Half day in Magical Kyoto Half day
4 hours tailored to what you want to see and do. So whether it's ticking off main sites or discovering hidden gems, it's up to you and your host!
$138.6 per person
4 hours
(351)
Hi, I’m Yuko
Hi, I’m Yuko
I’ve lived in Kyoto for 4 years
I speak English, Japanese and some Mandarin
I am a Ikebana instructor
Hello! I'm Yuko, your Kyoto host. I'm your go-to for a journey filled with the discovery of traditional Japanese sweets and the rich taste of Kyoto's unique veggies, all while enjoying the bloom and fall of seasons in our exquisite gardens. From the bamboo groves of Arashiyama to the contemplative calm of the Philosopher's Path, I know just where to take you for that perfect, peaceful moment. As a lover of ikebana and the tea ceremony, I can introduce you to the artful side of Kyoto, where every flower arrangement tells a story, and each tea session is a journey. Let's explore the best wagashi spots and dine in restaurants that showcase the glory of Kyoto's vegetables. Ready for an adventure where every turn is a surprise? Let's make your Kyoto visit unforgettable, with a dash of creativity and a spoonful of fun!
My knowledge & interests
Food
Arts
Nature / outdoors
Culture & customs
Street food
Local cuisine
Desserts
Food markets
Fine dining
Art galleries & museums
Parks
Gardens
Scenic routes
Political history
Artisanal tea
High-end fashion boutiques
Department stores
Street markets
Handicrafts & souvenirs
Traditional culture
Rituals & ceremonial customs
Japanese sake
Traditional art
Second-hand markets
Classical music
Jazz music
Rock music
Electronic music
Hip-hop
Metal music
Experiences I love to host
City Unscripted Original
Kyoto in pink: Experience the cherry blossom season like a local Seasonal
Join a local for an authentic cherry blossom experience. Discover secret sakura spots, enjoy a traditional picnic, and immerse in the beauty of hanami
$190.48 per person
4 hours
(18)
My reviews
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We were glad to share this experience with our tour guide Yuko. She was delightful, knowledgeable and kind! Kyoto is a beautiful and mindful place in the world
April 2024
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We started our day at dawn at Fushimi Inari Shrine on a solo trek through the gates-if you wait it gets too crowded to go with all of the group tours. Then we met up with Yuko- she was a great guide who knows Japanese culture and sights really well and yet she speaks perfect English! She led us to the old Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gyoen) and gardens where she filled us in with lots of history and we saw some beautiful Sakura and Plum trees. Then, because Yuko had researched, we were fortunate to catch a glimpse of Anaraku-ji Temple which is only open during camellia blooming season as the lovely grounds there are covered with them. We had already seen the Golden Temple, so Yuko suggested we see the Silver Temple which was wonderful. The view of the city when you walk up the path around the garden is spectacular! This is a great spot for panoramic photo of Kyoto. Afterwards, we headed over to the Market for buying a knife and kimono which was so nice to have Yuko to help find a store for these items. We were a little hungry and tired and wanted to sit to eat so she took us to this perfect spot where we had sake, soup and other light delicious bites and we learned more about food culture and sake tasting. Lastly, we went to an ikebana (Japanese floral art) display which was fascinating and I took soooo many photos. Thank you for the best day Yuko!!!
April 2024
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Quite an experience with great insights on the Nishiki food market. Yoko was very prepared at planning for every occasion. My girlfriend and I enjoyed ourselves all through the tour.
April 2024
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Our guide, Kiyoshi was very knowledgeable and took us to some temples we might not have explored without his advice. He also helped us navigate the public bus system which can be intimidating.
April 2024