Boasting 17 World Heritage sites and a stunning array of Buddhist temples and Shintō shrines, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese history and culture. But while this ancient city is one of the world's most culturally rich places, its true beauty can sometimes lie hidden behind modern facades. Take a Kyoto tour with a knowledgeable local guide to discover the 'real' Kyoto - the Kyoto of your dreams.

Walk with your guide around Old Kyoto, through winding alleys lined with traditional narrow wooden houses. In Gion Corner you can experience dance performances by apprentice geisha, and learn about the traditional Japanese arts of puppetry and flower arranging. Your guide will want you to see Kinkaju, the shimmering Golden Pavillion, and the beautiful Kiyomizu Temple - especially during the spring Cherry Blossom season.

Kyoto's attractions are too many to list, but your guide will make sure you see the very best this enchanting city has to offer on your private Kyoto tour.

Kyoto

Let me show you around my neighbourhood of Nishijin. This relaxed walking tour traverses quiet back streets, full of tiny shrines, empty temples, chance encounters, and friendly characters.  

We will visit a Japanese "wagashi" shop to see, and maybe sample, the beautiful, seasonal sweets. Nearby is a public bath-house, where we can get a sneak peak inside both the male and female bathing areas (before opening hours, of course!) and learn about the importance of bathing culture in Japan. We'll visit a Buddhist temple devoted to the disciplined Daruma, lunch in a family run cafe, and enjoy a performance on the Japanese harp.

 Finally, we'll tap into the long weaving history of Nishijin at the textile centre, viewing Kyoto craftsmen and women performing their art, and searching for the perfect souvenir. 

Wander the Backstreets of Kyoto

Meet the Locals: Half Day Kyoto Walking Culture Tour

Capture Kyoto at her best on this comprehensive full day tour for photographers. Grab your camera and come see the sights with me. 

Starting early in Arashiyama, let's enjoy the calm of the river, before braving the bamboo grove. Leaving the crowds behind, we will explore the Sagano preserved district and its temples. 

We will return via bus to the river, and enjoy a coffee while watching the boatmen. Once recharged, we will take the Randen line east. We can stop at one of the sprawling temple districts on the Randen line. Your choice of Ninnaji, Myoshinji, Ryoanji or Kitano Tenmangu. During cherry blossom season, I can show you the famous "sakura tunnel" spot. 

After lunch, we we catch a bus to Higashiyama, moving through old shopping streets, and crossing willow lined canals, making our way to Yasaka shrine in Gion, and back into the crowds around Hokanji Pagoda. Don't worry, I know some nooks and lesser known photo spots and let you know where to snap an iconic sunset shot.

Full day highlights and hidden spots for photographers

Sunrise to sunset explore Kyoto photography tour

Discover the legend of the most powerful Japanese sorcerer, who lived over a millennium ago. Join us on a journey to a shrine in his honor and the nearby dwelling of his terrifying inhuman assistants. At the shrine, you will find an array of magical religious charms and amulets adorned with symbols that may surprise you.

Witness the enduring power of the magical wards and lines that the sorcerer created to protect the city. These defenses have stood the test of time, and I will guide you through them. The malevolent entities that relentlessly sought to harm the emperor were never able to penetrate these formidable barriers.

It is believed that by containing all this evil near Kyoto, this Japanese mystic may have saved the entire world. Join us on this fascinating journey to uncover the secrets of this legendary sorcerer and his mystical powers.

Shiga tours

Explore with 3 tours and 2 guides.

Felicity Maree

$ 212 (USD)

Felicity Maree

$ 883 (USD)

Jay T.

$ 247 (USD)

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