Private Tea Ceremony and Sake Tasting in Kyoto Samurai House
Become truly immersed in traditional Japanese culture as you and your party members will enjoy the entire 300-year old historic property to yourselves. We serve organic matcha locally sourced from Kyoto, Uji in a traditional tea room. Enter into this space separate from the rush of life and truly experience the serenity of tea ceremony.
Adorn an authentic silk wedding Kimono or wield a Samurai Katana to commemorate your visit to Kyoto! You are welcome to take photos during your visit. You can even bring the experience home with you as we offer a large array of Matcha Chawan (Matcha Tea Bowl) and authentic silk Kimono for purchase. An experience like no other being the only Samurai house in Kyoto with such offerings.
We are able to offer this traditional space and still be very conveniently located only an 8 minute walk from Kyoto station, making this experience a seamless addition to your time in Kyoto.
Private car tour in Kyoto (up to 4)
Hi I'm Kosuke
Let me show you around my home town.
Feel free to contact me and let me know dates and places of your interest.
Please book me two days at least if you really want to enjoy Kyoto!
Thank you very much
Kyoto: Zen Garden, Zen Mind (Private)
The Japanese garden defies quick and easy understanding. As we move in awe through one of these masterpieces we can feel that there is something deeper than just the physical beauty that surrounds us. This experience is designed to go to the heart of that "something deeper".
While occupying 3 temples of the Nanzen-ji Monastery, you will hear in-depth explanations and insights into the world of Japanese gardens that you would never learn about otherwise. The Japanese garden will be revealed to you as an expression of profound art.
As you will undoubtly visit at least several temples and gardens while you are here, this experience will equip you with all the tools you need to help make your experience in Kyoto one that will form a lasting impression on your heart.
Become a Samurai Movie Star in Kyoto by Filming with a Real Actor
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 Gion Walk with Local: Culture & Geisha World
This is not a typical walk through Gion.
Instead of simply passing through Kyoto’s most famous district, this experience helps you understand what most visitors are actually looking at, but rarely notice.
Led by a local guide who has lived in Japan for over ten years, this walk is shaped by daily life, storytelling, and a genuine passion for Kyoto’s culture.
As we move through Gion at a relaxed pace, with time for photos and questions, you will gain a clear understanding of how the world of geisha truly functions, their arts, traditions, and the rules that shape their daily lives.
Rather than focusing on chasing geisha sightings, this experience gives you the context to understand the atmosphere, the behavior, and the meaning behind what you see around you.
Gion can be busy, but once you understand what you are looking at, the experience becomes completely different.
By the end of the walk, you will not just have seen Gion, you will understand it.
Near Fushimiinari: Kyoto Home Cooking Class & Supermarket tour
Join us for an authentic Kyoto cooking experience and local market tour that feels like visiting a friend's home.
Small & Cozy: Maximum 6 participants per class. Solo travelers are highly welcome!
Local Supermarket Guided Tour: Discover basic Japanese seasonings and shop where the locals shop right after finishing your lunch.
Master the Basics: Learn essential tips and techniques to prepare popular Japanese dishes.
Recreate at Home: Get full recipes to surprise your loved ones back home with your new skills.
Note for Private Bookings: For a private group of more than 5 people, simply book a standard group class and send us a message to request a private session. We can't wait to cook with you!
Kyoto: Meet the Geisha with Gion Historic Walking Tour
Step into the hidden world of Kyoto's geisha culture on this immersive 2-hour experience in Gion — one of Japan's most iconic historic districts.
The first hour takes you through the atmospheric lanes and stone-paved streets of Gion, where the traditions of geisha and maiko have endured for centuries. Your expert guide brings this world to life — sharing details about geisha customs, the rigorous discipline behind their craft, and the historical significance of the district. As you explore Kyoto's rich cultural heritage through its landmarks and hidden corners, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of the city than most visitors reach.
