Kyoto. Nijo Castle, Imperial Palace, Fushimi Inari. Private Tour.
Explore the rich history of Kyoto with an experienced guide licensed by the city of Kyoto. I will give you a unique insight into the intrigues of the samurai, the feudal lords, and the power of the Shogun.
Experience an authentic journey back in time, diving into the reality of Japan's history, free from Hollywood embellishments.
I use an iPad as a visual aid, allowing you to better appreciate the historical context as we uncover the events that shaped Kyoto.
At the end of the tour, you will not only have a deep understanding of the history of Kyoto and Japan but also receive an itinerary of nearby places to further enrich your travel experience.
Kyoto : Okada Tea Ceremony & Kimono
Choose your kimono and get dressed with simple hairstyling (1–1.5 hrs)
Join a 1-hour tea ceremony: learn tea culture, enjoy matcha & sweets
Keep the kimono until 6:00 PM to explore and stroll nearby
A memorable way to enjoy Japanese tradition.
Private photo shoot & walk in Kyoto - Professional photo shoot
Private photo shoot. Choose your favorite location and leave the photos to me! Professional photos by a photographer with over 8 years of living in Kyoto, who knows all the secret spots, hidden streets and with techniques to avoid crowds.
Only photo shoot in Kyoto that includes:
All photo data!
25 photos selected by me and edited.
Digitally sent by Google Drive.
Kyoto: Descending Arashiyama (Private)
Get away from the crowds and spend a wonderful day in Arashiyama which will undoubtedly stand out in your mind as you think back to your time here in Kyoto.
We begin with a morning stroll through the lush garden of one of Japan’s first Zen temples dating back over 1,000 years. We then head into the foothills and as we peacefully stroll back to town we visit twelve hundred stone Buddhas on a hillside, an Edo period cafe, an ancient burial ground, a temple founded by two former geisha, a working pottery studio, the villa of a silent film actor, a majestic bamboo grove, and the "shrine of love'. All this as we browse shops filled with handmade goods and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch.
Important Note: Each guest is required to bring an additional 5,500 yen (cash) for admission tickets and lunch.
Private Koto Lesson in Kyoto with a Professional Koto Performer
Owner is a professional Koto performer, so you can learn from expert instructors. Here you can experience playing the koto, which is a traditional Japanese instrument and indispensable for formal ceremonies in Japan. A professional player of koto will teach you how to play the koto. We will teach you to play “Sakura“. Everyone from 3 years old to elderly people can play, so we encourage you to experience this with your family together. Equipment necessary for lessons, such as musical instruments and music notation are all available.
Kyoto Dark History Tour: Curses, Yōkai, & Beautiful Hidden Kyoto
Leave crowded Gion behind and uncover Kyoto’s true dark history through yokai legends, ancient curses and atmospheric hidden sites rarely visited by tourists.
- Adult-only tour focused on Kyoto’s supernatural folklore and history
- Discover yokai legends, spirit control, and ancient rituals
- Visit significant sites related to Japan's dark history and beliefs
Kyoto Ramen Tour: Choose Your Own Shops
Explore Kyoto's ramen scene on this guided tour! Taste both classic and modern ramen and get a better understanding of the wonderful world of ramen with our expert guide.
You'll visit two ramen shops for two wildly different bowls of ramen — one classic Kyoto-style, one more modern, each served in smaller portions so you can enjoy both without overdoing it. At the beginning of the tour, you'll sit down with your guide over a cup of coffee or tea to talk through Kyoto's ramen origins and the route you'll be taking — the shops you'll be visiting along the way.
Note: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options may be available, but cannot be guaranteed on shared group tours. Feel free to contact us in advance to discuss your needs.
Private Authentic Matcha Tea Ceremony in a Kyoto Tea Room
Experience an authentic private matcha tea ceremony in a traditional Kyoto tea room, guided in the spirit of omotenashi—Japan’s philosophy of wholehearted hospitality.
Hosted by a Kyoto local from a kimono family, this is not a demonstration, but a quiet and personal cultural experience.
Inside a real tea room, you will observe the careful preparation of matcha and learn the meaning behind each movement, tool, and gesture. Every element reflects centuries of tradition and the intention to create harmony between host and guest.
You will be welcomed as a guest and served matcha and traditional Japanese sweets, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of a genuine tea gathering.
This fully private experience offers a rare opportunity to step away from the crowds and encounter the living culture of Kyoto in an intimate and meaningful way.
Nara: Half-Day Private Tour of 4 Must-See Spots & Deer Park
Embark on a half-day tour of Nara’s rich heritage. Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and interact with the sacred wild deer of Nara Park, believed to be divine messengers for over 1,200 years.
Your tour starts with Kofuku-ji Temple, known for its five-story pagoda, then continues to Todai-ji Temple, where you’ll see the awe-inspiring Great Buddha statue. Your guide will share stories about these historic sites and Japanese Buddhism.
