Best of Kyoto Private Tour (opens in a new tab)

123 3 h

This is not just another city tour; this is the best of Kyoto from a unique perspective! Get to know Kyoto on a city tour that gives you the perfect overview, with city highlights, hidden gems, storytelling, and a local treat - this tour has it all! Forget about big touristy groups and the crowds; it's time to see Kyoto at its best but from the eyes of a local. Check out main landmarks like Gion Area, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka-Jinja Shrine and uncover hidden gems and city secrets with the help of a knowledgeable local guide. And the cherry on top, a local treat is included. Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems Private City Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups.

Free cancellation

Kyoto: 3h 100% Customized Private Tour -Your Pace, Your Interests (opens in a new tab)

22 2 h – 3 h

Discover Kyoto your way — with a 100% personalized itinerary built around what YOU want to see, at your own pace. No crowded group buses. No places you didn't ask for. Just you, your private guide, and the Kyoto that interests you most — whether that's iconic shrines, hidden alleyways, local food spots, or all of the above. Your guide handles everything: navigation, cultural context, photo spots, and any last-minute changes you want to make along the way.

Free cancellation

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide (opens in a new tab)

58 6 h

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.

Free cancellation

Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner with Licensed Guide (opens in a new tab)

7 4 h

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.

Nara Day Trip from Kyoto by Private Car with Licensed Guide (opens in a new tab)

4 8 h

Do you really like temples and gardens? If so, Nara is the place for you! Close to Osaka and Kyoto, this quiet area is full of beauty...and deer! Why so many deer in Nara? Deer are messengers from the heavens, so they have free reign over the city of Nara that is filled with religious importance. Come and learn about Japan’s temples and religious history in Nara! Once your reservation is made, a guide will contact you to plan your personalized tour. Choose 3 to 4 spots from ‘Tour Details’ to visit. Don't know where to go? Ask the guide to send you their recommendations. We hope to guide you soon! * Maximum 7 participants per tour. * If you have a child or children in your group, please let us know the number and their age.

Free cancellation

PRIVATE Kyoto Market Tour & Cooking Class in Aki's Beautiful Home (opens in a new tab)

16 4 h

- Explore Kyoto's Demachiyanagi Shopping Street with Aki and shop for fresh seasonal ingredients at a neighborhood market loved by locals. - Cook authentic Japanese home-style dishes from scratch in Aki's beautiful home while learning family recipes and everyday cooking techniques. - Enjoy a private cultural experience with personalized instruction, English recipes to take home, and insights into Japanese food, traditions, and daily life.

Private Guided Historical Sightseeing Tour in Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

25 4 h

Unlock the Magic of Kyoto with Our Unforgettable Tours: Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and cultural wonders of Kyoto by booking our expertly crafted tours. With our knowledgeable local guides, you'll gain insider access to hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and authentic experiences that truly showcase the essence of this enchanting city. From strolling through historic districts like Gion and Pontocho, where geisha culture thrives, to exploring majestic temples like Kiyomizu-dera and serene shrines like Fushimi Inari Taisha, every step will be filled with awe-inspiring moments. Indulge in Kyoto's exquisite cuisine at bustling markets or traditional restaurants, participate in traditional tea ceremonies, and witness the changing seasons transform the landscape with cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn foliage.

Free cancellation

Nara & Uji Private Day Tour from Kyoto by Private Vehicle (opens in a new tab)

5 10 h

Discover Nara and Uji on a private 10-hour tour from Kyoto. Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, Byodo-in Temple, Uji’s historic tea district, Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Higashimuki Shopping Street. Higashimuki is a great lunch stop for local food and shopping. ✓ Licensed Operator Operated by a licensed passenger transportation company in Japan using commercial vehicles. ✓ 100% Private Your vehicle is reserved exclusively for your group. ✓ 3 Service Options • English-speaking guide + vehicle (includes sightseeing guidance) • English-speaking driver + vehicle (no guide service) • Transportation only + vehicle (no guide; driver language is not guaranteed) ✓ Flexible Itinerary Adjust stops and sightseeing time within the booked duration. ✓ Transportation Costs Included Kyoto City pickup/drop-off, fuel, tolls and parking are included. Prices vary by service option. Please select your preferred option when booking.

Free cancellation

Zen Meditation for Life in Kyoto (opens in a new tab)

13 4 h 30 min

Kyoto has been the principal home of Zen since its introduction to Japan from China at the beginning of the 13th century. Kyoto is therefore rightly famous for its Zen-influenced gardens, etc. However, the heart of Zen is the practice of meditation, for meditation is the very meaning of the word “Zen.” Given this, it is ironic there are few opportunities for short-term visitors to Kyoto to have more than a brief introduction to Zen meditation while visiting Zen temples. Thus, this workshop is unique in providing an extended, in-depth introduction to both the theory and practice of meditation (zazen) under the guidance of American-born, Sōtō Zen Buddhist priest and scholar Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Rev. Victoria will introduce you to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, employing traditional meditation cushions (or chairs if needed) in a private meditation hall. By workshop completion, participants will become confident in their ability to continue meditating on their own.

Free cancellation

Private Kyoto with Exceptional Guide Tailored to Your Needs (opens in a new tab)

6 4 h – 8 h

Experience Your Dream Tour of Kyoto with a Local Guide! Embark on a personalized journey through Kyoto, tailored just for you. Choose between a half-day (4-hour) or full-day (8-hour) private tour and customize your experience to match your interests, whether it's savoring Japanese cuisine, diving into local culture, uncovering historical sites, shopping, or any unique passion you may have. You decide the pace and style of your adventure—from a relaxed walking tour using Tokyo's world-class public transportation to a more seamless experience with a private vehicle. We will offer some inspiring ideas for exploring places during your custom-designed tour. *Please download WhatsApp or let us know your email address, so our guide can contact you! *Many stores and restaurants in Japan only accept cash payments, so be sure to have some Japanese yen cash on hand.

Free cancellation

Kyoto Private & Personalized Half-Day Walking Tour with a Local (opens in a new tab)

32 3 h – 4 h

Discover Kyoto in a way that’s truly personal. This isn’t a rigid sightseeing tour—it’s a private, customized experience designed entirely around you, guided by a local who knows the city inside out. Stroll historic streets, explore hidden shops, admire beautiful shrines, and hear stories and insights that bring Kyoto’s culture to life. Your host will shape the route to match your interests, whether you’re drawn to history, food, tradition, or off-the-beaten-path gems. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire about your interests. Your host will then reach out to suggest a flexible, authentic itinerary that feels like exploring Kyoto with a knowledgeable friend eager to share its secrets.

Free cancellation

Kyoto, Nara, Osaka & Kobe: Private Tours with Intercity Transfers (opens in a new tab)

23 4 days

Discover both the famous and hidden gems of Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Kobe on private tours which including premium vehicles, professional drivers and guides, with curated itineraries tailored from one to four days. Single-day tours focus on one or a combination of up to two destinations depending on the travelers tour plan. The one-day option allows for pickup in one city and drop-off in another, with private airport transfer also available. Multi-day tours includes private airport transfers, offer more premium experiences to explore each destination and discover the countryside charms. Selected itineraries may feature farm visits, Wagyu ranch experiences, or Kyoto’s picturesque coastline, where these activities are expressly included in the booked destination options. Note: the sample itineraries are the typical highlights we offer to the respective destinations, while the final itinerary is collectively decided together with travelers and confirmed before the tour date (s).

Free cancellation