Kyoto
Kyoto’s Izakaya Experience: A Taste of Japanese Social Dining
Local Food & Drink Tastings • 3 hours
5.0
(26)
Kyoto’s Izakaya Experience: A Taste of Japanese Social Dining
Discover Kyoto’s izakaya culture, where locals gather over shared plates, drinks, and conversation, with a tailored experience crafted to your tastes.
What makes this experience special
Experience Kyoto’s social dining scene with an evening tailored to your palate. Your host will guide you to 3 authentic izakayas, each offering a unique perspective on Kyoto’s rich food culture.
Key highlights
- Each izakaya is chosen based on your tastes and interests, ensuring a personalized experience
- Savor 6–8 dishes paired with local drinks like sake, shochu, or Kyoto craft beer.
- Learn how these casual gastropubs are central to Japanese social life.
- Enjoy a mix of intimate, relaxed settings and lively, vibrant energy.
- Your host will share dining tips, recommend pairings, and introduce local customs.
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
Private and personalized experience
3 hours with a Host
1 drink & 2 dishes or 2 drinks & 1 dish at each bar
Seating charges (table charge fees)
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 other than the ones included in the list above
Drinks that cost more than 1000 yen each
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
Demachiyanagi Station, 32-1 Tanaka Kamiyanagichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8205, JapanCancellation
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 mostHere’s what your experience could look like
These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes
Meeting point
Demachiyanagi Station, 32-1 Tanaka Kamiyanagichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8205, Japan
Start with Kyoto-Style Classics
Begin with comforting dishes that reflect Kyoto’s refined culinary heritage.
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Discover Seasonal Obanzai and Local Specialties
Explore seasonal flavors crafted with Kyoto’s freshest local ingredients.
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End with Vibrant Yakitori and House-Brewed Sake
Conclude the evening with expertly grilled skewers and a lively izakaya vibe
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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
A Kyoto Breakfast That’s Almost Too Beautiful to Eat!
Crispy, Golden, and Delicious!
A Dining Experience to Remember!
A Food Feast in the Heart of Kyoto!
Strolling Through Lantern-Lit History!
17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting
Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.
recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.
What travelers think of this experience
Barry
Apr 2025
An Unforgettable, Personalized Experience of Kyoto Masaya was an outstanding guide from start to finish. His communication before the tour was prompt, clear, and detailed, which made planning effortless. He took the time to understand our interests and crafted a customized itinerary that gave us a truly local and authentic glimpse into Kyoto—well beyond the usual tourist spots. Thanks to his insight and thoughtful planning, we experienced parts of the city we never would have found on our own. If you’re looking to explore Kyoto through the eyes of someone who knows and loves the city deeply, we can’t recommend Masaya highly enough.
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Sarah
Mar 2025
We enjoyed everything. - the best Food tour we ever had. And we had many of them around the world
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Andreas
Nov 2024
It was a food tour and we get a super overview
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Monti
Oct 2024
Mia was a fantastic guide! She was very attentive to my wishes and open to ideas for the evening. It was well balanced between sightseeing and food tasting. Just as I had hoped for! Thank you!
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Julie
Sep 2024
We thoroughly enjoyed our evening. Michael was the perfect host and we learnt a lot about izakaya culture.
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Elizabeth
Apr 2024
Super amazing guide Taibi who went out of his way to make us feel local and keep everyone from the adults to the two kiddos aged 6 and 2 felt welcomed and cared for. Would for sure recommend him as a guide and also this tour for anyone who wants to explore local markets and get insider tips like a local.
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
Is this a traditional tour?
No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.
How does personalization work?
After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.
Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?
Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.
What makes City Unscripted different?
We don’t do generic tours. Every experience is crafted around you, ensuring a unique, personal, and authentic way to explore the city. You won’t just see the sights—you’ll connect with the people and stories that bring the city to life.
Are food and drinks included, or do I need to pay separately?
Unless stated otherwise, food and drinks are not included. Your host will take you to great spots where you can order what you like and pay as you go.
Do I need to pay for the host's food or drinks?
No, if you and your host decide to stop for food or drinks during your experience, you don’t need to cover your host’s expenses—your host will take care of their own.
Can my experience accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes! You'll receive a questionnaire right after booking where you can note any dietary requirements, and your host will tailor the experience accordingly.
Do you have deals with restaurants or set food stops?
No, unlike traditional food tours, our hosts are free to take you to their personal favorite spots rather than fixed locations. This means your food experience will always be unique, with authentic and unbiased recommendations from someone who knows the local food scene best.
Can I request specific places to visit?
Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.
Can I adjust the plan on the day?
Of course! Your experience is flexible, so you can explore at your own pace and make changes along the way.
How much walking is involved?
This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Your host can adjust the plan with indoor alternatives.