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Making Us Your Perfect Choice

Want to make the most of your trip to Kyoto? Let one of our tour guides show you around.

or Call +81-3-6868-4764

Welcome to Tours in Kyoto!

We specialize in group Tours by car, van, or bus. Touring by automobile allows you to see as much as possible in the least amount of time. We can customize any tour, for small to large size groups, to travel by car, van, or bus. Special rate plans can be arranged for full or half day tours, for one to twenty-seven people, to match your travel plans and schedule.

We are a group of Canadians, Americans, and Japanese who live in Kyoto and are passionate about sharing between different cultures. Our main purpose is to provide tour services in Kyoto as well as other cities in Japan including Osaka and Nara.

Tours in Kyoto have been guiding visitors around Kyoto since 1994. Our guides are all longtime residents of Kyoto, bilingual in English and Japanese, and know Kyoto like the back of our hands. We will not only show you the most well-known sights but also the lesser known gems and their unique features.

About Kyoto, Japan

In Japanese, Kyoto was previously known as Kyō, Miyako, or Kyō no Miyako (京の都).

In the 11th century, the city was renamed Kyoto which means "capital city", from the Chinese calligraphic, jingdu. When the city of Edo was renamed to Tokyo which means "Eastern Capital" in 1868, and the seat of the Emperor was moved there, Kyoto was for a short period known as Saikyō "Western Capital". Kyoto is also known as the thousand-year capital.

Located in a valley that forms part of the Yamashiro (or Kyoto) Basin, in the eastern part of the mountainous region known as the Tamba highlands, Kyoto was once the largest city in Japan until it was outgrown by Osaka and Tokyo and remains one of the most beautiful and ancient parts of the country.

Types of Tours

We offer a variety of different types of tours including by automobile in car, minivan, bus, and walking tours of beautiful Kyoto. 

Car / Minibus

Walking Tours

Professional, efficient, cost effective and enjoyable.

I'm Vincent, one of the founders of ToursinKyoto.com and I have lived in Kyoto for over 20 years and fell in love with the place, culture and history so much I decided to make it my home, and began offering tours of this marvellous city with the help of local experts.

Kyoto remains one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited and is full of marvellous people and an abundance of different experiences to enjoy.

We highly recommend Tours in Kyoto. We did so many things in just 1 day - wore Japanese Kimonos, visited Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the Bamboo Forest, Kinkakuji Temple, Gion, Shomogamo Shrine-and many other places, ate delicious Japanese food, learned some Japanese words like "Oishi", and took many memorable photos at each place. Our guide new the city very well, was skillful at photography, and even introduced a traditional Japanese style hotel with Zen garden where we enjoyed our stay.

Romeo Valdeviezo: Philadelphia, USA

We had a fantastic day in Kyoto thanks to Tours in Kyoto. Even though it was a last minute reservation, they were very quick with all communications and arranging to pick us up at our hotel. Our bilingual Guide, Ken explained clearly the history of Kyoto and each temple and shrine that we visited. This really helped us to appreciate the rich history of Kyoto and how proud Japanese people are of their ancient capital city (we learned it had been the capital for more than 1,000 years). 

Maryanne Ramirez: Quezon, Phillipines

As we only had a limited time in Kyoto we booked a tour with Tours in Kyoto, in order to see as much as we could on one of our days. What an incredible day! From the Golden Pavilion to the Imperial Palace, to the massive gate of Heian Jingu Shrine, to Kiyomizu-dera Temple – we experienced so much in a very short timespan – it would have been impossible for us to have done this on our own. 

Andrew Parker: Toronto, Canada

KYOTO TOURS LED BY LOCALS

Kyoto walking tours and private tours to take you beyond the tourist track, led by locals in your language, kyoto walking tours & exclusive private tours.

Embark on an immersive journey through the heart of Japanese history and tradition on one of our Kyoto walking tours. 

We guide you through the city’s prominent attractions, from well-known Instagram hotspots to hidden gems tucked away from the usual tourist trails.

Kyoto Private Tours: More to Explore in Less Time

With our Kyoto day tours, we aim to share the best of Kyoto, providing every visitor with a unique and unforgettable experience. Our Kyoto private tours offer the perfect solution for those looking to see more in less time. 

Operated in comfortable, private vehicles accompanied by knowledgeable driver-guides, these tours take you to fantastic sites such as Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari, which can be difficult to reach by public transport. 

Our guides are ready to impart local insights and fascinating tidbits throughout your journey, enhancing your Kyoto sightseeing adventure.

Choosing the right tour might seem daunting, but we’re here to assist! 

Contact us and we’ll gladly guide you to a tour that perfectly aligns with your vacation plans.

From ¥12,700

Kyoto Night Streets and Eats

From ¥7,308.

Higashiyama and More

From ¥86,270.

Osaka Best and Brightest

From ¥9,130.

Uncovering Uji: Tea, Shrines, and Spirituality in Kyoto

From ¥83,130/group.

Arashiyama, Fushimi Inari, and More by Private Car

Embark on exciting day trips from kyoto.

Extend your exploration beyond Kyoto’s borders with our popular Kyoto day tours. Along with providing Kyoto walking tours, we also offer enticing journeys to surrounding cities, all with expert Kyoto private tour guides. 

Our tour from Kyoto to Osaka is particularly well-received, owing to the proximity and unique charm of the two cities. 

Don’t miss the chance to delve into Osaka’s bustling, vibrant cityscape – it’s one of our favorite places! 

Fancy something a bit different? Get in touch to create a custom itinerary tailored to your interests.

Transparency and Honesty: How Our Kyoto Tours Operate

We’re firm believers in transparency. Our Kyoto guided tours contain clear information about all costs, inclusions, and exclusions, ensuring you know exactly what to anticipate. 

Our tours are void of hidden fees or obligatory shopping stops. We refrain from accepting kickbacks and avoid cluttering our food tours with endless add-ons. Rest assured, when we say that food is included, we truly mean it. 

Dive into our Kyoto day tours with complete peace of mind, knowing that your enjoyment and satisfaction are our primary concerns.

Public Transit or Pickup

For our walking tours and night tours, meeting spots are always conveniently located close to train or subway stops. For car tours, pick up is included, but for walking and night tours, pick up can be arranged at additional cost.

Expert Guides

Real English, real skills, and great personalities. Our guides have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with interesting, fun, and memorable tours.

Fully Narrated

During our Japan tours, we never leave you to wander about on your own. Your guide stays with you the whole time, unless, for example, you want a bit of time to roam a garden or have lunch on your own.

Our night tours include dinner, our half-day walking tours have no meal stops, and our full-day tours have a lunch stop at your expense (we will consult with you and find a place to your liking).

Deals of the Week   Unforgettable Asia   Up to 50% OFF

Kyoto Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Kyoto. We've got 388 adventures going to Kyoto, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 27 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ Kyoto tour packages with 4,845 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Japan: Koya-san & Kumano Kodo Trek

• Christmas & New Year

Japan One Life Adventures - 10 Days

Our One Life Adventures group leader, Jonny was personal, helpful, and accommodating. Despite our large group of 22 people, he guided us through Japan's busy streets on a tight schedule and on time. Overall, it was a positive group tour experience with many memories that we will always remember!

• In-depth Cultural
• Train & Rail

Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo

Excellent tour with G Adventures, and had the best tour guide. Great itinerary & excellent tour guide!

Japan: Tokyo Nights & Kyoto Temples

She was kind and caring and made sure everyone needed the help they needed to get around.

9D Splendid Japan with Nagoya (private 3 star hotel rooms)

It was so fun. Highly recommend Sunning Tours.

Japan Delight with Hiroshima(private 3 star hotel rooms)

Definitely would recommend to friends and family. 10/10 experience.

Essential Japan

Well organised. I had a great trip.

Japan Adventure

This was probably the best tour we have ever been on. I will never forget this trip, a piece of my heart will forever remain here.

Japan Highlights

Loved seeing Japan. Very busy itinerary - 55 miles walked in 8 days but really enjoyable.

• Sightseeing

Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka

The tour was very personalized with a small group, and the hotel accommodation was excellent.

Japan One Life Adventures - 14 Days

This tour definitely shows Japan in the best ways possible. It's definitely one of the best ways to explore Japan!

Epic 13-Day Japan Budget Tour: Odyssey Across the Land of the Rising Sun

Excellent trip. Will definitely be going to Japan again, I hope with Dragon Trip.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Highlights of Japan

The 8 day 'Highlights of Japan' tour was really a 6 day tour, but it was extremely pleasant.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

All Inclusive Japan Classics- 9 days

We had the most amazing time, cannot recommend this company enough!

Premium Japan

Japan was all we had hoped for. We saw and did so much.

What people love about Kyoto Tours

Very happy with the service. Was well organised and got what was expected.

The guide was the best

My expectations for the tour was exceeded. I had a really good time and I am really thankful to our CEO Ms. Ayako Ueda.

Tours starting from Kyoto

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Your Kyoto Travel Guide

Make the most of your trip to Kyoto with our comprehensive Kyoto itineraries and rundown of essential attractions in each of Kyoto’s fascinating districts

Kyoto Itineraries

First Time In Kyoto

Kyoto Ryokan

Kyoto Hotels

Kyoto Machiya

Kyoto Places To Eat

Things To Do In Kyoto

Romantic Kyoto

Kyoto Walking Tours

Kyoto Districts

Kyoto Events

Kyoto Photo

How To Get To Kyoto

Japan SIM Cards, Wifi etc

Inside Kyoto Blog

Getting Around Kyoto

Japan Travel Guides

There are several must-see destinations in Japan within easy reach of Kyoto. They all make great additions to any Kyoto itinerary. These concise guides provide details about what to see and do.

Tokyo Travel Guide

Osaka Travel Guide

Nara Travel Guide

Kanazawa Travel Guide

Hiroshima And Miyajima

Takayama Travel Guide

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Explore Kyoto On Your Laptop, Smartphone And Tablet

InsideKyoto.com is designed to read on all your devices

• Plan your trip to Kyoto on your laptop – view our Kyoto Itineraries and the Best Times Of The Year To Visit Kyoto , book a Kyoto hotel or Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), and explore Kyoto’s bewitching districts
• Get a Japanese SIM card on arrival in Japan – then you can access all your important online services and use InsideKyoto.com on your phone too to guide you around the city – the same info is on every webpage, and it will resize to be readable on your phone and tablet too
• Nearly every attraction listed on InsideKyoto.com has a Google Map location you can use on your phone to put you right where you need to be. Plus Japanese text to show to taxi drivers, opening times, price of admission and more
• InsideKyoto.com is written by Chris Rowthorn, author of Lonely Planet Kyoto for 7 editions – for more Kyoto travel guide goodness, we recommend you buy Lonely Planet Kyoto

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
• Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
• If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

• Central Kyoto
• Northwest Kyoto
• Northern Higashiyama
• Southern Higashiyama
• Downtown Kyoto
• Kyoto Station Area
• South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Don't know which tour is suitable for you?

