Kyoto Walking Series: 100 Years of Traditions
Kyoto was the capital for over a thousand years, home to many artisans who crafted goods for its imperial palaces, temples and shrines. These crafts have been passed down through generations of family businesses, preserving traditional techniques for many years.
On this tour you will be able to visit long-established stores, some of them which are not open to first-time customers, and explore their history and cultural significance. The tour includes a 1-hour hands-on experience in traditional paper printing called Karakami.
Start your tour by visiting a paper shop where you will learn about the history and techniques of Karakami. Here you will create your own print postcard with a woodblock print that has been in use for many generations.
After the experience explore long-established shops with products such as traditional lacquerware, calligraphy products, lanterns and even a pigment and paint shop that focuses on natural pigments used in Japanese-style paintings.
Duration: 2 hours
- Private tour
Kyoto & Uji Day Tour: Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu-dera and Byodo-in
Discover the timeless charm of Kyoto on this immersive day tour that blends historic wonders with serene natural beauty and matcha culture. Stroll through the iconic Golden Pavilion at Kinkakuji Temple, admire the panoramic views from the famous Stage of Kiyomizu at Kiyomizudera Temple, and explore the picturesque lanes of Ninenzaka. Visit sacred shrines, gaze up at the majestic Yasaka Pagoda, and enjoy authentic Kyoto street snacks. In the afternoon, relax by the scenic Uji River and experience the heart of Japan’s tea culture in Uji — home to the world-renowned Byodoin Temple and lush Furitsu Uji Park. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to tranquil riverside walks and matcha delights, this tour offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and flavor. Ideal for first-time visitors and cultural explorers alike!
Duration: 8–9 hours
Tatami Experience, Hand Stitching and Coaster Making in Kyoto
Honey J Travel invites you to discover tatami history at a Kyoto workshop with over 300 years of heritage. Your master artisan instructor brings this living legacy to life through stories of multi-generational craftsmanship.
Explore the authentic workshop before learning the art of traditional hand-stitching. Under the artisan’s patient, hands-on guidance, put these techniques into practice to craft your own tatami coaster to take home as a piece of Japanese heritage.
You’ll leave with your handmade souvenir and English reference materials from Honey J Travel. While most workshops skip the depth, we ensure you understand the dedication behind every stitch, changing how it feels to create it.
Honey J Travel is a Government-Licensed Class 1 Travel Agency in Japan. We arrange seamless access to this exclusive experience, providing English learning materials so nothing is lost between the artisan's demonstration and your understanding.
Duration: 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Shirakawago and Takayama 2 Days Tour from Osaka or Kyoto
This 2-day itinerary allows travelers to soak up the sights of both popular destinations without the rush or crowded tours. A guide points out local specialties along the traditional food street and explains the significance of the gassho-style (thatched-roof) homes in well-preserved Shirakawago.
Visit the best parts of Takayama and Shirakawago on a private 2-day tour.
Learn about the history of Japanese traditional buildings at your leisure .
Personalized attention is guaranteed with a dedicated guide at your side .
Overnight accommodation, lunch, and transport from designated meeting points
Duration: 2 days
- Private tour
Amanohashidate and Ine Funaya Scenic Day Trip from Kyoto
Embark on a one-day coastal adventure from Kyoto and explore the scenic charms of Ine Village and Amanohashidate. Stroll along traditional Funaya boathouses, enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck, and take a relaxing boat cruise on Ine Bay. Then, visit Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, ride the cable car to Viewland for stunning vistas, explore historic Chion-ji Temple, and walk along the sandy beach and revolving bridge. This tour blends culture, history, and breathtaking scenery for an unforgettable Japanese coastal experience.
Duration: 9–11 hours
- Free cancellation
Private Professional Photoshoot in Kyoto
Prepare for an unforgettable journey to one of Kyoto's world-famous destinations! We'll be your cheerful guides as we take you on a leisurely exploration of these iconic locations, highlighting the most photogenic spots Kyoto has to offer. But that's not all – we'll also unveil some hidden gems that many travelers may have overlooked.
Alongside our professional photography services, we'll be delighted to share all the tips and tricks to help you make the most of your holiday experience in Kyoto! Join us as we uncover the well-kept secrets and treasures of this incredible city, all while capturing those precious moments of your adventure. We can't wait to meet you and embark on this Kyoto journey together!
