Early Half Day to Kyoto Highlights
This is a walking tour using public transport to Kyoto's highlights, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Bamboo Forest and Kinkakuji, the Golden Temple.
We are going early in order to beat the crowds and since it's only half day, you still have time enjoy other experiences.
We also will learn about the history, the culture and Japanese society all while enjoying the spots
Beat the Crowds: Pro-Curated Morning E-Bike Tour, Kyoto Sta
Five main reasons people choose us:
(1) Kyotoite (local Japanese gude) show you around
(2) Electirc Pedal Asisst Bikes help you go around Kyoto smoothly.
(3) Cycling routes carefully chosen by experienced staff at the largest bicycle rental shop in Kyoto
(4) Reservation and cancellation requests accepted by 5pm the day before the tour date
(5) Half price refund given even if you cancel the tour on the day.
This is a special cycling tour which helps you feel the genuine Kyoto and the local vibes. We will be following cycling routes which were carefully selected by experienced staff at Kyoto's largest bicycle rental company, serving about 30,000 people a year.
Our aim is to raise awareness of the brilliance of riding a bicycle in the beautiful Kyoto. Bicycle rides help us find the hidden beauty of Kyoto that most tourists are likely to overlook and we hope this tour helps you see things you are not able to see when you take public transport like subways, buses, and taxis.
Traditional Japanese Knife Sharpening Class in Kyoto EN OK
Master the intricate art of traditional Japanese knife sharpening in this engaging hands-on class. Guided by seasoned instructors, delve into the history of knives, explore various steel types, and learn the theory behind sharpening techniques. With a focus on using whetstones of different grits, participants will sharpen their own blades under expert supervision. Conclude the session with the satisfaction of taking home your freshly sharpened knife, a memorable keepsake that reflects your newfound skills.
Kimono Tea Ceremony Experience at Kyoto Orizuruya Gion
-Newly opened Tea Experience with Kimono at Gion, operated by Orizuruya, trusted with 90+ Excellent Tripadvisor reviews
-Experience multiple key aspects of Japanese culture in one session
-Participate in a traditional tea ceremony in an authentic setting
-Wear a beautiful kimono to enrich your cultural journey
-Small group experience limited to 10 people for personalized attention
This immersive cultural experience in Kyoto allows you to enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, complete with kimono dressing and optional calligraphy lessons. Perfect for culture enthusiasts and families seeking a deeper connection with Japan’s heritage.
Guests will select a beautiful kimono, receive complimentary hairstyling, and learn the graceful art of preparing matcha. The experience also includes pairing matcha with exquisite sweets from a century-old confectionery, creating a memorable and authentic Japanese cultural journey.
Fish Cutting workshop in Kyoto Japan
It is rare to have the experience of processing raw fish from the beginning.By processing fish and eating it as sashimi yourself, you can deepen your enjoyment of food and understanding of Japanese food culture.
It is a lot of fun to process fish, and the fish you process yourself tastes better than anything else! I have been working in a fish shop for 20 years and have studied how to process various kinds of fish.
We will use this experience to carefully teach you how to process fish.
We have gluten free soy sauce and halal soy sauce
Please feel free to inquire. We hope that this class will provide you with a new dining experience!
Kyoto Photography Masterclass - Private Photography Lesson
We offer expert guidance from a professional photographer with local knowledge who will lead you to the best locations, angles, and lighting for stunning photos. During the tour, you’ll receive personalised education on camera settings, composition, and other techniques to enhance your skills. As locals, we know the top spots and hidden gems in Kyoto, ensuring you capture magical images. Our private tours allow you to go at your own pace, tailored to your skill level. Maximise your time and photographic opportunities, improve your skills, and explore new locations with expert guidance, making this activity unique and enriching.
Private eBike Tour Exploring Fushimi with Torii Red Gate Ride
Visit the world-famous Torii Red Gates at Fushimi-Inari Shrine with a knowledgeable and approved English-speaking tour guide. Cycle along the quiet streets of Kyoto down to the magnificent Shinto complex of Fushimi-Inari that is as old as the ancient city itself. Afterwards, have a wander around the shops and stalls that line the
surround the shrine and try some of the local specialities.