Next, enjoy panoramic views from Nigetsu-do Temple, and walk to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, famous for its lanterns and deer. After exploring Nara Park, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. End the tour with a visit to a traditional old town, contrasting modern Tokyo, and see a merchant’s house to experience Nara’s past.
This tour offers a unique mix of culture, nature, and history in Nara.
Tattoo-Friendly Japanese Bathing Culture Tour at Funaoka Onsen
Looking for a truly authentic Japanese experience beyond the typical tourist spots? Join us for a unique cultural journey into the heart of Japan’s bathing tradition!
Just like the tea ceremony, bathing in Japan is a deeply rooted cultural ritual. But how do you bathe the Japanese way? What are the dos and don’ts? Our bathing specialists will guide you through the fascinating etiquette and health benefits of Japanese baths—and then you’ll get to try it for yourself!
What to Expect:
Start at a one-of-a-kind cafe—a cozy space that was once a public bathhouse ! Here, you’ll learn the history and meaning behind Japanese bathing culture, complete with a take-home guide to proper bathing techniques.
Then soak like a local at the legendary Funaoka Onsen, a beautifully preserved bathhouse loved by Kyoto residents for generations.
✨ Why Join?
A chance to experience Japanese culture with all five senses.
Great for travelers interested in wellness, mindfulness, and local traditions.
Sushi or Traditional Japanese Cuisine in a Kyoto Home with Emika
Meet Emika at her home for a regional culinary experience that will start with a freshly made cup of traditional matcha green tea prepared by Emika or her father. You will then sit down together around a dining table to share a traditional Obanzai meal over fun conversation. Your Japanese meal may include dishes such as oshi (pressed) sushi or nigiri sushi (hand-formed), miso soup, rice, traditional Obanzai side dishes, and a sweet that goes well with matcha. Emika's family owns an organic vegetable field where she harvests most of the vegetables that she uses in her cooking. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer variety of daikon radishes grown on their farm!
Join Emika and enjoy an authentic Japanese meal with a lovely local!
Kyoto Private Vegan Cooking : Shojin Ryori with a Local Host
You can have an Kyoto specific culinary experience in this class.
Japan has a long history of vegan cuisine which developed at Buddhist temples. Since killing animals is strictly prohibited in Buddhism, so all the dishes generally don’t contain any animal products such as meat and fish. It's very healthy and well-balanced cuisine featuring seasonal vegetables, soybeans(tofu), grains, seaweed or many fermented foods.
We make a variety of dishes inspired by classic Buddhist cooking with modern twists. These delicious dishes make the most of the original taste of local ingredients. It's not difficult to cook at all but you will find the delicacy of Japanese cuisine in every detail of the dish. I'm sure you can enjoy Japanese authentic cooking which you are not be able to taste in the restaurant.
Kyoto VIP Experience: Private Luxury Tour with Chauffeur
A fully customized experience for those who are used to the best of the very best. We go out of our way to make your day in Kyoto a very special one indeed. The itinerary in the description is just an idea. Upon booking, you will receive a questionnaire and then once we learn what really makes you tick as a traveller we get to work on planning the perfect day for you and those special to you.
This tour includes entrance fees for up to two gardens and transportation by taxi from place to place including hotel pick up and drop off. Options for upgrades to private transportation with chauffeured vehicle will be sent upon booking and confirmed based on availability.
Cool Down in Kyoto : Traditional Incense Making Experience
Create your own original Japanese incense in a traditional Kyoto setting.
In this hands on experience, you will blend natural fragrance ingredients to design a scent that reflects your personal taste and mood.
Incense has been part of Japanese culture for centuries, known as “Kodo” the Way of Incense.
Through this experience, you will not only create your own incense but also discover the cultural meaning and beauty behind it.
What makes this experience special:
Blend over 7 natural fragrance ingredients
Add your favorite aroma oil to create a unique scent
No rules design a fragrance that reflects you
Experience it inside a traditional Kyoto machiya
Relaxing and sensory experience for all travelers
What you get:
- Your own handmade incense sticks
- A one of a kind scent you created yourself
- A meaningful and memorable Kyoto souvenir
Kyoto Early Bird Tour in Uji and Fushimi Inari
Ran by @guidemejapan on Instagram. Please check our Instagram for visual examples of our wonderful guides!
Start your morning with the magic of Kyoto—before the crowds arrive. This small-group tour (max 8 people) takes you on a peaceful journey through Fushimi Inari’s famous thousand torii gates, the stunning Byodoin Temple from the 10 yen coin, and Ujigami Shrine, Japan’s oldest. It’s the perfect blend of iconic sights and hidden gems, led by a local English-speaking guide who brings each place to life. Quiet, authentic, unforgettable.
Craft Your Own Ninja Weapon with Shōgun Mask Workshop in Kyoto
Step into the world of ninja craftsmanship in Kyoto and forge your own authentic ninja weapon using traditional Japanese tin casting techniques. In this immersive workshop, you will melt, cast, cool, and finish real metal under the guidance of experienced craftsmen. It offers a rare chance to work hands-on with time-honored methods used in Japanese metalwork.