Duration: 1 hour
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Shiga Private Custom Tour with Local Guide
Explore the hidden gems of Shiga with an expert-guided tour. Start at the iconic Hikone Castle, a national treasure offering stunning views of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake. Stroll through the castle’s beautiful gardens and learn about its rich samurai history.
Next, visit the ancient Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled on Mount Hiei, where you can immerse yourself in centuries of Buddhist culture. Enjoy a peaceful walk along Lake Biwa’s shoreline or take a boat ride to discover its scenic beauty.
Your guide will share local history and insights, providing an enriching experience of Shiga’s natural and cultural wonders. Public transportation will be used, with private vehicle options available upon request.
Duration: 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto Cultural Experience Inside the World of Urushi Lacquer
Welcome to the World of Urushi
Guided Tour of a 100+ Year-Old Lacquer Factory
Experience urushi — Japan’s precious natural lacquer — at our historic refining factory, founded in 1909.The tour begins with a clear introduction to urushi and the urushi tree (excluding Fuki-Urushi Workshop).
You’ll then watch skilled artisans refine raw sap (ki-urushi) into deep black and vivid vermilion urushi in the normally closed workshop, learning the delicate techniques and timeless craftsmanship.For more depth, join optional programs at “Und.” on the third floor:
Visually rich talks on tree-planting, cultural preservation, and modern urushi use, followed by hands-on workshops — apply urushi to chopsticks or try traditional “Fuki-Urushi” (wipe-on) technique.
Special guest sessions in kintsugi, urushi painting, woodworking, and natural/urushi dyeing are offered periodically.More than a tour — a rich journey blending tradition, sustainability, and contemporary craft.Feel authentic urushi at its source.
Duration: 1 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Traditional Japanese Music Workshop with Koto and Shakuhachi
Even in Kyoto—a major hub for traditional Japanese music—"Sogu" is one of the very few places where koto and shakuhachi workshops are held on a regular basis. A distinctive feature of "Sogu" is the opportunity to touch a shakuhachi and actually play the instrument under the guidance of top-tier instructors.
Duration: 50 min
- Free cancellation
5 Hour Experience Kyoto Cultural Activity
Let yourself dive into local life by taking a walk with a well-informed local guide, satisfy your appetite with fine cuisine, encounter traditional performance and craftsmanship. In exclusive, smoothly combined three different experiences.
We welcome you in Kyoto's unique and traditional townhouse called “machi-ya,” where you can enjoy a cosy, special feeling that is different from an ordinary trip. Our local hosts offer you "ichi-go ichi-e," a once-in-a-lifetime meeting, in an elegant setting. Our machi-ya house is located in the neighborhood of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, where you can enjoy each of the different four seasons of Japan.We devoted ourselves to maximize the "value" of staying in Kyoto. Our all-in-one plan offers you to travel like a local with three special experiences.
※The cost for a group of four is 528,000yen.
There is an additional charge of 132,000yen per person.
Please understand that this is a valuable 5-hour cultural
experience.
Duration: 5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental High Grade
Step into the timeless beauty of Kyoto with a premium kimono experience in the heart of historic Gion. Choose from over 300 carefully curated styles, be professionally dressed by trained specialists, and stroll just minutes from Yasaka Shrine in full traditional elegance. With optional photo sessions capturing Kyoto’s most iconic scenery, this is more than a rental — it’s your chance to truly live the culture and create unforgettable memories. Book now to transform your Kyoto visit into a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Duration: 1 day
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Historical and Cooling Tour of the Ancient Capital of Kyoto
Among Kyoto's popular tourist destinations, Higashiyama and the Kyoto Station area, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, attract visitors from Japan and abroad due to their deeply Japanese atmosphere. This tour focuses on experiencing Japanese history, culture, and summer in Kyoto.
The tour begins at Shijo-Kawaramachi Station, offering easy access to Higashiyama attractions. After a short bus ride and walk, you'll reach Kiyomizu-dera Temple, known for its clear water and small waterfall. After shopping on the street in front of the temple, you'll visit Yasaka Shrine, believed to ward off epidemic diseases during the hot season.
