The Way of Tea: Kyoto Crafts, Hidden Temples & Wabi-Sabi Walk
Discover the beauty of Japanese tea culture beyond a simple matcha tasting on this immersive cultural walking tour in Kyoto. Visit historic temples, artisan shops, and hidden Zen spots while learning the philosophy, history, and aesthetics behind the tea ceremony.
Begin at Kennin-ji Temple, the birthplace of matcha culture in Japan, where you’ll explore how tea influenced Zen Buddhism and Kyoto’s traditions. Then stop by a specialty shop for tea ceremony tools such as bamboo whisks and raku teacups.
Next, step into a quiet hidden Zen temple to experience Kyoto’s peaceful side, with moss gardens, stone paths, and the timeless beauty of Wabi-Sabi aesthetics. The tour concludes with an authentic tea ceremony, enjoying a carefully prepared bowl of matcha guided by the philosophy of ichi-go ichi-e—“one chance, one encounter.”
Located near Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine, this experience fits perfectly into your Kyoto sightseeing plans.
Private Nishiki Market Food & Sake Tour by Young Local Guides
Enjoy a private street food and sake tour of Nishiki Market, guided by local student guides who share Kyoto’s food culture from a fresh, local perspective.
The tour starts at Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, a small shrine at the entrance of the market dedicated to the god of learning. After a brief introduction and purification ritual, head into the lively market streets.
Walk through Nishiki Market and eat like a local, tasting favorites such as grilled seafood, yuba (tofu skin), rolled omelet, and Kyoto pickles. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, along with traditional sweets like mochi, wagashi, and matcha desserts.
You’ll also sample Kyoto-made sake at a local shop, learning about different styles and flavors. End the tour with time to shop for popular foodie souvenirs, including matcha snacks, condiments, and small sake bottles—perfect gifts to take home.
Hammer Pattering Experience of Ring
Experience making hand made rings by hammering the texture using
the japanese traditional style called "Tankin". You Will choose your
favorite material, thickness, shape and texture. Then, using special
hammers and tools by customizing your own ring. lt will takes around
60 minutes for the whole prosess. Staff will carefully explain the prosess
and will help you taking commemorative photo. Highly recommended
for a good quality gift and souvenir. Embrace your creativity and enjoy
our unique experience in japan.
Authentic Ninja Weapon Forging Experience in Kyoto
Highlights of This Exclusive Ninja Experience
•Forge a real ninja weapon—only available here.
Heat, hammer, and shape glowing steel under the guidance of skilled craftsmen.
•Choose authentic ninja tools.
Create one of three shuriken types or a kunai—rarely offered to visitors.
•Feel the thrill of real forging.
Sparks fly and steel transforms as your weapon takes shape.
•Learn the hidden stories behind ninja weapons.
Discover the history and traditions that made these tools legendary.
•Craft in an immersive, atmospheric studio.
A perfect setting for unforgettable photos and a true ninja-world experience.
Kyoto tour with English Speaking Chauffeur
Embark on a personalized adventure through the captivating city of Kyoto with our customizable sightseeing tour featuring a private driver! Create your own dream itinerary or seek recommendations from our experienced driver as you explore the city's most alluring attractions.
Whether you're drawn to the serenity of ancient temples, the buzz of local markets, or the elegance of Japanese traditions, our tour ensures you get the most out of your day in Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and cultural charm, all from the comfort of your private vehicle.
Worried about traffic delays? Relax! We provide extra time at no additional cost, ensuring you have the flexibility to enjoy each stop. Our private driver offers a hassle-free experience, allowing you to explore Kyoto at your own pace. Uncover the magic of Kyoto's streets, where every turn reveals a new facet of Japan's vibrant culture. Your personalized Kyoto adventure awaits!
Private Kyoto Tour: Temples, Hidden Alleys & Local Stories
Experience Kyoto with a private walking tour shaped around your interests and pace.
This experience combines Kyoto’s most iconic sights with quieter local corners, creating a day that feels both reassuring and personal. You may explore well-known places such as Gion, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Ginkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto Tower, or Togetsu-kyō Bridge, alongside lesser-known neighbourhoods and spots chosen around what interests you most.
Before you meet, you'll receive a short Personalization Form so we can tailor the experience to your interests and pair you with a licensed local guide. The true luxury is having their expertise and undivided attention, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace and focus on what interests you most.
