All Kyoto Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

This cooking class takes place every Tuesday. As a chef and nutritionist who previously ran a French restaurant serving home-style meals on the World Heritage site of Yakushima, I also focus on healthy Japanese cuisine. I will carefully teach you how to recreate the recipes at home. You will learn about culture and history using ingredients unique to Kyoto. Most of the ingredients used in class are vegan. Fish and eggs may also be used. If you have any allergies, please let me know in advance. If you would like a completely vegan diet, please also send me a message.

Embark on an enchanting one-day tour, delving into Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. Begin at the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched atop a hill with sweeping city views. Unveil its profound history and be captivated by its ethereal beauty. Wander through Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka slopes, adorned with traditional houses, shops, and restaurants. Continue along Ishibei-koji cobblestone pathways, a hidden gem steeped in samurai-period allure. Marvel at the exquisite wooden architecture and immerse in the nostalgic charm. Next, encounter the majestic Yasaka Pagoda, a symbol of spiritual elegance. Visit Kennin-ji Temple, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, where tranquility envelops you. Admire serene gardens and captivating artworks, enhancing your spiritual experience. Conclude your odyssey in the renowned Gion district, a haven of traditional arts and geisha culture. Walk cobbled streets and absorb cultural nuances thriving in this captivating neighborhood.

Make your Kyoto adventure hassle-free with Kyoto Gorilla's convenient luggage solutions! Located at the iconic Kyoto Tower, we offer both secure storage and reliable delivery services in English, Japanese, and Chinese. Choose Your Service: 1. STORAGE SERVICE (¥1,000/item) Secure same-day storage Perfect for exploring Kyoto hands-free Prime location at Kyoto Tower Easy access from Kyoto Station 2. DELIVERY SERVICE (¥2,000/item) Convenient luggage delivery Perfect for smooth hotel check-in/out Professional handling Stress-free sightseeing Operating Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Daily Location: Kyoto Tower: Nishiki Uoriki - Kyoto Tower Sando 721-1 Higashishiokōjichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216 Why Choose Kyoto Gorilla: Trilingual staff (English/Japanese/Chinese) Professional and secure service Perfect for: Early check-out/late check-in Day-trip visitors Shopping enthusiasts Temple and shrine hoppers Travelers with hotel transfers

Step into a real local theater in Kyoto’s historic Gion district and discover Japanese entertainment as local audiences enjoy it today. Gion Gofukuza offers a rare chance to experience Taishu Engeki, a colorful form of Japanese popular theater loved by generations of local fans. Rather than watching a show created only for tourists, take your seat alongside Japanese theatergoers and share the excitement, applause, and unique atmosphere of a live performance. Enjoy expressive Japanese dance, dazzling kimono costumes, music, and dramatic stage performances from close to the stage. The highly visual show can be enjoyed even without understanding Japanese. Photography is welcome during the show. After the performance, the actors personally see guests off, giving you a memorable opportunity to meet them up close and take photos together. Discover a side of Kyoto beyond temples and sightseeing—a living entertainment culture that Japanese people themselves continue to enjoy today.

“Your Story. Your Kanji. Your Kyoto Memory.” Discover the essence of Japanese culture through an immersive calligraphy workshop in Kyoto. This unique experience goes beyond writing kanji; it delves into the etiquette and physical balance that define the art. In a tranquil Zen atmosphere, you'll carefully craft your own calligraphy work, reflecting the spiritual richness of Japan. Leave with a one-of-a-kind piece that embodies your journey and memories within this historic city.

Go beyond simply visiting Japanese gardens and learn how to truly appreciate them with a licensed guide who is also a certified garden designer. Discover the stories, philosophies and design principles behind Kyoto’s gardens, including how perspective and composition, symbolism and seasonal changes influence the way these landscapes are experienced. Explore three contrasting gardens, each revealing a different style, history and approach to Japanese aesthetics. Your specialist guide will share insights into the elements that shape a garden, from the relationship between stones, plants, water and space to the viewpoints and techniques used to create harmony and meaning. This experience offers a deeper look at how to observe and appreciate Japanese gardens, helping you recognize the details, ideas and cultural influences woven into each landscape. The tour concludes with a relaxing garden cafe, where you can enjoy a drink and sweet set while taking in Kyoto’s refined atmosphere.

Summary Discover Kyoto’s traditions in this premium half-day tour. Create your own chopsticks and Kyo-Yuzen case, enjoy a Kyoto-style lunch, and visit Sasaki Sake Brewery for a tasting of award-winning sake. Experience Kyoto’s Timeless Traditions in an Exclusive Small-Group Tour Step into the heart of Kyoto’s cultural heritage with this premium half-day experience. Craft your own Kitayama cedar chopsticks and hand-dye a Kyo-Yuzen patterned case in a historic workshop dating back over 350 years. Savor a healthy Kyoto-style lunch in a hidden machiya townhouse before visiting Sasaki Sake Brewery—Kyoto’s only central brewery since 1893—for an intimate tour and tasting of their gold award-winning sake “Jurakudai.” With a small-group size and personal guidance, every detail is designed to give you an authentic, memorable, and truly premium Kyoto experience. Priced at USD 141 to reflect the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and exclusivity of this experience.

