Kyoto · TOUR REVIEWS

The 15 Best Tours in Kyoto

334 tours  ·  from $4

A week or a long weekend, the problem is the same: too many temples, one itinerary. The 15 below are the days that earn their place, priced and timed, with the full catalogue underneath when you want to go deeper.

PERFECT KYOTO 1-Day Bus Tour - Sanjusangendo offers a quieter interior stop
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PERFECT KYOTO 1-Day Bus Tour

1.PERFECT KYOTO 1-Day Bus Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 13,518 reviews · from $129Our pick

Start near Kyoto Station at 7:50 a.m. and spend 8 to 9 hours visiting Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo, Arashiyama, Tenryu-ji, Kinkaku-ji, and Fushimi Inari. Guides such as Sakura, Mai, At-Chan, and Nagomi lead the day, with multilingual audio on the coach and an optional buffet lunch.

“I had a wonderful time on this tour to see places like The Golden Pavilion, Sanjusangen-do Temple, and other temples and the Shrines. At-Chan was our very informative tour guide and we learned a lot from her. Thank you At-Chan for everything and our Japanese Lunch Buffet was the bomb!!!”

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Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Kinkakuji, Bamboo Grove 1 Day Bus Tour - Sanjusangen-do and its remarkable wooden hall
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Kyoto: Fushimi Inari, Kinkakuji, Bamboo Grove 1 Day Bus Tour

2.Fushimi Inari, Kinkakuji, Bamboo Grove 1 Day Bus Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 4,316 reviews · 510 minutes - 9 hours · from $122

Spend nine hours visiting Kyoto highlights with an English-speaking guide such as Den, At-Chan, Sakura, or Tommy. The route covers Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangen-do, Arashiyama, Tenryuji, Kinkakuji, and Fushimi Inari, with coach transport, entry tickets, Wi-Fi, and optional buffet lunch.

“We just finished a tour of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience. From start to finish, the organization was seamless, allowing us to take in all the beauty of the city without any stress. The highlight of our day was undoubtedly our guide, Den. She was incredible—knowledgeable, professional, and so engaging. She shared fascinating insights at every stop that really made the history of the temples and shrines come to life. Also, a special mention for the food: it was delicious! The lunch spot chosen was authentic and high-quality, which made the day even more special. If you are looking for a smooth, insightful, and…”

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Kyoto: Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Tea House in Kiyomizu - A 500-year tradition explained in plain English
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Kyoto: Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Tea House in Kiyomizu

3.Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Tea House in Kiyomizu

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 3,519 reviews · 45 min · from $49

In Sannenzaka near Kiyomizu-Dera, an English-speaking host introduces 500 years of tea tradition before a tea master demonstrates the ritual. You then whisk your own matcha, taste a Japanese sweet, and take a group photo overlooking Ogawa Jihei VII’s garden. The 45-minute visit costs $49 and does not include kimono rental.

“Very relaxing and educational. A wonderful glimpse into the history and meaning of the Tea Ceremony. A great way to unwind for an hour between other activities.”

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Kyoto Geisha Walking Tour: Gion District & Hidden Gems - Starting beside Hotel Alza Kyoto
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Kyoto Geisha Walking Tour: Gion District & Hidden Gems

4.Kyoto Geisha Walking Tour: Gion District & Hidden Gems

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 3,273 reviews · 2 hours · from $25

Walk through Gion with English-speaking guides such as Michael, Anton, Yuri, or Ikuro. Learn how geiko and maiko fit into Kyoto life, see machiya houses, Kennin-ji, Hokan-ji Pagoda, and Chion-in, then receive practical food and sightseeing tips.

“Michael was excellent and very knowledgeable of the history of Kyoto and all things Geisha (Geiko)”

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Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple - Meeting at Jotokuji Temple
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Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple

5.Tea Ceremony Ju-An at Jotokuji Temple

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 3,207 reviews · 1h 10m · from $29

Meet your English-speaking hosts at Jotokuji Temple, purify yourself at the fountain, then remove your shoes and enter the Grand Tearoom. A tea master demonstrates chanoyu, explains its meaning, and guides you as you prepare matcha. Kate, Taka, and Yaki are among the friendly teaching team.

