ALL INCLUDED:Short Exclusive Hidden Kyoto Private Tour with Local
Experience Kyoto like never before with SunnySight Japan! Our unique private tours, starting from just 3 hours, take you to hidden gems with no crowds. You can enjoy the heart of Kyoto with just your love ones to create special memories.Just share your bucket list of your Kyoto trip/ anything you are interested in, and we’ll create the perfect journey just for you!
Enjoy a personalized adventure led by passionate local guides, ensuring memorable moments exploring serene temples, local cuisine, and more.
Let's go on an adventure to discover the treasure of Kyoto with us!
The price covers food, experience fee, admission fee, and guide fee. We also have a photo service for the guests to bring precious memories back home!(with no charge)
All you have to do is tell us what you want to do and we will arrange your original tour! Just bring yourself to enjoy the most of Kyoto on the day of your tour.
Cooking Class for Kids and Parents in Kyoto
Discover Japanese cooking and culture by making traditional dishes with local kids in Kyoto, a unique program where you can make new friends while enjoying the art of Japanese cuisine.
ULU, opened in 2022, is a multicultural community space currently staffed by 20 members from various countries.
This is a place where people of all genders, races, ages, and nationalities can come together.
While Kyoto is a popular destination worldwide, opportunities to connect with locals and enjoy a unique cultural experience are rare. Here, you can achieve just that with us!
Private Zen Temple & Tea Ceremony Experience in German or English
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
Kyoto Night Walking Guided Tour at Fushimi Inari Shrine
Do you want to explorer the most popular place at night time in Kyoto, Japan?
The knowledgeable guide will take you to peaceful night walk and explaining about Japanese culture and Fushimi Inari, Shinto Shrine.
Fushimi Inari is the most popular destination in Kyoto and night time is the great timing to avoid crowds.
Depart from Kyoto Station : Half-Day E-Bike Tour with Kyotoite
Five main reasons people choose us :
(1) Kyotoite (local Japanese gude) show you around
(2) Electirc Pedal Asisst Bikes help you go around Kyoto smoothly.
(3) Cycling routes carefully chosen by experienced staff at the largest bicycle rental shop in Kyoto
(4) Reservation and cancellation requests accepted by 5pm the day before the tour date
(5) Half price refund given even if you cancel the tour on the day.
This is a special cycling tour which helps you feel the genuine Kyoto and the local vibes. We will be following cycling routes which were carefully selected by experienced staff at Kyoto's largest bicycle rental company, serving about 30,000 people a year.
Our aim is to raise awareness of the brilliance of riding a bicycle in the beautiful Kyoto. Bicycle rides help us find the hidden beauty of Kyoto that most tourists are likely to overlook and we hope this tour helps you see things you are not able to see when you take public transport like subways, buses, and taxis.
Kyoto: Fushimi Sake Brewery Tour - 18 Tastings in 2.5 Hours
Strap in for an electrifying tour through Fushimi’s sake paradise! Start at Gekkeikan, where tradition meets innovation. Dive into the Gekkeikan Museum to uncover the secrets of sake-making with interactive exhibits and ancient tools, then savor their top-notch sakes and snag some quirky souvenirs.
Next, visit Kizakura, famous for its smooth, crowd-pleasing brews. Meet their playful "kappa" mascot and taste their smooth, approachable sakes while soaking up their fun, historical vibes.
The grand finale is Fushimizu Sake Brewery Alley—a tasting extravaganza featuring 18 different sakes! From bold to light, this spot has it all, promising a wild ride of flavors and unforgettable sips.
Prepare for a thrilling sake adventure that’s packed with flavor and fun. Can you handle the ultimate sake challenge?
Discover the Secrets of Fushimi Inari and Gion with a Local Guide
Explore Kyoto Like Never Before: A small group Half-Day Tour
Discover the best of Kyoto, blending famous landmarks with hidden gems, on Sparrow travel’s exclusive half-day tour through the city's historic east side.
A Perfect Day in Kyoto
From Shinto shrines to geisha culture, Buddhist temples to beautiful gardens, this walking tour offers a perfect mix of Kyoto’s past and present. Why follow the crowds when you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture at your own pace? Let us show you the hidden side of Kyoto, and share its stories with you in a way no one else can. If you’re interested in a private tour or pick up, please let us know via message.
