Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto
Step into a traditional Kyoto machiya and experience ryurei, a formal Japanese tea ceremony performed in a graceful seated style. Discover the customs and etiquette that shape each stage of the ceremony, from the careful preparation of matcha to the thoughtful gestures that reflect Japan’s culture of hospitality. As you observe and take part in this time-honored tradition, gain a deeper understanding of the four core ideals of tea: harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. More than simply enjoying a bowl of matcha, this immersive experience offers a glimpse into the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty, mindfulness, and connection in everyday moments.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Likely to sell out
- Free cancellation
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
Duration: 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Osaka & Nara: Highlights Private English Guided Tour From Kyoto
Explore the highlights of Osaka and Nara on this customizable private day tour. Enjoy the flexibility of creating your own itinerary while being guided by an English-speaking driver. Visit iconic sites such as Nara Park, where friendly deer roam, and Osaka’s vibrant districts filled with shopping and dining options. This tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized experience, whether it's temples, modern attractions, or local cuisine. Enjoy the convenience of vehicle transport from your Kyoto hotel for a hassle-free day of discovery.
- Customize your itinerary for a personalized experience
- Visit highlights like Nara Park and the bustling areas of Osaka
- English-speaking driver ensures smooth communication and guidance
- Convenient pick-up from your accommodation in Kyoto included
Duration: 9–10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto Samurai Experience: Epic Photo & Cinematic Video Shoot
Wear authentic samurai armor used in films
Professional cinematic photo and video shooting
Use real samurai props like swords and bows
Outdoor filming in beautiful Japanese scenery
Guided poses and action scenes — no experience needed
A one-of-a-kind experience only available in Japan
Duration: 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto One-day Taxi Tour by an Ivy Leaguer Guide & Photographer
Your guide, Ai, is a Japanese government-certified English tour guide interpreter since 2015; an award-winning, magazine-covered photographer; and holds graduate degrees: MA in Japanese Pedagogy from Columbia U (Class of 2025) and MBA in tourism and hospitality management from Kyoto U (Class of 2020). After graduating from Columbia, she has taught Japanese language in higher education in the US mainland and is available in every summer and winter for tours in Japan.
Ai: This is a private, customizable tour by a luxury chauffeur-driven limousine that will visit UNESCO World Heritage sights-KinkakuJi Temple (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine (with thousands vermillion Torii gates).
For lunch and/or dinner, I will arrange the top-notch Tempura or Kobe Beef restaurant in Gion. The only additional cost on the tour day would be your meals.
Pick up and drop off at Kobe/Osaka Cruise Port, Kyoto Sta, and any hotels in Kyoto/Osaka/Kobe/Nara are available.
Duration: 4–6 hours
- Private tour
Kyoto Tour: Private Full-Day Iconic Highlights English Guide Van
Discover the heart of Japan on this unforgettable
Kyoto tour, where ancient kyoto temples, sacred shrines, and local cultural experience come together. Explore Kyoto's most iconic landmarks while learning the history, traditions, and daily life that make this city truly unique.
Walk through historic districts, visit renowned Kyoto temples and Shinto shrines, and experience authentic local culture with insights from a knowledgeable guide. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors and travelers who want a deeper understanding of Kyoto beyond the guidebooks.
Whether you choose a private or small-group experience, this Kyoto tour offers a relaxed pace, stunning photo opportunities, and meaningful cultural encounters - all in one seamless journey.
Duration: 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Discover Kyoto by Bike Full Day Tour
Discover Kyoto like a local—on two wheels! This immersive full-day bike tour blends famous landmarks like the Silver Pavilion and Gion with lesser-known gems such as HonenIn Garden and the charming alleys of Miyagawacho. Our small-group experience offers a relaxed pace, personal insights from a local guide, and plenty of photo stops along the way. You’ll explore quiet backstreets, historic shrines, and riverside paths that tour buses simply can’t reach. Perfect for those who want to see the real Kyoto beyond the guidebooks.
Duration: 7–8 hours
- Likely to sell out
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto Private Full-Day Highlights Tour by Car
Experience the enchanting beauty of Kyoto with our private guided tour. Visit Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Pagoda, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo forest, Golden Pavilion to experience about Kyoto's rich culture and traditions with 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.
Duration: 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Secrets of Ninjas X Samurais: Private History Tour to Iga & Koka
Were Ninjas real? Weren't they just fantastical characters on movies and manga??
Explore the birthplaces of Ninjas and find out the trues behind the mysterious shadow warriors in Japan's history
Visit Iga City, home of the famous Iga-School Ninja, and explore an authentic Ninja house with hidden gimmicks like flipping doors, secret passages, and hidden sword shelters installed
You will also visit a samurai castle and see the real armors and katana-swords used by historical Shoguns in real battles and learn everything about Samurais
As ninjas were originally from the mountains, all the ways we drive are surrounded by beautiful Japanese nature, get covered by cherryblossoms in spring and maple trees in Autumn, so you won't have time to blink
•Air-conditioned van, fully private
•Full-English guide with deep knowledge
•Variety of different types of vists, but all related to Ninja
Book now to reveal the secrets of ninjas and learn the spirits of Japan through ancient ninja's life!