Along the way, the tour also stops at Sanjusangen-do temple where you are sure to find inner peace walking through the millenia-old corridors leading to the incredible sight of a thousand Buddha statues.
Get back on the bikes for the ride back to Kyoto station along the serene Kamo river with its nature and wildlife.
Cycling is one of the best ways to get around Kyoto due to its numerous alleys and side-streets with less traffic. Enjoy this leisurely cycling tour going at your own pace and a special experience at two sacred sites while skipping the crowds and enjoying the scenery by bicycle.
Kyoto National Treasure Temple Tour & Japanese Archery experience
Begin with an English-guided tour of an 800-year-old National Treasure temple, where you can experience the historic atmosphere and gain a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
You’ll then take part in kyudo (Japanese archery) using a real yumi (Japanese bow) and arrows under careful guidance. In traditional practice, students usually spend a long time training with a rubber bow before shooting real arrows. In our experience, however, even beginners can safely enjoy the feeling of drawing the bow and releasing the arrow in an authentic setting.
This is more than just an activity—it’s a unique chance to experience Japanese archery and temple culture together in a way that is both accessible and deeply memorable.
Kyoto: Nishiki Market & Hidden Local Gems with a Local Guide
Discover Nishiki Market on this 90-minute walking tour from a local perspective. Explore Kyoto’s food traditions, centuries-old family-run shops, hidden alleys, and historic shrines while meeting the people who keep this famous market alive.
Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” Nishiki has been at the heart of the city’s food culture for centuries. Walk through its lively arcade with a locally connected guide and discover traditional ingredients, Kyoto specialities, long-established shops, and the stories behind them.
Leave the busy market to explore quieter alleyways and a historic shrine before continuing to Pontocho, one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric districts. Learn about local customs, traditional culture, and everyday life, with the possibility of glimpsing a geiko or maiko.
Finish beside the Kamo River, a favourite gathering place for locals.
This is not a tasting tour, but a local walk offering a deeper connection to Kyoto’s food, people, traditions, history, and hidden corners.
Guided Photoshoot of Fushimi Inari Shrine and Secret Bamboo Grove
Visit Fushimi Inari & the secret bamboo grove that locals don't even know exists! Two contrasting and beautiful locations in one photoshoot! A rare location to get so many various backdrops in a 60 minute photoshoot.
Details:
■ 60-minute photoshoot
■ A private & exclusive booking
■ 75 professionally taken and edited shots (in Jpeg) for solo / 90 + for couples *I will always try to add some extras*
■ I can guide you in a variety of poses and capture some great, natural candid moments too
On the day:
■ Meet at your choice of JR or Keihan Fushimi Inari Stations
■ Guided to the main shrine where we will take a series of candid shots and poses along the way
■ We'll then shoot at the secret bamboo grove and a hidden area
■ Finally, we will go through the famous red Torii gates and capture the best shots of you
After:
■ Images edited & sent via Google Drive 1-3 days later
Extras:
■ RAW files available for an extra 5000 yen
Check out my IG account: hugh_dornan_photography
Private Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace Tour — Kyoto
Kyoto's two greatest power centers sit minutes apart, yet most travelers visit one without ever understanding how they shaped each other. This private tour tells the complete story — from the Shogun's calculated display of dominance in 1603 to the dramatic moment power was surrendered back to the Emperor in 1867.
✨Stand inside Ninomaru Palace on the famous nightingale floors, engineered to catch assassins
✨Discover how Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace defined 265 years of Japanese history
✨Enjoy an unhurried private experience with a Kyoto local as your guide
✨Walk the imperial gardens where the shogunate finally came to an end
PRIVATE Kyoto Market Tour & Cooking Class in Aki's Beautiful Home
- Explore Kyoto's Demachiyanagi Shopping Street with Aki and shop for fresh seasonal ingredients at a neighborhood market loved by locals.
- Cook authentic Japanese home-style dishes from scratch in Aki's beautiful home while learning family recipes and everyday cooking techniques.
