Kyoto Early Morning Tour with English-Speaking Guide
Kyoto is one of Japan’s most popular destinations, so sightseeing can be very crowded during the day. In this tour, we start early to beat the crowds and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkakuji, and Arashiyama.
⬇︎ PLEASE READ CAREFULLY ⬇︎
▶️ This is a walking tour that uses public transportation, we will be walking around 12,000 steps in this tour.
▶️ The tour is approximately 5.5 hours and may vary by about 30 minutes.
▶️ When booking, please provide a WhatsApp-reachable phone number (travel agents must enter the guest’s number).
▶️ Late arrivals cannot join the tour and no refund will be given.
▶️ Maximum group size: 8 guests
Please note that strollers are not allowed as there will be a lot of walking and stairs during the tour. Infants are not allowed.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest E-Biking Tour
This is an incredible 25km E-bike tour that focuses on exploring the celebrated Arashiyama Bamboo Grove district, but also takes time to explore stunning temple environments aways from the tourist tracks.
Hop on our new Panasonic E-bikes and cover a lot of ground as we pedal effortlessly through a blend of urban and countryside settings. We will bike past Kyoto's daily life and give you insight into the city's rich history, culture, and scenic beauty.
We only allow a maximum of 8 guests for a safe and controlled experience.
Travellers should be comfortable riding 25km or 4 hours. Must be 15 years or older.
We meet 20 minutes before departure in order to get you comfortable on your E-bike.
Kyoto Guided Walking Tour: Secret Zen Garden and Fushimi Inari
- Visit deeper in both famous and hidden spiritual sites in one tour.
- Walk through the iconic thousand torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine.
- Experience an authentic, off-the-beaten-path Zen temple.
- Learn about Zen philosophy, meditation, and traditional garden design.
- Enjoy unique photo spots without the usual crowds.
- Travel in a small group for a calm, intimate experience.
Explore Hidden Alleyway with a Local Expert (Morning tour)
Step off the beaten path and explore the real Kyoto with a knowledgeable local guide who knows every corner of the city. This 3-hour guided bike tour takes you through quiet backstreets far from the tourist crowds, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of Kyoto’s residents.
As you pedal through narrow alleyways, each twist and turn brings a shift in atmosphere—the scents, the light, the sounds—immersing you in the city’s hidden charm. Then, just as suddenly, you’ll emerge onto a bustling main street, reconnecting with the familiar Kyoto of guidebooks and postcards.
Our guides are professionally trained through our original program, ensuring not only a deep understanding of Kyoto’s culture but also full proficiency in traffic safety, group cycling techniques, and local etiquette. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities.
Join us and experience Kyoto not just as a visitor, but as if you were part of the city itself.
Beyond Classic Kyoto: A Tailored Walk with a Local Friend
Founded by Kiyoto—a local whose name and 40-year life are rooted in this city—our team of energetic guides in their 20-40s brings a fresh vibe to tradition. We aren't just lecturers; we are local friends with a camera-ready eye. Forget dry guidebooks—let’s chat, laugh, and discover the "real" Kyoto together.
Many travelers follow the same map, but we believe the soul of Kyoto hides in the quiet corners just steps away. Don’t miss these local favorites while visiting the famous landmarks:
-Honen-in Temple: A serene sanctuary just minutes from Ginkaku-ji.
-Komyo-in: Known as the "Rainbow Moss Garden," a peaceful escape 10 mins from Fushimi Inari.
-Matsunoo-taisha: Meet the deity of sake at this ancient, water-blessed shrine.
-Mikane Shrine: A golden gateway dedicated to prosperity and fortune.
-Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: Explore 1,200 unique stone statues—a hidden gem near the Bamboo Grove.
We will "season" the journey to fit your pace. Let’s make your Kyoto memories truly special!
Kyoto Daruma Art Experience – Paint Your Identity
Create your own original Daruma and turn it into a personal piece of art.
In this immersive Kyoto experience, you’ll paint freely, explore your creativity, and connect with a traditional Japanese symbol in a completely new way.
