Kobe
Cruise stop-over: day trip to Kyoto from Kobe port
Shore Excursion • 8 hours
5.0
(26)
Cruise stop-over: day trip to Kyoto from Kobe port
Discover Kyoto’s traditions and ancient culture on a day trip from Kobe Port.
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- With your local host leading the way and taking care of transport
- Walking experience once in central Kyoto (if required, your host can suggest public transport)
- Explore Kyoto and visit its most famous shrines, temples and districts in just one day
- Discover what makes Kyoto so unique, from its culture to traditional foods
- Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, or explore central Kyoto and its geisha district
- Youur host will also reveal a few secret spots you can’t find in a guidebook!
- Don’t worry, we’ll make sure you get back well on time… for your peace of mind….
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
8 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
100% private and personalized itinerary
8 hours with a host (including travel time) - this can be customized, just get in touch to let us know how long you will be docking for.
Return taxi transport from Kobe port to Sannomiya station
Walking experience once in the city center (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options, extra charge of $150 applies
Walking experience once in the city center (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options, extra charge of $150 applies
What’s not included
Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs other than the ones included in the experience
Return tickets from Sannomiya to Kyoto (Covered by JR pass if you have one)
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
KOBE PORT TERMINAL - The host will be waiting in the arrival lobby.Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
- Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostWhat you’ll do
Take the train to Kyoto with your local host, and discover another side of Japanese culture in its 8th-century capital. From discovering the centuries-old architecture of Kyoto Imperial Palace to catching a glimpse of a mesmerizing geisha along the cobbled streets of Gion, you’ll experience what makes Kyoto unique. You could explore the Fushimi sake district and sample fresh sake at a historic brewery, taste authentic wagashi (sweets) at Nishiki Market or experience a traditional tea ceremony. Visit the Fushimi Inari shrine and marvel at its famous, flame-colored tunnel or let your host reveal a hidden temple to you - whatever you choose to do, you’ll discover more than just the Kyoto that’s in guidebooks.
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
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What travelers think of this experience
Gaby
Apr 2025
Our guide was great; she took us everywhere we wanted to go and explained everything brilliantly. Thank you very much.
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Lisa
Apr 2025
Angelica knew exactly how to get us from place to place by train(s) and she
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William
Apr 2025
Tiago was an excellent guide. very knowledgeable and an excellent communicator. Did a good job of showing historic and cultural sites.
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Eileen
Apr 2025
We decided to upgrade and do the trip to Kyoto by bullet train. Firstly because of time saved in travelling and secondly because I always wanted to try it. Ryan met us at our cruise terminal and we went by taxi to the train station. We went to buy tickets and navigated to our platform. I was relieved Ryan was there to guide us through everything. We took a metro and a regular train before taking the bullet train. We didn’t have reserved seats….sometimes easier than searching for your seat, though we did have to stand sometimes. Ryan took us through some back streets in Kyoto to avoid the crowds and explained the culture. We visited Shrines and Gardens and did a bit of souvenir shopping…he was very patient :). Our time was short as we had to be back on our cruise ship but Ryan had it worked out. We took a taxi to the station and then back in the bullet train and taxi to the port. A short but full day with no anxiety thanks to Ryan.
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Eileen
Mar 2025
We had a later than expected start but Ryan made it work. He was very easy going and answered all our questions and more.
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Randall
Mar 2025
My only criticism is that it was difficult to find him to start our tour but after that he was great. I was extremely tired when we finally got back to the port and forget to give him the tip that he deserved. I highly recommend him to other travelers who want a private tour.
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