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

See the temples and shrines that make Kyoto famous – and the popular local haunts your guidebook doesn’t even know exist! From feasting on wagyu (yes, wagyu!) sushi ordered by your in-the-know host at centuries-old Nishiki Market to exploring the historical, wood-built streets of Higashiyama, to gazing out over the city from Yasaka Pagoda, the soul of Kyoto is quick to discover – and even faster to love.

Enjoy modern and ancient Japan, harmoniously intertwined, as you snack on street food while listening to live traditional music at Kamo River. Gather with other revelers in the streets of Gion and Ponto-chō for a night of karaoke, upscale dinners, and draft beer at intimate izakayas where the crowds outside seem to fade from existence.

Where you’ll go

It may be small in size, but Kyoto is vast in cultural heritage – and with a host’s invaluable insider knowledge, you’ll make the most of your time. You could explore ancient temples, like cherry blossom-flanked Kiyomizu-dera, or head north to the tranquil Rakusho teahouse for Uji green tea and wagashi confections.

Five minutes away, Kyoto’s lantern-lit central district, Gion, is the perfect place for a draft beer at a cozy izakaya bar or a multi-course kaiseki meal at one of the many traditional restaurants. From here, you might stroll a short distance south to the wood-built streets of historical Higashiyama for a view from 1400-year-old Yasaka Pagoda, then cross the Kamo River bridge west to Nishiki Market for your street food fix.  

  • Private & 100% personalized tour

  • 4 hours

  • Matched to your ideal host

  • Walking tour (may use public transport)

  • Hosted in English (On request: Arabic, Bulgarian, Cantonese, Catalan, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish)

  • Your hotel/apartment or any other central location

Experience outline

  • In just a few short hours, see a tailor-made selection of sites, picked by your local host, that show every side of Kyoto
  • Experience modern and ancient Japan – from late-night karaoke bars to the oldest temple in Kyoto
  • Explore two of Kyoto’s most famous districts: Gion and Higashiyama
  • Learn about Japan’s history by simply walking the streets and talking to your local insider
  • If you’re hungry, your host is on hand to explain every dish, order from any menu, and recommend the most delicious food in the city

Things to know

What’s included

  • Private and personalized experience
  • 4 hours with a host
  • Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options)
  • 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

    I would recommend Alvin to anyone looking to tour Kyoto. He is very knowledgeable, flexible and fun to be with. Alvin was very considerate and made sure we got back to our hotel safely.

    October 2023

    Sterling L

    Our guide was really attentive, professional and ready to answer questions. We leave with great memories and a little bit more knowledge of Japanes culture.

    October 2023

    Horacio F

    She took us places we never would have found on our own and then provided information that only a local would know. It was a fantastic day!

    October 2023

    Debra E

    Nadine is a warm student who lives in Kyoto and who really takes care of everything. She is always cheerful and radiates great energy. It's almost like visiting an old friend you haven't seen for ages, and now they're showing you their new home. If you want to hear a thousand stories and facts, you might need a local who has lived there all his life. If you are looking for a caring companion who even organises a photo spot for you and all you have to do is follow her wishes and she waits patiently and attentively - then don't Nadine - I would do it again and again. Thank you Nadine, you are great!

    September 2023

    Kai N

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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