Set off on a journey to Kansai's hidden gems! Explore Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Views—wander the pine-fringed sandbar and marvel at the stunning blend of mountains and sea. Climb Mount Monju for a bird’s-eye view of Amanohashidate, which resembles a galloping dragon. Discover Ine Funeya, the "Venice of Japan": admire the scattered floating boathouses along the bay, take a boat trip to cruise around the bay, or cycle through the lanes to enjoy the fishing village’s simple and leisurely life.

###Arashiyama Highlights with Matcha Experience #### Introduction Visit the Tenryuji Temple, stroll through the Bamboo Grove, and see the Togetsukyo Bridge.After sightseeing, and receive a brief explanation of tea ceremony etiquette while enjoying matcha green tea. #### Part 1: Highlights of Arashiyama (3 Hours) We will embark on a scenic tour of Arashiyama, known for its stunning landscapes and historical sites. The tour will include visits to three must-see locations: Tenryu-ji Temple, the Bamboo Grove, and the Togetsukyo Bridge. #### Part 2: Matcha Experience (1 Hour) the experience of enjoying matcha and sweets offers much more than mere flavor. It is a moment to attune oneself to the harmony of nature, cultivate mindfulness, strengthen human connections, and discover the beauty in subtlety.

You will take a tour to visit kyoto, osaka, nara, and the places you want to visit for only ten hours a day.

Awaji Island is a distinctive day trip for travelers interested in architecture, coastal views, gardens, and quieter scenery outside Kyoto. The route is especially attractive for guests who know Tadao Ando or want a more original Kansai private car experience. Your driver picks you up at your Kyoto hotel and handles the long-distance transportation to Awaji Island and back. Sightseeing is self-guided, and the route is kept focused on northern Awaji for realistic timing. Private vehicle is the most practical way to reach Awaji from Kyoto Good for architecture and design-focused travelers Coastal scenery and island atmosphere Flexible self-guided route More original than standard Osaka/Nara products Comfortable for couples, families, and repeat visitors

Escape the busy streets of Kyoto and discover a deeper side of Japan on this cultural journey to Sacred Mt. Hiei and historic Sakamoto Town. Surrounded by mountain forests, ancient temples, and peaceful shrine paths, you’ll experience an area that has shaped Kyoto’s spiritual and cultural heritage for more than a thousand years. Rather than focusing only on famous landmarks, this tour offers a relaxed and meaningful experience filled with history, nature, and authentic local atmosphere. As you explore the charming streets of Sakamoto Town and the serene beauty of Mt. Hiei, you’ll gain a deeper connection to Japan’s traditions beyond the usual tourist routes. Perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike, this journey offers a unique blend of culture, spirituality, and scenic beauty. Book now and discover the timeless spirit of Kyoto through unforgettable landscapes and authentic cultural experiences.

This tour is a slow cycling tour with BROMPTON bicycles around the quiet waterside of Kyoto's Higashiyama area and the tranquil temples and shrines, allowing you to learn about the history and culture of Kyoto, a city that lives with water (distance: approx. 12 km). ・The tour is a great way to visit places that are otherwise inaccessible by riding with a navigator who knows the local area inside out. ・Slow cycling is an easy way for people who are not confident about their physical fitness to take part. ・All equipment for riding is provided, so you don't need to bring anything. ・The tour is also a great way to enjoy local food at speciality shops. ・The tour course can be arranged according to your wishes. ・You can take photos with your stylish BROMPTON bike.

What makes this experience exceptional is the way it connects Kyoto’s living craftsmanship with the quiet appreciation of Japanese art. Begin at Nakamura Rousoku, a long-established maker of traditional Japanese candles, where skilled artisans preserve techniques passed down through generations. Observe the delicate craft of wa-rosoku, learn about their natural materials and distinctive flame, and paint your own candle by hand. The journey continues at Hōzōji Temple, closely associated with Itō Jakuchū and artists of his circle. After discovering the temple’s history, view selected Japanese paintings illuminated by the soft, wavering glow of wa-rosoku. Unlike electric light, the living flame creates shifting shadows and subtle depth, revealing the paintings in a more intimate atmosphere. Guided throughout by a professional guide, this carefully composed experience brings together craftsmanship, history, sacred space, and the beauty of light. A rare encounter with Kyoto’s heritage.

