All Kyoto Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

History of kanji and the art behind it Kanji originated in ancient China as pictographic and ideographic symbols used to record meaning rather than sound. Over centuries, these characters traveled to Japan, where they were adapted into the Japanese writing system and became deeply intertwined with literature, religion, administration, and daily life. Beyond their practical use, kanji developed into an art form through calligraphy. The Workshop Experience Participants begin by putting on a traditional half jacket (hanten), symbolically entering the role of a learner of form. Each person then selects a single kanji to focus on. The session centers on writing that one character repeatedly, making adjustments and refinements with each attempt. The character gradually becomes a path of practice rather than just a symbol. The workshop concludes with each participant writing their chosen kanji on a formal board as a final piece (shikishi board).

Exclusively reserved for you and your group, this is Kyoto’s premier private sushi-making experience—held in a beautifully restored traditional townhouse just moments from Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the historic Gion district. Adorned with commissioned artwork and designed to reflect both Japanese tradition and refined aesthetics, the space provides an elegant setting for a hands-on cultural immersion. With step-by-step instruction in English, you’ll learn to prepare elegant homestyle sushi in a relaxed, personalized environment that goes far beyond the typical group class. Perfect for couples, families, or close friends looking to share something truly personal, this exclusive experience offers a meaningful way to connect and celebrate. Whether you're marking a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, engagement, or a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Japan, it’s an unforgettable way to create lasting memories—together, in a setting as special as the occasion itself.

Step into the fascinating world of Japan’s legendary ninjas on this unforgettable day trip to Iga, the birthplace of ninja culture. Travel comfortably from Kyoto in a private air-conditioned car with a professional local guide and discover the history, skills, and traditions that made Iga famous throughout Japan. Explore the renowned Iga Ninja Museum, where you'll learn about ninja tools, secret techniques, and the daily lives of these legendary warriors. Enjoy engaging exhibits and demonstrations that bring Japan’s ninja heritage to life. Along the way, savor a delicious lunch with your choice of premium beef or a vegan meal, ensuring a satisfying experience for every traveler. Book now and uncover the secrets of Japan’s most famous ninjas while enjoying the comfort of a private AC car and the expertise of a professional local guide.

This tour is led by a Professional English-speaking guide. At Komyo-in, enjoy a brilliant cherry blossom display thoughtfully arranged in a traditional Japanese room overlooking the beautiful garden. Next, visit the iconic World Heritage Site, Byodo-in Temple, and marvel at the spectacular reflection of the Phoenix Hall on the pond. If you have a 10-yen coin, take it out and compare it with the real thing! Then, stroll through Byodo-in Omote-Sando Street and enjoy local specialties for lunch in Uji, the tea capital of Japan. Following lunch, you can try an authentic matcha-making experience and savor the taste. Afterwards, experience Hanami (Cherry blossom viewing), a must-do Japanese spring tradition with snacks from food stalls at Sewaritei Cherry Blossom Festival. Finally, enjoy shopping for popular and delicious baumkuchen as souvenirs at atelier Kyobaum. This tour is perfect for all ages and anyone wishing to experience the essence of Japanese spring culture.

Discover Osaka your way with a 100% personalized private tour designed around your interests, schedule, and travel style. Before your tour, tell us where you would like to go and what you would like to see or experience. We’ll create a customized itinerary and share it with you in advance for review and confirmation. Explore Osaka’s historic sites, vibrant neighborhoods, local food, shopping, and cultural landmarks. Visit Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, Shinsekai, Umeda, and more. Enjoy local food, explore lively streets, and discover Osaka’s history and culture. You can also request assistance with restaurant reservations, cultural experiences, shopping, or special activities. On the day, your private guide will meet you at the agreed location and accompany you according to your itinerary. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups who want to explore Osaka at their own pace. Your interests. Your itinerary. Your Osaka experience.

Experience Kyoto's most charming summer tradition without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own. Begin your evening with convenient hotel pickup before visiting the historic Kitano Tenmangū Shrine, where your local guide will share the stories and traditions behind one of the city's most important shrines. From there, head to Kamishichiken, Kyoto's oldest geisha district, and enjoy the famous Summer Beer Garden. Sip a refreshing drink, savor a delicious appetizer, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this seasonal event while learning about the history of the district and its geiko and maiko culture. With transportation, admission, and local insights included, this relaxed evening experience is the perfect way to enjoy Kyoto like a local.

