Hidden Gems • 3 hours 5.0 (690)

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

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What travelers think of this experience

Donna, Feb 2025

Mia was wonderful and showed us around . The weather wasn’t on our side as it snowed most of the tour but she still did a fantastic job.

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Marco, Feb 2025

Walking trough the Kyoto city for 3hs is amazing , our guide was well prepared and we have saved a lot time instead of turning around. We kindly recommend.

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Shane, Jan 2025

Ryuki did a wonderful job on our tour. He was warm, friendly and authentic being a local from Kyoto. He knew lots about where he took us which was boosted by his extra academic studies on history and cultural relevance. We really enjoyed everything about what he offered with his flexible nature and local recommendations which extended beyond our tour with him. Highly recommended - and we are forward looking to him visiting Australia again.

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Jennifer, Jan 2025

A wonderful tour of beautiful Kyoto with our guide, Kiyoto! Kiyoto was polite, accommodating, knowledgeable, and helpful - even providing us with a list of his favorite restaurants after the tour. He loves his city and people. It was a lovely day.

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Kevin, Jan 2025

Finding sights we would have unlikely discovered and insight to local culture. Learning the differences between the different buddism and seeing the temples that contrast. It was nice of the fire department to put on a show as well.

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Sam, Jan 2025

During our visit to Kyoto, we chose to do a private walking tour, and it turned out to be the best decision! Our guide, Toshi, was fantastic—his deep knowledge of the city's history and culture really brought the experience to life. He answered all our questions and made sure we enjoyed a perfect balance of cultural insights and historical context as we explored Kyoto. It was the ideal way to wrap up our two-week adventure in Japan. I highly recommend this tour to anyone traveling to Kyoto!

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FAQs

Your questions, answered

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.

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 host can adjust the plan with indoor alternatives.

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.