Highlights:
Modern art meets traditional Japanese culture
Unlimited creativity no rules, just expression
Authentic Kyoto machiya atmosphere
Relaxing, mindful, and fun activity
Take home:
A bold, one of a kind Daruma
A reflection of your identity and wishes
A story you can carry beyond Kyoto
Zen Meditation & Coffee Experience in a Traditional Kyoto Machiya
Start your day with tranquility at a traditional machiya café in Kyoto, where guided Zen meditation unfolds in a serene atmosphere. Under the guidance of a host trained in a Rinzai Zen Temple, this session provides an authentic introduction to Zen practices. Engage in mantra chanting, followed by a focused 20-minute zazen meditation, and wind down with casual conversations over a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Perfect for beginners, this intimate experience is limited to just four participants, ensuring personalized attention and a peaceful setting.
Kyoto Early Morning E Biking Tour Fushimi Inari Kiyomizu Temple
Ran by @guidemejapan on Instagram. Please check our Instagram for visual examples of our wonderful guides!
Whether you’re only in Kyoto for the morning or want to avoid the crowds of tourists, this early morning cycling tour of the city lets you experience the city at its most tranquil. After your sightseeing session, you will still have much of the afternoon and onwards to explore thanks to your early start. Also, since Kiyomizu-dera Temple is at the end of a long uphill, electric bicycles are very convenient for us to get there.
World Heritage Kyoto & Nara Uji Authentic Matcha Experience
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
Kyoto Gion Private Guided Photo Tour with Local Photographer
This is a unique private experience that combines both professional photography and guided sightseeing — something you don’t often find in Kyoto.
Led by a friendly local photographer who lives in Kyoto, you’ll visit not only the famous landmarks but also quiet backstreets and special locations known only to locals.
As we explore, you’ll learn about Kyoto’s history and culture in a relaxed and enjoyable way, while natural and beautiful moments are captured along the way. Upon request, I can also recommend well-known local restaurants and hidden bars loved by residents.
You will receive approximately 20 beautifully edited, high-resolution photos.
Turn your time in Kyoto into lifelong memories, beautifully preserved.
All edited, high-resolution photos will be carefully prepared and delivered within 3 days through the Tripadvisor messaging system.
Full Day Biking Tour Exploring the Best of Kyoto
For those short on time and high on energy, join us for a one day all-you-can-Kyoto bike tour!
Experience the tranquility of one of world's largest wooden buildings, learn about the history of Kyoto at the Imperial Palace Park, reflect on life at the stunning Golden Pavilion, enjoy a traditional sit-down lunch, capture the essence of Kyoto in the Gion geisha district and discover the majesty of the mighty Fushimi Shrine.
Our shop is a 2 minute walk from Kyoto central station, our groups are small, our bikes are top quality 'Giant' hybrids, and our guides are relaxed, bilingual, experienced and safe!
Sit back and let Cycle Kyoto show you around town!
* Must be 13+ to participate as a rider
Private Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour: Certified Expert & Inside Access
Escape the crowds of central Kyoto and discover a quieter side of the city in the historic sake district. Join a professional sake guide and enjoy a relaxed journey into one of Japan’s most important brewing regions.
Visit two carefully selected breweries chosen by a sake expert, representing both tradition and innovation.Step inside a historic brewery with nearly 400 years of history and feel the weight of centuries of craftsmanship. Then explore a small modern brewery where creativity and new ideas are shaping the future of sake.
Along the way, enjoy guided tastings of different styles of sake while learning about aromas, flavors, and brewing techniques from your sake expert.
In Kyoto — a city celebrated for its history, beauty, and artistic culture — this experience offers a deeper and more relaxing way to enjoy Japanese sake.
Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo, Temple, Monkey or Local Mountain Brewery
Experience the timeless charm of Arashiyama on this immersive journey through nature, culture, and tradition.
BAMBOO GROVE
Walk beneath the soaring bamboo of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and visit the sacred Nonomiya Shrine
OKOCHI SANSO GARDEN
Explore the elegant Okochi Sanso Garden, where matcha and other drinks are served, hot or cold, in its former tea house. The drinks are included in the tour.