This Experience is designed to be approachable for beginners and families alike, allowing participants to enjoy the magic of crafting without any prior skills.
Children age 5 and above are welcome to participate. The experienced staff provide full step-by-step support through the entire process, ensuring that both kids and adults can comfortably enjoy the activity, and safely experience the excitement of the melting and molding process.
Whether you are visiting with family, friends,or as a couple, this activity offers a memorable way to create something meaningful with your own hands.
Kyoto 6h Private Tour Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu, Gion & Hidden Gems
If you have only a half day and want to optimize your experience in Kyoto, this tour is the best for you.
7 must-see spots in east and south of Kyoto, including one hidden gem!!
A professional local guide shows you the most comfortable and convenient way to the spots.
You can enjoy walking along with the beautiful sceneries, paths, and back alleys that only the local people know. Please enjoy the top 7 spots with the beautiful stories of your guide.
*This tour uses both taxis and public transportation to save your time and energy.
*We also welcome Japanese who are studying English and want to visit top 7 must-see points in Kyoto.
Katana Shopping with Professional Guidance in Kyoto
Unlike typical sword shops, this shopping experience offers direct access to a dojo where real Kenjutsu is practiced and taught.
You’ll be guided by a martial arts expert and assisted by Let's ask Shogo, a popular YouTuber with over 1.8 million followers and 10+ years of Iai (katana budo) experience.
The katana you’ll see are hand-selected by a master—some crafted over 600 years ago.
Whether you’re a collector, martial artist, or simply fascinated by samurai culture, this is a rare chance to discover a katana with true soul and history.
Upon confirmation of your booking, we will send you crucial details about the experience. A reply is strictly required.
*This experience is strictly intended for those who are seriously considering purchasing a Japanese katana. Please do not book a session if your only purpose is to meet Shogo or simply to look at katanas.
Calligraphy & Digital Art Workshop in Kyoto
Have you ever tried Japanese calligraphy or Japanese picture letters on iPad?
As part of this workshop, you will be introduced to both traditional and digital calligraphy as well as how to make Japanese picture letters called Etegami, in a traditional setting.Come experience an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind art experience, whether you are traveling alone, with friends, or with your family!This workshop is led by Ami and her team of professional artists and creators.
About Ami
・ Studied digital art in the UK
・Her Youtube channel named amity_sensei, introduces creative uses of iPad, which currently has over 340,000 subscribers
・Founded Japan's first creative school in 2020 called iPadmate kids, helping kids unlock their creative potential through iPad
Check our studio's video!
We are all looking forward to meeting you here in Kyoto!
Kyoto: Paint Your Own Ramen Bowl & Michelin Ramen Class
We will teach you how to make Michelin-starred ramen and the recipes.
We are a ramen workshop in Kyoto and the only ramen shop we operate. Musoshin Ramen has six stores around the world.
This is the only ramen workshop in Kyoto run by a ramen restaurant, and our classes have many vegetarian and vegan customers.
The ingredients for the ramen you cook are brought from the nearby Musoshin Gion store.
They are the ingredients for ramen made by the chef the day before.
We want people all over the world to eat our ramen. And we want to spread the culture of delicious ramen from here to the world.
With that thought in mind, we created Musoshin Ramen Academy.
Kyoto Cultural IKEBANA Experience@節華
During the IKEBANA workshop, you'll create your own masterpiece, guided by our instructors. Your artwork will be displayed in a tokonoma (alcove) in a traditional Japanese room and you can take a photo.
We also offer a service to deliver your artwork to your hotel,so you can enjoy own IKEBANA experience during your stay. After you checkout,we will pick it up
Our style is based on classical IKEBANA forms and focuses on bringing out the beauty of the flowers and branches while respecting their natural state. To achieve this, you will experience the Japanese aesthetic of "wabi-sabi" in a session with our instructor, awakening your primal senses.
Anime Tour Kyoto: ONE PIECE & Arashiyama Bamboo
Live the ONE PIECE saga! Hunt for crew names, face the Twin Dragons, and claim your ultimate treasure: a personalized "WANTED" poster with YOUR face and bounty! Become a legend in Kyoto.
Kyoto Private Tea Ceremony at a Japanese Inns
Step into a quiet evening in Kyoto.
While many famous sightseeing spots close at night,
this experience offers a rare opportunity to enjoy Japanese culture in a private setting.
Inside a historic ryokan, a special tea setting is carefully arranged in a spacious 20-tatami room, illuminated by traditional Japanese candles.
In this unique space, you will experience authentic kimono, tea ceremony, Zen meditation, and traditional Japanese culture — all in one evening.
This experience takes place in a room that is usually not open to the public.
This is a fully private experience, prepared exclusively for you.
We use a translation device to communicate in your preferred language, allowing smooth and comfortable interaction.
This is not a group activity, but a carefully prepared private cultural experience.
Nerikiri and Matcha Making Class in Kyoto
I will explain and demonstrate how to make each design step by step. This class is for suitable for someone who wants to have a unique experience, and also someone who wants to seriously learn the techniques and improve their skills for future use.