Kyoto is a city that closes early. The temples shut before dinner, the shops follow soon after, and by nine most visitors have run out of things to do. This is somewhere to go after that. Gion Country Club sits in a basement three minutes from Gion-Shijo Station, in the middle of the old entertainment district. Inside are golf simulators, a proper bar, and not much daylight. You get your own booth for an hour and play courses from around the world on a large screen. The ball is real, the swing is yours, the fairway is a projection. If you have never held a golf club, that is not a problem — the staff set everything up and show you what to do. Two drinks are included, from Japanese whisky to Kyoto craft gin, and you can order more at the bar. Clubs, gloves and shoes are provided, so you can arrive with nothing but what is in your pockets. The booth is yours alone. It is a local place rather than a tourist attraction, and most nights you will be alongside people from Kyoto.

Learn not only how to write beautiful characters, but also how to become more aware of yourself through the art of writing. In a world full of distractions, this experience offers a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and enjoy a mindful moment through traditional Japanese calligraphy.

On this tour, you'll be able to see, hear, and taste the culture of Kyoto at some especially exciting spots. We will explore the three major areas of Kyoto: Kitayama, Higashiyama, and Gion. We, the team (tourism experts in our 20s and 30s), promise to offer a unique and special tour experience that you won't find anywhere else in Kyoto.

Explore Kyoto’s Fushimi sake district and Uji matcha culture on a private 10-hour tour with an English-speaking driver-guide. Visit Fushimi Inari, walk through Fushimi’s historic brewing district, discover Byodo-in Temple and Mimuroto-ji, and finish in Uji’s traditional tea area with a basic matcha experience included. Default route: Fushimi Inari → Fushimi Sake Village → Byodo-in Temple → Mimuroto-ji Temple → Uji. The tour includes private transportation, route assistance and a basic matcha experience. Sake tastings and brewery experiences are not included unless the separate Sake Experience Add-on is booked. Admission tickets, meals and personal expenses are excluded. Route order may change due to traffic, opening hours and local conditions.

Kyoto is one of the most famous spots to visit in Japan. We visit Kiyomizu-Dera, Kinkakuji, and Arashiyama. ⬇PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY⬇ ➡️This is WALKING tour that uses public transportation. This is not a bus tour. This tour requires about 12,000 walking steps. ➡️The tour is APPROXIMATELY 5 hours, meaning it can differ by around 30 minutes before or after the estimated time. ➡️Our guide will contact you through what’s app so please download what’s app prior to this tour. This is to enhance smooth meeting between the guide and the guests. ➡️As we have other groups in the tour, we cannot accept any late guests. If you are late, YOU CANNOT JOIN the tour and will not be given a refund. ➡️ This tour has up to 10 people. ➡️ After the tour ends, you can select any restaurant for a delicious meal in our guide's list.

Discover the food culture of Kyoto. Enjoy a modern, healthy lunch at a restaurant specializing in fermented foods. Savor a tasting of three Japanese sakes within a traditional sake brewery. Admire the majestic beauty of the famed Byodoin Temple (Phoenix Hall). Learn the art of preparing and savoring matcha at a historic tea shop.

☆Experience an affordable combination of Maiko dance and authentic Kyoto Kaiseki style dinner. ☆Experience the stunning illumination of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, where the world of brocade unfolds. ☆You have the opportunity to take memorable photos with the maiko!

Experience Aikido where it is actually practiced. Instead of joining a tourist-only workshop, you’ll train in a local dōjō in the heart of Kyoto, usually alongside a regular Aikido class. With separate instruction in English or German, you’ll discover Yoshinkan Aikido through practical exercises and techniques while experiencing the atmosphere of Japanese Budō firsthand. No previous experience is needed, just step onto the tatami and discover a side of Japan that goes far beyond sightseeing.

Explore Arashiyama’s quiet side away from crowds. Visit Togetsu Bridge, a calm viewpoint, a small bamboo grove, and two temples with stone statues.

With over 50 years of experience in the wedding industry, we helps over 40,000 couples each year create unforgettable moments. Inspired by the beauty of kimono weddings from the Edo period, we founded our company to share this tradition with the world. Based in Kyoto, we offer authentic special experiences and virtual backgrounds of Japan’s stunning landscapes for a modern touch. Our passionate team is dedicated to celebrating Japanese culture and supporting each couple with warm hospitality.

・Create your own gold leaf art piece with the help of a skilled artisan ・Choose from two courses to customize your experience and design ・Take home your finished piece in a special case to display and enjoy ・Learn about the history and culture of gold leaf in Kyoto ・Receive an original gold leaf sake cup as a souvenir of your experience ※The following guests are not eligible to participate. ・Children under 9 years ・Babies under 1 year

Begin your culinary journey at the sushi counter with a professional sushi chef who shares the art of sushi-making. Master the essentials of handling sushi rice, selecting fresh ingredients, and traditional shaping techniques in a step-by-step guide designed for all skill levels. After crafting your own sushi, indulge in a delectable sushi course prepared by the chef, showcasing seasonal fish and high-quality ingredients. Transition to a serene tatami room for a traditional tea ceremony where you’ll witness the elegance of chanoyu. Learn the rich history and etiquette behind the ceremony, prepare your own matcha tea, and savor it alongside exquisite Japanese sweets.