TENRYUJI TEMPLE
Discover the Zen beauty of Tenryu-ji, Breathtaking zen buddhist temple that belongs to the branch of Rinzai.
Then, choose between OPTION A and OPTION B
OPTION A
Stroll along Arashiyama Shopping Street, grab a snack, admire the colorful Kimono Forest, cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views at Iwatayama Monkey Park.
OPTION B
Go back to the train station for a short ride through the mountain, and go for a lovely lunch among locals with zero tourists. Visit the prestigious Tanzan Brewery, with sake tasting included.
Arashiyama Hidden Gems: Walking Tour escaping crowds
Explore a quieter, more local Arashiyama on a relaxed walking tour.
This experience focuses on hidden paths, calm temples, scenic views, and local food—beyond the typical tourist route.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Arashiyama comfortably and thoughtfully, with a small group and a local guide.
My name is Yusuke. I designed this tour and guide it myself as a local Kyoto guide.
With experience guiding over 3,000 guests, I aim to help you enjoy a deeper and calmer Arashiyama.
For guests who choose the “The Tale of Genji” option:
Most of the places visited on this tour (except the bamboo forest) appear in The Tale of Genji.
If you are interested, I will explain the historical and literary context during the tour.
Both options visit the same locations.
The “The Tale of Genji” option simply adds deeper literary storytelling.
Naoshima Art Island Hassle-free Luxury Tour from Kyoto
Photos courtesy of:
- “Red Pumpkin” Yayoi Kusama,2006 Naoshima Miyanoura Port Square * No Reproduction
Explore the art island of Naoshima with this hassle-free, luxury day tour accompanied by an English-speaking attendant.
In a single day, you will have the opportunity to explore Naoshima’s premier highlights, including the Benesse House Museum, the Naoshima New Museum of Art, and the iconic Red Pumpkin, without worrying about a single logistical detail. The tour price includes all transportation, museum entrance fees and full English support from our attendant throughout the trip. Sit back and relax in our luxury vehicle as we escort you between attractions across the island.
- Complimentary alcoholic and soft drinks on board of our luxury bus
- Entrance fees for Naoshima museums included
- Round-trip Shinkansen (bullet train) tickets between Kyoto and Himeji
- Round-trip luxury bus transportation between Himeji and Naoshima
Kyoto: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Monkeys, Matcha & Temple Tour
Discover the timeless charm of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district on this immersive walking tour. Begin with a peaceful visit to the historic Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning Zen gardens, followed by a stroll through the enchanting Bamboo Grove. Step back in time at the tranquil Nonomiya Shrine before enjoying a refreshing cup of authentic matcha tea. Cross the scenic Togetsu-kyo Bridge, a beloved symbol of the area, and cap off your adventure with a short hike to Monkey Park Iwatayama, where playful macaques and sweeping views of Kyoto await. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and local flavor—all in one unforgettable day.
Kyoto Gion & Higashiyama Historical Walking Tour
Discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto on this immersive walking tour through the historic districts of Gion and Higashiyama. Led by an expert local guide, explore atmospheric lanes lined with traditional wooden machiya houses and uncover the stories behind Kyoto’s geisha culture, Buddhist traditions, and samurai-era history.
Visit landmarks such as Chion-in Temple, Maruyama Park, Yasaka Pagoda, and the preserved Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets. The tour concludes near the iconic Kiyomizu-dera, offering stunning views over the city.
Perfect for first-time visitors, this cultural walking tour brings Kyoto’s rich heritage to life beyond the guidebook.
Popular Sushi Making Class in Kyoto【Grand Opening】
This is an activity where even beginners can easily make nigiri sushi.
You will be able to experience making sushi using popular sushi ingredients such as tuna and salmon. It will be a once in a lifetime unique experience where you can learn about Japanese culture through traditional Japanese cuisine.
A sushi chef will carefully teach you how to make sushi.
Once you know how to make it, try making nigiri sushi yourself.
It's a very fun and meaningful experience where you can both experience making sushi and eating delicious sushi.
