Top Kyoto How to Get Around - page 42

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.

Step into the secret alleys of Kyoto and experience Japanese-style bars where locals gather to enjoy food and drinks. Before the tour begins, your expert guide will have a short consultation with you to understand your preferences, then take you to the bars that best match your taste. Wander through the charming backstreets of the Kawaramachi area, lined with tiny bars, traditional confectionery stands, and local food markets. For those interested, there will be chances to sample local bites as you stroll through the neighborhood. At each bar, your guide will introduce you to delicious pairings of sake and Kyoto-style side dishes. Every venue has its own unique homemade specialties — some of which you won’t find on any tourist menu. You’ll also visit a small hidden shrine and hear fascinating stories about its history. Exploring Kyoto on your own is wonderful, but with this tour, you’ll discover a whole new, authentic side of the city.

This tour offers a rare chance to explore Higashi Honganji—an immense temple complex just a short walk from Kyoto Station. Discover its vast halls and corridors while learning the essentials of Jodo Shinshu and the craftsmanship behind one of Kyoto’s largest wooden buildings. Choose to add Shosei-en Garden, a peaceful strolling garden with ponds and teahouses, or Kyoto Tower’s observation deck for panoramic city views and a new perspective on the temple area. It’s an easy, culture-rich walk that fits perfectly before or after travel connections.

Kiyomizu Temple. This temple, one of Kyoto's most popular tourist attractions, is one that you should definitely visit with a guide. This temple has a history that dates back to before Kyoto became the capital, and it is also a temple that constitutes the pilgrimage culture of Japan. The distinctive stage where tourists now take pictures has a deep Buddhist meaning. Of course, simply visiting this temple is a wonderful experience. But if you visit the temple with a guide and learn the meaning of each architectural feature, your visit to Kiyomizu-dera will be even more memorable.

Come with us to visit Amanohashidate and Ine, using public transportation and on foot! We will explore one of Japan’s three most scenic landscapes and a timeless fishing village. The morning begins in Amanohashidate, a famous pine-covered sandbar whose name literally means “Bridge to Heaven.” From the panoramic viewpoint to a peaceful walk between the sea and the bay, the atmosphere here feels calm and almost unreal. In the afternoon, we head to Ine, a village unique in Japan, renowned for its funaya—traditional boathouses built right on the water’s edge. Here, the sea is part of everyday life. Strolling through the village and enjoying views from the bay by boat, Ine reveals an authentic Japan that is simple, warm, and deeply human. Blending nature, heritage, and local life, this day trip is perfect for discovering a different side of the Kyoto region, far from the crowds, at the gentle rhythm of the sea. Are you coming? We are waiting for you!

This scenic riverside ride will take you on a wonderful cycling route along the quiet Uji and Yamashina Rivers before looping back into the historic and temple-filled Higashiyama district of Kyoto. The route deliberately avoids the crowded areas of Kyoto so the wheels can keep turning and you enjoy a nice 30km leisurely cycle ride. We explore beautiful Kyoto neighborhoods and vistas, as we ride up to the peaceful and secluded Sennyuji Shrine. A great ride for cyclists with a small window of opportunity for cycling while in Japan.

Embark on a walking tour in the Fushimi district of Kyoto, renowned for its many local sake breweries. The area’s high-quality water has led to the establishment of numerous sake producers. Learn about traditional sake production methods and enjoy a tasting session. Stroll down Ryoma Street which is associated with the end of the Edo period, where you can savor amazake, a sweet fermented rice drink, and take home a small bottle of special sake. Conclude your tour with an exclusive whisky and gin tasting curated by a whisky advisor. Each sip will be perfectly paired with matching snacks.

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 that 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 picture 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.

Experience the best of northern Kyoto on this scenic day trip to Amanohashidate and Ine Fishing Village. Walk across one of Japan’s most famous natural sandbars, surrounded by pine trees and breathtaking coastal views that feel like a “bridge in the sky.” Visit the peaceful seaside village of Ine, known for its traditional funaya boathouses built over the water, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s coastal lifestyle. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the calm bay and have fun feeding seagulls with free bait as they soar around you. This unforgettable tour combines stunning scenery, cultural heritage, and unique local experiences, making it perfect for travelers seeking beauty, relaxation, and adventure in one amazing journey.

Discover Kyoto and/or Nara on a private guided tour led by a professional photographer. Explore temples, historic districts, and landscapes at a relaxed pace while your experience is naturally documented through photography. This is not a staged photoshoot, but a guided journey focused on storytelling and real moments. As you walk, explore, and interact with each place, I discreetly document your experience, offering gentle guidance only when needed to keep everything natural and unforced. After booking, choose from three curated routes based on your interests, timing, and season. I will send the routes options by DM. Half-day tours focus on Kyoto highlights, while full-day tours may include Kyoto and Nara, or Fushimi Inari. Routes are selected together to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The tour is private and flexible. Entrance fees and transportation are handled individually by guests. Photo delivery includes a curated selection of professionally edited images.

