Experiences in Kyoto

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1,714 experiences

Zen Meditation for Life in KyotoPrivate Tour
Experience4 hr 30 min

Zen Meditation for Life in Kyoto

Kyoto has been the principal home of Zen since its introduction to Japan from China at the beginning of the 13th century. Kyoto is therefore rightly famous for its Zen-influenced gardens, etc. However, the heart of Zen is the practice of meditation, for meditation is the very meaning of the word “Zen.” Given this, it is ironic there are few opportunities for short-term visitors to Kyoto to have more than a brief introduction to Zen meditation while visiting Zen temples. Thus, this workshop is unique in providing an extended, in-depth introduction to both the theory and practice of meditation (zazen) under the guidance of American-born, Sōtō Zen Buddhist priest and scholar Rev. Dr. Brian Victoria. Rev. Victoria will introduce you to both the theory and practice of Zen meditation, employing traditional meditation cushions (or chairs if needed) in a private meditation hall. By workshop completion, participants will become confident in their ability to continue meditating on their own.

5.0(12 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Gion Night Walk & Foodie Tour: 10+ Tastings in Small Group
Experience3 hr 30 min

Kyoto Gion Night Walk & Foodie Tour: 10+ Tastings in Small Group

When the lanterns flicker on, Kyoto shows its most beautiful side. On this small-group evening food tour, a local guide leads you off the tourist trail through the historic Gion district and the narrow alleys of Ponto-chō — past wooden townhouses, teahouses, and the Kamo River. Along the way, you'll stop at two authentic izakaya — small local spots where mostly regulars go. Across 10+ tastings, you'll work your way through classic dishes like yakitori, seasonal specialties, and local flavors, paired with sake, beer, or soft drinks. Your guide shares stories about Kyoto's food culture, the geisha traditions of Gion, and modern life in the city. Perfect for first-time visitors and food lovers alike — relaxed, fun, and delicious. Guide available in English, French, and German.

5.0(6 reviews)Free cancellation
ALL INCLUDED:Short Exclusive Hidden Kyoto Private Tour with LocalPrivate Tour
Experience2 hrs

ALL INCLUDED:Short Exclusive Hidden Kyoto Private Tour with Local

Experience Kyoto like never before with SunnySight Japan! Our unique private tours, starting from just 3 hours, take you to hidden gems with no crowds. You can enjoy the heart of Kyoto with just your love ones to create special memories.Just share your bucket list of your Kyoto trip/ anything you are interested in, and we’ll create the perfect journey just for you! Enjoy a personalized adventure led by passionate local guides, ensuring memorable moments exploring serene temples, local cuisine, and more. Let's go on an adventure to discover the treasure of Kyoto with us! The price covers food, experience fee, admission fee, and guide fee. We also have a photo service for the guests to bring precious memories back home!(with no charge) All you have to do is tell us what you want to do and we will arrange your original tour! Just bring yourself to enjoy the most of Kyoto on the day of your tour.

5.0(4 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Matcha Tasting and Making Class with Urasenke Tea MasterNew On Viator
Experience1 hr

Kyoto Matcha Tasting and Making Class with Urasenke Tea Master

- Guided by an Urasenke tea master - Easy-to-access café in central Kyoto - Compare different Japanese teas such as matcha, sencha, and hojicha - Learn the basics of Japanese tea culture in a relaxed way - Whisk your own bowl of matcha - Enjoy traditional wagashi sweets - Comfortable table-style experience, no floor sitting required This experience is designed for travelers who want to enjoy Japanese tea culture in a more relaxed and accessible way. In a comfortable café in central Kyoto, an Urasenke tea master will introduce you to the world of Japanese tea. You will learn how matcha, sencha, hojicha, and other teas differ in flavor, aroma, color, and preparation style, then taste and compare them for yourself. You will also learn how to whisk matcha yourself and enjoy it with traditional wagashi sweets. It is a comfortable way to experience the essence of Japanese tea culture during your time in Kyoto.

5.0(3 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi Inari & Gion(Private opt)Private Tour
Experience4 hrs

Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi Inari & Gion(Private opt)

Visit Kyoto’s top five sights before the crowds arrive! Explore the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, enjoy breathtaking views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and stroll through the geisha districts of Gion. Your English-speaking local guide will share Kyoto’s rich history and culture while capturing beautiful photos for lasting memories. Perfect for travelers wanting to experience Kyoto’s highlights efficiently!

5.0(163 reviews)Free cancellation
From Tokyo to Kyoto and Nara: A Captivating Full-Day Private TourPrivate Tour
Experience8 hrs

From Tokyo to Kyoto and Nara: A Captivating Full-Day Private Tour

Tour itinerary is planned based on hiring a car/ van for 9 hours to cover (cash to the driver in JPY or USD):5 passengers: ¥110, 000, 7 passengers: ¥140, 000,more than 7 please let me know in advance) Within a day from Tokyo, you can have the chance to explore both top temple and shrine in Kyoto and Nara deers park and Todaiji temple . Itenerary (customizable): 08:30(In case of Tokyo station meeting,extra ¥60,000, please notify the guide 2 days before the tour about the meeting point wether Tokyo or Kyoto) Tokyo Station (Yasue central entrance),help you to buy the bullet train tickets and heading to Kyoto using bullet train/Shinkansen 11:00 Meet at Kyoto station and move to Nara 12:30 Nara deers park 13:00 Todaiji temple 14:30 Back to Kyoto 16:30 Lunch break 17:30 Fushimi Inari shrine 18:30 Back to Kyoto station,take bullet train to Tokyo 21:30 Arrive Tokyo and tour finish

4.9(21 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto 90 mins Geisha Maiko Show in a Zen TempleNew On Viator
Experience1 hr 30 min