Japanese Kirie Paper Cutting Workshop: Create Your Own Art
Step into the world of Japanese art with a hands-on Kirie workshop, where you’ll learn the traditional craft of paper cutting. Guided by an expert, you’ll follow easy-to-use pre-drawn patterns to create stunning designs that reflect the elegance of Japanese culture. No artistic skills are needed, making this an enjoyable experience for all levels. In just 90 minutes, you’ll complete a beautiful piece that you can frame and display at home. With both beginner-friendly and advanced designs available, this workshop is perfect for anyone seeking a unique souvenir or a deeper connection to Japan.
Katana Shopping in Kyoto with Expert Guidance
Own a Real Katana from Kyoto, with Expert Guidance!
Have you ever dreamed of owning a real katana, a timeless treasure from Kyoto, but felt unsure about authenticity or language barriers? At Yushinkan Kyoto, we are here to help you every step of the way. We will personally assist you in selecting the perfect katana and help with translations throughout the process.
Each katana is carefully chosen by a Kyoto dojo sensei who teaches real cutting techniques, ensuring the highest level of quality and tradition. We have also successfully shipped over 50 katana internationally, so you can purchase with confidence no matter where you live.
*Katana are expensive items.
*Shipping may not be possible depending on your country.
*After requesting a reservation, the host will send you a message.
Please be sure to reply.Your reservation will be confirmed after consultation.
Kyoto Guided Tour of Bamboo Forest, Temple and more
Everyone who comes to Kyoto must visit this cool and fantastic bamboo forest to take pictures.
It is said to have been a vacation home for aristocrats in the Heian period (794-1185). On sunny days, the sun shining through the trees is pleasant, and on sunless days, it is dim even during the daytime.
Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple, is a quieter place to visit than other temples, allowing you to calmly enjoy the lovely gardens and decorations of the temple grounds.
Also, this temple is recognized as a World Heritage Site. This is an important experience that will add color to your trip, as you will be able to see up close the garden, a nationally designated historic site and special place of scenic beauty.
Enjoy the area's history, shopping, and photo opportunities at various locations to color your day unforgettable.
Kyoto Tea Ceremony Meditation Make Your Matcha with a Tea Master
Step into a 100-year-old traditional townhouse, where the scent of tatami and a calm atmosphere invite you to slow down. Guided by a host trained in the Omotesenke tradition—one of Japan’s most respected tea ceremony schools—you’ll learn the graceful and mindful art of preparing matcha.
With gentle and entertaining guidance, you’ll make your own bowl of matcha, discovering the techniques and etiquette that transform tea-making into a peaceful ritual. Enjoy your matcha with a traditional sweet and take time to savor the moment.
Our English-speaking tea masters welcome questions and conversation, helping you connect more deeply with Japanese culture. Using authentic, handcrafted utensils by skilled artisans, we share an experience rooted in tradition—one to remember and take home in spirit.
Kyoto Private Tour | Full-Day Highlights by English Guide & van
100% Customizable itinerary tailored for your day to explore the enchanting beauty of Kyoto during autumn leaves season on a private customizable tour. Travel in a comfortable, spacious, air-conditioned vehicle, guided by an English-speaking driver.
This tour allows you to enjoy scenic routes and visit iconic landmarks while steering clear of the busiest traffic areas. Perfect for couples, families, or friends looking for a personalized experience in this culturally rich city.
- Enjoy a private tour with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests
- Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned vehicle and expert driver
- Visit iconic Kyoto landmarks while avoiding heavy traffic
- Perfect for couples, families, or friends seeking a memorable day in Kyoto
Osaka Day Trip by Private Car from Kyoto
Explore Osaka's top landmarks in a single, efficient day. This tour takes you through the city's iconic sites including the historic Osaka Castle, the bustling Dotonbori District, and the serene Shitennoji Temple. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle, ensuring you avoid crowds and maximize your sightseeing. With an English-speaking local guide, gain unique insights into the history and culture of Osaka as you discover hidden gems like Shinsekai and enjoy practical travel tips along the way.
