What you'll do

You’ll discover a city that’s steeped in perfectly preserved history as you explore with a local insider who’s ready to share their city’s secrets with you. Your host will take you on a journey through time, starting with the ancient temples and shrines of Higashiyama, where narrow lanes are flanked by traditional wooden buildings and pottery stores. You could visit Kennin-ji Temple and Yasaka Shrine, or both - they’re just eight minutes apart! In fall and spring, you might head a mile south to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, where cherry blossom and maple trees put on impressive seasonal performances. Your host will share with you their local knowledge, from the best places to eat to where you could experience an authentic tea ceremony.

Kickstart Kyoto: Intro to Japan’s historic jewel

Where you'll go

Memorize the layout of centuries-old Nishiki Market in Nakagyo, a large central district, while your host orders a portion of wagyu sushi, because you’ll definitely want to come back. Or take part in a tea ceremony at Rakusho, a teahouse famous for its beautiful garden and koi pond. Dodge salarymen on their way to a post-work bar hop across central Gion, and enter a dreamlike state while searching for ethereal geishas. Once your host has taught you to navigate crowded Higashiyama, the historic eastern quarter of the city where you’ll instantly recognize the traditional wooden buildings, and pointed out the best restaurants on Hanamikoji-dori Street, the central artery of Gion, you’ll be ready to take on the rest of the city solo.

- Explore an area of Kyoto hand-picked by your local host, but take part in activities based on your interests
- Experience the full spectrum of Kyoto – from its ancient temples to its buzzing nightlife scene
- Taste some of Japan’s best (and most unique) street food at centuries-old Nishiki Market
- Get travel tips and tricks from your host to make the rest of your adventure an equally amazing experience
- Ask your host all the questions you have about Kyoto, and hear real local knowledge!
- This experience will be personalized to you!
- What’s included
- Private and personalized experience
- 3 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)
Your hotel/apartment or any other central location
Cancel 7 days before the experience for a full refund

COVID-19 Flexible Policy: you can cancel for free up to a day before the experience and receive a full refund.

Introductory Tour Of Kyoto

Kickstart Kyoto: Intro to Japan’s historic jewel

What you'll do

Where you'll go

Meet our locals in Kyoto

Reviews

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