The second hour brings you face-to-face with a real Maiko in an intimate setting. Watch a live performance featuring traditional song and dance, then ask her anything in a relaxed Q&A session. It's a rare encounter that guidebooks can't replicate.
No meals, no filler. Just two focused hours at the heart of what makes Kyoto unique.
Shamisen Experience in Kyoto 【Private】
You'll receive direct lessons from a professional Shamisen player with 20 years of experience.
It’s extremely rare to find Shamisen lessons in English within Japan.
In just 30 minutes, you'll be able to play a well-known traditional Japanese song! You can also immerse yourself in a meditative Shamisen session while enjoying the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese house.
We're looking forward to our session at the Shamisen Dojo!
Kyoto; Traditional Japanese Washi Papermaking
A Traditional Washi Art Experience
Discover the serene beauty of Kamisuki, the ancient art of Japanese papermaking. In this immersive 1-hour session, you’ll feel the texture of raw natural fibers and witness the moment a simple liquid transforms into a delicate sheet of paper.
Under the gentle guidance of our instructors, you will "add flowers" to tradition by arranging seasonal blossoms onto your wet paper. Whether it becomes a set of postcards for a loved one or a soft lampshade for your home, your creation will carry the warmth of your own hands and the spirit of Japanese seasons.
Private car tour in Kyoto (up to 9)
Hi I'm Kosuke
Let me show you around my home town.
Feel free to contact me and let me know dates and places of your interest.
Please book me two days at least if you really want to enjoy Kyoto!
Thank you very much
Gion Night Tour Stories of Geisha and Maiko
Immerse yourself in the charming world of Kyoto’s Gion district with this small group walking tour designed to reveal the secrets of geisha and maiko culture. Stroll through its elegant streets at sunset, when the crowd disappears, and take in fleeting views of geishas on the way to your date nights. With up to 15 participants, you will enjoy an intimate experience guided by local experts who share fascinating stories and insights into this unique aspect of Japanese heritage. Learn to identify teahouses and understand the cultural significance of the signs that adorn the alleys.
* Discover the beauty of Gion at dusk with a local guide
* Small group for a closer experience (max. 15 people)
* Explore less traveled roads and hidden corners of Gion
* Learn more about the history and culture of geisha
Kyoto Ramen Noodle Making Class
Embark on a culinary adventure in Kyoto's historic Gion district by visiting a charming specialty restaurant where the art of ramen takes center stage. Step into the kitchen and immerse yourself in the ancient tradition of noodle-making, using a unique ramen machine to craft noodles from scratch. As the fragrant broth simmers, anticipation builds for the ultimate reward: savoring a steaming bowl of ramen meticulously prepared by the skilled hands of the restaurant’s chef. Indulge in this delicious masterpiece, a testament to both craftsmanship and the rich culinary heritage of Japan.
Kyoto Wagashi(Japanese sweets) Cooking Class near Fushimiinari
Join us in an authentic Japanese-style house for an intimate cooking experience that making you feel like a friend invited over for tea.
Why Choose Our Class?
Small Groups: Max 6 people per class—perfect and welcoming for solo travelers!
3 popular Sweets: Learn tips and techniques to make 3 different types of Japanese desserts(wagashi) you might recognize from your favorite manga or anime.
Take Home Recipes: Get full recipes to recreate these beautiful treats for your friends and family back home.
Dietary Friendly: Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon advance request.
We have "Seasonal Sweets Class" and "Matcha Sweets Class".
Please choose one, and we all make the same sweets in the class.
Note: "Matcha Sweets Class" is suitable for adults, as Matcha contains high levels of caffeine.
Note for Private Booking: For a private group of more than 5 people, simply book a standard group class and send us a message to request a private session.
We can't wait to see you!
Ramen Gyoza Onigiri Japanese Cooking Class in Kyoto
With friendly English speaking instructors, you will explore how to make homemade style of Soy Sauce and Miso Ramen, and Gyoza at the center of Kyoto.