Let us help you. Please tell us more about your interests. We will send some suggestions based on your needs.

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Kyoto Tours

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• Monday to Friday 8:30AM - 5:30PM (PST) Saturday 9:00AM - 3:00PM (PST)

The sites and scenes of Kyoto, Japan's former capital, are still one of the most recommended and admired in Japan. The streets and buildings of Kyoto resonate differently from other major cities in the country. In fact, Kyoto’s main attractions usually focus on the nostalgic sensation from shrines and temples aside from the famous geisha district in Gion. The different seasons change the beauty at each of these sites, so visiting once per different season is a must. Known as the cultural center and heart of Japan, Kyoto is located in the Kansai region of Japan. It was once the capital of Japan before Edo, modern-day Tokyo, was made the new capital. As a formal capital, it is no wonder that it has much history and just as many shrines as one can imagine. Their World Heritage Sites are also prominent, there are three that can be mentioned as must-see locations; The Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu Temple, and the Kinkaku-Ji Temple. There are many other places that are noted as World Heritage Sites, however, these are usually at the top of the list for most visitors. The Gion Geisha District is also quite known for being a main zone to spot Geisha on their way to work. Though there is a chance of seeing a geisha along the streets of Gion, there may be some that are not real trainees or Geisha at all. Real geisha or their trainees have a tight schedule to adhere to on their way to visit their patrons or when going to events. Though Kyoto is traditionally known as a place where geisha train and practice, there are still Geisha practitioners in other parts of the country not just in Kyoto. Another part of Kyoto that is known for its beauty is the Ryoan-ji Rock Garden. The art made from the careful placement of structures and shapes to create a peaceful environment is admirable. This is particularly recognizable when all the stones can be seen at the same time no matter the angle the viewer takes around the garden. The designer or the date of the garden is not known, however, the Ryoan-ji Temple has a history that dates back to 1450, when Daimyo Hosokawa Katsumoto was deputy of the Ashikaga shoguns. It was Daimyo Katsumoto who ordered to transform the once villa into a temple. However, it was later burned down and rebuilt once after the fire was extinguished. Kyoto’s Maruyama Park (Maruyama Koen) is also known for its beauty particularly during the cherry blossom season that takes place in spring. Most hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is done in the park of Maruyama. Although most other parks also have hanami, they are not as popular as Maruyama’s views. Originally the park had many temples, but like many other structures in Japan, they were burned down. Eventually, it was established as a park in 1871 (Meiji Period), then it was opened as a public park around ten years later. The history and beauty of the area makes the trip to Maruyama worth a visit. For textile history and displays of kimono fashion, Kyoto’s Nishijin Textile Center is available to the public for their daily fashion shows. There are also activities where one can practice weaving with the guide of an experienced textile weaver. The center also displays the type of silk worms that produce the threads needed for colorful kimonos, ties, handkerchiefs, and other accessories that can be made in a textile factory. The many kimono shown can vary depending on the season, particularly for the cherry blossom season when they add extra accessories on some of the models who wear the seasonal kimonos during the shows. In the end, Kyoto has a variety of locations and sites worth visiting for different people and their interests. Please see below for tours that include Kyoto:

217 trips through Japan

Tokyo to Kyoto Summer Tour

Tokyo / Mt Fuji / Hakone / Kanzanji Onsen / Kyoto

6 Days 5 Nights | from US $1898.00

Explore the top locations in Tokyo and Kyoto (with one day at Mount Fuji and Hakone) during our 6-day Tokyo to Kyoto Summer Group Tour.

Tokyo to Kyoto Autumn Tour

Tokyo to Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tour

6 days 5 nights | from us $1998.00.

Tour the very best destinations from Tokyo to Kyoto, including a day at Mount Fuji / Hakone, in the enchanting cherry blossoms season during this special 6-day Cherry Blossoms Tour.

Tokyo Anime Tour with Hakone, Mount Fuji & Kyoto Summer

8 days 7 nights | from us $2798.00.

Our Tokyo Anime with Kyoto Summer Tour explores to popular and hidden anime spots in Akihabara and Ikebukuro, must-sees in Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto.

Tokyo Anime Tour with Hakone, Mount Fuji & Kyoto Autumn

Experience the Tokyo Anime Culture at popular and hidden anime locations in Akihabara, Ikebukuro, and Harajuku, plus other must-see sights across Tokyo, Hakone, and Kyoto.

The Golden Route Japan Tour Winter

Tokyo / Hakone / Hikone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2898.00

Perfect introduction for first time visitors with limited time.

The Golden Route Japan Tour Autumn (Reverse)

Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo

7 Days 6 Nights | from US $2998.00

The Golden Route Japan Tour Autumn

Tokyo / Mt Fuji / Hakone / Koka / Kyoto / Nara / Osaka

The Golden Route Japan Tour Summer

The Golden Route Japan Tour Spring (Reverse)

Nara / Kyoto / Koka / Hikone / Hakone / Mt Fuji / Tokyo

Why Travel on Our Group Tours

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Best Itinerary

Planned by experts, based on seasonal favorites and must-see sites.

Budget-friendly

Choose your style and split cost with other passengers

Hand-picked Accommodations

Chosen by our experienced staff

Fully Guided

Guide is available to you 24/7 and sleeps in the same hotel

Unique experiences

Learn to create your own Sushi, meet a geisha or maiko, and more

Meet locals and visit rural areas of Japan you might miss on other tours

Travel Styles

Deluxe-Plus

Spring Tours (Mar - May)

Summer Tours (Jun - Aug)

Autumn Tours (Sep - Nov)

Winter Tours (Dec - Feb)

Cherry Blossom Tours

Autumn Leaves Tours

Festival Tours

Special Interest Tours

Best Japan Tours

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Family Friendly Anime Tours

Anime Tours

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Seasonal Flowers Tours

Art & Architecture Tours

Photography Tours

Birding & Wildlife Tours

Garden Tours

Pottery Tours

Japanese Ancestry Tours

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Tokyo to Sapporo

Tokyo to Tokyo

Tokyo to Kyoto

Tokyo to Osaka

Tokyo to Hiroshima

Tokyo to Fukuoka

Tokyo to Okinawa

Tokyo to Seoul

Tokyo to Kushiro

Kyoto to Tokyo

Kyoto to Kyoto

Kyoto to Osaka

Osaka to Sapporo

Osaka to Tokyo

Osaka to Osaka

Osaka to Kotohira Onsen

Osaka to Fukuoka

Osaka to Okinawa

Fukuoka to Sapporo

Fukuoka to Tokyo

Fukuoka to Osaka

Fukuoka to Fukuoka

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Must-See Cities

Kiso Valley

Sado Island

Akan National Park

Shirakawago

Kinosaki Onsen

Seasonal Attractions

Sanja Festival

Cherry Blossom Viewing at Yoshinoyama

Sendai Aoba Festival

Cherry Blossoms

Cherry Blossoms in Hokkaido

Cherry Blossoms in Tohoku

Cherry Blossom Festival at Matsumae Park

Cherry Blossom Festival at Ueno Park

Cherry Blossoms at Maruyama Park

Cherry Blossoms & Azaleas at Mifuneyama Rakuen

Shibazakura Festivals

Shibazakura Festivals of Hokkaido

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Great Wisteria at Ashikaga Flower Park

Baby Blue Eyes Flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

Takayama Spring Festival

Kyoto Aoi Festival

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

Miyako Odori

Tenjin Festival

Tohoku 3 Great Summer Festivals

Aomori Nebuta Festival

Akita Kanto Festival

Sendai Tanabata Festival

Gion Summer Festival

Awa Odori Dance Festival

Lavenders in Hokkaido

Tanabata Fireworks

Karatsu Kunchi Festival

Jidai Festival

Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue

Lake Kawaguchi Momiji-Kairo

Autumn Leaves

Takayama Autumn Festival

Obara Shikizakura Festival

Japan Winter Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival

Asahikawa Winter Festival

Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival

Ice Breaker Cruise

Wakasagi Smelt Fishing

Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival

Things Not to Miss

Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Seikan Undersea Tunnel

The Omiya Bonsai Art Museum

Asakusa Sensoji Temple

Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavillion)

Todaiji Temple

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Miho Museum

Koka Ninja Mansion

Ise Grand Shrine

Mikimoto Pearl Island

Himeji Castle

Izumo Grand Shrine

Naoshima Island

Gunkanjima Island

Mt Takasaki Monkey Park

Matsumoto Castle

Tokyo Tower

Kiyomizu Temple

Gion Geisha District

Kyoto Cuisine with Maiko

Green Tea Ceremony

Shikoku Pilgrimage Route

Takayama Festivals

Green Tea Ceremony with Maiko Interaction

Sushi-Making Experience

Tokyo SkyTree

Ghibli Museum

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Kenrokuen Garden

Hikone Castle

Zen Meditation (Zazen)

Calligraphy Lesson (Shodo)

Ikebana Lesson (Flower Arrangement)

Kimono Experience

Taiko Lesson

Dotonbori Street Food Tour

Nakasendo Hike

Snow Monkeys

Most Beautiful Places in Japan

Otaru Snow Light Path

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Kurashiki Canal Area

Miyajima Island

Shimanami Kaido

Takeda Castle

Motonosumi-Inari Shrine

Adachi Museum of Art

Takachiho Gorge

Oirase Stream

Tottori Sand Dunes

Wisteria Tunnel at Kawachi Fuji Gardens

What our customers say

  4.9 stars based on 506 REVIEWS

I thoroughly enjoyed my tour of Japan and would highly recommend All Japan Tours to anyone planning a vacation there. I had so many wonderful experiences during my trip, and got to see many amazing highlights of the country. I thought the guides were exceptional; in particular, Barbara was extremely helpful, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable about Japan.