Please come and experience Japanese culture with us!
Children 3 years old and under are welcome to join for free by sharing a dish with an adult. As we need to prepare a seat in advance, please contact us before your visit if you are bringing a child who is 3 years old and under.
1 Hour Geisha Show in Kyoto
Watch a real Maiko perform up close—an extremely rare chance, as only about 40 remain in Kyoto today. The show includes two short dances (about 10 minutes total), followed by a Q&A, photo session, and a traditional Japanese game.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY BEFORE BOOKING⬇️
- The performer will be a MAIKO, not a GEISHA. A Maiko is a apprentice geisha, which means that she is training to become a geisha. She is a apprentice geisha, which we call a Maiko.
- Maiko performances are intentionally short to preserve the art, so she will NOT perform for the full hour.
- We offer two different tour options:
Tea House: held inside an authentic Kyo-Machiya.
Gion Theater: held in a dedicated showhouse.
Please check the photos before booking.
- We cannot have any late arrivals because of manners to other guests and to the geisha. If you are late, unfortunately we cannot provide a refund.
Kyoto Rickshaw Tour
Step into an authentic Japanese rickshaw for the ride of a lifetime, through some of the most scenic and historic districts in Kyoto, Japan. Explore the intriguing wooden buildings and stone alleys (maybe even spotting a geisha or two) in Kyoto’s famed Higashiyama area, all with a knowledgeable local guide and rickshaw driver. This authentic, customizable Kyoto adventure is a fun introduction to this beautiful city.
Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony with Scenic Garden Views
Welcome to a hidden gem in the historic kiyomizu Sannenzaka area.
This prestigious teahouse is located in the famous garden designed by Jihei Ogawa VII, one of Japan's foremost landscape architects.
Upon entering the traditional sanctuary, you will be guided through the enchanting grounds where every stone and plant tells a story. Here you will discover how this elegant ritual has captured the hearts and minds of people for over 500 years and shaped the cultural identity of Japan.
Watch in awe as a tea master demonstrates the elegant choreography of the tea ceremony, refined by centuries of practice.
Then, under gentle guidance, you will be taught how to make matcha tea, recreating the perfect froth of the bright green powder at home.
Before departing, leave this memorable experience with a photo shoot in a tranquil garden where the beauty of the four seasons will provide an iconic backdrop for your cultural adventure.
Kyoto Kintsugi Gold Repair Pottery Class
Discover the traditional Japanese art of kintsugi in this hands-on workshop in Kyoto. Kintsugi is the practice of repairing broken pottery using lacquer and gold, embracing imperfections and giving new life to damaged pieces.
In this beginner-friendly experience, you will learn the basic techniques of kintsugi while creating your own unique piece. All steps are carefully guided, making it easy to join even without prior experience.
A standard pottery piece is included, and guests can also upgrade to a wide selection of unique plates and bowls for an additional fee. The variety allows you to choose a piece that matches your personal style, making your final creation even more special.
During the workshop, your guide will also introduce the philosophy behind kintsugi, including the idea of finding beauty in imperfection, making the experience both creative and meaningful.
At the end of the session, you will take home your repaired piece as a one-of-a-kind souvenir from Japan.
Kyoto Lazy Bird Walking Tour
Kyoto is the most famous tourist destination in Japan with plenty of wonderful sights to see.
Here we offer a luxurious tour in the afternoon that enables you to visit three of the most iconic tourist attractions in Kyoto after spending a leisurely morning or getting rid of your jet-lag.
Soba Making & Tasting Experience in Uzumasa | Kyoto Soba DOJO
A Special Experience of Traditional Japanese Soba Making
Soba has been enjoyed in Japan since the Jomon period. In this hands-on experience, you will make, cut, and cook soba noodles yourself.
Exploring the different ways to enjoy soba is part of the fun. You can savor it cold and refreshing, warm and comforting, pair it with various condiments, or change up the dipping sauce—the possibilities are endless.
This is a rare opportunity to deeply connect with traditional Japanese cuisine—especially the unique flavor of dashi and soba.