“interesting facts about the ritual, fun and tasty matcha”

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Kyoto: Gion Magical Night Walking Tour with Geisha Trivia - Leaving Minamiza Theatre for Hanamikoji
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Kyoto: Gion Magical Night Walking Tour with Geisha Trivia

6.Gion Magical Night Walking Tour with Geisha Trivia

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,393 reviews · 1h 40m · from $24

Walk from Kyoto’s Minamiza Theatre through Hanamikoji and Gion with an English-speaking guide such as Hina, Shino, Masami, or Sho. Learn geiko and maiko customs, see illuminated shrines and a pagoda, and follow quieter lanes in a group of up to 10.

“It was an excellent tour and we learnt loads from our guide Masami. It was great to be able to see Gion at night without the crowds!”

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Kyoto: 45-Minute Tea Ceremony Lesson Experience - Watching the tea master prepare matcha
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Kyoto: 45-Minute Tea Ceremony Lesson Experience

7.45-Minute Tea Ceremony Lesson Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 2,378 reviews · 45 min · from $22

At Tea Ceremony Koto near Kinkakuji, an English-speaking Urasenke tea master shows you the full thin-tea ritual, then guides you in making matcha. You will taste two green teas and Japanese sweets in 45 minutes, with private, public, candlelight, and kimono options.

“I did this with my mum and I and we rented Kimonos. We loved this part. They host put them on for us and she was soooo friendly and very knowledgeable. We had two different types of green tea and she explained all the history behind tea ceremonies and how to drink it properly. I loved her tea house and it was super easy to get to and find. Highly recommend.”

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Kyoto: Gion Geisha District Walking Tour - Stories of Geisha - Pontocho Alley, Kyoto’s narrow evening corridor
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Kyoto: Gion Geisha District Walking Tour – Stories of Geisha

8.Gion Geisha District Walking Tour – Stories of Geisha

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 2,187 reviews · 2 hours · from $20Best value

Walk from Kyoto Shijo through Pontocho and Gion with a local guide such as Yuki, Nami, Yukari, or Deborah. Over two hours, you’ll hear how geiko and maiko train, visit Yasaka Shrine and Gion Corner, and may spot them heading to appointments.

“had a great trip with manny on 13/11. he was well informed and kept everything interesting and fun, a highly experienced guide. i learnt so much which i would not have known otherwise! highly recommended!”

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Best of Kyoto: Gion, Geisha, Pagodas & Cobblestones - Starting at Yasaka Shrine
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Best of Kyoto: Gion, Geisha, Pagodas & Cobblestones

9.Best of Kyoto: Gion, Geisha, Pagodas & Cobblestones

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,058 reviews · 2 hours · from $24

Walk through Gion and Higashiyama after dark with an English or French guide. Visit Yasaka Shrine, Ninenzaka, Hōkan-ji Temple, and Yasui Kompira-Gu, then learn about geiko and maiko traditions. Guides such as Karim, Kevin, Janelle, and Ben are known for clear stories and useful food recommendations.

“Highly recommend this tour. It’s a really beautiful way to see such an incredible part of the city. Karim is the best tour guide I’ve ever had. Very knowledgeable and funny.”

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Kyoto: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Ticket - Starting at Kyoto Station
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Kyoto: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Ticket

10.Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★3.9 · 2,034 reviews · 1 - 2 days · from $27

Use a one or two-day mobile-voucher pass to ride Kyoto’s open-top sightseeing bus between major temples, markets, shrines, and museums. You can follow two routes, hear audio in seven languages, and spend as long as you like at stops such as Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, Nijo Castle, and Kiyomizu-dera.

“Amazing , the bus drivers and the attendants were both great”

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Night Walk in Gion: Kyoto's Geisha District - Meeting beside Gion Shijo Station
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Night Walk in Gion: Kyoto’s Geisha District

11.Night Walk in Gion: Kyoto’s Geisha District

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 2,003 reviews · 1h 40m · from $21

Join a 100-minute evening walk through Gion with an English-speaking guide such as Mia, Mie, or Chako. Learn how geiko and maiko dress, train, and work, hear local stories, and possibly spot them heading to appointments. Photos and video of geiko are not allowed.

“Haruto was a very good guide who speaks very good English., He gave interesting descriptions of geiko/maiko history, training and daily life, as well as tea house culture. We also saw a number of geikos/maikos. A good value for the money.”

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Ramen Cooking Class at Ramen Factory in Kyoto - Starting at Ramen Factory Kyoto
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Ramen Cooking Class at Ramen Factory in Kyoto

12.Ramen Cooking Class at Ramen Factory in Kyoto

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,937 reviews · from $131

At Ramen Factory Kyoto, you make noodles, season broth, prepare toppings, and eat your finished bowl. Instructors such as Mahiro, Moeka, Haruka, and Fuku may lead the class, with vegetarian, vegan, and Halal options available by request.

