Tofu Shop Visit & Japanese Cooking Class in Kyoto with Rita
Your local host Rita will give you an exciting introduction to authentic Japanese cuisine, starting with a brief tour of a tofu shop that was established 90 years ago! She will talk you through the process of how tofu is made from soy beans and describe the variety of products that can be made from tofu (please note that you will not see the entire process of making tofu, because the manufacturing starts early in the morning).
After your introduction to tofu, Rita will take you upstairs for your Japanese cooking class. You will have the opportunity to help prepare and taste the unique ingredients and seasonings that form the foundation of Japanese cuisine. Your cooking lesson with last about an hour and a half before you sit down together to enjoy the meal you helped prepare over a fun conversation with Rita.
Private Kyoto Kimono Artisan Tour with Exclusive Workshop Visits
Visit three private kimono artisan workshops in Kyoto with exclusive access through personal connections. Guided by a Kyoto local from a kimono family, this fully private tour offers a rare and authentic cultural experience.
Step inside Kyoto’s hidden world of kimono craftsmanship through exclusive visits to private workshops, guided in the spirit of omotenashi—Japan’s philosophy of hospitality.
This is a rare opportunity to enter real studios and meet artisans preserving centuries-old traditions.
Guided by a Kyoto local from a kimono family, you will visit three workshops, observe traditional techniques, and hear directly from artisans.
You will also enjoy traditional sweets and matcha, creating a meaningful connection to Kyoto’s living culture.
Access is extremely limited and arranged through trusted personal connections, ensuring an authentic and private cultural experience.
Kyoto Private Full Day Tour by Car
Experience the enchanting beauty of Kyoto with our private guided tour tailored to your preferences. Explore the historic streets, majestic temples, and serene gardens while learning about Kyoto's rich culture and traditions from a local guide. Let us craft a memorable day filled with discovery and wonder as you immerse yourself in the essence of this timeless city. Meet your guide at your hotel and start your day in Kyoto! Let's explore these places to the fullest extent possible within the time available, such as Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Kinkakuji, Bamboo forest.
Private Bar time with an authentic Maiko
While Maikos are a symbol of Kyoto, it is not easy for tourists and even locals to talk with them personally. To arrange a meeting with them, we need to have a long-established relationship with an Okiya which is a maiko house and functions as an agency for them.
With Exclusive Kyoto, you can enjoy a private bar time with a maiko, chatting with her and asking questions while enjoying your drink.
Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour Hidden Tastings and Local Insights
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
The Perfect One Day in Kyoto – A Small Group Cultural Experience
Spend what many travelers describe as their one perfect day in Kyoto on this carefully designed small-group experience. The day is thoughtfully paced to balance Kyoto’s most important sights with time to truly enjoy them, creating an experience that feels memorable rather than rushed.
Led by a well-reviewed guide known for storytelling, clear insight, and easy-to-understand English, you’ll explore sacred sites, historic neighborhoods, and temple gardens while learning about the “real” Japan.
Taxi transfers are used between key areas, with all transportation fully included. Walking portions are unhurried, with time for photos. Entrance fees to scheduled attractions and a relaxed lunch at a local spot are also included, so you can enjoy the day without worrying about any additional costs.
The itinerary and order of visits may vary depending on timing, weather, crowd levels, and site availability, and the day may also include a brief additional cultural stop or neighborhood walk.
Photo bike Tour for family and couple
This easygoing bike tour is all about capturing real family or couple moments in Kyoto. Of course for friend as well
just your natural smiles, interactions, and the little moments you usually can’t capture while traveling.
Guided by a local photographer, I’ll document your time together while we explore the city at a relaxed pace.
We use electric bikes, so it’s super easy and comfortable for everyone. The tour will be around 3 hours. not too long tour!
We’ll ride along the peaceful Kamogawa riverside and choose 2–3 spots from Kyoto’s famous landmarks or hidden local areas — depending on your interests and schedule.
Every tour is flexible and customized, so no two experiences are the same.
Along the way, we’ll stop casually to take candid photos and enjoy the atmosphere together — like a friend showing you around.
you’ll receive about 20 edited photos within a few days — memories you can truly keep.
Kyoto Essentials Private Tour: Perfect for First-Time Visitors
Discover Kyoto on a fully private tour that blends world-famous World Heritage sites with authentic local experiences. Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the flexible itinerary adapts to your pace for a stress-free and memorable day.
Visit landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari, explore hidden alleys and Nishiki Market, and enjoy local flavors with insights from an attentive English-speaking guide. With smooth transportation, full customization, and warm hospitality, this tour is the most comfortable way to experience Kyoto—your way.