Enjoy a family kimono experience at Rental Kimono Okamoto Kiyomizu Higashiyama Shop, located in the heart of Kyoto's sightseeing area! With over 1,000 kimonos available, families can choose from beautiful traditional patterns to colorful modern designs. Our friendly staff will help everyone choose their favorite kimono and provide professional dressing for both adults and children. The spacious shop offers a relaxing atmosphere and photogenic interior, perfect for family photos. Many famous attractions are within walking distance, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Yasaka Pagoda, Kodaiji Temple, Ninenzaka, and Nene-no-michi. Just a short walk from the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop, our shop is convenient for families with children. Explore Kyoto's historic streets in kimono and create unforgettable family memories with Rental Kimono Okamoto!

Everyone who comes to Kyoto must visit this cool and fantastic bamboo forest to take pictures. It is said to have been a vacation home for aristocrats in the Heian period (794-1185). On sunny days, the sun shining through the trees is pleasant, and on sunless days, it is dim even during the daytime. Tenryu-ji, a Zen temple, is a quieter place to visit than other temples, allowing you to calmly enjoy the lovely gardens and decorations of the temple grounds. Also, this temple is recognized as a World Heritage Site. This is an important experience that will add color to your trip, as you will be able to see up close the garden, a nationally designated historic site and special place of scenic beauty. Enjoy the area's history, shopping, and photo opportunities at various locations to color your day unforgettable.

This is a Nishiki market private tour using public transportation. The destinations of the tour includes Nishiki market, Sanjusangendo and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Let's try many kinds of seafood and traditional Japanese food while learning from the professional guide about the history of Nishiki market! Take a tour to eat and drink like locals! As an example, there are shops such as Hedgehog wharf, sea urchin, fried fish cake, hamo(pike conger) , Japanese-style egg omelet and more. Meal charges are not included in this tour fee. The average food and drink price per person at Nishiki market is 3,000 yen to 4,000 yen.Depending on the menu you choose, these charges will change. Choose what you like and eat a lot at Nishiki market! After eating, enjoy the ancient buildings in Kyoto and the history about them. For details of the destination, you can look at the what to expect, inclusions and excursions section of this web page.

Explore Kyoto’s famed Gion district alongside a guide who knows these streets like the back of his hand. Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, radiates an air of refinement and cultural significance. Gion, a district within Kyoto, transports visitors to a world steeped in geisha culture and traditional elegance. It’s here, during this experience, that you’ll be transported into the world of these skilled artists. Their dances, often accompanied by traditional instruments, tell stories of history and mythology.

Elevate your Kyoto experience with a private, 10-hour, door-to-door customizable tour from Osaka. Start with convenient pickup at your hotel in Osaka city. Craft your perfect itinerary, experiencing iconic highlights such as the vibrant Fushimi Inari Taisha, the majestic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the historic Gion district, among other renowned Kyoto attractions. Skip complicated transfers and maximize your time with efficient point-to-point rides. Travel in comfort in a clean, air-conditioned private vehicle. Ideal for families, friends, and first-time visitors seeking a personalized exploration of Kyoto's cultural treasures. • Private 10-hour Kyoto tour from Osaka with hotel/apartment pickup and drop-off • Efficient point-to-point transfers to save time and minimize time in crowds • Modern, clean, air-conditioned private vehicle; not shared with other groups • Build your day from scratch, or start with our recommended route and add your favorite stops

Visit Nara from Kyoto with a private vehicle and professional driver. This self-guided day trip lets you explore Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha, Kofukuji, and Naramachi at your own pace without managing train transfers. Nara is one of the most comfortable and rewarding day trips from Kyoto, especially for families, couples, and small groups who prefer private transportation. Your driver picks you up at your Kyoto hotel and takes you directly to Nara, where you can explore the city’s temples, deer park, shrines, and old-town streets independently. This is a self-guided private car day trip. The driver provides transportation and basic logistical support, but does not guide inside attractions. A licensed guide option can be added separately in the future. The route is flexible. You can focus on major cultural landmarks such as Todaiji and Kasuga Taisha, spend more time around Nara Park, or include a slower walk through Naramachi. -

You will learn the basic information of miso such as the making process, the variety of miso. After tasting 5 different types of miso, guests will make own miso which guests can bring back with them. It includes the tips to how to use each type of miso for daily cooking, so that guests can have more cooking variety even after they are back home. This workshop is perfect for those who love cooking and want to deepen their knowledge of miso. *Preschooler (under 7 years old) is free and can join with a parent. If you would like us to prepare ingredients for them, please include them in the number of participants.

Kobe, a vibrant city in Japan known for its blend of cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine, offers a wealth of experiences. Customizing your tour allows you to focus on what interests you most, whether it's history, nature, food, or shopping. A customized tour of Kobe allows you to tailor your experience to match your interests and preferences, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit. Whether you're exploring historical sites, indulging in local cuisine, or immersing yourself in natural beauty, Kobe offers something special for every traveler. This tour is great for any types of travelers, such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.

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.

Enjoy both a traditional kimono (or yukata in summer) and an authentic matcha experience in Kyoto. In a beautifully renovated townhouse, learn about the tea ceremony and whisk your own bowl of matcha.