Tea Ceremony Experience in Traditional Kyoto Townhouse
Recently matcha green tea has become popular all around the world. Matcha plays an important role in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. However, learning about Japanese tea ceremony means much more than just learning to make matcha.
Why was this a necessary practice of samurais and monks in times past? Why is the "ceremony" still carried on today? Come, step into the world of profound spirituality and set your soul free.
1. Introduction: You will learn the basic concepts and ideas of tea ceremony. You will also learn how to behave in a tea room and appreciate its decoration.
2. The Way of Tea: You will watch a demonstration of the way of tea. We think you will enjoy the quiet and serene atmosphere.
3. Hands-on: Make your own tea! We will tell you how to drink it, and also serve you a specially selected Japanese cake.
*Please arrive on time. We cannot allow latecomers to join a session once it has started.
*Please refrain from bringing children under the age of 6.
Kyoto night walk tour (Gion district)
Meeting up in front of the Minamiza Kabuki theatre. I will walk through the Gion traditional pass with you, with local insight.
Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Walking Tour
Join a tour by MagicalTrip, proud winner of the Tripadvisor Best of the Best Award. Each experience is led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity.
Explore Kyoto’s famous sake brewing district in Fushimi and visit the Kyoto Sake Museum to learn about the history of Gekkeikan and the traditional sake-making process through detailed exhibits. The tour introduces the variety and characteristics of sake brewed in this area, helping you understand differences in aroma and flavor unique to Fushimi, Kyoto.
After exploring the brewery area and nearby historical spots such as old liquor shops and Teradaya, the tour concludes with a visit to a local shrine, where you can refresh yourself with pure Japanese groundwater and reflect on the experience.
This small-group tour is operated by Magical Trip, a trusted local company recognized with TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence.
Sushi - Authentic Japanese Cooking Class - the best souvenir from Kyoto!
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!
Gion Nocturno: Secretos y Leyendas de las Geishas
Descubra la magia de Gion como pocos lo hacen
Durante el día, Gion, el legendario distrito de geishas de Kioto, se llena de turistas y cámaras, haciendo difícil apreciar su verdadera esencia. Este tour nocturno a pie ha sido diseñado para quienes buscan algo diferente: un recorrido íntimo, en grupo reducido, por las elegantes calles de Gion cuando cae la noche y la multitud desaparece.
✨ Por qué este tour es especial:
Descubra el mundo secreto de las geishas en su ambiente real.
Disfrute de la calma de Gion después del anochecer, cuando la magia se siente en cada rincón.
Viva una experiencia más cercana y personalizada en un grupo pequeño (máximo 15 personas).
Atrévase a conocer la cara más genuina de Gion en una noche que, sin duda, guardará en su memoria.
Luxury Kyoto 1-Day Private Car Tour with Nara & Osaka Options
This private tours are all for yours!
Discover the best of Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara with an ultimate VIP service with inclusion of hotel pickup and drop off.
Visit iconic sites such as the Golden Pavilion, Fushimi Inari’s Tori Gates, Arashiyama Bamboo, and Deer Park with its Great Buddha.
Flexible itineraries are available from Kyoto, Osaka, or Nara depending on your preference.
・Going with our itinerary or your plan is your choice! We're very flexible.
・Save time and check out lots of Kyoto highlights in a day
・A private tour ensures a more personalized experience
・Help you out exploring hidden gems area for fun
・Professional level photographers just for you
(Note: Guests are responsible for own and guide's meals and the admission fees at each site.
Luxury vehicles might vary depends on availability but guarantee with comfortable space and utilities.
All tours expected from 2 people but 1 person is allow with 30,000 yen extra fees before starting the trip.)
Kyoto Arashiyama Tour: Iconic Sights and Hidden Treasures
Discover Arashiyama beyond the usual crowds on this small-group walking tour. While you'll still visit iconic sights like the Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge, your guide will also lead you to hidden temples rich in history, traditional villages, and scenic local spots that many visitors miss. This tour is designed to be both photo-worthy and culturally enriching, giving you a deeper connection to Kyoto's timeless beauty.