Step off the typical tourist path and experience a different side of Kyoto. This mystery route adventure takes you away from the busy crowds and into peaceful, authentic places that many travelers never find. A comfortable vehicle will pick you up from the main area in the city and take you on a journey to hidden, peaceful spots where you can truly connect with the environment. The guide speaks conversational English and enjoys engaging with guests, making the tour feel warm and personal. Because it’s a small group tour, you’ll also have a chance to make new friends and share a special travel experience together — all at a reasonable cost. If you’d like, you can upgrade to a private or full-day tour for a more personalized experience (subject to availability). - Half-day tour exploring hidden spots in Kyoto - Comfortable vehicle pick-up from the main city area - Friendly guide providing personal insights in English - Small group size for a more intimate experience

From Kyoto to Lake Biwa: 4-Day Trip to Island Temples and Shiga Countryside. Day 1—At Shimogamo Shrine and Sanzen-in Temple, you can experience the beauty and tranquility of nature throughout the seasons. At Mount Hiei's Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, you can immerse yourself in solemn history and silence. Day 2—Enjoy the torii gate on the lake and the lovely waterside landscape with its waterways. Learn about the tradition of sake brewing, savor cuisine made with local ingredients, and experience the overwhelming charm of the Kannon statue. Day 3—Experience the sacred atmosphere woven by nature on the mystical island of Chikubu Island and at Samegai-juku on the Nakasendo. At Seiganji Temple, encounter the tranquility of the dry landscape garden and the spirit of Zen. Day 4—Enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and the Byodoin Temple in Uji. Learn about sake brewing traditions and take a ride on a Jikkoku bune to enjoy the waterside scenery.

Along the way, stop into carefully selected hidden Local restaurants where you’ll enjoy a full, curated meal featuring authentic Kyoto style dishes. Each stop has been handpicked for its quality, tradition, and local flavor places you’d likely never find on your own. To complete the experience, you’ll also sample three distinct types of local sake, gaining insight into Kyoto’s deep rooted brewing heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this evening offers an unforgettable blend of flavor, culture, and connection.

This Kyoto-based tour offers a meaningful escape from the city, guiding you into the spiritual landscape that has quietly supported Kyoto for more than a thousand years. Traveling to the sacred mountains of Mt. Hiei, you experience an area where religion, nature, and everyday life have long existed in harmony, shaping the cultural foundation of the ancient capital. Rather than focusing on famous sights alone, this journey emphasizes atmosphere, balance, and connection. Moving between mountain temples, shrine forests, and a historic townscape, the tour unfolds at a relaxed pace that encourages reflection and discovery. Easily accessible from Kyoto yet rich in depth, it is ideal for travelers seeking cultural insight, spiritual calm, and a more authentic experience of Japan beyond the usual tourist routes. This tour is great for any types of travelers , such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.

Enjoy a private day trip from Kyoto or Osaka to Hiroshima with hotel pickup and round-trip bullet train tickets included. Visit Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima in one well-planned tour. This tour combines Hiroshima’s iconic scenery, powerful peace heritage, and modern city energy in a single day. Pickup is available from hotels within 10 km of Kyoto Station or Osaka Station. Guests in the Osaka area will normally board the Shinkansen at Shin-Osaka Station. The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, and the itinerary may change depending on train schedules, ferry operations, weather, traffic, and crowd conditions. Please note: stadium interior access is not guaranteed. On certain days, you can enter Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima for free. If you're interested in a stadium tour, please let us know.

Explore the serene beauty of Kyoto's hidden gems on this immersive tour to Ohara. Enjoy a multi-course meal in a historic building, a hidden restaurant typically frequented only by locals. Departing from Kyoto in the morning, relax in a deluxe bus that feels like business class on an airplane, offering a selection of complimentary drinks (sake/soft drinks) and snacks. Visit the tranquil Hosen-in Temple to savor matcha tea and sweets in a historical setting, and uncover the story behind the 'bloody ceiling.' Enjoy a tranquil stroll in the beautiful moss garden at Sanzen-in Temple. Experience a delightful lunch at Nomura Sanso, a Japanese restaurant surrounded by a garden, where locally sourced ingredients come together in exquisite dishes. Return to Kyoto Station with your deluxe bus. - Deluxe bus transportation from Kyoto to Ohara and back - Multi-curse gourmet meal in a 100-year-old architectural masterpiece - Matcha and sweets in Hosen-in Temple - Sanzen-in Temple moss garden

Discover a quieter side of Kyoto on this magical evening walking tour. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, where thousands of vermilion torii gates glow as the sun sets. Walk through this iconic shrine during the calm, golden hour—perfect for stunning, crowd-free photos. Next, explore the lantern-lit streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, historic stone-paved alleys lined with traditional townhouses. Visit Yasaka Shrine, where soft lights and centuries of history create a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere. End your walk in Gion, at Hanamikoji, Shirakawa Canal, and Tatsumi Shrine, where Kyoto’s timeless beauty comes alive at night. Led by a local guide, this tour offers both breathtaking views and hidden stories.