Our tour with AJT exceeded my expectations! Our tour guides were wonderful - very knowledgeable, competent, professional, enthusiastic, entertaining and fun (Miharu and Barbara). I loved how both would tell us the history about the places we were visiting while also sharing information about Japanese culture in general and telling us stories about their own day-to-day lives. The buses were clean and comfortable, and all of the experiences were thoroughly enjoyable. The hotels selected by AJT were excellent and of course the food was amazing. All the fun and none of the stress of planning a trip myself!

Great tour, itinerary covered many places in Hokkaido and allowed us to experience the country, the food, the sights, the nature unique to Hokkaido. We can still see the lovely cherry blossoms despite the tail end of the blooming season because of the locations include in the itinerary. The food included in the tour covered a wide variety of Japanese food, seafood was yummy, cooking style, ice creams, etc. Delicious. The accommodations hotel were great, all hotels offered great breakfast, and dinner, especially the Hilton Niseko Village hotel. The hot spring baths in the hotel offered an opportunity to experience this unique culture in Japan. The tour manager Trend San did an outstanding job in guiding us, very informative on all aspects of Japan, patient, resourceful, polite and respectful and accommodating to the specific needs of all members in the group. The driver, I apologized for forgetting his name was an excellent driver, careful and drove us to all our destinations safely and on time. We highly recommend this tour to all. We will also consider using AJT for all future tours to visit other parts of Japan. All in all, this was a memorable tour. Thanks. Also, thanks for the customer service in our booking and follow up on all our questions.

I would particulary comment on our tour guide Ms. Katsume Miharu. She is very professional, very patient, and funny. I enjoyed the trip very much

It was a great tour and included everything we wanted to see during the 11 days of touring. The Tour Leader (Kim) and our Drive (Bamboo San) were outstanding.

Don't know which tour is best for you? Let us help you.

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Kyoto (���s, Kyōto) served as Japan's capital and the emperor 's residence from 794 until 1868 . It is one of the country's ten largest cities with 1.5 million inhabitants and a modern face.

Over the centuries, Kyoto was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its exceptional historic value, the city was dropped from the list of target cities for the atomic bomb and escaped destruction during World War II . Countless temples , shrines and other historically priceless structures survive in the city today.

Top attractions in Kyoto

Kyoto by interest

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

• Walk the Philosopher's Path
• Beautiful temples and shrines
• Attractive Higashiyama streets

• See the bamboo groves
• Visit the monkey park
• Serene temples and gardens

• Visit beautiful temples
• Explore Higashiyama and Gion

• Visit beautiful temples and shrines

• Explore attractive Arashiyama

• Explore Kyoto's northern side
• Visit Kinkakuji , Ryoanji and Ninnaji temples

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Kyoto official travel guide, cycle kyoto, hotels around kyoto, kyoto hotel guide.

How to choose the best places to stay in Kyoto

Experiences around Kyoto

Discover Kyoto & Nara Tours | Sightseeing & Experience in Kyoto

Kyoto Gion Festival and Lake Biwa Lunch Cruise Tour

Kyoto and Nara Golden Route 1 Day Bus Tour

Hidden Scenic Sakura Spot in Nara Tour

Kyoto Golden Route Day Trip Bus Tour

Nara Half Day Golden Route Bus Tour

Experience the Charm of Amanohashidate 1 Day Bus Tour

Kyoto Gion Twilight Walking Tour with Kimono Experience

Discover Kyoto & Nara Tours

Kyoto is a city of beauty and history. It is the former capital of Japan, and it is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Kyoto is also known for its Maiko, traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, and its delicious food. One of the best things about Kyoto is its abundance of temples and shrines. There are over 2,000 temples and shrines in Kyoto, and each one is unique and beautiful. Some of the most popular temples and shrines include Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, and Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine. If you are looking for a city that is both beautiful and historic, Kyoto is the perfect place for you. With its abundance of temples, shrines, and natural attractions, Kyoto is sure to amaze and enchant you.

Kyoto & Nara Summer Tour

Kyoto & Nara Winter Tour

Discover Kyoto

Discover Arashiyama

Discover Nara

Kyoto Culture Experience

Recommended kyoto & nara tour.

• Visit famous Todai ji Temple and Kinkakuji temple.
• Visit a huge beautiful garden of Kyoto imperial palace.
• Bamboo grove in Arashiyama is beautiful place to walk.
• Travel with comfortable air conditioned bus.

Standard Plan

• Adult(age 12+) : 17,500JPY
• Child(3-11) : 15,500JPY

Kyoto Gion Festival and Lake Biwa Lunch Cruise Bus Tour

Let’s join one of the most famous festival in Japan "Gion Matsuri festival" and enjoy Lake Biwa Cruise with lunch buffet!

• From 12,000 JPY

Amanohashidate and Miyama Kayabuki no Sato 1 Day Tour

Explore beautiful scenic countryside Amanohashidate. See old farmhouse and village in Kayabuki no Sato and Enjoy Ine cruse!

• From 29,800 JPY

Kimono Rental & Photography Experience in Kyoto-Minami area

A picture is worth a thousand words. This is a perfect way to keep your precious memories of Kyoto trip with family and friends!

• From 19,000 JPY

Kyoto Sightseeing Tour

If you have only one day in Kyoto and want to see many recommended spots of Kyoto, this tour is the best for you!

• From 17,500 JPY

Explore the nostalgic Ine no Funaya, along with the picturesque Miyama Kayabuki no Sato, and the iconic Amanohashidate.

Arashiyama is located in the northwestern area of Kyoto and one of the popular tourist destinations in Japan. A lot of visitors for its world renowned bamboo grove and beautiful scenery that changes with each season. Especially during the cherry blossom and fall color seasons are best.

Arashiyama Sightseeing Tour

Enjoy best places to visit in Kyoto and Nara in a one day! Todaiji temple Greta Buddha, Nara deer park, Arashiyama and some more.

Yakata-bune of Arashiyama

You can rent a houseboat in Arashiyama and enjoy your meal while watching the seasonal scenery of Arashikyo.

• From 5,300 JPY

Nara is a tourist destination close to Kyoto and Osaka, and was once the capital of Japan. It has a history older than that of Kyoto, and the entire city retains a traditional landscape. The main attractions are the World Heritage-listed Shinto shrines and Buddhist statues, making Nara one of the best tourist cities in Japan.

Nara Sightseeing Tour

Uncover Nara's history at Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and meet friendly deer at Nara Park on this half-day tour from Kyoto.

• From 8,000 JPY

Nara Afternoon Tour

Visit two World Heritage Sites in Nara, Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, on this half-day course.

• From 10,700 JPY

Japan's Oldest Shrine Walking Tour from Nara

Visit Oomiwa Shrine, the oldest shrine in Japan, and be impressed by Japan's largest torii gate.

• From 10,000 JPY

Discover Fushimi Inari

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kyoto, Japan. It is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which line a path that winds up a mountain. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and is a popular place to pray for good fortune.

Fushimi Inari Sightseeing Tour

Kyoto Golden Route Day Trip Bus

Let's visit 6 unmissable sightseeing spots which are famous Fushimi Inari shrine, Kinkakuji temple, Arashiyama and some more in Kyoto!

• From 16,000 JPY

Kyoto Walking Tour: Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Sake Tasting

Visit the Sake Museum in Fushimi and taste some samples of Japan's finest sake!

• From 9,500 JPY

Enjoy Kyoto Full Day Walking Tour from Kyoto

Visit a unique and unforgettable experience.of Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizudera, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the Golden Palace, and Arashiyama.

• From 8,980 JPY

Discover Kyoto Culture Experience

Deep Experiencing various Japanese culture is one of the things to do on your trip to Kyoto. Here are some special cultural experiences unique to Kyoto, an ancient capital with a thousand-year history.

Kyoto Culture Experience Tour

Let's explore the traditional atmosphere of Gion district in Kimono at twilight time!

• From 11,000 JPY

Kyoto Kimono Rental Experience and Maiko Dinner Show

Immerse in Kyoto's culture with kimono, local food, Gion walk, Kaiseki dinner, private Maiko chat, dance, games, and photo. All welcome!

• From 45,000 JPY

See Kyoto From A Local Perspective

Free Day and Night Walking Tours in Kyoto

Day & Night Walking Tours of Kyoto

Kyoto is the heart of Japan and has rich history and culture. Our free walking tours will show you why. You will learn about the Old and New Kyoto, tradition, religion, history, food, and culture.

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🏯 The 5 Best Kyoto Private Guided Tours [2024 Reviews]

While Tokyo may be one of the hottest tourist destinations at the moment, I highly encourage you to visit the breathtaking city of Kyoto as well. Steeped in centuries of tradition and culture, with historical elegance and impressive natural beauty at every turn.

However, if you really want to make the most of your trip, I highly recommend partaking in one of the 5 top guided private tours of Kyoto.

I’ve carefully selected these 5 based on the value for the money, quality of the experience, and other factors that made these all worth the time and money. Let’s get started!

Best Private Guided Tours of Kyoto

Quick answer: the 5 best rated private guided tours of kyoto for 2024.

• 10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour
• Kyoto Private Custom Highlight Tour with Licensed Guide (4/8h)
• Private Kyoto Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Personalised
• Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle
• Kyoto Private Night Tour: From Gion District To Old Pontocho

Kyoto Private Guided Tour Reviews

1. 10 must-see spots in kyoto one day private tour.

• Duration:  8 hours
• Departure: Koyamakitakamifusacho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8142
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Includes: Nationally licensed guide, 10 must-see Kyoto sights

If you’re only spending a day or two in Kyoto or it’s your first time visiting, don’t look any further, because this first tour should be at the top of your list.

The 10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour  is the perfect way to spend an entire day in this enchanting city, where you don’t have to worry about just being another head in the crowd.

Rather, you have an expert guide to lead you through 10 unmissable spots that have defined Kyoto’s rich heritage and culture, offering an intriguing insight into its intense past.

Starting at 9:00 am, we definitely made the most of our day by kicking things off early and missing the vast majority of tourist crowds. With groups maxing out at just 3 participants, it’s one of the smallest tour groups I’ve encountered which makes for a very personal, customized excursion.

After meeting at Kitaoji Station, we headed out to the Golden Pavilion, where I took plenty of photos by the gold exterior and learned how it used to be the political center of the shogun.