- Enjoy a private cultural experience with personalized instruction, English recipes to take home, and insights into Japanese food, traditions, and daily life.
Kyoto Sagano Insider: Rickshaw and Walking Tour
Enjoy the highlight of Arashiyama, the bamboo forest, at an unique vantage point from the comfortable seat of the traditional rickshaw. Sit back and relax as your guide navigates carefully and safely through the traffic as you pass by other iconic sights of Arashiyama such as the Togetsukyo Bridge, the river side with Mt Arashi, charactaristic neighbourhoods and townhouses. Venture north to a quiet and traditional neighbourhood along a pilgrim path leading up the mountain. Get off the rickshaw to enjoy the preserved, traditional houses and landscape at your own pace. Visit one of those Machiya houses (Archive Hall) from the inside. Your guide will continue to explain the sights to you as you make your way to the comical and unique Otagi-Nenbutsuji Temple. On your way back to the rickshaw, stop at one of the thatched tea house for a cup of matcha or traditional sweets (optional). Back on the rickshaw head to your preferred finishing location.
Kyoto Gion Night Tour: Discover Geisha District and Hidden Gems
Experience the magic of Kyoto at night on our Gion Night Tour! Stroll through historic streets lit by traditional lanterns, discover hidden gems, and admire stunning night views. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture, encounter iconic temples, and maybe even spot a geisha or maiko. Perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable Kyoto evening filled with history, culture, and scenic beauty!
Japanese Sake Breweries Tour in Fushimi Kyoto
Joining this tour will give you an insight into Japanese history and sake.
SAKE Master will tell you the secret of excellent SAKE.
You will know the difference with your tongue.
Let's have fresh SAKE!
You can also enjoy a set of 17 kinds of drinks compared with the top image that is famous on SNS.
Why not embark on a journey to find the best sake while walking the streets of Kyoto with a local guide?
Enjoy a very scenic view.
Let's go together.
・Discover Fushimi's rich sake culture with a local guide.
・Visit three diverse sake breweries for tastings.
・Explore the historic Fushimi sake district, one of Japan's top regions.
・Uncover centuries-old sake-making secrets.
・Gain insights into sake production at the Gekkeikan Brewery, established in 1637.
Calligraphy Experience in Kyoto Townhouse
What image do you have of Japanese calligraphy? You might think of calligraphy as one of the most difficult Japanese art forms to try yourself, but it is not. Why don't you experience this Japanese cultural art form yourself?
Calligraphy has recently attracted attention from people all over the world, especially through the gaining popularity of Zen Buddhism. The fundamental philosophy of Zen teaches that meditation is a necessary practice to learn to turn the eye inward. During our calligraphy session you'll have an opportunity to concentrate in a Zen-like sitting meditation. The aroma of black ink will also soothe your mind and make you feel relaxed.
It is a unique opportunity to be able to spend time inside a traditional Japanese townhouse. Kyoto was once filled with these simple wooden houses. Ours is about 80 years old and we think you'll agree it is still beautiful. Please come and immerse yourself in a quaint, yet elegant space.
Kyoto Fushimi Inari Night Walking Tour
Ran by @guidemejapan on instagram. On this tour, we’ll visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto’s most famous spot known for its 10,000 stunning torii gates. To avoid the crowds and the midday heat, we'll explore the shrine in the evening. This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a quick activity before or after dinner, a leisurely stroll, or some tips from our guide for the rest of your Japan trip. It’s a short and informative tour at a great price!
We will meet at the exit of JR Inari Station. After exiting, turn left, and you will see a Daily Yamazaki convenience store. Our meeting point will be in front of the Daily Yamazaki store.
【kyoto Arashiyama】A footbath café and foot massage experience
Arashiyu is a traditional Japanese-style relaxation salon located just steps from Arashiyama Station.
It is the perfect place to gently soothe your tired feet after a day of walking.
Guests can enjoy a relaxing foot bath while sipping a drink and enjoying a light snack, followed by a rejuvenating foot massage.
