Hidden Gems • 3 hours 5.0
(763)

Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

Uncover Kyoto’s hidden side with peaceful temples, serene gardens, and quiet canals, all curated to reveal the city’s authentic, crowd-free charm.

Visit on the 15th, 21st and 25th of the month to catch one of the flea markets and grab amazing bargain kimono, ceramics, handicrafts etc.

What makes this experience special

Step away from the tourist trails and discover Kyoto’s quieter, more intimate side. From the mystical forest of Shimogamo Shrine to the tranquil Zen gardens of Konchi-in and the serene Okazaki Canal.

Key highlights

  • Discover quiet shrines, tranquil gardens, and serene canals far from the crowds
  • Wander Kyoto’s tucked-away paths and learn the stories behind its hidden gems.
  • Explore ancient sites with your host’s insights into Zen principles and local traditions
  • Connect with the city’s rhythm through peaceful, lesser-known locations loved by locals.
  • Your host will adapt the journey to your pace, creating a meaningful and personal experience.

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 walking experience
3 hours with a Host
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

What’s not included

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

Meeting point

Demachiyanagi Station, 32-1 Tanaka Kamiyanagichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8205, Japan

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What 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 most

Here’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

Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

Step Into Tadasu noMori Forest at Shimogamo Shrine

Explore an ancient forest and shrine steeped in Kyoto’s history.

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Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

Start at Shimogamo Shrine, nestled within Tadasu no Mori forest. As you walk under the towering trees, hear the soft flow of the Kamo River that runs through the grounds. Explore hidden sub-shrines and learn how this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a spiritual sanctuary for over 1,200 years.

Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

Find Zen Serenity at Konchi-in Temple

Discover timeless beauty at a hidden Zen temple and its serene garden.

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Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

A short train ride takes you to Konchi-in, a peaceful sub-temple of the Nanzenji complex. Here, you’ll find the exquisite crane and turtle garden, a masterpiece of dry landscaping that symbolizes prosperity. Stroll through the temple grounds, taking in the architecture and natural surroundings.

Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

Enjoy the Okazaki Canal & Heian Shrine’s Gardens

Walk a quiet canal path and discover Heian Shrine’s hidden back gardens.

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Kyoto’s Best-Kept Secrets: A Hidden Gems Discovery

End your journey with a peaceful stroll along the Okazaki Canal, a tranquil waterway lined with cherry trees and bridges. Watch as locals fish or enjoy leisurely walks, creating a calm atmosphere. Then, visit the back gardens of Heian Shrine, a serene retreat filled with ponds, and seasonal blooms.

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
Through the Archways of Kyoto's Hidden Gems!

Through the Archways of Kyoto's Hidden Gems!

Bamboo Forest adventures with new friends!

Bamboo Forest adventures with new friends!

Savoring traditions in Kyoto's historic heart!

Savoring traditions in Kyoto's historic heart!

Walking Through Time at Fushimi Inari!

Walking Through Time at Fushimi Inari!

Savoring a traditional Kyoto's breakfast!

Savoring a traditional Kyoto's breakfast!

Strolling Kyoto's streets, soaking in the charm!

Strolling Kyoto's streets, soaking in the charm!

Under the Lanterns of Kyoto!

Under the Lanterns of Kyoto!

Hidden Gems and local warmth in Kyoto!

Hidden Gems and local warmth in Kyoto!

Sweet Matcha Moments in a Kyoto Traditional Teahouse!

Sweet Matcha Moments in a Kyoto Traditional Teahouse!

Morning Walk Through Kyoto's Pagoda District!

Morning Walk Through Kyoto's Pagoda District!

Lost in the beauty of Arashiyama's bamboo forest!

Lost in the beauty of Arashiyama's bamboo forest!

Exploring Kyoto's Timeless Temples!

Exploring Kyoto's Timeless Temples!

Sipping in Style: Rooftop Views & Kyoto Vibes!

Sipping in Style: Rooftop Views & Kyoto Vibes!

Golden hour at Kinkajou-ji!

Golden hour at Kinkajou-ji!

Strolling Through Kyoto’s Historic Streets!

Strolling Through Kyoto’s Historic Streets!

Uncovering Kyoto's Hidden Riverside Charm!

Uncovering Kyoto's Hidden Riverside Charm!

Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Gems!

Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Gems!

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.

Mark Ulysses Oct 2025

Alex was a great host and made me feel very welcomed. They taught me so much about Japanese culture and Kyoto.

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Mila Oct 2025

Emi was an amazing guide, incredibly sweet, intuitive, knowledgeable and professional. We enjoyed her company and insight very much, perfect first experience in Kyoto!

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David Oct 2025

Ai is a great guide. She is very pleasant, knowledgeable and gracious. She is very friendly and professional. We had a great time sightseeing with her and overall a very interesting and enjoyable experience. It was a real pleasure.

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Lior Oct 2025

Excellent half day trip in Kyoto. A very nice and knowledgeable guide. Pam offered us two possible routes by e-mail and helped us choose prior to our visit. The trip was well planned. Pam was flexible, but also helped us make the best out of our time. We enjoyed her thorough knowledge and also enjoyed just talking with her and getting to know her. Everything was perfectly timed - we got to see so many things, and yet we didn’t feel we were rushing at all. We really felt that we got to know Kyoto better thanks to this trip.

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Lior Oct 2025

Pam was amazing !! She is so knowledgeable and nice. We enjoyed her guidance a lot ! Thank you ❤️

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Sam Oct 2025

Tour was completely tailored to our young family's needs. Jose was very flexible accomodating the kids many questions and responding to their interests. We thoroughly enjoyed wondering the sights of Kyoto with Jose.

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..

How does my host personalize this experience?

After booking, you'll receive a questionnaire that captures your travel style, interests, and any specific requests. Your host will use this to tailor your experience, ensuring it reflects what excites you most.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

What kind of stories and insights will my host share?

Each host has their own personal relationship with the city. You'll experience the city through their eyes—hearing stories about places they love, discovering hidden gems, and learning what makes their city special in a way that goes beyond a typical tour.

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 experience will still go ahead, and your host will adapt the day to suit the conditions. One of the great things about City Unscripted is that no two experiences are the same, and your host knows the city well enough to find great “rainy day” alternatives.

Is this a traditional tour or something different?

This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.