One of the highlights for me was walking through the Bamboo Forest Street, which I didn’t even realize was in Kyoto, but had definitely seen it many times in the media.

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We then arrived at the Tenryuji Temple, which is absolutely stunning with its maple leaves and outlook over an ethereal garden. The Togetsukyo Bridge is a place I had to come back and visit with more time, as its scenic beauty nestled into the western Kyoto hills was simply too breathtaking.

Another cool moment was visiting the historic Gion district, where we strolled down the narrow alleyways lined with traditional Machiya houses.

I even caught a glimpse of a geisha before arriving at the busy Nishiki market with a ton of seafood, seasonal produce, and other treats.

We made plenty of other stops, but my favorite was undoubtedly the Kiyomiu-dera Temple, where I got to soak in the day’s experiences and the panoramic views of the city from high atop Mount Otowa.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. kyoto private custom highlight tour with licensed guide (4/8h).

• Duration:  2 to 8 hours
• Departure: Higashishiokoji Kamadonocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8216
• Includes:  Professional local guide, private tour, transportation

Perhaps what you’re looking for is a short but sweet tour that’s easy to fit into a busy schedule, or you’re just interested in seeing very specific sites.

If that’s the case, check out the  Kyoto Private Custom Highlight Tour with Licensed Guide , which will immerse you in the very essence of this legendary place, tailored to suit your interests. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab a jacket, and get ready to discover Kyoto’s ancient past.

When I met up with my guide, I was surprised to see that I was the only one in my group, but then I remembered that it  is  a completely private experience and I had no one else in my party that day.

So, me and my guide set out just the two of us as he asked me if I had any particular interests in Kyoto (or in general) that could be used to tailor the tour further. I am a huge history buff and foodie, and he created a fantastic itinerary off the top of his head that played to both of those subjects.

Our first stop of the day was a visit to the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits on top of a hill that overlooks the entire city.

Not only are the vistas breathtaking but the architecture and history behind the temple are equally as intriguing. The historic Gion district was a must for me, where it felt like I’d been transported back in time with little cobblestone pathways, wooden Machiya homes, charming tea shops, and much more.

I also loved getting the opportunity to try the local cuisine through 2 different restaurants based on recommendations by my guide, who is a local and knows the best places.

The soba noodles with dried herring and the boiled tofu were my favorites, and I stuffed myself with them before we took a leisurely stroll around the lush nearby gardens. All in all, this was a truly unique, special experience that I’d recommend to literally anyone.

3. Private Kyoto Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Personalised

• Duration:  3 to 8 hours
• Departure: Hotel meetup (or Japan, 604-8004 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nakajimachō
• Departure Time: Between 8:00 AM & 12:00 PM
• Includes:  Private, personalized walking tour with a local guide, 4 different tour options through highlights and hidden gems

If the previous tour caught your attention, I have another alternative that I find quite a bit similar with its full customization!

The Private Kyoto Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Personalised experience also involves an expert local to guide you around on a special itinerary made just for you and your party!

Depending on what you select and your time constraints, your tour will last anywhere from around 3 to 8 hours, making it easy to fit into busy schedules!

Our tour start time was also a bit flexible, which made it easier to schedule into our day and we headed out to meet our guide at the Starbucks Coffee shop at the Kyoto Sanjo-ohashi Bridge.

What I really enjoyed about this one was that while we saw a few of the top tourist sites, the majority of our day consisted of hidden gems that I hadn’t spent much time at or visited at all, previously.

Although, our time spent at the bigger tourist hot spots was great too, as we’d arrived early enough that we’d missed the bulk of the crowds!

No visit to Kyoto is complete without seeing some of its famous landmarks, like the Kinkaku-ji Temple, the ethereal Bamboo Grove, and the historic streets of Gion.

As we walked and explored, our guide shared all kinds of fascinating stories and anecdotes, offering a much better education than any history book.

Our party was really into nature as well, and we took a beautiful hike up the hills, where we saw all kinds of interesting shrines, statues, and jaw-dropping vistas.

Getting to see the Pontocho District was also something truly special, lined with traditional shops and restaurants where no cars are able to pass by. I loved it so much, we went back at night where you’ll see red lanterns illuminating the magical streets.

This was a truly priceless tour that made for an unforgettable day, with a very unique guide who offered us not only value, but a lasting friendship.

4. Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle

• Duration:  6 hours
• Departure:  Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Departure Time: Between 8:30 AM & 12:00 PM
• Includes:  Licensed local English-speaking guide, private transport in air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, fuel surcharge, highway fees, choose 4 to 5 spots to visit

When you’re short on time, convenience is king, and that’s exactly what we have here. The Private Kyoto Tour with Government-Licensed Guide and Vehicle experience is a one-of-a-kind, flexible tour where you get to handpick from a list of gems to visit.

As it is completely private, there’s no need to worry about the guide just taking you on some run-of-the-mill tour that so many people unfortunately experience.

What I love about Kyoto is that it offers a look into Japan’s past and present, with a deep feeling of tradition and an ease of transportation that you simply won’t find in Tokyo.

More specifically, if you’re at all interested in Japan’s Shinto and Buddhist religious practices (the shrines, temples, etc.), this is a must-see. One other aspect I love about this tour, is that they pick you up right from your hotel and you get to see a ton of sites as you don’t have to walk.

After we boarded our air-conditioned vehicle, we got comfortable and spoke with our guide about what we were most interested in so he could create a plan.

We wanted to see a little bit of everything, from tranquil temples and ancient sites to vibrant streets and picturesque gardens. This is also a great way to visit sites that you’ve already seen if you’ve been on more than one Kyoto tour like I clearly have!

I thought our guide did a great job at storytelling, explaining the significance of the shrines and other sites in a way that made sense for all of us.

One of the highlights for me was seeing Nijo-jo Castle, where we explored off-limits quarters that the vast majority of tourists don’t get to see. Combine all that with our guide being a safe driver, having a clean and nice car, and vast knowledge about just about everything we saw, you can’t go wrong here.

5. Kyoto Private Night Tour: From Gion District To Old Pontocho

• Duration:  4 hours
• Departure: 103-2 Hashimotochō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8011
• Departure Time: 5:00 or 6:00 PM
• Includes:  2 drinks (local beer or non-alcoholic drink), 4 hours with host, private walking experience

Even if you plan on going on one of the other tours on this guide, please do yourself a favor and sign up for this one, as well! It’s crazy what a difference you’ll see in Kyoto depending on whether it’s daytime or at night.

The Kyoto Private Night Tour: From Gion District to Old Pontocho  will let you see the city’s ancient streets as they’re illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns, taking on a mysterious allure.

Led by a knowledgeable guide who knows all the hidden gems and lesser-known corners, you’ll get to know Kyoto in a way that few travelers have the chance to.

We met up with our guide just as the sun set, where they asked us about any specific interests to tailor our tour a bit more to them. However, we trusted them so we just followed them to the most enchanting, interesting places around the city.

I loved getting to see the historic Gion district lit up with traditional paper lanterns, as well as old Pontocho, where we even caught sight of a geisha.

As it is an exclusive, private tour, it was just me and a few friends, and with our guide we were all laughing, joking about, and having a great time.

Our guide was very chatty and kind – so much so, that it felt like he’d been a longtime friend who was showing us around his city with the best intentions. Hanamikoji Street was super cool to see at night, with a magical vibe to it as the soft lights illuminate the little cobbled road.

Pontocho Alley is known as the prettiest street in the entire city, and if possible, it’s even more lovely once dusk settles.

We eventually ended up grabbing a drink and sitting down by the Kamogawa River while taking in the sights and chatting with our guide, which was a great little break. Overall, I find this tour to be a can’t-miss opportunity!

Tour Guides

The 10 Must-see Spots in Kyoto One Day Private Tour is our Editors Choice for the best Kyoto private guide tour

Krysha Thayer

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5 Day Kyoto Itinerary: Explore Japan's Enchanting Cultural Heart

I f you’re planning your first trip to Japan and seeking an immersive cultural experience, Kyoto is the perfect destination. With its rich history, classic Japanese architecture, and serene natural surroundings, Kyoto offers a unique charm that sets it apart from the bustling metropolises of Tokyo and Osaka . Exploring its culture should be at the heart of any 5 day Kyoto itinerary.

As you step foot in this enchanting city, you’ll immediately notice the stark contrast to the modern skyscrapers that dominate other urban landscapes. Kyoto proudly preserves its traditional architecture, with temples, shrines, and wooden machiya houses adorning its streets. This preservation of historical beauty creates an atmosphere that takes you back in time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the ancient traditions and customs that have shaped Japan’s cultural identity.

Surrounded by lush green mountains, Kyoto also provides a more serene retreat from the concrete jungles and the city’s natural landscape offers breathtaking views, particularly during the vibrant cherry blossom season and the stunning autumn foliage.

It is hard to say which city we loved the best during our two-week family trip to Japan because they are each so different, but I truly believe you shouldn’t go to Japan and not visit Kyoto.

Throughout this five-day Kyoto itinerary, I will guide you through the highlights of Kyoto, ensuring that you make the most of your visit. From choosing the perfect accommodations to experiencing the must-visit landmark s, I’ll cover it all. Indulge in delectable local cuisine at our recommended restaurants and find out how to splurge on an unforgettable cultural experience.

Five days may seem like a lot in Kyoto, but since the attractions are spread out and there are quite a few important shrines and temples to include in your Kyoto itinerary, it is quite easy to fill the time and still wish for more. Plus, five days provides the opportunity to take a day trip nearby Nara.

5 Day Kyoto Itinerary: Day 1

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

I’ve written this itinerary for visitors that are coming from Tokyo on the Shinkansen and planning to take a day trip to Nara before settling down in Kyoto, following the Japan itinerary that I created for our recent trip. If you are arriving directly into Kyoto, or prefer to start exploring right away, you can easily switch around the days to suit your needs.

Day Trip / Stop in Nara

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station. Here, you will need to switch to the JR Nara line (or the faster Kintetsu line, which is also closer to the Nara attractions — but isn’t included in the JR Pass.)

When you arrive in Kyoto, simply store your bags in one of the lockers (lockers cost about 400-600 yen and you can pay using your IC card) to retrieve them when you return, and then jump on one of the local trains. You can then take a bus from the JR train station or walk from the Kintetsu line to the main attractions in Nara.