Twilight at Fushimi Inari: Experience the mystical beauty of the "Thousand Torii Gates" in the evening hours when it is less crowded. The guided evening walk takes you through the atmospheric lower trails, where stone lanterns cast a soft glow on the vermilion Torii-paths. Lantern-Lit Heritage: Journey through the narrow, historic alleys of Gion and Pontocho and enter the glowing grounds of Yasaka Shrine. Discover the secrets of the Geisha districts and Kyoto’s 1,200-year history as the city transforms under the evening lights. Izakaya Experience: Settle into a local Izakaya for a curated selection of seasonal plates and Kyoto specialties. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with a drink in hand. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Kyoto in the evening on this captivating tour. From the serene trails of Fushimi Inari to the historic nightlife of Gion and Pontocho. Enjoy authentic dishes at a local Izakaya bar/restaurant. Small groups of maximum 6 participants.

08:40 Meet at Nipponbashi Station Exit 2 (Namba / Shinsaibashi area) 09:50 Meet at the Sightseeing Bus Parking Lot, Hachijo Exit, Kyoto Station 11:20 One of the "Three Views of Japan" – Amanohashidate Viewing Area (approx. 2.5 hours, including time for lunch on your own，Ropeway ticket is at your own expense.) Chionji Temple Monjudo (Temple for academic success) Kaisembashi Bridge – A unique rotating aesthetic (rotates irregularly) Amanohashidate Swimming Beach – Stroll along the shore or play in the sea – A summer treasure 14:30 Ine no Funaya – "The Venice of Japan" / "Kyoto's last hidden gem" (approx. 1 hour 20 min. for a stroll, cycling, or boat ride to feed the seagulls) 15:50 Begin return journey 18:20 Tour concludes at Kyoto 19:20 Tour concludes in the Shinsaibashi area, Osaka

Discover the fascinating world of ninja history on a full-day private tour from Kyoto to the Koka and Iga regions, two areas closely associated with Japan’s ninja heritage. Travel comfortably by private vehicle and visit some of the best-known ninja-related attractions in western Japan. Explore Koka Ninja House, Koka Ninja Village, and the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum at your own pace. This tour is ideal for travelers interested in Japanese history, ninja culture, and themed sightseeing. This is a private vehicle tour with driver service only and does not include a licensed tour guide. Admission fees are not included unless otherwise stated.

Experience Kyoto Your Way Discover the heart of Japan's ancient capital with the ultimate comfort of a private vehicle. This fully customizable day trip is designed for travelers who value flexibility and ease, allowing you to bypass the crowds of public transport and see Kyoto's iconic landmarks at your own pace. From the golden reflections of Kinkaku-ji to the thousands of vermilion gates at Fushimi Inari, we handle the logistics so you can focus on the beauty of the city.

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

Experience the stunning autumn foliage of Kyoto with a private tour tailored to the season. Guided by an expert, you’ll visit renowned temples and gardens, handpicked to showcase the vibrant colors at their peak. In early November, explore serene sites like Enko-ji, transitioning to iconic spots such as Eikando and the bamboo grove in Arashiyama during mid-to-late November. Even in early December, witness the beauty of fallen leaves at temples like Komyo-ji. Enjoy insightful commentary on Kyoto’s rich culture and history while avoiding crowded areas for a more intimate experience. - Private 6-hour tour of Kyoto's autumn foliage highlights - Tailored itinerary based on seasonal changes for optimal views - Visit famous temples and tranquil gardens with expert guidance - Enjoy insights into Kyoto’s culture, history, and traditions

Experience Kyoto in a truly memorable way with a Kimono Experience in Gion, where tradition and beauty come together. After choosing and wearing a beautifully styled kimono, you’ll step into the historic streets of Gion District, exploring iconic spots like Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, and Hanamikoji Street. With your guide, you’ll learn about geisha culture, and capture stunning photos in the most picturesque settings. This is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s timeless charm—don’t just visit the city, become part of it for a day. This is more than just a rental—it’s a fully immersive cultural experience that lets you live Kyoto’s elegance for a day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this tour offers the perfect blend of culture, photography, and unforgettable memories. Book now and experience Kyoto not just as a tourist, but as part of its living tradition.