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

You’ll discover a city steeped in preserved history as you explore with a local insider ready to share their city’s secrets. Your host will take you on a journey through time, starting with the ancient temples and shrines of Higashiyama, where traditional wooden buildings and pottery stores flank narrow lanes.

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 their local knowledge, from the best places to eat to where you could experience an authentic tea ceremony. 

Where you’ll go

Memorize the layout of the centuries-old Nishiki Market in Nakagyo, a sizeable central district, while your host orders a portion of wagyu sushi because you’ll want to return. 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. 

  • Private & 100% personalized tour

  • 3 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

  • 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
  • Get recommendations for 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!

Things to know

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)

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

    My guide was extremely friendly and personable. Lime making a new friend. "Nihon-ga Tomodachi". He was very knowledgeable with the history of the various Temples and Shrines. Besides the "formal" tourist sights, he introduced me to some of the local culture. We used a one-day bus pass to visit numerous locations of interest. While I was aware that the "Official" Tour was of three hours duration, he insisted time was of no concern, rather my getting the most of this opportunity. Highly, highly recommended.

    November 2022

    Billy H

    Vanessa was great and I very much enjoyed the tour. I would highly recommend this tour guide. She has a vast knowledge of local sites and easily shares customs and traditions in Kyoto.

    October 2022

    Rebecca B

    We went to Arashiyama and the Golden Pavilion.

    January 2021

    Haruka O

    We were very fortunate to have Hisano guide us around from Nishiki Market to Fushimi Inari shrine and Gion. Hisano is very friendly and cheerful and we have learnt so much about Kyoto from her. Thanks to Hisano for showing us the beautiful Kyoto!

    January 2020

    Laura 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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