The main attractions are the Todaiji Great Buddha Temple , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Kasuga Shinto Shrine. You get to both by walking through the Nara Deer Park.

Back when my husband first visited Nara 25 years ago, the gentle deer would kneel politely to ask for food. These days, if you purchase crackers for the deer, you will be stalked, as the deer have gotten much more aggressive. They nipped at us, pulled on our shirts, and even chased us. If you don’t want to be bothered by the deer, don’t hang out where the food vendors are, and don’t carry any food or paper in your hands.

Built in 752 by Emperor Shomu, the Todai-ji Temple is an incredibly impressive structure and is reputed to be the largest wooden building in the world. It also houses one of the world’s largest bronze statues of Buddha, standing around 15 meters (49 feet) tall.

Constructed in the 8th century, during the Nara period, it was commissioned by Emperor Shomu with the aim of promoting Buddhism and establishing a symbolic center for the religion in Japan. The enormous bronze Buddha represents Vairocana, the cosmic Buddha, and showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient Japanese artisans, flanked by statues of Bodhisattvas and surrounded by other significant Buddhist figures and deities.

The Todaiji Temple and its Great Buddha have faced various challenges and reconstructions throughout history, including damage caused by fires during Civil Wars and earthquakes. Nonetheless, the temple has been rebuilt each time and is really a must-visit destination in Nara.

If you have more than two hours in Nara, you can also explore more of the Isuien Garden, a traditional Japanese garden featuring beautiful ponds, tea houses, and meticulously manicured flora. You can also stop at the small museum near the temple.

With a whole day in Nara, you would have time to hike up Mount Wakakusa for a panoramic view of Nara city and its surrounding landscape. However, we wanted to get back to Kyoto because I’d scheduled a walking tour that evening and we needed to check into our hotel first.

Evening Tour of Gion

Plan to arrive back in Kyoto in time to check in to the hotel around 4:00 pm. To get a sense of the city’s most popular tourist district, I booked a Gion Night Walk tour with Kyoto Fun.

Our guide for this small group tour was a French ex-pat who had been living in Kyoto for 20 years and knew the area and the culture quite well. He was also very relatable and conducted the tour in excellent English despite having a group consisting of people from Iceland, Spain, Argentina, and the USA.

This historic area is filled with temples, shrines, restaurants, shops, and homes in traditional architecture. While it is crowded and chaotic during the day, in the evening it is quiet and actually quite magical. The tour starts off in an area where you can often see Maiko (apprentice geisha) and Geiko (what they call geishas in Kyoto) heading off to their evening appointments.

When you see a Maiko or Geiko, it is important to step aside and not get in their way or try to take a selfie, jump in front of them to take photos, etc. It is considered extremely rude. You can stand off to the side and take photos of them as they are walking by as part of the landscape or street photography. I have heard that they have since barred tourists from these streets because they have been too aggressive with the Maiko or Geiko, so I’m not sure how that impacts guided tours.

The tour also took us past the Kenninji Temple (Japan’s oldest Zen Temple), through other smaller shrines, past the Yasaka Pagoda just as the sun was setting, and then through the Ninenzaka path and other small streets before ending at the Yasaka Shrine.

We really loved this tour and getting to explore this area at night with a guide that explained so much about the culture and history, but in a laid-back and chill way that allowed you to soak it in and enjoy the atmosphere and not get bombarded with facts. If you walk these streets during the day, you will see what a difference it makes in the crowds, making it hard to get through and appreciate its beauty.

The tour ends in Gion, where there are so many different restaurants to choose from. Since it was late and we didn’t have a reservation, we waited in a short line at a small okonomiyaki place recommended by our tour guide but a few other spots I had on our radar included:

• Yakitori Daikichi Japan , Ohashicho, 18−２
• Gyoza Hohei 373-3 Kiyomotocho
• Gion Tanto (okonomiyaki) 372 Kiyomotocho

Kyoto Itinerary: Day 2

On our second day in Kyoto, we decided to explore the Fushimi district, which is a bit south of the city and home to the Instagram-famous Fushimi Inari shrine, which has a pathway through 10,000 vermillion torii gates. This is one of the most important Shinto shrines in the city and also one of the most popular tourist attractions.

Fushimi Inari Shrine

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. Inari is often represented by foxes, and you can find numerous fox statues throughout the shrine grounds. The complex consists of multiple sub-shrines and trails leading up to Mount Inari, lined with the vibrant vermillion torii gates.

It is ideal if you can visit during a weekday (although still expect crowds) and arrive early (around 7-8:00 am) before the tour busses start to roll in. To get there, it is a one-minute walk from the Inari Station on the JR Nara Line, which you can pick up from the main Kyoto Station. Alternatively, you can take the Keihan Main Line train to Ryukokudai-mae-fukakusa Station and walk a bit further to the shrine.

If you want to have breakfast before you begin to explore, don’t follow the main crowd through the gates but stay to the left and follow the path to the Vermillion coffee shop for coffee/pastries and breakfast dishes such as avocado toast.

Many visitors skip right past the main shrine to begin the climb up the mountain through the thousands of torii gates. In the beginning, you need to shuffle along with the crowd, but many people turn back after the first set of gates. Others only make it as far as the scenic overlook about halfway up the mountain, which offers views of the city below and the mountains in the distance. Luckily, the further you go the fewer the people and it is much easier to enjoy the experience and capture photos.

If you choose to climb all the way to the top, your entire visit will take about two hours, perhaps longer depending on how fast you climb and how many shrines you stop at along the way. Keep in mind that there any many flights of steep steps (my Apple Health app tracked it as 59 floors) so dress comfortably and wear good walking shoes. The path is mostly shaded but you should bring along water. However, there are small shops selling water, tea, ice cream, and sweets along the path and there is a restroom at the bottom and about halfway up the path.

As you walk along the path, you will notice writing on each of the gates. Each gate is donated by individuals, families, or businesses and represents a wish or prayer. We later heard that some businesses have been on a waiting list for decades to sponsor one of the gates.

At the top, you will find another shrine, which is a bit nondescript albeit for the small sign that says “top”, but it is a relief to see after all the climbing. Here you can offer prayers or make a donation to see your fortune.

Going back down is a bit easier, although not as easy on the knees. If you are short on time, I would recommend just climbing to the scenic overlook. By then the crowd should have thinned out sufficiently to get a few nice photos and you will have gotten the feel for the experience without having to make the entire climb.

Fushimi Sake District

After all that climbing, you will want to reward yourself with a drink and some good food. You can find both in the Fushimi Sake District. Located just a short train ride from the Fushimi Inari Shrine, this area is off of the main tourist path and home to over 30 sake breweries.

The district has a rich history dating back over 400 years, and its location near the pure water source of the Fushimi River has contributed to the high-quality sake production. One of the highlights of the area is the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum , which provides insight into the sake-making process and the history of sake brewing in the region.

In addition to the museum, Fushimi offers plenty of opportunities to explore the local breweries and sample different types of sake. Many breweries open their doors to the public, allowing visitors to observe the brewing process, interact with knowledgeable brewers, and taste a variety of sake flavors. There are a number of sake-tasting tours that you can take in this area, but you have to be 20 (Japan’s drinking age.)

If the tours don’t work for you (like us with our 19-year-old), you can still sample sake from many of the local breweries at the Fushimi Sake Village . This spot is a bit hard to find and tucked away from the main shopping arcades but trust Google Maps and you will get there.

Within the Fushimi Sake Village , there are multiple restaurants and multiple tasting bars, but you can get a table in the center and order a sake sampler of up to 18 different sakes, along with food from multiple restaurants. Try the gyoza (I forget which restaurant they were from but it was the best gyoza we had on the trip!) You may want to split a sampler but it is a fun spot to spend the afternoon.

Aside from the sake-related activities, the Fushimi sake district is also a picturesque area to explore, with charming streets, traditional wooden townhouses, and scenic canals. To enjoy the canals, you can take a ride on a traditional Jikkokubune boat , which is especially beautiful during Cherry Blossom season or fall foliage. And if you need something sweet to soak up the sake, the doughnuts at Nayamachi Fushimi are the perfect choice.

Private Kaiseki Dinner with a Maiko

If you are willing to splurge for a truly unique and memorable cultural experience, I’d recommend booking a private kaiseki dinner with a maiko and/or geiko. It is not easy to make a direct booking with a teahouse because this is usually done by someone with personal connections to the teahouse or the management company of the maiko or geiko. You may want to reach out to your hotel concierge, but I was able to arrange this through a third-party booking service and tour company .

It is quite expensive but truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We were met by our interpreter at our hotel and we traveled to the teahouse by taxi. There we met the owner of the teahouse and then were joined by a maiko (geisha apprentice) and geiko (geisha).

Throughout our multi-course traditional kaiseki meal, we were able to chat with the girls through our interpreter and learn so much about this tradition and culture, including the training, the attire, the skills, and the differences in appearance between a maiko and a geiko. I will admit that I had a hard time with some of the traditional dishes, as I’m not a fan of raw fish, but I’m glad we had the chance to experience this tradition.

After dinner, both girls gave a short dance performance and then we played some rhythm games together. It was so interesting to see how this culture is preserved, but also the modern influences, such as various geiko or maiko houses having an Instagram account.

I know there are some misconceptions of this culture that equates it with prostitution (which it is NOT) or see it as exploitative, but I can assure you that these girls have dreamed of becoming a geisha and have to go through a very rigorous application and training process.

Kyoto Itinerary: Day 3

For our third day in Kyoto, we wanted to explore more of the eastern side of the city and the Higashiyama ward, including some of the famous temples, shrines, and shopping areas. If you follow this itinerary, you will want to wear comfortable shoes but consider shoes that slip on and off easily for entering temples as many require you to leave your shoes in cubbies at the door.

Since we were staying right next door at the Hyatt Regency, we started the day at the Sanjusangendo Temple . While you can’t take pictures inside, this temple houses 1001 almost life-sized carved and gold-plated images of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. It only takes a few minutes to visit, but it is quite a sight to see.

From there, it is a 20-minute walk to Chawan-zaka or ‘teapot lane’, which is a good spot to shop for pottery with beautiful handcrafted designs. Follow this road up the hill to Kiyomizudera Temple .

Built in the 8th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site sits on a hillside, offering panoramic views of the city below. The temple’s most iconic feature is its wooden terrace, which juts out from the main hall and provides a vista of the surrounding landscape. Another popular spot to visit within the temple grounds is the Otawa Waterfall, which is believed to have sacred waters with healing properties. Visitors can use long-handled cups to drink from three streams, each said to grant a different benefit: longevity, success in studies, and love and relationships.