This experience is designed to adapt as you go — allowing time to linger, adjust pace, and explore Kyoto in a way that feels natural rather than rushed.
Kyoto Full-Day Bus Tour: Nijo, Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari (EN/ES)
Discover the essence of Kyoto in one day with our exclusive bus tour to the city's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Avoid the stress of public transport as we take you to the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion, and the endless red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Led by a professional guide, you will explore Japan's rich history and stunning landscapes, from Nijo Castle’s serene gardens to the panoramic views at Kiyomizu-dera.
**Please note that if Nijo Castle is inaccessible due to local circumstances, the tour will visit the spectacular Sanjūsangen-dō Temple instead.**
The itinerary is subject to minor changes based on weather or traffic to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience through the best of Kyoto.
Kyoto Gion Walking Tour: Geisha Culture, Pagoda, Shrines & Sake
Discover Gion’s nighttime highlights in just 90 minutes, drink in hand. This small-group walking tour combines atmospheric sightseeing, local stories, and a relaxed social vibe—perfect for travelers who want to experience Kyoto after dark without a long or formal tour.
・Chance to Spot Geiko and Maiko
Walk along the famous Hanamikoji Street, where you may catch a glimpse of Geiko or Maiko on their way to evening appointments.
・Yasaka Pagoda & Iconic Night Views
Admire the stunning five-story pagoda, one of the most iconic symbols of old Kyoto, beautifully lit against the night sky.
・Yasaka Shrine at Night
Visit Gion’s beloved shrine, illuminated by countless lanterns, and learn about its spiritual and cultural significance.
・Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
Explore this mysterious shrine known for “cutting bad ties and forming good ones”—one of Kyoto’s most unique spiritual spots.
・Sake-in-Hand Experience
Enjoy local sake as you stroll through the atmospheric streets of Gion and Higashiyama.
Osaka/Kyoto: Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari & Nara Park Day Trip
Embark on a journey through time in Kyoto & Nara, where tradition blends harmoniously with modernity.
In Nara Park, encounter the free-roaming deer that charmingly bow to you in hopes of a treat and visit the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto.
Explore the Arashiyama area, which includes the Bamboo Grove, Nonomiya Shrine, UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple, Kimono Forest and Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area.
Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.
Hanakoushi cotton Scarf Class
You can see and learn shibori (the oldest dyeing method in Japan) in-person and will have deeper appreciation of Japanese hand crafts.
Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Experience in a small tea room
One of the highlights of our tea ceremony is the opportunity for you to make your own tea if you wish. Under the expert guidance of our seasoned teacher, you’ll learn the intricate steps involved in preparing matcha, from whisking the powdered tea to the precise movements that reflect the harmony and mindfulness at the heart of the tea ceremony.
Our aim is to lower the barriers that often surround traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, ensuring that everyone feels welcome and at ease. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some familiarity with tea ceremonies, our session is designed to be both informative and enjoyable. Join us for this unique and authentic Kyoto experience, where tradition meets tranquility. Book your session today and create a memorable highlight of your visit to Kyoto.
From Kyoto: Nara & Kyoto World Heritage Tour with Tea Ceremony
Explore two of Japan’s ancient capitals with flexible tour options. Choose the Full-Day Kyoto & Nara Tour for the complete experience, or join the Nara Morning Tour or Kyoto Afternoon Tour for a half-day experience.
★ Full-Day Kyoto & Nara Tour
Begin in Nara with visits to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Todai-ji Temple and its Great Buddha, and Nara Park, famous for its friendly deer.
After lunch, continue to Kyoto to admire Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, then visit atelier Kyo-Baum for Kyoto’s famous matcha sweets and exclusive souvenirs.
End your day with an authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony in a beautifully preserved 150-year-old Machiya townhouse.
★ Nara Morning Tour: Discover Nara’s highlights, including Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Todai-ji Temple, and Nara Park.
★ Kyoto Afternoon Tour: Explore Kinkaku-ji, visit atelier Kyobaum, and experience an authentic tea ceremony in a historic 150-year-old Machiya townhouse.
Kimono Tea Ceremony Experience at Kyoto Oritzuruya, Nishiki
・Combine multiple integral aspects of Japanese culture at once.
・Experience a traditional tea ceremony in an authentic setting.
