All Kyoto Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

Kyoto Ghost Tour: Dark Tales, Urban Legends, Bamboo Forest Night

2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Private departure transfer from Kyoto city to Kansai International airport

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

Kyoto Sword Experience - includes Museum Ticket/Ninja Experience

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Stunning Private Tea Ceremony: Camellia Garden Teahouse

1 hourFree Cancellation

Visit Kyoto’s top five sights before the crowds arrive! Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, enjoy breathtaking views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and stroll through the geisha districts of Gion. Your English-speaking local guide will share Kyoto’s rich history and culture while capturing beautiful photos for lasting memories. Perfect for travelers wanting to experience Kyoto’s highlights efficiently!

Fushimi Inari Shrine / Senbon Torii Gates

Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi Inari & Gion(Private opt)

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

A Master Cutler and your chef guide will invite you to sharpen your own santoku knife, which you can take home as a cherished memento at the conclusion of the workshop. Our goal is for you to not only acquire knowledge but also to carry a tangible embodiment of your time in Japan, creating lasting memories for years to come. We aim to demystify this craft and showcase the wide range of knives and tools used by both professional chefs and enthusiasts. With over a dozen different types of knives utilized in kitchens across Japan, we provide a comprehensive explanation of this unique assortment of tools.

Knife Workshop with a Master Cutler

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Experience the ultimate contrast of Kyoto on this premium 4-hour private morning tour. Seamlessly blending Japan's ancient spiritual roots with its cutting-edge future, this guided journey offers a stress-free exploration of two iconic landmarks. Begin at the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. Beat the heavy daytime crowds and walk through the magical Senbon Torii (thousands of vermilion gates) in the serene morning air. Your expert local guide will decode ancient Shinto myths and the secrets of the sacred fox deities. Next, time-travel to the futuristic world of teamLab Biovortex Kyoto. Immerse your senses in this spectacular, interactive digital art museum where light and colors respond to your presence. Enjoy flawless transit navigation and insightful photography assistance throughout, making this the perfect half-day experience for families and couples.

Kyoto: teamLab Biovortex, Kiyomizu-dera & Gion Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

from

$143

$129

Discover the historic and natural environs of Nara, without the stress of planning routes and navigating, on this afternoon excursion from Kyoto or Osaka. Visit Todaji Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan and home to the country’s largest Buddha statue, and Kasuga Shrine, which features over 3,000 stone and bronze lanterns. Then stop by Nara Park, home to more than 1,000 deer.

Nara Afternoon Tour from Kyoto or Osaka: Todai-ji, Nara Park

Nara Afternoon Tour from Kyoto or Osaka: Todai-ji, Nara Park

5 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

Kyoto Backstreets and Hidden Gems E-Bike Tour

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Samurai School in Kyoto: Samurai for a Day

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Step into the world of ninja craftsmanship in Kyoto and forge your own authentic ninja weapon using traditional Japanese tin casting techniques. In this immersive workshop, you will melt, cast, cool, and finish real metal under the guidance of experienced craftsmen. It offers a rare chance to work hands-on with time-honored methods used in Japanese metalwork. This Experience is designed to be approachable for beginners and families alike, allowing participants to enjoy the magic of crafting without any prior skills. Children age 5 and above are welcome to participate. The experienced staff provide full step-by-step support through the entire process, ensuring that both kids and adults can comfortably enjoy the activity, and safely experience the excitement of the melting and molding process. Whether you are visiting with family, friends,or as a couple, this activity offers a memorable way to create something meaningful with your own hands.

Craft Your Own Ninja Weapon with Shōgun Mask Workshop in Kyoto

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Kyoto Foodie Night Tour

For outsiders, Japanese culture can be difficult to grasp but this guided tour offers the chance to get a locals' eye view of one of the most traditional of Japanese settings. Accompanied by a guide who tailors the tour to your interests, stroll through the historic streets of Kyoto's Gion district, famed for its scenic cobbled streets lit by paper lanterns, traditional architecture, and association with geiko and maiko culture. Visit Pontocho alley, one of Japan's oldest nightlife areas, and stroll by teahouses as your guide offers insights into local culture.

Kyoto Gion Private Tour with a Local Guide – Geisha District

2 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Tea Ceremony Kyoto - An Authentic Cultural Experience

1 hourFree Cancellation

Japan is known for Zen meditation, and this special experience offers rare access to a temple that isn’t usually open to the public. Take part in a small-group Zen meditation session led by a monk, who explains the core principles and shares special insights that you wouldn’t hear anywhere else. After the introduction, enjoy the opportunity to try out meditating in this serene and very atmospheric setting.