Kiyomizu-Dera Temple also offers a tea house and you will find many vendors selling sweets, local crafts, souvenirs, and good luck charms.

After visiting the temple, walk through the Gion district and explore the many shops and stalls offering sweets and street food. The most popular shopping streets are Sannenzaka, just down the hill from the temple, and Ninenzaka Street, where you will even find a Starbucks. This area is certainly more crowded during the day, but it is a good opportunity to visit while the shops are open.

Next, you can visit the Kodai-ji Temple and the Yasaka Shrine , which you may have already seen during the evening Gion walking tour. The Kodai-ji Temple was established in 1606 by Kita-no-Mandokoro, also known as Nene, in memory of her late husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. This zen temple includes meticulously maintained rock gardens, lush greenery, and tranquil ponds that create a peaceful atmosphere.

The main hall is a designated national treasure and houses intricate Buddhist statues, including a statue of Nene. Inside, you can also admire the exquisitely painted fusuma sliding doors and detailed woodwork that reflects the artistic craftsmanship of the Momoyama period.

By this time, you may be getting temple fatigue, but there is one more that you shouldn’t miss — Ginkaku-ji Temple . However, if you have the energy, you can first visit the Nanzen-ji Shrine  and then walk along the Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku-no-Michi), which is a stone path following a canal running through the Higashiyama district. It is lined with cherry trees, so this is particularly beautiful during the Cherry Blossom season. The Philosopher’s Path connects the Ginkaku-ji temple and the Nanzen-ji Temple. 

The Ginkaku-ji Temple is also known as the Silver Pavilion because it was originally intended to be covered in silver leaf (in contrast to the Golden Pavilion, which is covered in gold leaf.) This renowned Zen Buddhist temple was built in the late 15th century and is an example of Japanese aesthetics and Zen philosophy, offering a peaceful atmosphere, if you can manage to escape the crowds.

The temple grounds feature perfectly landscaped gardens, including the iconic sand garden known as the Sea of Silver Sand, with is designed to mimic the ripples of a calm sea. Other attractions within the temple complex include moss-covered pathways, a stone garden, and a picturesque pond adorned with stone bridges.

For dinner, I’d recommend taking advantage of Kyoto’s fantastic fine dining options. Since we were celebrating both our anniversary and our daughter’s birthday on the trip, we decided to splurge on a special sushi dinner at Gion Matsudaya . This acclaimed six-seat sushi restaurant books up weeks in advance, so I would suggest booking a reservation as soon as possible. All dinners are served omakase-style, which means it is the chef’s selection of sushi versus an a la carte menu.

Kyoto Itinerary: Day 4

On day four in Kyoto, it is time to explore the Western side of the city. Of course, you can always rearrange these days to best suit your schedule if you don’t want to have two back-to-back days visiting temples and shrines. Also, since these sites are located along the same train line as the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, it is possible to visit both areas in one day if you have less than five days in Kyoto.

We booked a morning tour with True Japan to visit the Ryoanji Temple, with its famous rock garden, and the Kinkaku-ji Temple, which is more commonly known as the Golden Temple. I’ll be honest with you and tell you that I don’t think it was worth it. Maybe with a better guide from a different tour company, but these are easy to explore on your own. Our guide was extremely soft-spoken and hard to understand with limited English, so unfortunately we only got very cursory information about these sites and she wasn’t able to answer some of our follow-up questions.

the Golden Pavilion & The RYOAN-JI TEMPLE

The Kinkaku-ji Temple , also known as the Golden Pavilion, is one of the most iconic and popular tourist attractions in Kyoto. The temple’s shimmering golden exterior is often featured on guidebooks and other tourism materials.

Built in the 14th century, the temple was initially a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. However, upon his death, the villa was converted into a Zen Buddhist temple, as per his will. The temple’s construction and design were influenced by the shogun’s desire to create a serene and harmonious place for meditation and reflection.

You can observe the temple exterior from various viewpoints, including across the pond or from the adjacent Kyōko-chi (Mirror Pond) and the gold really shines, even in the rain. While the interior of the temple is not open to the public, you can also visit the Sekkatei teahouse and the Anmintaku Pond, explore the gardens, engage in tea ceremonies, and purchase souvenirs or omikuji (fortune-telling slips) from the temple grounds.

From the Kinkaku-ji Temple, it is a short bus ride to the Ryoan-ji Temple . The Ryoan-ji Temple was originally a country house of the Tokudaiji Clan, but it was later turned into a Zen training temple. It was destroyed by a fire during the Onin War but rebuilt in 1499 and registered as a World Heritage Site in 1994.

The temple is most famous for its zen rock garden, which is said to be created at the end of the Muromachi Period around 1500 by a highly respected Zen monk, Tokyo Zenketsu. The garden measures only 25 meters from east to west and 10 meters from south to north and features 15 rocks spread out throughout the area on a bed of white gravel. We couldn’t determine any rhyme or reason for the layout or the significance of the number of rocks, but it does have a peaceful quality if you can grab a spot on the edge of the platform to sit and contemplate for a few minutes.

Also on the temple grounds, you will walk past the Kyoyochi Pond, which was the home to mandarin ducks, and therefore, Ryoan-ji was generally known as Oshidoridera, the temple of mandarin ducks.

For lunch, you may want to try Okonomiyaki Katsu near Ryoanji Temple, Omurahouse Kinkakuji closer to the Golden Pavilion (known for its omurice dishes), or go for some conveyor-belt sushi at the popular Kura chain. I tried to get a reservation at Kichikichi for omurice, but wasn’t successful (even after setting a reminder and jumping online right away!)

However, if you want to be more adventurous, take a walk through the Nishiki Market , known as Kyoto’s Kitchen, which specializes in all things food related and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto specialties, such as Japanese sweets, pickles, dried seafood, and sushi. In addition to these staples, there are many stalls offering prepared food specialties that you can eat on the spot.

From the Nishiki Market, it is only a 15-minute walk to the Japanese tea ceremony at the Jotokuji Temple. Through the experience, you will be taught the fine art of drinking matcha tea and learn about the importance of the ceremony. We had made a reservation for this tea ceremony, since matcha and tea are so essential to the Kyoto culture, however, we were too tired and soaked from the rain to keep our reservation. It is my one regret, but at the time we really need to get dry and get some rest.

If that tea ceremony experience doesn’t work with your schedule, there are others to choose from, including one located very close to the Golden Pavilion . Some of these tea ceremonies also offer the option to learn about and wear a kimono.

Of course, there are kimono rental shops all over Kyoto and many people do this to explore the temples, visit the bamboo forest, or simply for photo shoots. We debated doing this but had some concerns over cultural appropriation, although we were told that it was not considered inappropriate as long as it was done there with respect (versus taking a kimono home and wearing it as a costume.)

Pontocho Alley

For dinner, you will want to explore Kyoto’s famous Pontocho Alley. This narrow and atmospheric pedestrian street runs parallel to the Kamogawa River and is renowned for its traditional teahouses, restaurants, and bars with a long history dating back to the 16th century.

The alley is lined with traditional machiya buildings and in the evening, the lanterns lining the street are lit, casting a warm glow and adding to the enchanting ambiance. Pontocho Alley provides a variety of dining options, including kaiseki, with some restaurants offering outdoor dining overlooking the river.

We ate in Pontocho Alley twice, trying different cuisines, and would recommend both Yamafuku for a shabu shabu hot pot experience and Ukiya Pontocho for soba noodles and tempura.

Kyoto Itinerary: Day 5

I’ve saved the best for last, which is the Arashiyama ward, located on the northern outskirts of Kyoto. This area is most famous for its beautiful bamboo forest, which gets absolutely swarmed with tourists. While the conventional wisdom is to get there early (by 7:00 am), but since it is 30 minutes outside the city center, we didn’t feel like getting up that early this many days into our busy vacation.

The busiest times tend to be from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, with plenty of early birds as well. We decided to buck conventional wisdom and visit in the afternoon instead and to be honest, it worked out quite well. We didn’t have to fight any large crowds and there was plenty of space to get some photos without a million other people around.

Do what works best for you, but we took the day to sleep in and then went to lunch at Steak Otsuka , which is only a five-minute walk from the train station but off the main drag through Arashiyama. I had to book reservations weeks in advance, but it would be worth the wait if you can’t secure a reservation. They offer A5 Waygu beef and even steak from Murasawa cows, also called “phantom beef” because only 80 cows are used a year. It was honestly one of the best steaks I’ve ever had.

Arashiyama Monkey Park

After that lunch, you will be happy to walk through town and across the Togetsukyo Bridge to the Arashiyama Monkey Park to see the Japanese Macaques. Be prepared for a steep, 20 to 30-minute climb up Mt. Arashiyama, where you can then observe and interact with the monkeys in their natural habitat. You can pay to feed the monkeys from inside a building (with the monkeys reaching through bars from the outside), or just spend some time observing them and taking in the view.

When we visited there were many mama and baby duos and watching the babies play was precious. Just be sure to follow the park’s guidelines and rules, such as refraining from touching or feeding the monkeys directly and avoiding looking into their eyes. This ensures the safety of both the visitors and the monkeys.

Tenryū-ji Temple

From the Monkey Park, you can walk back across the river (or even take a boat ride) and explore the cute shops and food stalls along the main street. These were surprisingly nice for such a touristy area, and there are so many delicious sweets to try including mochi, taiyaki, soft ice cream, and everything matcha.

Before you get to the turn-off for the Bamboo Grove, you will arrive at the Tenryū-ji Temple. I recommend stopping here first, partially because it helps you avoid the main crush of people walking from the train station straight to the Bamboo Grove.

The Tenryu-ji Temple is a celebrated Zen Buddhist temple that was founded in the 14th century and the temple’s name translates to “Heavenly Dragon Temple,” symbolizing the power and spirituality associated with the mythical creature. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tenryuji Temple is renowned for its stunning architecture, serene gardens, and connection to Japan’s Zen Buddhist tradition.

However, I think the best part of the Tenryū-ji Temple is not in the main hall, but in the Hatto Hall, which is home to the Tenryū-ji Cloud Dragon painting by Kayama Matazo. Completed in 1997, the Cloud Dragon is painted on a lacquer and clay base covering the ceiling and it is rendered in the happo-nirami style, in which it appears to look directly at you, no matter which direction you view it from. This illusion is truly fascinating!