- Visit major attractions like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and more
- Benefit from a private vehicle for stress-free travel
- Learn about Osaka’s culture with an expert local guide
- Enjoy flexibility in the itinerary to suit your interests
Early Bird Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle & Golden Pavilion
Escape the daytime crowds and discover Kyoto's best on this premium private half-day morning tour. Led by an expert local guide, this exclusive "Early Bird" experience takes you to the city’s top three iconic landmarks before the heavy tour groups arrive, tailored to your pace.
Begin at the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine to walk through the magical Senbon Torii (vermilion gates) in the serene morning air. Next, step back into the samurai era at Nijo Castle, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the historic Shogun's palace, famous for its "nightingale floors" and traditional gardens, free from the hustle.
Conclude at the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion). Admire this Zen masterpiece as it glistens over its mirror-like pond in the early light. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers wanting a seamless, crowd-free Kyoto experience.
Private Kyoto Geisha Districts Walking Tour
Step into Kyoto’s enchanting world with our expert-led tour, where each moment unfolds like a captivating story. Delve into Kyoto’s cultural tapestry with visits to historic treasures like Kennin-ji Temple, where serene gardens and ancient teachings await. Wander through the lantern-lit alleys of Pontocho, where the air is alive with whispers of geisha and the aroma of traditional cuisine. Finally, in Miyagawacho, let the timeless beauty of stone-paved streets and the possibility of meeting maiko and geisha transport you to another era. Embrace Kyoto’s essence with us and discover the city’s hidden tales and unforgettable experiences.
Note:
This tour does not guarantee you see/meet geisha during the tour.
The itinerary is subject to change based on the actual conditions on the day.
Private Kyoto Homemade Bento & Riverside Picnic Experience
Join a hands-on Japanese cooking experience with instructor Toshiko Shoshihara, who has many years of experience teaching traditional home cooking. In the cozy Shuhari townhouse, guests prepare a classic Japanese bento using Kyoto’s pure underground spring water. You will learn to make onigiri rice balls, dashimaki tamago, spinach goma-ae, and other seasonal side dishes that create a balanced meal.
The class combines demonstrations with practical cooking, so you can learn authentic techniques while preparing the dishes yourself. After cooking, enjoy your handmade bento as a relaxing picnic by the Kamo River. The experience ends with a casual outdoor matcha moment made with fresh shrine water.
As this is a private session, the menu may be adjusted with advance notice. If there are specific dishes you would like to learn, please let us know in advance and we will do our best to accommodate your request. A personal and memorable way to discover Japanese cuisine in Kyoto.
Kyoto Flea Market Cultural Exchange with English Learners
Explore Kyoto beyond the typical tourist route with a local guide who shares the vibrant culture and history of the city. This unique tour takes you through antique and flea markets at historic temples and shrines, where you can hunt for treasures alongside friendly locals. As a student of English, your guide will engage you in conversations about Japanese customs, give you haggling tips, and recommend hidden gems in the city. Perfect for travelers looking to connect with locals and gain deeper insights into Kyoto's culture.
- Guided exploration of Kyoto's flea markets and antique treasures
- Local guides keen to practice their English and introduce you to Japanese culture
- Engaging conversations and valuable recommendations throughout the tour
- Two-hour private walking experience using public transportation
Kyoto Cycling Tour - Discover the Stunning Northern Hills
This Kyoto Bike Tour will take you on a wonderful yet challenging cycling route that will take you beyond the city lines of North Kyoto and into the hills that make the backdrop of beautiful Kyoto.
The tour is for intermediate to advanced cyclists that hit an elevation 400 metres, however, beginners are also welcome. The main goal of the tour is to discover the amazing nature and cycling routes that are easily accessible from Kyoto city.
The route takes in a variety of cycling that quickly passes through the popular Arashiyama area before tackling the progressive climb that leads to the way to the forested areas of Takao and Yamanaka.
There is the option to stop at the secluded Kosanji Temple. The scenery is spectacular with the sound of white water ebbing its way down to Kyoto, on both the outbound and inbound legs of the route. The winding roads up the mountain are a cyclist's dream and not to be missed.