Kyoto: Zen Meditation at a Private Temple with a Monk

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Discover Kyoto's geisha culture with our immersive dinner tour. Enjoy a sumptuous meal while being entertained by a skilled geisha or maiko, who will perform traditional dances, play musical instruments, and engage in elegant conversation. Our knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights into the life and customs of geisha, explaining their historical significance and the intricate artistry involved in their training and performances. You'll also learn about the beautiful city of Kyoto, its history, and cultural heritage. Please note that this group tour requires a minimum of 4 participants. If the number stays below 4 close to the tour date, it may not proceed. Also, depending on the availability of Geiko and Maiko, we may not be able to arrange their attendance. If so, we will notify you in advance. We provide traditional dishes using seasonal Kyoto ingredients (mainly vegetables, fish, and tofu). If you would like to make a private reservation, please contact us

Kyoto: Geisha Dinner & Gion Cultural Walk

Kyoto: Geisha Dinner & Gion Cultural Walk

Step into a peaceful, authentic tea ceremony experience in a traditional Kyoto machiya over 130 years old. In this intimate small-group session, you will learn the meaning, history, and philosophy behind Japanese tea culture in a clear and approachable way. Your host will guide you through each step of the ceremony, explaining the etiquette and spirit of tea. Watch a graceful tea ceremony performed by your host, then experience it for yourself by preparing matcha using traditional tools. Enjoy high-quality Kyoto matcha paired with carefully selected traditional Japanese sweets in a calm, non-touristy setting that many guests describe as one of the most memorable cultural experiences in Kyoto.

Authentic Kyoto Tea Ceremony in a 130-Year-Old Traditional House

Authentic Kyoto Tea Ceremony in a 130-Year-Old Traditional House

45 minutesFree Cancellation

Kyoto Private Photo Shoot & Tour by SnapKyoto

1 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Ramen Gyoza Onigiri Japanese Cooking Class in Kyoto

1 hour 40 minutesFree Cancellation

No rush. No public transport. No other groups. Explore with a local Japanese guide born and raised in Kyoto. I’ll accompany you inside the temples and shrines, sharing their history and culture along the way. Choose from 3 private tours: • Kyoto 1-Day Highlights • Kyoto & Nara • Kyoto & Osaka →Sample itineraries for each tour are shown in photos 5, 6, and 7. All tours start and finish in Kyoto. Select your preferred option when booking. • Your own private car and English-speaking guide • A flexible route planned around your interests and the time available • A comfortable pace, with breaks when needed • Photos of your group along the way • My personal list of recommended Kyoto restaurants, shared before your tour • Kyoto City hotel pickup and drop-off included You don’t need to have every detail planned before booking. Once you’ve booked, we can discuss your preferences, pickup details, and itinerary by message.

Kyoto Private Car Tour with Local Japanese Guide – 3 Options

6 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Step into the timeless atmosphere of Kyoto’s Gion district and discover the refined world of Japanese tea ceremony at THE TEA CEREMONY GION Orizuruya. Begin your journey by choosing a beautiful kimono, with our staff assisting you in dressing and, for female guests, offering hairstyling to complete the elegant look. In this intimate space, you’ll then experience the true essence of Japanese culture through chanoyu - the art of serving and enjoying matcha. Guided by our hosts, you’ll not only observe an authentic tea ceremony but also try making matcha yourself, savoring the flavor of a bowl of tea you’ve whisked with your own hands. Seasonal Kyoto sweets, elegant tearoom décor, and the quiet spirit of hospitality combine to create a moment of peace and mindfulness. Whether you are traveling solo or with someone special, we invite you to dress in a kimono, step into the tea room, and take home unforgettable memories filled with the spirit of Japanese hospitality.

Elegant Tea Ceremony With Wearing Kimono Experience in Gion Kyoto

Elegant Tea Ceremony With Wearing Kimono Experience in Gion Kyoto

Kyoto: Private E-Bike Adventure: Highlights? or Serenity?

4 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Kyoto: Kawaramachi Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Journey into the "Otherworldly" landscapes of Kyoto’s hidden tea country. This private tour takes you to Wazuka, the magical village supplying the finest Uji Matcha Highlights: Magical Views Year-Round: Marvel at the famous "Green tea fields reaching to the sky." The manicured, geometric evergreen waves are breathtakingly photogenic in every season—stunningly serene and vivid even in winter! Authentic Tea: Visit local farmer-supplied cafes to taste Japan’s No.1 awarded tea and rich matcha desserts. Enjoy shopping for premium tea at 1/2 to 1/3 of city prices Time Travel: Explore the iconic Byodoin Phoenix Hall, 1,000-year-old architecture survived centuries of war to represent the "Buddhist Pure Land (Paradise)" on Earth. Discover how monks, samurai, and even ninjas shaped tea culture while visiting hidden gems left from ancient monks Ride in Style: Wide area pickup options from 2 big cities, comfortable van for groups or an open-air convertible Mini Cooper for solo travelers

Scenic Green Tea Fields of Hidden Kyoto & Local Tea Exp (Private)

Scenic Green Tea Fields of Hidden Kyoto & Local Tea Exp (Private)

5 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Must-Dos in Kyoto

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What are people saying about Kyoto

Kyoto Gion Geisha District Walking Tour - The Stories of Geisha

Barry_G, Oct 2026

Guided tour of Geisha’s Gion

Our guide Michael was absolutely excellent! Such a fantastic guide who was very knowledgeable and professional on our guided walk in Gion. He took great care to answer any questions that we had and he told us lots of great stories and facts about the Geisha’s in Gion. It was a fascinating walk around the enchanting streets of Gion in Kyoto - a real highlight on our Japan trip. We did this walk with our two children aged 11 and 14 years and they both enjoyed it.