If you purchase a combination ticket for the temple and the Sogenchi Garden, you can then exit the garden at the beginning of the main bamboo grove.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove covers an area of approximately 500 meters with towering bamboo stalks and pathways. Due to its photogenic nature, the bamboo grove is a very popular attraction, especially during the mid-day.

As I mentioned earlier, it pays to visit either very early (around 7 am or sunrise) or later in the afternoon when the light filters through the bamboo offering a beautiful photo backdrop. Because this area isn’t as large as people imagine, it can sometimes be a bit of a letdown, especially when it is overcrowded, but I found it quite beautiful. If you make a day (or a half-day) of exploring this whole area, a visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is definitely worth it.

If you have a bit more time, you may want to take a taxi or hop on a bus to visit Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, which is about a 20-minute drive from the bamboo grove, in a quiet, wooded part of the city. The temple is surrounded by 1,200 Buddhist Rakan statues, each of which is slightly different.

For dinner, we finished up our time in Kyoto at a high-end, set menu at Tempura Endo in Gion. At this traditional-style restaurant, the tempura is prepared in front of you and served individually. There were some standard options, like shrimp, asparagus, and eggplant, but also special courses like a mushroom with truffle.

Getting to Kyoto

Whether you’re coming from within Japan or traveling internationally, you have several convenient options to reach Kyoto. If you’re already in Japan, the iconic Shinkansen bullet train provides a seamless and efficient way to travel to Kyoto. From Tokyo, hop on the Nozomi (not included in the JR Pass) or Hikari Shinkansen, and in just under 2.5 hours, you’ll arrive at Kyoto Station, located in the heart of the city. If you can, sit on the right side of the train from Tokyo to Kyoto and you will have a great view of Mount Fuji on a clear day.

Similarly, if you’re coming from Osaka, the journey to Kyoto on the Shinkansen takes a mere 15 minutes, making it an incredibly convenient option for day trips or exploring the region. You can also use local JR Trains from Osaka to reach Kyoto in only 30 minutes.

For international travelers heading directly to Kyoto, you will need to fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport (ITM), both located near Osaka. From there, you can take a direct train or bus to Kyoto, which typically takes around 75 minutes from KIX or 50 minutes from ITM.

Where to Stay in Kyoto

Even if Kyoto doesn’t compare to Tokyo or Osaka in size, it is still a large city, and choosing a place to stay that is located close to public transportation options is important. One thing to note about Kyoto is that it isn’t as easy to get around as Tokyo, as the Metro system isn’t as developed. There are a few train lines (both JR and Kintetsu), but you will likely need to also use buses and take a few cabs occasionally.

Central Kyoto is where you will find the most options for all price ranges and it will be convenient to the Kyoto Station, but it doesn’t have the charm and historical appeal of some of the other areas. The historic Gion district offers a glimpse into traditional Japan. Stay in this area to experience the atmospheric streets lined with machiya townhouses, tea houses, and exclusive dining options. However, the options in Gion tend to be quite pricey.

The Higashiyama ward, situated on the eastern side of Kyoto, will put you within easy walking distance to Gion and several notable attractions, while also connecting you to other parts of the city through nearby train and bus options.

When choosing where to stay in Kyoto, I wanted a hotel that was within walking distance of some major attractions and with easy access to public transportation. I chose the Hyatt Regency Kyoto in the Higashiyama Ward because it was right next to a bus stop that went to the main train station for a JR train and it was also within a less-than-10-minute walk to the Kintetsu train station.

The hotel also provides a complimentary one-way taxi ride using MK Taxis from the train station to the hotel. There were many temples and shrines nearby and it is a 15-minute walk to the popular Gion district.

As you will find throughout Japan, the service at the Hyatt Regency was exceptional. We really enjoyed the rooms, although I really wish architects would move away from the open bathroom plan. In our rooms, the bathroom was behind a wall, but there was no door to separate the shower and sink from the main room. But the beds were comfortable, housekeeping was good, and we loved the location.

Breakfast wasn’t included so we never ended up eating at the hotel, but they do offer a breakfast buffet (for about $30 per person), an Italian restaurant, a Japanese restaurant, and a pastry shop that has limited hours. One thing to note is that on a few nights a week, they have a short Maiko performance (about 10 minutes) between 6:00-6:30 pm on the lower level outside of the Japanese restaurant. This is a great way to get a small cultural experience for free.

Find other places to stay in Kyoto:

Visiting Japan? Read more…

If you are planning a visit to Japan, be sure to also check out the following articles:

• 14-day Japan itinerary
• How much does a trip to Japan cost?
• 75+ Japan travel tips
• 5 Days in Tokyo itinerary
• 3 Days in Osaka itinerary

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Osaka & Kyoto 4-Day Itinerary | Japan Travel Guide

There is so much in Japan to discover outside of Tokyo , but for most visitors, the cities of Osaka & Kyoto are likely at the top of the list. These two cities, located in the Kansai region, offer a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights at a somewhat slower pace compared to the bustle of Tokyo. In this blog, we’ll take you through a 4-day itinerary for the ultimate trip to Osaka & Kyoto.

• Secure your phone data for Japan with an  [Android/iPhone] Japan 4G Data Only eSIM (15~30 days) !
• Travel around Kansai hassle-free with a Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing 1-Day Pass (Osaka Metro Version) !

Day 1: Arrive & Explore Modern Osaka

Arrive at Kansai International Airport and take the airport limousine bus or subway to your hotel in Osaka. The bus tends to be most convenient with more direct service, however the subway is often more affordable if you don’t have much luggage. Either way, the airport is located a ways away from the city center, so be prepared for up to an additional hour and a half travel time to reach your accommodations.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by MAIDO。Osaka Bob (@maido_osaka_bob)

Once you’re settled, we recommend grabbing a quick bite for lunch at CoCo Ichibanya   for some authentic Japanese curry, customized to your tastes. There are many branches across Japan so feel free to pop in any nearby before heading over to the Dotonbori district. This is one of the liveliest areas of Osaka and offers a wide variety of shopping including the infamous Don Quijote . The store is so big, it even has its own Ferris Wheel! 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hui Xin 叶慧馨 (@yaphuixin)

As the sunsets and you’ve shopped yourself out – we recommend exploring the many sidestreets and alleys of Dotonbori for a streetfood dinner. Osaka is famous for having some of the best takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and kushikatsu street food in the world. And don’t forget to stop by for a pic with the Glico Running Man! 

Day 2: Sightseeing Traditional Osaka

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by @butsuyoku2031

Dive into Japan’s traditional side on Day 2 by first exploring one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, Osaka Castle . This five-story castle boasts a history that dates back almost 450 years and is one of the most recognizable buildings in Japan. Then, grab brunch at The 33 Tea & Bar Terrace nearby for a delicious meal with even more unbelievable views!

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tineke (@tineke0809)

Stop by the Umeda Sky Building for a city-wide landscape you won’t want to miss before making your way to Shitennoji Temple . Founded in 593 AD, it is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Emma Bassett • Japan Life & Travel 🇯🇵 (@bassetts.bouken)

Next up, head over to the Namba area of Osaka. Here you will discover the 12m tall lion head that makes up the Namba Yasaka Shine . It is believed that his mouth will swallow any evil spirits around you and bring good fortune, particularly in business and education. Namba is also home to famous homages to modern favorites like the Kirby Cafe and Sailor Moon Museum .

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Irene Desilia Ibe (@ireneibe)

Finish the day by heading south to Shinsekai , where you can enjoy the unique sumo meal experience at Yokozuna Tsutenkaku !

Day 3: Universal Studios Japan

Probably one of the most popular attractions near Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is top of their class when it comes to amusement parks. From Nintendo to Harry Potter & more, this park has it all for visitors both young & young-at-heart. Between travel time to the theme park and the many things to do there, we recommend planning to spend at least a full day exploring everything USJ has to offer.

Theme parks not your thing? Check out these nearby day tours to Nara, Kobe & more to experience more of the Kansai region’s rich history and culture:

• Awaji Island & Naruto Whirlpools 1 Day Tour from Osaka
• Kyoto & Nara 1 Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• Kobe Mt. Rokko Night View & Kitano Ijinkan & Arima Onsen Tour 1 Day Tour from Osaka
• Wakayama Kishi Station & Kuroshio Market & Rinku Premium Outlet 1 Day Tour from Osaka

Day 4: Universal Studios Japan

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kyoko Ueda / Japan Travel (@kyoko1903)

Enjoy your final day in Kansai exploring everything Kyoto has to offer! Start your day at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Then move on to explore the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and Nijo Castle , as well as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove .

Check out these incredible sites & more via bicycle with a rental pass here ! 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Rina (@rinappps)

Afternoon: 

Take the opportunity to rest your feet by experiencing a traditional Tea Ceremony. While Kyoto is well known for the tradition of tea ceremonies, this is also the perfect chance to indulge in some of Japan’s world-famous matcha! You can even choose to attend a geisha-hosted ceremony in the Gion district to fully immerse yourself in the ceremonies’ tradition. Afterward, head over to the Pontocho Alley for a late lunch.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jun Takeda (@man_tac)

Pack your bags, grab any last-minute convenience store goodies, and make your way back to Kansai Aiport in the evening for your return flight. We hope you’ve enjoyed your trip!

Looking for a hassle-free Kyoto experience? Check out these 1-day tours:

• Kyoto Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya 1 Day Tour from Osaka/Kyoto
• Kyoto Ancient Temple 1 Day Tour With Matcha Experience from Osaka/Kyoto
• Kyoto Yanagiya Kannon & Arashiyama & Kiyomizudera 1 Day Tour from Oksaka/Kyoto
• Kyoto City 1 Day Private Tour from Kyoto/ Nara/ Osaka

To discover more of the best things to do in Japan, visit Trazy.com , Your Travel Shop for Asia !

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Tokyo Travel Guide + Kyoto: 7 Day Itinerary. Let's Go Paperback – May 21, 2024

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Let's Go is a unique travel project that specializes in creating detailed guides with ready-to-go itineraries, offering an insider's look at the best dining, shopping, entertainment, hotels, and sightseeing opportunities. Each guide combines personal experiences from seasoned writers with the curated picks of top global social media influencers, ensuring you get the most out of every trip.