Next, enjoy the Japanese summer sweet "shaved ice" in Gion and stroll along the famous Gion street. The tour concludes with a visit to Kyoto Tower in front of Kyoto Station for a romantic view at dusk.
Let's embark on a trip to Kyoto, a city best enjoyed in the hot summer!
Duration: 4 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Nishijin Weaving Heritage Tour with Kimono and Traditional Garden
Delve into the rich tradition of Nishijin weaving, starting at the Nishijin Textile Center, where skilled craftsmen showcase their artistry. Gain insights into the intricate weaving techniques and admire live demonstrations. Enhance your visit with a rental kimono, available for prior reservation, allowing you to stroll through historic streets in style. Next, visit the legendary Okabun Orimono Co., LTD, established in 1690, for an exclusive guided tour of their operational workshop and scenic Meiji-era Enoki Residence. Explore the juxtaposition of modern technology and traditional craftsmanship while enjoying the serene Japanese garden.
Duration: 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto: Samurai Secret Cord Experience with Tea Culture
What sets this tour apart is its focus on function, not just form.
While many cultural experiences in Kyoto focus on aesthetics, this tour reveals the hidden logic behind Japanese culture through a single, powerful tool—a cord once used by samurai. Strong enough to secure weapons and even stop a blade, this cord was not decorative, but essential for survival and protection.
Through live demonstrations and hands-on experiences, you will not only see but physically understand how it works. The experience then connects this practical samurai tool to tea culture, where the same cord was used to protect and seal valuable utensils, showing how the idea of “protecting value” evolved across time.
Led by a master craftsman in an authentic working studio, this is not a staged workshop, but a rare opportunity to engage with a living tradition. Rather than simply observing, you will test, tie, and take part in a deeper cultural narrative that most visitors never encounter.
Duration: 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto Easy Origami Experience in Townhouse Ninenzaka
Experience easy, beginner-friendly origami inside a peaceful 150-year-old Kyoto townhouse in Ninenzaka.
This family-run cultural studio offers warm guidance, beautiful washi paper, and a relaxing moment during your Kyoto trip—perfect for couples, families, and first-time learners.
Duration: 45 min
- Free cancellation
Private Sightseeing Guided Tour in Kyoto
Explore Kyoto’s most famous spots with ease! Our certified guide will take you to must-see locations like Kinkakuji Temple, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari Shrine.
● You'll travel by private car, avoiding crowded buses and trains for a more comfortable and stress-free experience.
● Your certified guides will share insights about each location, making your visit both fun and informative.
● A convenient and efficient way to see Kyoto’s highlights in one day!
Duration: 3–4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
1-Day Kyoto Highlights Tour Temple, Castle, Market and Shrine
Witness the resplendent Kinkaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting of its golden pavilion adorned in shimmering gold, radiating tranquility amid lush gardens. Feel the echoes of history at Nijo-jo Castle, another UNESCO gem, with its stunning samurai-style architecture and magnificent paintings drawn by the 17th-century professional artist group. Indulge your senses at Nishiki Market, a kaleidoscope of colors and flavors, savoring delectable street delights and authentic local delicacies. Stroll along the bustling Teramachi-dori Shopping Street, where modernity intertwines with tradition, offering an array of artisanal crafts and souvenirs to cherish. The pinnacle of our expedition awaits at Fushimi-inari Taisha Shrine, a mesmerizing path of thousands of vermillion torii gates leading to sacred heights, exuding an aura of spiritual energy and awe-inspiring beauty. Guided by our knowledgeable expert, this captivating day promises unforgettable memories.
Duration: 8 hours
- Private tour
Kyoto 3 Hour Private Walking Tour with Temple Admission
What sets this tour apart is its local perspective and completely private experience. Unlike standard group tours that follow fixed routes, this experience is tailored to your interests and pace, allowing you to discover both Kyoto's famous highlights and the hidden places most visitors never see.
Led by a Kyoto resident of nearly a decade, you'll gain insights into local culture, history, daily life, food, and traditions through personal stories and authentic experiences. From quiet backstreets and lesser-known temples to local neighborhoods and scenic viewpoints, you'll experience a side of Kyoto that many travelers miss.