Duration: 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Half Day Kimono and Tea Ceremony Experience in Kyoto
The kimonos we provide are from the personal collection of a certified kimono dresser. All of the kimonos are made from high-quality fabrics and feature elegant, traditional designs that align with Japanese aesthetics. After the kimono dresser helps you put on the kimono, you are free to explore and take photos outside. The nearest attractions to us are Daitoku-ji Temple and Kinkaku-ji Temple.
After your sightseeing, you will return to our tea room to participate in an authentic tea ceremony.
This will be an unforgettable experience that immerses you in Japanese traditional culture.
Guests who come to wear kimono at 9:00, please come back at 12:45. Guests who come to wear kimono at 10:00, please come back at 13:45.
Duration: 5 hours
- Free cancellation
Experience Kendo in Kyoto
Tomoyoshi, the instructor, will give you a short lecture on how the ancient swordsmanship of Samurai developed into Kendo. He will share the heroic stories of ancient Samurai including his great-grandfather, Yoshishige Hayashi. He will also share the controversial influence of Bushido values on this nation and his family into extremism, especially during the period of WW2. He will end his story on how redemption came and led him to the current inner peace and the life of a pacifist.
After the lecture, you will wear the full Kendo armor and learn the basic Kendo movements. In the end, you will get to do a Kendo match with each other. Upon completing the workshop, you will receive a beautifully designed “Certificate of Experience”.
If the date you want isn't available, please contact us to inquire about availability.
Duration: 2 hours
Explore Nishiki Market and Samurai Ninjya Museum PRIVATE Tour
Join our guided tour of Kyoto's top gourmet spots, where we'll introduce you to the charm of Kyoto cuisine.
First, let's explore the expansive and delicious Nishiki Market, known as the "Kitchen of Kyoto," with a history spanning 400 years. With over 100 shops lining its streets, you'll experience the rich culinary culture of Japan. Wander through the market with our guide and immerse yourself in Japanese food, culture, and history.
Next, we'll take you to a museum to delve deeper into the world of samurai and ninja. Marvel at the exhibits showcasing armor and Japanese swords actually used in the Sengoku period! We also offer experiences like shuriken throwing, a weapon of the ninja, ensuring you'll create wonderful memories during your time in Japan.
Duration: 3 hours
- Free cancellation
Himeji Castle and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Walking Tour from Kyoto
This tour allows you to enjoy both World Heritage Himeji Castle and Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Fondly called the "White Heron Castle", Himeji Castle takes pride in its rich history of 400 years. Experience the beauty of Japanese architecture and the ingenuity from the age of samurai. For lunch, savor a buffet prepared with local ingredients. Afterwards, visit Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the world's longest suspension bridges. From the Maiko Marine Promenade, take in the stunning scale of the bridge from up close, and behold the impressive sight of cars and boats passing by. Look forward to a satisfying tour brimming with history, modern architecture, the scenery of the sea, and gourmet cuisine.
Duration: 9 hr 30 min
- Likely to sell out
- Free cancellation
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.
Duration: 1 hour
- Free cancellation
Samurai Armor Photo & Cinematic Movie Experience in Kyoto
Highlights
Wear authentic-style Japanese samurai armor
Professional studio photo shoot
Cinematic samurai movie included
Pose with swords and samurai weapons
Dramatic lighting and special effects
Professional posing guidance
A unique souvenir from your trip to Kyoto
Duration: 1 hour
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto: Kurama Temple and Mountain Legends Guided Hike
This tour takes you beyond the typical Kyoto experience and into the heart of Mount Kurama, a sacred mountain rich with spiritual energy, ancient legends, and natural beauty. Unlike standard sightseeing tours, this journey blends culture, mythology, and nature in one unforgettable experience.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll visit Kurama-dera Temple, walk the mysterious Root Path through the forest, and reach the hidden Inner Sanctuary of the Demon King (Mao-den) — a site of unique spiritual belief found nowhere else in Japan.
You won’t just see the sights — you’ll feel the power of the mountain, learn the stories of samurai and Tengu spirits, and connect with Japan’s deep spiritual heritage.
This tour is perfect for travelers seeking more than just photos — it's a meaningful journey into the mystical soul of Kyoto.
Duration: 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
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.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
Departure Transfer from Kyoto to Itami Airport ITM by Minivan
Why spend your precious time waiting in long shuttle or taxi lines. Avoid the language barrier and currency exchange. Travel in style from your Hotel in Kyoto City Center to Itami International Airport ITM by private vehicle and reach your final destination relaxed and refreshed.