Private Custom Tour of Kiyomizu & Yasaka—by Young Local Guides
Step into the heart of Kyoto with a private tour of Kiyomizu Temple and Yasaka Shrine, two of the city’s most iconic historical sites. This experience is led by young local guides who are passionate about sharing Kyoto’s history, culture, and everyday life from a fresh, authentic perspective.
Unlike standard group tours, this is a custom-made, private experience designed around your interests. Whether you want to focus on history, local stories, photo spots, or simply enjoy a relaxed walk at your own pace, your guide will tailor the tour just for you.
By joining this tour, you’re not only discovering Kyoto’s rich heritage—you’re also supporting the next generation of local guides as they build their skills and share their love for their hometown. Enjoy a meaningful, personal, and memorable Kyoto experience, made just for you.
Kyoto Private Highlights Tour (Customizable)
A fully custom private tour designed around your time, interests, and pace.
Explore Kyoto’s top highlights comfortably with an English-speaking local guide.
Your guide handles the route, timing, and transportation.
We minimize walking and adjust the plan to avoid peak crowds whenever possible.
What you’ll experience
・ A fully customizable private tour designed around your pace and preferences
・ Comfortable sightseeing with private transportation
・ Crowd-aware routing to avoid busy areas whenever possible
・ Kyoto’s must-see highlights selected based on your interests
・ Clear cultural insights that make each place more meaningful
・ Local tips for food, shopping, and hidden gems
Sights may include
・ Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
・ Kiyomizu-dera Temple
・ Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
・ Gion
・ Nijo Castle
・ Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
・ Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
・ Hidden scenic spots selected by your guide
The exact sights visited are selected based on your time, interests, crowds, and weather.
Discover your Kyoto -Private Kyoto Customized Walking Tour-
In a day you will be able to visit the historical places of Kyoto. Kyoto has a different atmosphere from Tokyo and you can feel it by the historical vibes and the local people. Come and discovery Kyoto for its beauty with this tour, we are sure that it will be a travel you won't forget.
Spots to visit
1.Nijo Castle
A UNESCO World Hertiage Site, Nijo Castle was castle that was built for the first shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu who ruled Japan from 1603-1616.
2.Kinkakuji
A Zen Temple whose top two floor is covered in gold leaf overlooking a large pond. Though its standing majestically now, this temple has been burned numerous time in the past.
3.Arashiyama
A popular sightseeing spot in Kyoto, the biggest reason for its popularity is due to the beautiful scenery that changes by the season.
4.Tenryuji Temple/Bamboo Forest
Here in this mesmerizing forest is the Tenryuji Temple, a temple which was originally built in 1339 by the ruling shogun Ashikaga Takauji.
Nara and Uji Private Custom Tour from Kyoto
Enjoy a private 10-hour customizable charter service from Kyoto to Nara and Uji. Travel exclusively with your group in a comfortable vehicle, without joining any group tour. This service is ideal for travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and efficient sightseeing.
Design your own itinerary according to your interests. Popular destinations may include Fushimi Inari Taisha, Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Nara Park, Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and traditional tea streets along the Uji River. You may adjust the order of stops and the time spent at each location within the booked duration.
A professional driver provides safe and reliable transportation throughout the day. Hotel pickup and drop-off within Kyoto city are included. Fuel, highway tolls, and parking fees are covered for your convenience.
Perfect for families, couples, senior travelers, and small groups seeking a relaxed and personalized travel experience in the Kansai region.
Capture your memory in Kyoto with photo shooting
As you walk through Kyoto's historic streets, an English-speaking photographer, who photographs 200 couples a year, will guide you to recommended photo spots and take photos. I will help you capture the memories of your precious trip to Japan through my lens. 50 high-resolution, edited photos guaranteed.
We will walk together through the beautiful Kyoto streets, which change with the seasons, and provide a photo shoot service that will create wonderful memories at my recommended photo spots.
Kyoto Omakase sushi-making with optional samurai photo.
Step into the world of the Samurai and experience the essence of Japan.
Feel the thrill of holding a sword and discover Japanese culinary culture through a hands-on sushi workshop.
Enjoy a truly special moment where you can connect with the authentic spirit of the Samurai.