Kyoto 90 mins Geisha Maiko Show in a Zen Temple

Your 90-minute Geisha (Maiko) Show takes place at Kounji Temple, a 13th century Zen Buddhist temple and Japanese garden located conveniently by Nanzenji Temple. This temple is ordinarily closed to the public, so don’t miss this unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Unlike other geisha and maiko shows, which take place in large groups and last only an hour, our exclusive event is limited to 12 participants at a time and lasts 90 minutes. You’ll have plenty of time to get to know the maiko, ask questions, play traditional Japanese parlor games, and take pictures! After the show concludes, join the guide for a tour of Kounji Temple, it's Buddhist Hall and the important cultural relics kept there, and the adjoining Japanese garden. What is a Maiko? • Maiko are young apprentice geisha. They wear colorful long-sleeved kimono, white makeup, and elaborate hairstyles, whereas geisha wear more subtle kimono and usually forgo full makeup aside from special occasions.

4.9(8 reviews)Free cancellation
Osaka Private Tour by Public Transportation from KyotoPrivate Tour
Experience8 hrs

Osaka Private Tour by Public Transportation from Kyoto

This is a Osaka private tour using by public transportation from Kyoto. The guide will pick you up at the hotel. No problem with train and bus transfers, as the guides are with you! The destinations of the tour includes Dotonbori,Osaka Castle,Kuromon Market and Tsutenkaku! For details of the tour, you can look at the what to expect section and inclusions excursions section of this web page.

4.7(7 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Private & Personalized Half-Day Walking Tour with a LocalPrivate Tour
Experience3 hrs

Kyoto Private & Personalized Half-Day Walking Tour with a Local

Discover Kyoto in a way that’s truly personal. This isn’t a rigid sightseeing tour—it’s a private, customized experience designed entirely around you, guided by a local who knows the city inside out. Stroll historic streets, explore hidden shops, admire beautiful shrines, and hear stories and insights that bring Kyoto’s culture to life. Your host will shape the route to match your interests, whether you’re drawn to history, food, tradition, or off-the-beaten-path gems. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire about your interests. Your host will then reach out to suggest a flexible, authentic itinerary that feels like exploring Kyoto with a knowledgeable friend eager to share its secrets.

4.7(32 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto, Osaka, Nara Private Tour by Car English Driver GuidePrivate Tour
Experience10 hrs

Kyoto, Osaka, Nara Private Tour by Car English Driver Guide

NOTE: Kindly choose any one Location KYOTO or OSAKA or NARA for tour. If you want to go all these places then book 3 days tour so all places Kyoto, Osaka, Nara. We Can pick up all travelers from there own location in OSAKA, Kyoto, NARA or Osaka. Other local also pick up possible with extras fees. Or book with us we will contact you & ask which place you want to go & we can ask your pick & drop of place. Our tour is fully customizable you can add or skip any place. Osaka itinerary 1 Osaka Castle 2-Shitennoji temple 3-Shinsekai 4-Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine 5-Sakai City Hall Observatory Flour 6-Daisen Park Kyoto itinerary 1. Arashiyama, 2. Kinkakuji Temple, 3. Kiyomizu-dera Temple 4. Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine 5. Gion 6. Sanjusangendo Temple 7. Ginkakuji Temple 8. Nishiki Market Shopping District Nara itinerary 1-Nara deer Park 2-Todai-ji Temple 3-Todai-ji Nigatsudo Kuden 4-Wakakusayama Hill 5-Horyu-ji Temple 6-Kasuga Taisha Shrine 7-Shinyakushiji Temple 8-Naramachi street

4.3(69 reviews)Free cancellation
Nidec Kyoto Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket
Experience12 hrs

Nidec Kyoto Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Are you ready to elevate your Kyoto experience to new heights? Look no further than the Kyoto Tower Observation Deck – a must-visit destination that promises to leave you spellbound. What sets the Kyoto Tower Observation Deck apart is its unparalleled vantage point, offering a 360-degree panoramic view of one of Japan's most culturally rich cities. It is a unique structure that was built without using any steel frame. The 131m tall tower has an Obeservation Deck overlooking Kyoto city. Please look at the cultural assets such as Kiyomizu Temple and Toji Temple from 100 meters above the ground. Step onto the deck and immerse yourself in an experience that goes beyond sightseeing. Learn about Kyoto's storied history and cultural heritage from knowledgeable staff members who are eager to share insights and answer your questions. So why wait? Book your tickets to the Kyoto Tower Observation Deck now and elevate your Kyoto adventure to new heights.

3.8(5 reviews)
Kyoto to Amanohashidate in Private Car Charter 10 HoursPrivate Tour
Experience10 hrs

Kyoto to Amanohashidate in Private Car Charter 10 Hours

Enjoy a 10-hour private car charter from Kyoto to Amanohashidate and Ine, operated by a legally licensed Japanese transportation company. Vehicles are commercially insured and professionally maintained. After pickup in Kyoto, travel about 2 hours to Amanohashidate and enjoy around 3 hours for sightseeing and photos. Then continue about 30 minutes to Ine for around 2 hours before returning to Kyoto in about 2.5 hours. Drivers are available in English, Japanese, or Chinese (basic communication support). Choose a Toyota Alphard (7 seats) or Toyota Hiace (10 seats). Kyoto hotel pickup, fuel, highway tolls, and parking fees are included. At Amanohashidate, walk along the pine-lined sandbar or visit observation areas (tickets not included). Continue to Ine to see the traditional Funaya boat houses or optionally join a sightseeing boat cruise (tickets not included). Ideal for families and small groups seeking a flexible and comfortable day trip.

1.0(1 reviews)Free cancellation

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