1: About Dietary Restrictions We offer only "Regular Menu" or "Vegetarian Menu" (only pork is replaced with tofu. ) options.
Please write 【Vegetarian, Tofu ×3】like in the “Food Restriction” field. Please specify the number of people who would like vegetarian recipe. Ingredients : Chicken stock powder, Oyster Sauce, Sesame Oil, Soy sauce, Garlic, Ginger, Lard, Mirin, Black pepper, Miso, Butter, Ground Pork, Onion, Fish powder, Chili oil, Salt and pepper, Chives, Cabbage, Cooking Sake.
2: About Reservations. To ensure fair access to our experience for all guests: Observers are not permitted. Every guest, including children, must have their own reservation and seat.
Kiyomizu Temple and Backstreets of Gion, Half Day Group Tour
Enjoy a culture-rich introductory walking tour of Kyoto with a local guide. Travelers interested in history and culture will enjoy strolling through Gion and the Higashiyama area, admiring the views from Kiyomizudera Temple, and learning more about Zen Buddhism at Kenninji Temple. A local expert guide provides deep cultural context and history, ensuring you efficiently visit these top sights.
・Get an intimate view of Kyoto on a walking tour
・Learn more than you would touring independently
・Capture the truly iconic views of Kyoto, from Kiyomizu’s grand stage to Gion’s backstreets.
・Enjoy unhurried time at Kiyomizu-dera Temple to appreciate the view and the architecture.
・Check off several of Kyoto’s must-see sights in half a day
Private Kyoto Tour by Car with Optional Nara or Osaka Add-Ons
This private car tour allows you to create your ideal day in Kyoto by choosing from three flexible options: a Kyoto 1-Day Highlights Tour, a Kyoto & Nara cultural journey, or a Kyoto & Osaka adventure. Every itinerary is fully customizable to match your interests and pace. If there are places you'd like to add—or locations you've already visited—we will adjust the route to design the perfect day for you.
Travel comfortably by private car with a friendly local guide who brings history, culture, and local stories to life. Whether you want to explore the bamboo forest of Arashiyama, admire the Golden Pavilion, meet Nara’s sacred deer, or enjoy Osaka’s lively streets, you can experience Japan’s most iconic sights at your own rhythm, without rushing or following a set schedule.
This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, families, and couples who want a smooth, personalized, and unforgettable sightseeing experience. Discover Kyoto—and beyond—in the most flexible and enjoyable way.
Kyoto Private Tea Ceremony with Tea Master at Home
Enjoy a private Kyoto tea ceremony in a traditional home, guided by an experienced tea master. Learn the meaning behind each movement in a calm, authentic setting.
This experience offers rare private access, expert guidance, and original Uji matcha in an authentic Kyoto setting.
【Highlights】
・Private tea ceremony in a traditional Kyoto home — not a tourist venue
・Guided by an experienced tea master, focusing on learning and authenticity
・Original Uji matcha, handcrafted Kyoto tea bowls, and seasonal wagashi
・Held in authentic tea rooms (Koma and Hiroma) with a calm, respectful atmosphere
・Ideal for adults seeking a quiet, refined cultural experience
【Important Notes】
Age: Adults only (13 and under not permitted)
Punctuality: Late arrivals over 15 minutes cannot join; no refund
Dress code: Long pants or skirt; tops with sleeves required
Socks: Required (available for purchase if needed)
Kimono: Not included
Private Nara Tour and Sake Tasting (Departing from Kyoto/Nara)
Discover the best of Nara on our PRIVATE morning tour, before the popular spots get crowded! Meet the friendly deer, admire Japan’s largest Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, and enjoy a sake tasting to experience local flavors. Explore Japan’s first capital in a fun, relaxed, and efficient way — perfect for a half-day trip from Kyoto or Osaka!
