Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge

What you'll do

Kyoto may be famous for the ancient Kennin-ji Temple, shrines dating back to the 8th century, and traditional teahouse ceremonies – but there are many more sides to the city. From exploring 1200-year-old Kiyomizu-dera Temple to walking the wood-built streets of storybook-esque Higashiyama to glimpsing geishas in twinkling Gion, you could see the areas that narrate Japan’s history.

Or, you could get a taste of modern Kyoto – an exciting world of late-night karaoke bars, draft beers in intimate izakayas, and 100-yen sushi in fluorescent restaurants. Share in local pastimes with your host, like eating Kaiseki at Kamo River or jostling through Nishijin Market for the freshest street food. 

Where you’ll go

You could walk the perfectly preserved streets of Higashiyama for a birds-eye city view from Yasaka Pagoda, or amble eight minutes north to Gion, Kyoto’s famous lantern-lit geisha district and nightlife hub. Maybe you’ll sample street food at centuries-old Nishiki Market or perhaps head one mile west for green tea and pastel-colored wagashi confections in Sanjo-dori Shopping Street, a foodie’s paradise.

In central Kyoto, history buffs can visit the old sake brewing district, Fushimi, or shop for beautiful textiles in the Nishijin weaving district. Outdoors, explore any number of famous temples set in tranquil gardens, or watch the sunset a 30-minute train ride north in Kurama – a natural hot spring nestled in pine tree-blanketed mountains.

  • Private & 100% personalized tour

  • 8 hours

  • Matched to your ideal host

  • Walking Tour

  • Hosted in English (On request: Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Spanish)

  • Meet at your accommodation or a central location

Experience outline

  • Get a fully personalized experience so you make the most of your time in Kyoto
  • Experience the real Kyoto in just one day, with a local insider to show reveal the city
  • See the ancient and modern world collide, with temple trips by day and draft beer at a cozy izakaya by night
  • See 400-year-old Nishiki Market, where Japan’s best street food is waiting to be tasted
  • Walk through Japan’s famous geisha district, and be mesmerized by these breathtakingly talented entertainers
  • Learn about Kyoto from a local’s perspective – and get plenty of tips for the rest of your trip

Things to know

What’s included

  • Private and personalized experience
  • 8 hours with a host
  • Walking experience and public transport if required
  • Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

What’s not included

  • Food and drinks
  • Tickets to any attractions
  • Transportation costs
  • Gratuities (optional)

Cancellation

  • Cancel 7 days before the experience for a full refund
  • Worry-free cancellation terms: book with peace of mind knowing that you can cancel for free up to a day before the experience and receive a full refund.

Photos taken by our hosts and guests

City Unscripted guests photos

Reviews

    Vanessa was fantastic. Highly recommend a private tour. Custom itinerary was well thought out. Vanessa shared valuable information and brought meaning to the gardens and temples. We look forward to returning and booking Vanessa again. Thanks!

    November 2022

    Victoria K

    We were able to see all the highlights of Kyoto even while traveling with two young children. It was so nice to not have to think about where we were going or plan the day. Our guide Emi was so helpful and knowledgeable, and we were able to see everything we wanted to see! We had a great day.

    October 2022

    Alexis G

    This host/guide really made the private tour experience worthwhile. We would recommend him to anyone interested in exploring Kyoto for the first time!

    October 2022

    Christopher H

    Great City to discover. It’s advisable to know yourself which program you like to do (i. e. what exactly you want to see and experience). Guide was very helpful in organizing transportation and assisting with translating. Be prepared that English often is not spoken, even by young Japanese. However, people are happy to help foreigners, including the Guide. What did you enjoy the most? Learning about Japanese Tea

    August 2022

    Carina T

See more reviews

Meet our local hosts in Kyoto. One of them will tailor this experience to your wishes!

We’ll expertly match you to your best suited host based on your interests, personality and the experience vibe you’re after.

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