Explore Japan Like Never Before with Our Tokyo + Kyoto Series

Step into the captivating worlds of Tokyo and Kyoto with our expertly crafted 7-day itinerary. From the iconic Ginza District to the historic streets of Gion in Kyoto, our guide provides a seamless journey packed with meticulously selected hotels and must-see sights. You don’t need to worry about research or planning; every destination you need to visit is already chosen—just follow the itinerary and book some locations in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

Why Choose This Guide?

• Tailored Itineraries : Meticulously planned to maximize your time and enjoyment. Each day unfolds with a clear plan that blends famous sights with hidden gems.
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Whether you’re exploring the futuristic vibes of Tokyo or embracing the serene spirituality of Kyoto, our guide ensures that your journey through Japan is both thrilling and hassle-free. Perfect for those who want to experience Japan authentically without the stress of planning every detail.

Embark on your adventure with Let’s Go and explore Japan like never before. Purchase your guide today and start planning the trip of a lifetime!

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The 19 Most Stylish New Hotels in the World, From Paris to Kyoto

In case you haven't noticed, Who What Wear editors have interests beyond just fashion and beauty. Several of my colleagues are obsessed with Formula One . Meetings are often derailed by talk of the latest and greatest TV shows . We have a Slack channel dedicated to our favorite books of the moment . Another passion of ours? Travel . To that end, I decided to focus this story on the world's most stylish hotel openings of the last 12 months.

I made a concerted effort to include new spots in nearly every corner of the globe. On my list, you'll find a fashion designer's former home in Morocco, a high-rise hotel in Japan, a beachfront property in Australia, an art deco building in Argentina, over-the-water villas in Indonesia, and more. And no, I didn't forget about Europe! My roundup includes the latest cosmopolitan city escapes in beloved cities like Paris and Rome, plus quaint mountain getaways in the Swiss Alps and the Italian Dolomites. Oh, and for those of you who prefer to stay stateside, there are buzzy new hotel openings in California and Florida too. What are you waiting for? Scroll down to see my list of the world's most stylish new hotels and book your room ASAP.

Château de Théoule

WHERE: Théoule-sur-Mer, France

WHEN: Opened March 2024

WHY: It's quickly becoming the hottest private beach club on the French Riviera.

Located less than a 15-minute drive from the Cannes airport, this property was originally a soap factory built in 1630. Guests have access to a private beach, an outdoor swimming pool, two bars, two restaurants, and a spa. It's in the charming small town of Théoule-sur-Mer, an underrated gem on the Côte d'Azur. The starting rate is approximately $467 per night.

Le Grand Mazarin

WHERE: Paris, France

WHEN: Opened September 2023

WHY: Come for the colorful, quirky décor and stay for the prime location in Le Marais.

Designed by Martin Brudnizki, this five-star stunner takes the cake for the most fun décor. The property includes 61 rooms, a restaurant, two bars, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, and a fitness center. It's located a stone's throw away from the Seine and a 15-minute walk from the Louvre. Rooms start at approximately $595 per night.

WHERE: Menorca, Spain

WHEN: Opened July 2023

WHY: A restored 18th-century manor house awaits.

Vestige Collection painstakingly revived a historic building using traditional and sustainable methods. The 34 beautifully appointed rooms are decorated with natural materials such as linen, jute, silk, and cotton. There's news for the fashion lovers: Son Vell just launched a capsule collection with Madrid-based brand Malne that's inspired by Menorca's equestrian history. Available to purchase exclusively at Son Vell, the pieces will include hand-printed wrap skirts, linen jackets, palazzo-style pants, and more. Rooms start at approximately $852 per night.

WHERE: Rome, Italy

WHEN: Opening June 2024

WHY: Rome's newest five-star hotel is an artist's dream enclave.

Less than half a mile from the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, the impeccably designed Casa Monti is now taking reservations for its highly anticipated June opening. Even if you're staying elsewhere in the Eternal City, don't miss the rooftop bar and terrace restaurant. Rooms start at approximately $480 per night.

Villa Mabrouka

WHERE: Tangier, Morocco

WHEN: Opened June 2023

WHY: Yves Saint Laurent's former home has been turned into a dazzling hotel.

This one has a fascinating fashion pedigree. Surrounded by lush gardens, Villa Mabrouka used to be the private home of Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé. Now, it's an intimate 12-room hotel that retains many original 1940s design details. Two pools and three restaurants await you at Tangier's chicest new spot. Rooms start at approximately $486 per night.

Rosewood Schloss Fuschl

WHERE: Hof bei Salzburg, Austria

WHEN: Opening July 2024

WHY: Rosewood Hotels and Resorts is known worldwide to be the epitome of luxury.

This picturesque lakefront hotel is housed in a fairytale-worthy castle originally built in 1461. A 25-minute drive from Salzburg, this property was once reserved for Austrian nobility but will soon be open to travelers worldwide in July 2024. Rooms start at approximately $487 per night.

WHERE: Tokyo, Japan

WHY: Janu is the brand-new sister brand of the famed Aman hotel group.

Located near the Roppongi neighborhood, Janu Tokyo is sure to delight Aman's enthusiastic fan base. The 122 rooms are luxuriously sleek, while the eight restaurants are world-class. Rooms start at approximately $944 per night.

Grand Hotel Belvedere

WHERE: Wengen, Switzerland

WHEN: Opening summer 2024

WHY: This car-free town offers mountain views and tranquility in spades.

Beaumier never gets it wrong. I've stayed at one of the hotel group's French properties, Capelongue , and was thoroughly enchanted, so I have no doubt this new opening will impress. The hotel is housed in a fully renovated belle époque building with views for days. Rooms start at approximately $362 per night.

La Fantaisie

WHY: You'll feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Paris in this cheerful hotel.

Located in the Faubourg-Montmartre neighborhood, this hotel is filled with greenery, fun wallpaper, and world-class art. A short walk will get you to the famed Galeries Lafayette and the Palais Garnier opera house. The starting rate is approximately $500 per night.

Hotel Bella Grande

WHERE: Copenhagen, Denmark

WHEN: Opened April 2024

WHY: The Scandi style set has quickly adopted this chic new hotel as their home away from home.

This is the second hotel by Copenhagen Food Collective, which also owns the popular Coco Hotel in addition to 18 restaurants scattered around the city. This sustainably minded boutique hotel has already attracted the likes of Thora Valdimars and Jeanette Madsen, so there's no doubt other fashion people will follow. Rooms start at approximately $181 per night.

Scorpios Bodrum

WHERE: Bodrum, Turkey

WHY: Scorpios is branching out from its iconic Mykonos beach club for the first time.

With spectacular views of the Aegean Sea, striking architecture, and a dedication to wellness, Scorpios Bodrum will certainly garner a cult following just like its Mykonos counterpart. Unlike the Greek location, this Turkish property won't be just a beach club—it will have overnight bungalows available to rent, starting at approximately $2100 per night.

WHERE: Guerneville, California

WHY: California's buzziest wellness retreat will leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Instead of Napa Valley—been there, done that—try driving an hour west to Guerneville, California, where the spectacular Dawn Ranch lies on 22 acres near the Russian River. You can choose from a variety of accommodations, including a posh room inside the hotel, a charming standalone cottage, a glamping tent, and more. Rooms start at $299 per night.

COMO Alpina Dolomites

WHERE: Alpe di Siusi, Italy

WHEN: Opened December 2023

WHY: This property will appeal to architecture aficionados and spa enthusiasts alike.

You can find summer visitors golfing and mountain-biking, and winter travelers will no doubt be skiing and snowshoeing. This is the newest outpost from the award-winning COMO Hotels and Resorts group—you may have heard of the celebrity-favorite COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali. Rooms start at approximately $576 per night.

WHERE: Byron Bay, Australia

WHY: Time-travel back to the '70s on this 55-acre ranch.

On its website, Sun Ranch describes itself as anything but an ordinary hotel: "Designed to ignite the passions of music lovers, foodies, creatives, wellness enthusiasts, and everyone in between, Sun Ranch is an invitation to experience something that transcends the ordinary, ignites the imagination, and leaves an indelible mark on the soul." Rooms start at approximately $496 per night.

Odles Lodge

WHERE: Palmschoss, Italy

WHY: It's the newest hotel from the owners of the acclaimed Forestis Dolomites .

Built with local spruce and Swiss stone pine wood, this hotel offers unparalleled views of the South Tyrol region of Northeast Italy. There are only four lodges, each offering minimalistic accommodations and plenty of privacy. Lodges start at approximately $650 per night.

The Vineta Hotel

WHERE: Palm Beach, Florida

WHEN: Opening fall 2024

WHY: It's the first-ever U.S. property from the Oetker Collection hotel group, which owns Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc and Le Bristol.

If Palm Royale has you feeling inspired to book a trip to Florida, you simply must make a beeline to the Vineta Hotel when it opens later this year. Oetker Collection owns some of the world's chicest properties, and I have a strong feeling this hotel will exceed all of my (very high) expectations.

WHERE: Labuan Bajo, Indonesia

WHEN: Opened May 2024

WHY: This new resort is single-handedly giving Bali a run for its money.

Bali may be Indonesia's most recognizable island, but it's far from your only option. Located on the island of East Nusa Tenggara, the brand-new Ta'aktana resort has jaw-dropping overwater villas perfect for a luxury escape. Rooms start at approximately $530 per night.

Six Senses Kyoto

WHERE: Kyoto, Japan

WHY: The Six Senses hotel group is expanding into Japan for the first time.

Inspired by The Tale of Genji , the hotel's interior design is at once stunning and tranquil. Situated in the Higashiyama district, guests can walk to the Kyoto National Museum and the Myoho-in Temple, among other attractions. Rooms start at approximately $1465 per night.

Casa Lucía

WHERE: Buenos Aires, Argentina

WHEN: Opened January 2024

WHY: A historic art deco building gets a modern makeover.

If you fancy a jaunt south of the equator, there's no better place to try than Casa Lucía in Buenos Aires. Located in the posh Recoleta neighborhood, this hotel has only been open for five months but has quickly attracted a loyal fan base. Rooms start at approximately $291 per night.

Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern over 12 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29 , where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of Associate Director of Fashion News (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.

I'm inspired.

By Natalie Munro

They've genuinely never looked better.

By Eleanor Vousden

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