From Kyoto / Osaka: Kyoto Must-see Spots & Nara Park One Day Tour

Natalia_S, Oct 2026

Kyoto and Nara Park Excursion

This tour was very eventful and fun! Our tour guide, Fiona was humorous and very helpful throughout the day. She kept the group updated throughout our whatsup group and made sure everyone’s questions were answered. The key points of this day tour was seeing the animated deer at Nara Park, Bamboo Forest, and the Torii gates. Definitely need to book this tour with this company!!!

PERFECT KYOTO 1-Day Bus Tour

Ryan_P, Oct 2026

Tommy was an amazing tour...

Tommy was an amazing tour guide and really enhanced the overall tour experience. Truly One of the best values for the cost, given this is a full 9 hour tour across all that Kyoto has to offer. After taking this tour, I can’t imagine trying to tour around Kyoto by ourselves. Highly highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Kyoto

1 Hour Geisha Show in Kyoto

Karen_S, Oct 2026

A rare glimpse into the world of a Geiko.

Well worth the money to experience a rare hour with a very talented and charming young Maiko-San. We so enjoyed seeing her entertain the group with her game and dances and the chance to ask her questions and take pictures of and with her made the time a treasure.

Authentic Knife Making Experience at a Blacksmith in Kyoto

Rom_S, Oct 2026

The first part was...

The first part was forging the knife out of a piece of metal using a hammer, which demanded considerable strength. Then, we sharpened the knife to its final form and made the edge. You can choose one of a number of shapes to make the knife into. The knife came out looking great, and the experience was a lot of fun. The staff was very professional and helpful, managing the experience, giving advice and fixing our mistakes :) Overall, highly recommended!

Kyoto Sumo Entertainment Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Geisha

Andrew_J, Oct 2026

Compelling Sport and Lighthearted

So so much fun! The wrestlers are amazing athletes and very talented entertainers, great comedy and a fun atmosphere for everyone. The whole place erupted countless times during the show. It's informative but not too serious. I would recommend to everyone. Suitable for all ages. I'm not typically interested in sports but I could watch this over and over. The drinks and food are on demand and arrive with 60 seconds of ordering.

10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour

Paul_M, Oct 2026

Great tour

Akemi was a wonderful guide. She reached out before the tour to ensure we saw everything we wanted to see, plus suggest some more. She is an enthusiastic booster for her city and is full of good information. She has a fun personality. Importantly, she checked in a few times prior to the tour to make sure our meeting went smoothly.

Hiroshima & Miyajima 1-Day Tour from Osaka, Kyoto or Hiroshima

Brett_P, Oct 2026

Minori’s Awesome Hiroshima Tour!

This was a FANTASTIC tour. Minori our guide was hilarious, thoughtful and very knowledgeable. We appreciated the balance of being guided and free time. This was a unique cultural experience and well worth the exhaustion at the end of the day. FYI, the directions for taking the train from Osaka were easy and flawless!! We highly recommend this tour!

Full Day Tour of Kyoto with Private Transportation

6g5s6pdrct, Oct 2026

10 out of 10 Private Kyoto Day Tour!

My Husband and I had an absolute blast on this day tour. We had so much fun with our tour guide Ana, who was very knowledgeable on the places we visited, we learnt so much today. Ana wasn’t just the tour guide but she also offered to be our photographer in every site and her photos are amazing! I won’t say too much as to not spoil the great parts but all I can say is this Kyoto Day Tour is so worth it. In between the itinerary of places you will also have time to buy souvenirs. We had lunch at a traditional Japanese restaurant where we had to take our shoes off, they had a variety of menu sets to pick from and everything we ordered was delicious! Thank you Ana-san and Cho-san for the best day!

Hiroshima & Miyajima Tour From Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka

Hailey_W, Oct 2026

Hiroshima and Miyazima Island

Mitzuke (if this is her correct name) guided us on wonderful tour of the Hiroshima atomic dome, memorial area and museum. Before heading to Miyazima Island. The fact that she came from Hiroshima and her family experienced the atom bomb dropping on the 6th of August 1945, makes her the most ideal tour guide for such a melancholy but essential cultural, historic trip. She was so kind, full of knowledge and super friendly. Everyone on the tour enjoyed her stories and her beautiful character. I hope to meet you again one day. Thanks again Viator for organising another fantastic tour that is as always amazing value for money <3.

Award-Winning Authentic Ramen Making Experience in Kyoto

Stacey_K, Sept 2026

Fun, interactive cooking class!

Fun interactive cooking class where you actually cook your own meal! This was a super fun course where we learned a lot about Japanese ramen’s history as well as the ingredients that make it delicious. The instructor, Elsa, was informative as well as adorable in getting to know each of us during our session.