・Wear a beautiful kimono to elevate your cultural journey.
・Small group experience limited to ten people for personalized attention.
This immersive cultural tour in Kyoto offers you the chance to participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, complete with kimono dressing and optional calligraphy lessons.
Perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with Japan’s heritage, the experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts and families.
Guests will don a beautifully selected kimono, receive complimentary hair styling, and learn the graceful art of matcha preparation. The tour also includes pairing matcha with exquisite sweets from a century-old confectionery. For an added layer of tradition, participants can opt to learn Japanese calligraphy and create a personal souvenir.
Hiroshima & Miyajima 1-Day Tour from Osaka, Kyoto or Hiroshima
・Lunch is not included, allowing you the flexibility to enjoy your favorite local dishes at your own expense.
・This tour is conducted by an English-speaking guide only.
・Experience Hiroshima's powerful past and Miyajima's stunning natural and cultural wonders, all on a convenient 1-day bus tour.
・Enjoy free time at Miyajima's Omotesando Shopping Street, where you can experience the vibrant food culture and try famous local treats like fresh oysters, Okonomiyaki, and Momiji Manju.
・You'll have approximately 90 minutes to explore Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
・Enjoy a special ferry route to Miyajima.
・Capture fantastic photo opportunities of the iconic 'floating' Great Torii Gate.
・Explore Hiroshima city on a comfortable, air-conditioned tour bus.
・For customers booking the Kyoto or Osaka tour options, your plan includes round-trip Shinkansen tickets and boarding assistance from our staff at Kyoto or Shin-Osaka Station. (Please note: staff will not accompany you on the train.)
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya, NISHIKI
Why choose this tea ceremony experience in Kyoto?
・Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner for 4 consecutive years
・Hosted in an authentic traditional townhouse (machiya)
・Experience a real Japanese tea ceremony in a tatami room
・Kimono rental included for both men and women
・Learn about Japanese culture, etiquette, and matcha in one session
Nara Private Tour Flexible Pickup from Kyoto Osaka or Nara
Explore the highlights of Nara with our friendly local guides who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about their city. They will take you around the sites in most efficient way and provide you with in-depth insights into each site, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.
Nara, the first capital of Japan, is a captivating city that offers a journey back in time to the country's rich cultural and historical heritage. Famous for its serene temples and a shrine, stunning garden, and the iconic free-roaming deer. This tour allows you to choose several locations of your choice.
Join us for an unforgettable stop in Nara, the heart of Japan.
Please choose 3 to 4 must-see spots from "What To Expect" that you wish to visit.
Kyoto Private Car Charter with English Driver Flexible Itinerary
Explore Kyoto comfortably with a private vehicle and English-speaking support driver. Skip crowded buses and trains while enjoying a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences.
Visit Kyoto's most famous attractions such as Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Gion District, and more.
This private experience is ideal for families, couples, elderly travelers, and groups who want convenient transportation without the stress of navigating Kyoto's busy public transport system.
Your driver can provide general information and local recommendations while ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey throughout the day.
✔ Private vehicle only for your group
✔ Flexible customizable itinerary
✔ Hotel pickup and drop-off in Kyoto
✔ Family friendly
✔ Comfortable transportation between attractions
TREASURES of Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu Temple, and more!
Watch as the low light of early morning casts long shadows on the 10,000 red gates of Fushimi Inari, and reward yourself for getting up early with photos to cherish for a lifetime. Then wander through the grounds of Kiyomizu temple towering over the cityscape of Kyoto, and watch as the city comes to live amid the ring of temple bells and the faint smell of incense blowing in the wind. Then it’s on to the last stop at Sanjusangendo, the longest wooden building in the world which house over 1,000 statues that were sculpted by ancient masters over 800 years ago! A truly magical place to conclude the tour. The Treasures of Kyoto tour takes you to these special places at a time where you not only escape the tour bus crowds, but get to truly connect in a more meaningful way in the relative calm of the early morning all the while with a friendly and knowledgeable guide.
Nijo Castle and Imperial Palace Visit with Guide
To know the origin of Japan, learning about the history of Nijo Castle and Imperial Palace is a must for all visitors to Kyoto. Nijo Castle, which is registered as UNESCO World Heritage site, is the eyewitness venue as the advent of modern Japan after the long Samurai age ruled by Shogun while Imperial Palace is the holy place once lived by the Emperor when Kyoto was the capital city of Japan, and is still occasionally visited by the current Emperor even today. During the compact 2.5-hour-tour, you will discover the Genesis of the ancient capital for over 1100 years in a small group with well-experienced guide with vast knowledge and humor.