Duration: 50 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Save 5%
Kyoto Sake Tasting: Private Brewery Tour with Inside Access
Most Kyoto sake tours focus on a museum or tasting room. This private tour goes further with a reserved visit to Matsui Sake Brewery, a small working brewery founded in 1726, where guests can enter the actual production area when brewing conditions allow. Start in Fushimi at Gekkeikan, founded in 1637, then experience a very different side of Kyoto sake at Matsui and compare history, scale, brewing methods, and flavors.
Kampai Sake Tours has specialized in sake tours since 2017, with 1,000+ tours operated. Our team includes National Government Licensed Guide Interpreters, certified sake professionals, and even a former toji (sake brewmaster). Every guide completes rigorous KST training, so the experience is detailed enough for sake lovers but relaxed and easy to enjoy for beginners. All scheduled sake tastings and brewery admission fees are included.
Duration: 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto Arashiyama Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Nara Park Tour
Experience four of Japan's most celebrated destinations in one seamless day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. Visit the golden beauty of Kinkaku-ji, stroll through the picturesque landscapes of Arashiyama, walk beneath the endless vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, and meet the famous free-roaming deer at Nara Park.
This carefully planned itinerary combines Japan's most iconic temples, shrines, historic districts, and natural scenery while minimizing travel time, allowing you to experience the cultural highlights of both Kyoto and Nara in a single unforgettable journey. Enhance your day with an optional Kobe Beef Shabu-Shabu lunch for an authentic Japanese dining experience.
Perfect for first-time visitors, photographers, history enthusiasts, and families, this guided tour offers the ideal introduction to Japan's timeless traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and UNESCO heritage sites.
Book today and discover why Kyoto and Nara are among Japan's most unforgettable destinations.
Duration: 9–10 hours
- Free cancellation
Sushi Making Experience Luxury Course in Kyoto
1. Authentic Experience
Unlike standard sushi classes, this experience covers every step, from preparing rice to crafting perfect nigiri. You’ll use authentic tools and techniques under the guidance of skilled instructors.
2. Cultural Insight
Learn not only how to make sushi but also its cultural significance in Japan. It’s more than a cooking class—it’s an exploration of tradition.
3. Personalized Instruction
With small group sizes, you’ll receive guidance tailored to your skill level, whether you’re a beginner or experienced.
4. Hands-On Fun
Grate fresh wasabi, slice sushi-grade fish, and assemble sushi in an engaging, interactive environment.
5. Graduation Ceremony
Celebrate your achievements with a fun graduation ceremony and a certificate of completion.
6. Take-Home Skills
Learn techniques and recipes to make sushi at home, impressing friends and family.
7. Unique Setting
Held in the heart of Japan, this class offers an unforgettable cultural experience.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
Osaka Hotel Private Transfer to or from Kyoto Hotel
Whether you’re transferring from the modern cityscape of Osaka to the cultural charm of Kyoto, or heading the other way, this private one-way hotel-to-hotel transfer offers a smooth, stress-free ride in a comfortable 7 or 10 seater vehicle.
This service is available only for transfers between hotels in Kyoto and hotels in Osaka. Port and airport pick-up/drop-off services are not included.
Avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation with luggage, especially during peak hours or if you’re traveling with a group. Our professional driver will pick you up directly from your hotel or designated hotel location and take you directly to your destination without unnecessary stops or delays.
Duration: 2–4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto: Private Photoshoot Experience in Arashiyama Bamboo
Experience Arashiyama through a private photoshoot with a professional Kyoto photographer who knows how to capture the area’s most beautiful scenery and atmosphere. Explore iconic locations such as the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Togetsukyo Bridge, traditional streets, and riverside views while capturing natural, memorable portraits.
Enjoy natural posing guidance and a mix of authentic candid moments and beautifully composed photos, so you can relax and enjoy your experience. With flexible 1-hour to 6-hour private sessions, you can choose an experience that fits your itinerary and explore more scenic locations with longer sessions.
Perfect for couples, families, friends, solo travelers, and special occasions, this Arashiyama photography experience combines stunning Kyoto scenery with professional photography to create lasting memories of your trip.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Save 20%
Explore Kyoto Your Way – Personalized Private Walking Tour
Kyoto First-Time Visitor Private & Personalized Walking Tour
Explore Kyoto your way with a fully private and personalized walking tour designed around your interests, travel style, and schedule. Enjoy your own English-speaking private guide for approximately 8 hours, with assistance throughout the day.
How It Works
STEP 1: Share Your Interests
Tell us where you would like to go, what you would like to see, and any special requests.
STEP 2: Plan Your Day
We’ll create a draft itinerary based on your preferences and share it with you for review.
STEP 3: Finalize Your Itinerary
We’ll make adjustments based on your feedback and confirm your final plan.
STEP 4: Enjoy Kyoto Your Way
Your private guide will accompany you throughout the day and provide recommendations along the way.
The itinerary can be adjusted during the tour if time and circumstances allow. Overtime charges apply if the tour exceeds the scheduled duration.
Duration: 8 hours
- Private tour