・Visit the famous Bamboo Forest and Togetsukyo Bridge
・Explore hidden temples rich in history and authentic village streets
・Capture postcard-perfect photos of seasonal landscapes and cultural heritage sites
・Learn cultural stories and insights from a knowledgeable local guide
・Enjoy a small-group tour for a relaxed and personal experience
Traditional Tea Ceremony with Matcha and Sweets in Kyoto
Our tea ceremony experience is designed to be welcoming, approachable, and meaningful. While the traditional tea ceremony is often seen as formal and solemn, we aim to share its beauty in a comfortable and accessible way. Guests enjoy the experience seated on chairs, allowing anyone—including those unfamiliar with floor seating or with limited mobility—to participate with ease.
Throughout the session, you will explore the history of tea in Japan, learn how Zen philosophy shaped the heart of the tea ceremony, and observe authentic techniques performed up close by a tea master, allowing you to appreciate the subtlety and refinement of this art.
In the second half, you will savor carefully selected traditional sweets from long-established artisans and make your own bowl of matcha using premium tea sourced from a family-run farm. We conclude with a Q&A session to deepen your understanding.
We hope this experience becomes the beginning of your journey into Japanese tea culture.
Beyond Classic Kyoto: A Tailored Private E-bike Tour
#The Kyoto Privilege: Glide with a Local Friend
Founded by Kiyoto—a local with 40 years of roots—our hand-picked, energetic team brings a fresh vibe to tradition. We aren’t just lecturers; we’re hospitality-trained local friends and skilled photographers. On our premium E-bikes, we skip the crowds to explore hidden backstreets and authentic spots tourists rarely see.
#Full Day Tour Sample
- Hidden Gems: Discover quiet neighborhoods and authentic local shops.
- Iconic Landmarks: Marvel at Heian Jingu and the majestic Nanzen-ji.
- Nature & Spirit: Glide through the Philosopher’s Path and Shimogamo’s ancient forest.
- Historic Finale: Zip to Fushimi Inari’s red gates and the lantern-lit streets of Gion.
#Your Ride, Your Way
Choose from 4, 6, or 8 hours to fit your private needs. We also offer seamless port/airport transfer options for your ultimate comfort. At Tasty Tours Japan, we "season" every journey to fit your pace.
Let’s produce your best Kyoto memories together!
Historical Kyoto E-Bike Tour
Your journey through the illustrious lanes of Kyoto demands perfection. Providing these crucial details ensures that the canvas of your experience is painted without a single brush out of place. Before starting the tour, you will be fitted for a helmet, given a bike, and ready for the tour on two wheels.
We believe that cycling is the best way to truly immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Kyoto. Our knowledgeable and friendly guides will lead you through the most picturesque streets and hidden gems, sharing fascinating stories and historical insights along the way. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. We provide well-maintained bicycles and safety equipment, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride Our group sizes are small, allowing for a personalized and intimate experience.
Private Art Sushi Roll Class in Kyoto
Discover the beauty of Kazarimaki, also known as Art Sushi Rolls in English. Guided by a professional instructor from the prestigious Tokyo Sushi Academy, our teacher is a Kyoto native and a proud member of the Japan Sushi Instructor Association.
In this class, you’ll craft and savor a stunning sushi roll featuring a fantastic peach-blossom pattern—a true masterpiece of traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern artistic twist.
Kyoto Shogun Cycling Tour
Embark on a cycling adventure that takes you back to the era of the Shoguns. Pedal through the historic streets of Kyoto and uncover its majestic past on this easy downhill route suitable for everyone.
The Golden Pavilion Temple is one of the most iconic sites in Kyoto and lined with gold, it was once the centre of government for the Ashikaga Shoguns.
Cycle on to the tranquil Toji-in Temple, the resting place of the Ashikaga. Immerse yourself in the quintessential Japanese aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi - a form of Zen minimalism. Take a moment in the temple hall, where Zen masters once would have contemplated the world, gazing at the groomed garden and the quaint teahouse.
