Top Kyoto Prefecture Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Gion is known for its geisha culture and traditions, and this walking tour takes you to explore the hidden alleyways and places that most visitors miss. Learn insider stories about geisha life, with the chance to spot geisha along the way. The walk also takes in quiet backstreets, a 1,000-year-old shrine, and some of Kyoto’s most photogenic locations.

Sightsee through Kansai’s most scenic areas, seeing iconic landmarks in Nara and Kyoto in one day, without the hassle of changing trains or getting lost. With pickup times in either Osaka or Kyoto, board a convenient tour bus to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kinkaku-ji and Todaiji Temple as well as 1000 vermilion gates of Fushimi-Inari Shrine and scenic Nara Park.

Amanohashidate and Ine Bay are hidden gems for travelers looking for unique tourist attractions. These picturesque destinations offer a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities and immerse yourself in the picturesque view. Explore Amanohashidate, one of Japan's "Three Most Scenic Views." Amanohashidate, which translates to “bridge in heaven,”  resembling a pathway that connects heaven and earth. Amanohashidate features nearly 8,000 pine-covered sandbar that connect the two sides of Miyazu Bay,  and look like a dragon flying up to heaven. Ine Funaya, the “Venice of Japan,” is celebrated as one of the most picturesque villages in the country. Nestled on a narrow strip between land and sea, this charming fishing village, with its traditional boat houses, showcases the essence of traditional Japanese coastal life. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

Whether you’re only in Kyoto for the morning or want to avoid the crowds of tourists, this early morning tour of the city lets you experience the city at its most tranquil. After your sightseeing session, you will still have much of the afternoon and onwards to explore thanks to your early start. As a bonus, learn how to use the city’s public transit from your guide. Entrance fee for Kinkakuji Temple is extra.

Begin your journey from Osaka or Kyoto, and step into Japan’s most iconic sights (Arashiyama, Nara Park, Fushimi Inari Taisha). Start at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where sunlight filters through towering stalks, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Enjoy a superb meal at Kyoto Wasabi Restaurant. Choose from Kobe Beef Shabu-shabu, Pork Shabu-shabu, Kobe Beef Rice Bowl or Kobe Beef Sukiyaki. (Optional lunch) Continue to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. Stroll through Nara Park and visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the world’s largest wooden structure, marvel at the 15-meter Great Buddha, an awe-inspiring symbol of Japan’s heritage. Conclude at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a striking path up Mount Inari. This unforgettable sight is among Japan’s most photographed landmarks. At day’s end, relax on your bus ride back, with the flexibility to return to Osaka or Kyoto.

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.

Embark on a journey through time in Kyoto and 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. Explore the magnificent torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and visit the Arashiyama area, which includes the serene Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple, the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House and the beautiful Kimono Forest. Depart from Osaka or Kyoto, experience a magical fusion of nature and history with our friendly and professional guide.

Discover the delicious side of Kyoto on this small-group foodie tour. Explore popular spots, such as the Nishiki Market, as well as hidden gems, and enjoy at least seven food tastings from obanzai (Kyoto-style cuisine) to local izakaya dishes, served at local restaurants, as well as two drinks such as beer or sake.

Kyoto is famous for its “geisha” culture, and this experience offers a rare chance to watch a real “maiko” (apprentice “geisha”) perform up close. Sightings like this are increasingly uncommon, making it an experience many travelers miss. During the show, enjoy traditional dances, take part in a question-and-answer session, and play a classic Japanese game too.

Gion, Kyoto's famed geisha district, is packed full of tourists during the day making it difficult to get a sense of the area's culture. Avoid the biggest groups and immerse yourself in Japanese heritage on this small-group walking tour that leads you through the elegant streets after dark, while geisha and maiko make their way to their appointments.

Discover the perfect blend of history and nature on a one-day tour of Kyoto. This itinerary is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.We begin with the magnificent Amanohashidate, one of Japan's "Three Scenic Views," renowned for its unique sandbar resembling a bridge to the heavens, lined with lush pine trees. The sandbar's shape is like a bridge slanting upward into the sky, hence the name "Amanohashidate." You can take a cable car to the top for a panoramic view of this natural wonder. Next, we head to Ine Village, often referred to as the "Venice of Japan," where the unique waterfront funaya houses and tranquil natural scenery captivate visitors. In Ine, you can enjoy a boat ride under the clear blue sky, feed seagulls, or rent a bike to explore the charming village at your own pace, experiencing the authentic rural atmosphere.