The session begins with a clear and insightful introduction to the cultural background and philosophy of the tea ceremony. You will then observe a demonstration by the host, where every movement is performed with care, precision, and intention. After that, you will prepare your own matcha, guided step by step. By the end of the experience, you will not only know how to make matcha, but also gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture — and experience a sense of calm. This experience is an ideal experience for those who are looking for something more meaningful than just a typical tourist activity. 2 bowls of Matcha (one by the host, one made by you or with a companion) and traditional seasonal Japanese sweets are included. Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Subway Karasuma Oike Station. You may also continue the experience at home—preparing matcha for yourself or for someone special—using carefully selected tea bowls and matcha available for purchase at the venue.

Discover Kyoto's tranquil side on this walking tour that leads through hidden shrines and historical warrior paths. Leaving from Kyoto station the first stop is the ancient Fujinomori Shrine, then delve into the secluded Oiwa Shrine, and enjoy a packed lunch (please bring with you) with breathtaking views. Explore the grounds of Fushimi Momoyama Castle and reflect at the Meiji Emperor’s Tomb, all while an expert guide shares captivating stories of the city's past. This tour is perfect for those seeking a deeper understanding of Kyoto's rich history beyond its bustling temples. - Duration: Full day tour starting at 9:15 a.m. from Kyoto Tower Starbucks - Visit unique sites including Fujinomori Shrine and Oiwa Shrine, Fushimi Momoyama Caslte, and Meiji Emperor's Tomb - Moderate walking on uneven paths; fitness level required - Bring your own lunch; stop for refreshments available after the tour

Discover Kyoto through a culinary journey exploring the traditions, craftsmanship and flavors behind Japanese cuisine. Explore the essential ingredients of Japanese cuisine, including miso, shoyu and sake, while learning about the cultural roots of fermentation. Discover seasonal wagashi sweets and Japanese green tea before visiting Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s historic kitchen. Experience local specialties such as Kyo-yasai vegetables, Japanese pickles, dashi and delicate yuba while discovering the seasonal flavors and umami that define Kyoto’s food culture. Visit a historic knife shop to learn about Japanese craftsmanship and traditional cutting techniques, then finish with a beautifully prepared Kyoto Bento inspired by the culinary traditions explored throughout the journey. More than a food tour, this experience offers a deeper connection to Kyoto through its ingredients, flavors and heritage.

Come with us on foot to visit the historic streets of Gion! We start with a walk along the Kamo River, which is very popular with the locals. We will then discover Shirakawa Street, which marks the entrance to the traditional town. We are visiting the Yasaka Shinto shrine, a sacred site dating from the 7th century. We go through the old town passing through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, where the traditional city of Kyoto awaits us. We then cross Maruyama Park. This park is ideal for enjoying nature. Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring or autumn! Finally, we end our visit with a walk down Hanamikoji Street, where the kyomachiya, traditional Kyoto houses, transport us back in time. After this visit, you will know more about the history and culture of Gion and Japan. You will also be full of memories with this traditional urban landscape! Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

Discover the fascinating history of Himeji Castle on a private half-day tour. Explore this architectural masterpiece, one of the twelve remaining intact castles in Japan, whose history dates back to 1346. With an Expert Guide to Japanese History, dive into the feudal past and admire the dungeon as it was in 1618. This unique immersion combines culture, history and remarkable architecture, ideal for Japanese heritage enthusiasts. - Guided tour of Himeji Castle, a national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage Site - Expert Guide Sharing Historical Anecdotes - Duration of the visit: half day

Go beyond Kyoto’s famous sights and experience the city through hands-on local traditions. Ride an easy-to-use e-bike to scenic Gaunkyo Bridge and historic Fujinomori Shrine, where you’ll fill your reusable bottle with fresh spring water and taste it for yourself. At Fushimi Inari, walk through the iconic Senbon Torii, learn the stories behind Inari worship, try the Omokaru Stone wish ritual, and decorate your own fox-shaped ema with a personal wish. Enjoy traditional amazake before cycling back toward central Kyoto. Finish at Sauna no Umeyu, a neighborhood sento, where your guide will explain bathing etiquette before you step inside and experience an authentic part of everyday Japanese life.