Nijo Castle is a magnificent fortress that signified the beginning of the end of the Shogun era. Serving as the residence in Kyoto for the final Shoguns it was the scene of many a historical event that shaped the Japan's destiny.
Join us for a cycling tour that blends history, culture and the breathtaking city of Kyoto.
Nara Early Morning Tour (Kyoto or Osaka Departure Available)
Nara becomes extremely crowded in the afternoon, making photos difficult. In our tour, we visit the main sites—Kofuku-ji, Todaiji, Nara Park, and Kasuga Grand Shrine—before the crowds arrive.
⬇︎PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY⬇︎
* Please arrive 10 minutes early. Late guests cannot be accepted and no refunds will be given.
* For the Kyoto/Osaka Station Pickup option: the one-way train fare to Nara is included. The return ticket is not included.
*This tour has up to 12 guests.
*In this tour, we will walk about 10,000 steps. (stairs and hills included)
*We will be using the public train (not a private vehicle) to go from Kyoto/Osaka to Nara which each takes around 1 hour.
* Tour duration:
– Kyoto/Osaka Departure: 4.5 hours
– Kintetsu Nara Station Meeting: 3.5 hours
Please provide a phone number that is reachable in Japan and on WhatsApp so that we have a smooth interaction before the tour date. Travel agents must enter the guest’s phone number, not the agency’s.
Kyoto 6hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Temples, shrines, and tea ceremonies. The traditions of ancient Japan are still alive and well in the old capitol, Kyoto. Walking around this beautiful city can feel like you are in a time machine as its architecture has been preserved for centuries. Kiyomizu Temple towers over the historical Gion district, famous for its rich history of geisha. There is much history in this city that you don’t want to miss so book our Government Licensed and Experienced English-speaking guides for a walking tour of Kyoto!
Once your reservation is made, a guide will be in touch to plan your personalized tour. Choose 3 to 4 spots that you wish to visit and your guide will plan a personalized itinerary. If you do not know where to visit, ask the guide to send you their recommended itinerary based on your interests. Whether you are a history buff, love the beauty of old Japanese architecture, or just want to enjoy a green tea parfait, Kyoto has something for you!
Bike Tour Exploring North Kyoto plus Lunch
Combine the fun and freedom of cycling with the discovery of a new city as we explore Kyoto's best known site alongside some of our own favourite secrets!
Navigate the backstreets with a friendly, bilingual and experienced guide, explore local shrines and grand temples, quaint shopping arcades and riverside paths while learning about the sites you visit in a light, interesting and fun way.
Cycle on high quality 'Trek' and 'Giant' hybrid bikes, sample an authentic and delicious lunch and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Japan's ancient capital.
* Must be 13+ to participate as a rider
Izakaya Style Cooking Class
Japanese food is more than just sushi and teriyaki chicken. In fact, it’s a very diverse and delicious cuisine. Consider ‘Izakaya,’ a style of dining that is comparable to pub or bar food. Now you can learn how to cook traditional Izakaya-style dishes in Kyoto. This 3-hour class shows you how to make five or six Japanese dishes. And, best of all, when you pack up your knives and turn off the burners, you eat what you just cooked.
Discover Kyoto at Night by Bike
Imagine exploring the historic streets of Kyoto under the soft glow of lanterns and moonlight, with the gentle sound of your bicycle wheels accompanying you.
Our Nighttime Bicycle Tour offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the city's beaty, culture, and charm after sunset.
Escape the crowds.
Our bilingual guides are passionate about Kyoto's history, culture and traditions. They'll share fascinating stories and insider tips to help you truly connect with the city.
Kyoto and Nara Private Car Tour with a Local English Guide Driver
With an experienced local guide fluent in both English and Japanese (with previous experience guiding Hollywood actors, Lance Gross!)
All of our members were born and raised in Japan, so we have an in-depth understanding of the country. This allows us to share the hidden charms of Japan that only locals know. In addition, we offer free Japanese language support in case of emergencies.