Language barriers can make it difficult to find the best places to eat in Kyoto, but this guided food tour removes the guesswork. Set in the atmospheric Gion district, a local guide leads you to a curated selection of eateries to sample seasonal Kyoto specialties. To keep things simple, food tastings are included, along with a complimentary drink at two different venues.

If your time in Kyoto is limited and you want to see lots of its famous sights in a day, then this private guided tour is an excellent choice. Explore the city with a private guide to take care of navigating. Along the way, tick off 10 top attractions including the beautiful temple of Kiyomizu-dera, the geisha district of Gion, lush bamboo groves, and plenty more scenic surprises.

Delve into Uji's captivating culture and history on this exclusive walking tour. Visit the UNESCO-listed Byodoin Temple, renowned for its architectural beauty and historical allure. Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at Taihoan, the birthplace of Japan's green tea, where you'll learn the intricacies of this revered practice. Enjoy scenic strolls across picturesque suspension bridges and explore sacred sites like Uji Shrine and Ujigami Shrine. Conclude your journey with a taste of Uji's famed green tea and local delicacies, making this tour a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and scenic beauty.

Arashiyama’s bamboo forest is one of Kyoto’s most visited attractions so it can get pretty busy. Avoid the crowds by taking an early morning bicycle tour. Enjoy the forest and temples at their most serene, and take photos without strangers getting in the way. Get active while on vacation and visit some other Arashiyama highlights throughout the morning.

Discover Kyoto’s picturesque Arashiyama district without doing any research or itinerary planning, thanks to this efficient small-group walking tour. Meet your guide at Tully's Coffee near Randen Arashiyama Station before exploring the famous Bamboo Forest, Tenryu-ji Temple, Nonomiya Shrine, and Monkey Park Iwatayama to see the macaques. Admission is included, saving time waiting in line.

Cycle past a mix of Kyoto’s most famous sights and its lesser-known secrets during this half-day ‘Hidden Kyoto’ bike tour. Take a 4.9-mile (8-kilometer) ride that starts by winding past iconic Kyoto temples and shrines like Kinkakuji, Koto-in, and Kitano Tenmagu. Continue exploring off the beaten path, discovering intimate Zen gardens and charming backstreets known only to locals.

The greatest feature of this activity is that it is a fully private experience combining a guided walk around the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ujigami Shrine with an authentic matcha experience. Led by a former maiko, the experience goes beyond the taste of matcha to introduce the essence of Japanese culture through movement, space, and ma. The subtle sense of pause and harmony, explained in a clear and approachable way. After tasting several varieties of matcha, you will also prepare your own bowl of matcha in a traditional tearoom. By seeing, listening, tasting, and practicing, you can experience Japanese tea culture in a truly immersive way. As this is a completely private experience, it allows families and couples to enjoy a calm and intimate time without concern for other participants.

Explore Kyoto in Comfort and Style! Discover the timeless beauty of Kyoto on our exclusive, private day trip by car. Tailored just for you, we create a personalized itinerary based on your interests, allowing you to enjoy Kyoto’s iconic sights at your own pace. Visit renowned landmarks such as Kinkaku-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, and the tranquil bamboo forest of Arashiyama all in one day! The itinerary can be customized based on your requests.

Get a deeper experience of Kyoto food culture than would be possible on your own by joining this guided food tour. Stroll through the districts of Gion and Pontocho, stopping into small bars and restaurants to sample traditional drinks and food that have been carefully chosen to make up a full meal. The experience also includes the opportunity to try three different types of local sake too.

The streets of Kyoto's Gion geisha district are always packed full of tourists during the day. Avoid the big crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience of the culture-rich district on this small-group nighttime walking tour. Take a deep dive into the concealed world of geisha and traditional Japanese culture as you explore ancient streets, temples, and shrines under moonlight. In addition to Gion, you'll also visit other well-preserved historic parts of Kyoto.

This guided tour helps you discover Kyoto’s dispersed temples, shrines, and cultural attractions in one day. Save time researching and planning your trip, by having the itinerary organized for you. Travel in an air-conditioned coach for a hassle-free day. Highlights include Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sagano Bamboo Forest, and Kinkaku-ji Temple—admission tickets are included for all.

Take control of your Kyoto sightseeing and visit only the sights you wish to see on this private walking tour. Ideal for first-time visitors, this tour lets you customize a half-day or full-day itinerary. Opt to visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Nijo Castle, or to stray from the beaten path to see an alternative side of Kyoto. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.