Kyoto :Tea Ceremony in 150 Years Townhouse with Tables and Chairs
Experience the beauty, etiquette, and spirit of traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a historic Kyoto townhouse.
Our family-run tea house welcomes a maximum of 8 guests per session, allowing for a peaceful and personal experience. Unlike large commercial venues, we focus on creating an authentic atmosphere where guests can learn the meaning behind each movement and appreciate the spirit of Japanese hospitality.
The tradition of tea ceremony in our family has been passed down through generations, and I learned the practice from my father. During the experience, you will observe a tea ceremony demonstration, learn about tea utensils and etiquette, enjoy seasonal Japanese sweets, and prepare your own bowl of matcha.
You will also have the opportunity to experience tea utensils that have been carefully preserved within our family, offering a connection to Kyoto's living traditions.
Suitable for both beginners and those with a deeper interest in Japanese culture.
The Beauty of Kyoto by Bike: Private Tour
Ready for a bike ride like no other? Hop in; you are about to discover Kyoto on a bike tour with a local guide.
On this Kyoto bike tour, cycle through picturesque streets and scenic roads as you check out the main spots around town. Pass by the Philosopher's path, and Gion Area, and make stops along the way to hear fascinating stories about Kyoto.
Your local guide is a bike pro and will make this private tour an easy-going ride for you. So, if you are looking for a fun, healthy, and sustainable way to move around Kyoto, this bike tour ticks all the boxes!
Withlocals City Bike 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.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Sagano Tour with Licensed Guide
Accompanied by a government-licensed and experienced multilingual guide, explore the area of Arashiyama and Sagano, where aristocrats once unwound in their villas more than 1,000 years ago.
The highlights of this tour include the scenic countryside views from Togetsukyo bridge; Tenryu-ji temple with its beautiful traditional gardens; the enchanting world from within the Bamboo Grove; and Jojakko-ji Temple with its breathtaking green moss. During the tour you will also visit some secret spots unfamiliar to the usual tourists.
Enjoy the walk and delicious food while learning about Japanese culture and history. Our guides are looking forward to arranging a tour that’s best for you!
Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.
Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Tea ceremony by the tea master in Kyoto SHIUN AN
The tea ceremony goes in a small group. The maximum number of people are 6 for each session.But during peak seasons, it will increase to a maximum of 8 people.
Experience an authentic tea ceremony, which is near the Zen buddhist monastery Daitoku-ji Temple in Kyoto.
Daitoku-ji had many famous priest graduates in the history and has a close relationship with tea ceremony culture which has given a major influence to Japanese culture.
We are also not far from the World Cultural Heritage site, the Golden Pavilion Temple. (Kinkaku-ji)It's only four stops away by bus.
You’ll be provided with a tea container, tea bowl, tea scoops and whisks, and instruction on how to make matcha. You’ll also enjoy two bowls of matcha and two kinds of Japanese sweets.
Tea ceremony is a learned experience, and it leads to enlightenment, similar to Zen’s understanding of realizing the truth through self-discovery.
Kyoto Premium Night Foodie Tour in Gion(9+dishes + Sake tastings)
Experience the true magic of Kyoto at night! This award-winning foodie tour takes you beyond the tourist traps and deep into the historic, lantern-lit streets of Gion and Pontocho.
1. Access to Hidden Local Restaurants
Navigating Kyoto's exclusive dining scene can be intimidating. Your local guide will lead you to authentic, hidden spots, starting with a historic Machiya (traditional townhouse) for a seasonal Kyoto cuisine feast.
2. Deep Cultural Gastronomy
Don't just eat; understand the culture. Learn the secrets of "Dashi" (broth) and "Obanzai" (home-style dishes) that originated from Kyoto's aristocratic and Buddhist history.
3. Premium Sake & Sweets
Discover the smooth taste of local sake brewed with Kyoto's famous soft water at a lively Izakaya. We perfectly round off the 3.5-hour evening with matcha and traditional Japanese sweets at a secret night cafe. A safe, delicious, and unforgettable night for everyone!