Hidden Gems • 3 hours
5.0
(770)
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.
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, 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
Step Into Tadasu noMori Forest at Shimogamo Shrine
Explore an ancient forest and shrine steeped in Kyoto’s history.
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Find Zen Serenity at Konchi-in Temple
Discover timeless beauty at a hidden Zen temple and its serene garden.
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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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1. Select a date
2. Select start time
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
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Savoring a traditional Kyoto's breakfast!
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Under the Lanterns of Kyoto!
Hidden Gems and local warmth in Kyoto!
Sweet Matcha Moments in a Kyoto Traditional Teahouse!
Morning Walk Through Kyoto's Pagoda District!
Lost in the beauty of Arashiyama's bamboo forest!
Exploring Kyoto's Timeless Temples!
Sipping in Style: Rooftop Views & Kyoto Vibes!
Golden hour at Kinkajou-ji!
Strolling Through Kyoto’s Historic Streets!
Uncovering Kyoto's Hidden Riverside Charm!
Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Gems!
25,463+ 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.
Abigail
Nov 2025
Milo was a great guide who kept a tranquil pace. They were extremely knowledgeable about the city and each of us took somethings away from the tour. To put a cherry on top Milo tailored the tour to our interests and provided us with recommendations that fit our needs.
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Jenny
Nov 2025
Friendly and knowledgable guide, was a great way to see some of Kyoto.
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Marina
Oct 2025
Excellent service!!
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Marina
Oct 2025
Excellent service!
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David
Oct 2025
Kyoto is a fabulous, historic and traditional Japanese city, and our guide Mia made everything “come alive”. We had very limited time in the city, and had to reschedule our tour in Kyoto due to an incoming typhoon changing the entire itinerary of the cruise we were travelling on, such that we would arrive in Kyoto at different times on a different day. Mia had been assigned to be our guide on our initially booked tour, and had been very proactive in communicating with us and subsequently designing a tour to meet with our initial requests. Then, when our cruise itinerary was changed at the last minute, and despite the fact that we had surpassed the deadline for cancellation or refund, City Unscripted (the tour company) went out of their way to do all they could to reschedule our tour and accommodate us, as we were not entitled to a refund. (Much appreciated, and above and beyond agreed T&C’s
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David
Oct 2025
What a fantastic guide Mia was : so bubbly, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and simply could not have been bettered ! As my wife and I had spent 5.5 hours on an e-bike tour around Kyoto, and had only very limited time (4.5 hrs), it was ideal to have a bespoke tour with Mia. She very kindly agreed to meet us at a more convenient starting point after our e-bike tour, that helped us squeeze in as many places on our wish list itinerary as possible. We started at Ninjo-Jo Castle, and onto the Red Temple, then onto Gion District, as my wife was keen to understand more about the Geisha and Maika, and hoped we might even see one. We were not disappointed ! Simply put, a brilliant tour with a superb, lovely guide in a beautiful City : many thanks, and we would very highly recommend !!!
Show moreFAQs
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.