Designed for private groups, the tour offers a relaxed and flexible atmosphere where you can ask questions, take photos, make spontaneous stops, and explore at your own pace. Whether it's your first visit or a return trip, you'll experience a more personal, authentic, and memorable side of Kyoto.
Duration: 3 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Fushimi Sake District Local Food Tour with Licensed Guide
Explore the historic Fushimi Sake District with a government-licensed English-speaking guide. Enjoy a private, customizable food tour through Kyoto's renowned sake brewing area, sampling local flavors and discovering hidden gems at your own pace.
Duration: 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour
Kyoto-Inspired Exclusive Savory Cocktails Tour
Embark on a cocktail journey inspired by Kyoto’s flavors, beginning with a guided discovery of seasonal ingredients.
Receive a curated letter featuring ingredients and flavors selected by the bartender and your guide, who brings culinary knowledge to the experience.
Set out to find them at a local supermarket, discovering Kyoto’s local produce and Japanese ingredients along the way, while gaining insight into the culture and culinary inspiration behind each cocktail.
After purchasing your ingredients, continue to a stylish bar where the bartender transforms your selections into three original savory cocktails created exclusively for this tour.
Take part in the preparation process by helping with cutting and blending ingredients before seeing them become beautifully crafted cocktails. You will receive the recipes and ingredient details, allowing you to recreate the drinks at home or use them as inspiration for your own creations!
Duration: 2 hours
- Private tour
Kyoto Higashiyama and Temple Walk Guided Walking Tour
Escape the crowds and discover the true heart of Kyoto with our exclusive, early-morning walking tour of Gion. Limited to just 8 participants, this intimate experience guarantees personalized attention from your expert guide. We take you off the beaten path into hidden side streets, uncovering the rich history and architectural secrets of traditional teahouses. From the iconic Ichiriki-tei to the picturesque Tatsumi Bridge, enjoy a captivating, story-driven journey through time. Book now for a peaceful, deeply immersive adventure you simply won’t find in standard guidebooks!
Duration: 2 hr 30 min
- Free cancellation
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Kyoto Early Morning Small Group Tour Fushimi Inari Kiyomizu Gion
Kyoto's most famous sights are full by ten in the morning. This tour goes before that.
We meet at Kyoto Station at 6:40 and are at Fushimi Inari soon after seven, when the gates are at their quietest. From there a short train ride takes us to Kiyomizu-dera, then down through the stone lanes of Higashiyama and Gion to Kennin-ji, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, where the tour ends at around 11:30 — with the rest of your day still ahead of you.
Your guide lives in Kyoto and knows these places well. Along the way you will hear why the gates are red, what the foxes hold in their mouths, and why you may only drink from one stream at Kiyomizu. And at every stop, your guide will take photos of you on your own phone, so you go home with pictures of yourselves rather than just selfies.
The group is small, the pace is unhurried, and there is an optional break halfway. The route uses public trains between areas; there is no hotel pickup.
Duration: 5 hours
- Free cancellation
Kyoto Photoshoot Service with an Experienced Photographer
Want to take pictures with the background of pretty places in Kyoto? Don't worry, you don't need to carry a camera or any equipment because you can order this product! Hire a photo service with an English speaking photographer in Kyoto and get a good amount of photos from this photography service! Doing this photo shoot, there will be many photos that can be displayed on social media. Order now!
Additional information:
The duration of the photo session is 1 hour
If you want to increase the duration of the photo, please add quantity at the order
The price of each photo session is a pack of 1 to 5 people
You can pay additional fees for everything directly to the photographer
Duration: 1 hour
- Private tour
Kyoto: Tofuku-ji Temple and Komyo-in Guided Walking Tour
What sets this tour apart is its quiet depth and focus on meaning—an unhurried exploration of Kyoto’s Zen spirit through two remarkable temples.
With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit Tofuku-ji’s bold modern gardens, cross the iconic Tsutenkyo Bridge, and then step into the hidden serenity of Komyo-in, a lesser-known subtemple with a meditative moss-and-stone garden. Along the way, you’ll learn how Zen design expresses stillness, impermanence, and harmony—not just through beauty, but through space, silence, and intention. This is more than sightseeing; it’s a mindful experience of Kyoto at its most contemplative.
Duration: 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Private tour