Kyoto Make a Metal Shuriken in a Real Ninja House
Create your own metal shuriken 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
Let's make only one original onigawara in the world
Hi everyone♪
Welcome to Kyoto
Do you know ONIGAWARA?it is on the rooftop of Japanese temples and old house's
It's a talisman with a scary face. It has a history of about 1378 to 1400 years.
Although it looks difficult, we have developed a method that makes it easy to make.
Anyone can easily make it
Everything is handmade from lumps of soil.
Would you like to create your own original souvenirs and memories?
Small classes in a homey workshop
It will be delivered to your home and you can talk about your memories again.
Turn your original ONIs and memories into wall decorations or ornaments.
it will surely protect you
Thank you
Beautiful Photography Tour in Kyoto
In this tour, I will capture the best moments of your trip in Kyoto. The tour route is Hanami-koji⇒Yasuikonpira Shrine⇒Ishibekoji⇒Maruyama park.
The main reason why you should choose this tour is that I'm not only good at taking beautiful photos of you, but also I'm very familiar to these area so I will take you to the hidden and secret spots that are less crowd, and do photo session there. I'm very good at taking photos of solo-portrait, couple, honeymoon and family.
I will take photos of you one by one, group by group. So I would like you to wait for minutes while I take photos for another group. I will suggest spots, poses, and angles. But you can also tell me your preference.
After tour, I will send the photos by data via Email on the SAME DAY or NEXT DAY of the tour. In addition, I will also tell you about local culture, good spots for food and fun, and some tips that help you enjoy Japan more. I will really do my best to capture the beautiful moment of you into the photography.
Kyoto: Zen Meditation at a Private Temple with a Monk
Experience Zen meditation at a hidden temple in Kyoto. While Zen is globally renowned and recognised, there are few places in Japan where you can have the best Zen experience with English tour guide support.
This temple is not open to the general public, and you can enjoy hidden atmosphere of the temple and authentic zen experience,
Enjoy a private Zen experience, fostering a connection with the monk. Meet at the temple, where you'll learn briefly about Japanese culture and Zen.
Following that, a monk will personally lecture on the principles and techniques of Zazen (seated meditation), and you'll have the opportunity to practice. Unify your mind, confront yourself, and detach from ego and worldly concerns. After zen experience, you will get the opportunity to enjoy watching beautiful traditional garden, which will make you forget hustle and bustle of the daily life.
Capture photographs with the monk and within the temple, creating lasting memories for a lifetime.
Kyoto Private Photo Shoot & Tour by SnapKyoto
Contact for the time & locations of your choice. snapkyoto (ig)
A professional photographer captures your Kyoto memories and the next day you will receive 50-200 edited pictures to share with family/friends. Free guide about the history, culture and the people of Kyoto and Japan. No need to worry where to go and what to see. I'll take care of it all. Just enjoy the sites. Help with booking kimono upon request (show up, select kimono and pay at the shop). Also I help book a private car upon request.
I offer 1-6 hours of shoot in epic locations. 1 hour in 1 area, 3 hours in 2-3 areas and 6 hours in 3-4 areas.
Inside Kyoto:
-Gion Geisha District (old town)
-Higashiyama (Yasaka Pagoda area)
-Arashiyama Bamboo Forest,
-Fushimi Inari (Orange Gates)
Outside Kyoto (ask for availability)
-Osaka, Nara, Tokyo, Fuji etc.
Portfolio: check snapkyoto my Instagram.
Advanced Kyoto Insider Sake Tasting Experience
This is not a typical sake tasting.
The Advanced Kyoto Insider Sake Experience explores sake that challenges conventional ideas of how sake is made.
You will taste rare and exceptional sakes brewed using ancient methods, innovative fermentation techniques that highlight the power of microorganisms, and sake made with local wood that gives each brew a distinct regional character.
Through these tastings, you will discover how dramatically flavor can change depending on philosophy, materials, and brewing choices — revealing the true depth and creative potential of sake.
While this experience also covers the fundamentals of sake production and categories, it is designed for those who want to go beyond the basics and explore a deeper, more creative side of sake.