Highlights:
- Visit Kyoto’s top World Heritage sites efficiently
- Explore hidden gems and taste authentic local food
- Fully private, customizable, and family-friendly
The itinerary shown is for reference only. This is a private, customizable tour, and the guide will tailor the experience within the tour duration based on the guest's interests and requests.
Private Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour — with Your Own Local Guide
Private experience for 1–4 people — always your group only. Enjoy an exciting day experiencing the thrill of Japanese boat racing at Lake Biwa.
Experience Japan’s unique, high-speed boat races, guided by Kenji with 20 years of experience. Learn to enjoy the races, place wagers, and discover the local racing culture. We'll also stop at a nearby supermarket to pick bento, snacks, and drinks for a picnic during the races.
Group size: 1–4 people
Kyoto Private magical Tour with a local guide
Kyoto's east side is a place where culture and art began evolving in Japan. it was ones considered to be the heart of Japan and has for today, we are still lucky to Experience the atmosphere and magic of those eras that are gone but left its marks at the Higashiyama area.
During the tour I will provide you with a background story and in-depth explanation of the places you visit, giving you a deeper understanding of Kyoto Japan's rich history and culture.
As part of ShiZen`s highest quality guidance, I provide photo capturing for your trip along the way, so that you can cherish your memories for as long as you wish.
Join me on a journey of exploration and discovery in magical Kyoto!
Private Nijo Castle Sightseeing and Nishiki Food Tour
This is a Nishiki market private tour using public transportation. The destinations of the tour includes Nishiki market, Nijyo castle and Kyoto imperial palace.
Let's try many kinds of seafood and traditional Japanese food while learning from the professional guide about the history of Nishiki market!
Take a tour to eat and drink like locals!
As an example, there are shops such as Hedgehog wharf, sea urchin, fried fish cake, hamo(pike conger)
, Japanese-style egg omelet and more.
Meal charges are not included in this tour fee.
The average food and drink price per person at Nishiki market is 3,000 yen to 4,000 yen.Depending on the menu you choose, these charges will change.
Choose what you like and eat a lot at Nishiki market!
After eating, enjoy the ancient buildings and the history about them.
For details of the destination, you can look at the what to expect, inclusions and excursions section of this web page.
Knife Workshop with a Master Cutler
A Master Cutler and your chef guide will invite you to sharpen your own santoku knife, which you can take home as a cherished memento at the conclusion of the workshop. Our goal is for you to not only acquire knowledge but also to carry a tangible embodiment of your time in Japan, creating lasting memories for years to come.
We aim to demystify this craft and showcase the wide range of knives and tools used by both professional chefs and enthusiasts. With over a dozen different types of knives utilized in kitchens across Japan, we provide a comprehensive explanation of this unique assortment of tools.
Kimono Rental in Gion Kyoto
RikaWafuku is used by over 230,000 customers per year.RikaWafuku Gion is conveniently located just a two-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station, providing easy access to tourist sites in Kyoto city.They have a selection of over 400 kimonos for rental, from popular cute lace kimonos to simple, sophisticated kimonos and classic retro kimonos.You can rent it empty-handed, so you can easily try it out.In addition, it is ideal for short sightseeing trips, as it takes about 45 to 70 minutes to depart.Children's kimonos are also available, so it can be used by families, couples, and friends.
Kimono Wearing Experience-Fun to Wear Wearing-Fun to Know-
プ ラ イ ベ ー ト Private lessons! The instructor will support you carefully! !
資格 Qualified instructors will support you at your own pace according to your needs.
場合 If you bring your own kimono, no troublesome return work is required!
〇Because all things related to dressing will be rented free of charge, don't you feel at ease and feel free to start the first step of the kimono?
○ On the second floor of the Kyomachiya, you can experience dressing up slowly
な が ら You can enjoy the leisurely dressing experience while feeling the local life of Kyoto which is different from the sightseeing spot.
* You can access Arashiyama, Kinkakuji, Gion, etc. with a single train, so please consult with the staff of more than 30 years in Kyoto planning your trip!
Kyoto and Nara Highlights with English speaking Driver and Guide
Step into the heart of Japan’s cultural treasures with a full-day guided tour of Kyoto and Nara. With your English-speaking driver and guide, explore the iconic sights at your own pace while enjoying seamless, stress-free transportation.
Wander through Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove and serene gardens, marvel at the glittering Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and experience the spiritual wonder of Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vibrant torii gates. Delight in the lively flavors and atmosphere of Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s famous culinary street.
Then, venture to Nara, where friendly deer roam freely at Nara Deer Park, and behold the awe-inspiring Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha. This carefully curated tour brings together nature, history, and culture, making it perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.
Book now and create unforgettable memories as you explore Japan’s most celebrated landmarks in one unforgettable day!