Early Bird Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Nijo Castle & Golden Pavilion
Escape the daytime crowds and discover Kyoto's best on this premium private half-day morning tour. Led by an expert local guide, this exclusive "Early Bird" experience takes you to the city’s top three iconic landmarks before the heavy tour groups arrive, tailored to your pace.
Begin at the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine to walk through the magical Senbon Torii (vermilion gates) in the serene morning air. Next, step back into the samurai era at Nijo Castle, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the historic Shogun's palace, famous for its "nightingale floors" and traditional gardens, free from the hustle.
Conclude at the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion). Admire this Zen masterpiece as it glistens over its mirror-like pond in the early light. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers wanting a seamless, crowd-free Kyoto experience.
Kyoto near Fushimiinari Wagashi making&Small Group Tea Ceremony
Our tea ceremony session is held in an authentic Japanese style room at a local house. Tea ceremony is formal, but you will also experience the feeling of being invited over for a cup of tea by a friend in Japan. This is a great opportunity for all tourists coming to Kyoto.
Our group lessons have a maximum of 8 people. Our hosts and English-speaking instructors are all very friendly and want you to have a memorable time with us.
We'll introduce you some history of tea and tea ceremony.
You will have a chance to make a bowl of Match by yourself so you will be able to make it for your friends when you go back home. We guarantee they will be surprised and that would be one of the best souvenirs for them!!
* It is also possible to prepare a chair instead of sitting on the Tatami floor if you prefer. Please let us know how many chairs you want us to prepare when you make a reservation.
*Our reservation is from 2, but if you are solo, please contact us, we may arrange for you.
Kyoto Samurai Experience + Professional Photo Shoot
Samurai Armor & Cinematic Photo Experience in Japan !
Step into the world of the samurai and become a warrior for a day. In this unique experience, you will wear authentic samurai armor and hold traditional weapons such as swords and spears while a professional photographer captures dramatic, cinematic photos.
Our studio creates a powerful atmosphere using professional lighting and fog effects, making you feel like you are in a scene from a samurai movie. Whether you love Japanese culture, samurai history, or simply want unforgettable travel photos, this experience will be a highlight of your trip to Japan.
Highlights
Wear authentic samurai armor
Hold traditional weapons such as swords and spears
Professional cinematic-style photo shoot
Dynamic studio effects including fog for a dramatic atmosphere
Unique souvenir photos from your trip to Japan
Create unforgettable memories and experience the spirit of the samurai.
We look forward to welcoming you to our studio! ⚔️
Private Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Gion(Geisha) & Higashiyama
Join us and experience Kyoto at its most peaceful, creating unforgettable memories before the city awakens!
Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll journey through two of Kyoto’s most iconic areas: Gion, the historic district famed as the home of the geisha, and Higashiyama, where charming streets lead to the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
Kyoto: Private Gion & Geisha Night Walk with Local Students
Why Choose This Private Tour?
A 100% private journey for your group. Explore Gion with a local insider offering a fresh perspective on Kyoto’s traditions. We move at your pace, ensuring a deep connection with the city’s heritage.
The Experience: Gion Night Walk
We guide you through Yasaka Shrine and hidden alleys, sharing authentic insights into the Geisha world. Our tour bridges Kyoto’s history and modern life with a truly local perspective.
Our Special Points
Curated Dining: Handpicked recommendations for authentic ramen and "soul food" gems.
Photo Assistance: We use our eye for lighting and angles to capture high-quality photos of your group.
Genuine Dialogue: Enjoy meaningful talk about Kyoto today with the next generation who call it home.
Kyoto & Nara Customized Private Tour with English speaking Guide
Explore the timeless beauty of Kyoto in comfort and style with your private luxury guided tours. From the golden beauty of Kinkaku-ji and the peaceful bamboo forests of Arashiyama to the historic temples in Kyoto, every journey is carefully designed to give you a relaxing and unforgettable experience.
Travel comfortably in a luxury vehicle while discovering Japan’s rich culture, history, hidden gems, and breathtaking scenery with a personalized touch. Whether you are visiting iconic landmarks, traditional streets, temples, shrines, or local food spots, we make your trip smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
Perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and small groups looking for a private and flexible experience in Kyoto.