“This is a fun activity! We did it with our family and even the kids had a good time. Fun memories for us all.”

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Hidden Kyoto E-Biking tour - Kinkakuji, Kyoto’s famous golden introduction
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Hidden Kyoto E-Biking tour

13.Hidden Kyoto E-Biking tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,843 reviews · from $116

Join NORU for a 3-hour-45-minute morning or afternoon e-bike ride through northern Kyoto. Guides such as Yuta, Michael, Sean, Henry, and Shizuka lead small groups to Kinkakuji, Daitokuji, Kitano Tenmangu, Koto-in, and Zuihoin, with temple history, Zen insights, quiet lanes, and a tea stop.

“An incredible experience! Definitely get to see some lesser known hidden gems. Our guide Yuta was fantastic, really paints the picture for you when you’re at each stop. He was incredibly patient and made sure everyone was taken care of and had a great time!”

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Kyoto Night Foodie Tour in Gion (9+ dishes + 6 Sake tastings) - Pontocho: Narrow Lanes and a Second Meal
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Kyoto Night Foodie Tour in Gion (9+ dishes + 6 Sake tastings)

14.Kyoto Night Foodie Tour in Gion (9+ dishes + 6 Sake tastings)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,762 reviews · from $163

Spend 3.5 hours eating through Gion and Pontocho with a small group of up to seven. Expect Kyoto vegetable dishes, local specialties, drinks, and sake tastings, plus stories about geisha districts, architecture, and Kyoto life from guides such as Jimmy, Emma, Rika, and Yuki.

“Ok experience. The guide was knowledgeable about the area. Too much politics were discussed for my taste,”

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Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour (Private Option Available) - The three-hour route from Tofukuji
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Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour (Private Option Available)

15.Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour (Private Option Available)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,750 reviews · from $63

Join a small group of up to seven for a roughly three-hour hike from Tofukuji to Fushimi Inari. Guides such as Naru, Hina, Yuko, and Matt lead forest paths, bamboo groves, quiet shrines, and the famous torii gates, often approaching from the less crowded upper side.

“We met Yuko on one of the hottest (and very humid) days of the year to hike the Hidden Trail. She had mosquito repellent for me and right off the bat, I knew she was going to be a good guide. The other 5 individuals didn't show so we got her to ourselves and could move quickly on such a warm day. The trail is awesome but it's definitely something you need a local to show you. She knew the history of the area and all the fun facts. Yuko had a fun personality and is a ball of energy scrambling up those technical trails. It was a highlight of…”

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New in Tour Reviews

★ 4.6Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Sites 1d Tour from Osaka/KyotoFrom $596 reviews
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★ 3.8Kyoto & Nara Full Day Customised Tour33 reviews
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★ 5.0Cycling Tour at Uji’s Matcha Green Tea Fields and HeritageFrom $16010 reviews
★ 5.0Fish cutting classFrom $779 reviews
★ 5.0Cycle Kyoto’s Hidden Gems & Gion StrollFrom $7329 reviews
★ 3.9Dance and Game with MaikoFrom $2846 reviews
★ 5.0Customized Private Tour with a Local GuideFrom $1683 reviews
★ 5.0Authentic Tea Ceremony & Sushi in The Museum of KyotoFrom $1333 reviews
★ 5.0Candlelit Zen: Evening Meditation at Kyoto’s Secret Temple10 reviews
★ 5.0Craig’s Kyoto Private Luxury Alphard Tour / The Early RiserFrom $23510 reviews
★ 5.0Kyoto Ume Liqueur Experience with CHOYA – Make Your SouvenirFrom $316 reviews

Keep browsing

Gion District Tours52Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Tours28Fushimi Inari Tours20Kyoto Tea Ceremonies37Kyoto Food Tours15Kyoto Walking Tours56
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Explore Kyoto

Pick a lane, a temple or a tea room.

The lanes

GionHigashiyamaWalking ToursNight WalksRickshaw Rides

Temples and shrines

Fushimi InariKiyomizu-deraKinkaku-jiNijo CastleZen Sitting

Tea and food

Tea CeremoniesMatchaNishiki MarketCooking ClassesSake Tastings

Out of town

NaraOsakaUjiSagano RailwayPrivate Car Days