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
Private Morning Meditation at Kyoto
Private Morning Meditation in Kyoto
Start your day in Kyoto’s serene mornings: Experience the city before the bustle begins, enjoying the tranquil light, quiet sounds, and peaceful atmosphere.
A fusion of tradition and wellness: Combine the ancient art of Shakyo (sutra calligraphy), the refined ritual of traditional matcha tea, and the relaxing techniques of Head Healing for a one-of-a-kind meditative experience.
Engage all your senses: See the morning light, hear the gentle brush strokes, smell the aroma of tea and ink, touch the brush and feel the healing touch, and taste authentic matcha — fully immersing in mindfulness.
Personalized and intimate: Designed for 1–2 participants, each guest alternates between calligraphy and head healing, ensuring a tailored and private experience.
A gateway to Japanese culture: This experience blends traditional practices with modern wellness, making it perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful, restorative, and uniquely Kyoto morning.
A trip to Kyoto and Osaka in one day
If you want to visit as many cities as possible during your limited stay in Japan.
In such cases, private car tours are recommended.
Avoid crowded buses, tedious train transfers, and expensive taxies.
I will cover all major sightseeing spots in Kyoto and Osaka in one day in comfort!
Please make your reservations well in advance, as rental cars must be arranged.
The fee includes rental car, insurance, gasoline, highway tolls, and parking.
No further transportation fees are required!
For up to 4 people, I will use Toyota Roomy.
For up to 6 people, I will use Toyota Noah.
The itinerary is just an example, destinations can be changed according to your needs.
More than you think, English is not spoken in Japan. To enjoy a trouble-free trip, please contact me!
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 Wholesale Fish Market Walking Tour
Discover the dynamic world of fish bidding at the Kyoto City Central Wholesale Market, followed by a traditional Japanese breakfast that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Kyoto. Throughout the experience, you'll be guided by an English-speaking guide, ensuring a truly immersive and insightful journey.
Tea Ceremony with Japanese Harp Performance in Kyoto
Experience the tea ceremony and immerse yourself in the traditions of Kyoto.
Brew a delicious cup of tea in an authentic and vibrant Japanese atmosphere.
With careful instruction, you will be able to make a creamy matcha tea like no other.
At the same time, you will enjoy a live performance of Japanese harp "Koto", a traditional Japanese stringed instrument.
Kyoto Arashiyama: Fall Foliage Walking Tour【Autumn's limited】
Experience the unique charm of Arashiyama in autumn with our exclusive private tour, available only during this brief but breathtaking season. This tour is designed to showcase the very best of Kyoto's autumn scenery, offering an unforgettable experience that can only be enjoyed at this time of year. Start at Jojakkoji Temple, where the vibrant autumn foliage creates a tranquil and stunning atmosphere. Next, visit the iconic Bamboo Grove, which is transformed into an ethereal landscape under the golden hues of autumn. Conclude your journey at Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the meticulously designed autumn gardens reach their peak beauty, offering a serene and reflective finale to your tour. This tour is perfect for those seeking an exclusive and immersive experience, capturing the essence of Kyoto's autumn in its most glorious and transient form.
Full Day Private Tour in Kyoto with Pickup
Experience the enchanting allure of Kyoto with our exclusive Private Luxury Day Tour. Discover the essence of Japan's ancient capital through an 8-hour customizable journey aboard a private vehicle, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Delve into the city's hidden gems and rich culture alongside a knowledgeable local guide, as you select 3-4 sites (admission not included) from our curated 'What to expect' list. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Kyoto's seasons, from the vibrant blooms of spring to the fiery hues of autumn foliage and the tranquil serenity of winter. Let us create a personalized tour experience that captures the essence of Kyoto's rich history and culture, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Japan's ancient capital. Additionally, we offer the flexibility of starting the tour 1 hour earlier for guests coming from Osaka.
Kyoto Fushimi Inari Taisha Walking Tour with Audioguide
TouringBee's Fushimi Inari Shrine Audio Guide is a convenient map app designed for self-guided sightseeing tours of the renowned sacred mountain. You won't lose your way and you'll gain a wealth of knowledge about traditional Japanese beliefs. You'll undoubtedly traverse 10 thousand vibrant vermilion torii gates, ascend the three peaks of Mount Inari, and explore the most captivating local shrines with audioguide on your smartphone. The audio guide will instruct you on how to seek fortune telling, make offerings, and request assistance from local spirits. It will also highlight the best spots for photography and where to purchase spring water coffee.
With this audio guide, you can relish the walk at your own leisure, without the need to keep up with a tour group. The audio guide can always be heard distinctly through your headphones. Feel free to pause for a break at a café whenever you wish. You can always deviate down a scenic path and return to the route later.