In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in accidents and incidents involving unlicensed or inexperienced drivers who are not from Japan at other companies. Our strength lies in providing the highest level of safety and reliability through our Japanese drivers and Japanese guides.
In addition to hands-on activities such as ninja training and chopstick-making, our strong local connections grant access to exclusive experiences — including invitations-only Ochaya and private geisha or maiko performances.
(We are a Guide Service Company)
Private Cooking Class Udon in Kyoto Japan
We are located in the heart of Kyoto, just a 12-minute walk from Kyoto Station and a 2-minute walk from Nishi Honganji Temple. Our facility is a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese house that dates back 130 years. We have transformed it into a classroom where we provide an authentic Japanese cultural experience for overseas visitors to Japan, aiming to offer a genuine taste of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage.
Inside the historic house, you will find a majority of antique furniture and artifacts that are over 110 years old. With this setting, along with traditional Japanese music, we strive to create an immersive cultural experience that takes you back to Kyoto as it was 130 years ago.
Our teachers are all local to Kyoto and possess a deep understanding of Japanese culture. They are passionate about sharing their knowledge and providing you with an enriching experience.
A Unique Antique Kimono and Tea ceremony Experience in English
Enjoy an authentic Japanese tea ceremony while wearing a rare antique kimono at a kimono shop with over 120 years of history. This refined cultural experience allows you to immerse yourself in the Japanese spirit of “Omotenashi “(hospitality) and traditional aesthetics that have been cherished for generations.
English guidance is available, making this experience accessible and enjoyable for international guests.
Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas & Traditions Private Tour
To truly experience a city, you must deep dive into its culture, and there's no better cultural tradition to explore in Kyoto than through geishas and their traditions.
On this private tour, get a cultural awakening as you learn more about geishas and the traditions and why this is such a unique part of the city's character. Learn from its history to the present influence that still lingers in Kyoto as you visit the Minamiza Theatre, Maruyama park and more. Thanks to this cultural experience, you'll be able to see Kyoto from a different perspective - the way the locals live it every day!
Withlocals Treasures of Kyoto 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 products and preventing over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.
Kyoto Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience in Ankoan
We extend a warm welcome to you! To begin, let us enjoy a cup of welcome tea and engage in conversation. We understand that the journey from your hotel to the studio may have been long, so please take this opportunity to relax. After then, we have a little understanding of the tea in Japan and other areas through our explanation about the specific parts of the idea and manners of the Japanese tea ceremony, we should start to see the tea master's tea ceremony demonstration. Then, you also model her and experience the most essential part of the tea ceremony procedure, which involves internalizing the key concepts of the tea ceremony and preparing Matcha. Once prepared, your tea will be tasted by others, creating a harmonious and pure tea space. We hope you will enjoy this unique and cultural experience.
Let's make Japanese accessories with Mizuhiki
This activity is very popular these days.
It is a light and solid string because it is winding a thin twisted paper with thread. Let's knit this string and make accessories and ornaments.
For example, straps of strawberries, floral hair ornaments, cute earrings and mini baskets.Once you start making it, you will concentrate on it, so you can finally relax with Matcha and sweets.
PERFECT KYOTO 1-Day Bus Tour
Discover Kyoto's must-see landmarks and World Heritages with our coach tour in only one day!
First adventure starts from Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, enjoying the wealthy nature from the significant terrace. Then say Konnichiwa to one thousand and one Kannon statue at Sanju-San-Gen-Do Temple, then the coach will take you to the most iconic place, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Going under thousands of Torii Red gate tunnels will be a memorable experience. Don’t forget to explore green tunnels, Sagano Bamboo Forest and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Tour includes buffet lunch.
・Discover Kyoto’s must-see landmarks and World Heritages on this full-day coach tour efficiently
・A Professional English-speaking guide attend this tour
・Additionally, multilingual audio guidance is available in EN, FR, IT, ES, TH, ID, UK
・Must try this mystical experience going under thousands of iconic Torii Red gate at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
・Visit the gorgeous golden temple
・Enjoy strolling at Sagano Bamboo Forest