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Private TourDiscover the art of incense making in Kyoto, just 10 minutes from Kinkakuji Temple. Blend natural ingredients like sandalwood and cinnamon, choose colors, and mold your incense into seasonal Japanese shapes such as cherry blossoms or maple leaves. Take home your one-of-a-kind creation as a souvenir or gift. English-friendly and perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a calm and creative cultural experience.
New On ViatorCreate a one-of-a-kind pair of Japanese chopsticks with our all-inclusive premium workshop in the heart of Kyoto’s beautiful Arashiyama district. Choose your favourite from our exclusive collection of premium woods, including rare and beautifully grained varieties, all included in the experience. Guided by friendly local instructors, you’ll shape, sand, and finish your own chopsticks while discovering the craftsmanship and cultural traditions behind this everyday Japanese essential. Complete your creation with complimentary laser engraving. Add your name, a meaningful word, or a special date to make your chopsticks truly personal. Surrounded by the traditional atmosphere and natural beauty of Arashiyama, enjoy a relaxing hands-on cultural experience and leave with a beautifully personalised souvenir made by you.
Private TourTake a relaxing walk through Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district, and discover its traditional charm. Your guide will share the history of Gion, the culture of maiko and geiko, and the hidden stories of this historic area. Stroll along beautiful stone paths and admire classic wooden townhouses. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a maiko heading to her evening appointment. As night falls, lanterns light up the streets, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for photos. The tour ends at Yasaka Shrine, a beloved symbol of Kyoto with more than 1,300 years of history. Known for blessings of good fortune and protection, the shrine offers a peaceful moment to make a wish and enjoy the illuminated beauty of its grand gates. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want to experience Kyoto’s traditions, culture, and nightlife in one unforgettable evening.
New On ViatorExperience Japanese calligraphy as a mindful, meditative practice, not just a technique Held in a 100-year-old Kyoto machiya, offering a rare and authentic cultural setting Guided by a Japanese female calligraphy artist, with English support for ease and comfort Learn and write Zen words that reflect your inner state and personal meaning A small-group, intimate experience designed for calm and deep connection Take home your own handwritten artwork — a meaningful and personal souvenir No experience needed — perfect for beginners seeking a deeper cultural experience
Likely To Sell OutJoin Midori in her cooking studio for a traditional Japanese cooking lesson. You can choose one of the five set menus she offers. Midori teaches you Japanese dishes with simple and easy recipes that can be easily reproduced at home. You will watch Midori prepare local dishes using seasonal and traditional ingredients. - Japanese cooking class in Kyoto with a local - Learn to cook traditional Japanese dishes from scratch - Discover Japanese ingredients and cooking styles - Get insight into Kyoto's best restaurants and shopping recommendations - A fun and relaxing, cultural and culinary experience
Step into the Kyoto International Party and enjoy a vibrant, standing-style event at a stylish bar in the heart of Kyoto. From the reception at 18:00, solo travelers, expats, and locals gather to introduce themselves and mingle freely. Guests move around the venue, chatting with English-speaking locals, fellow travelers, and foreign residents living in Japan, making it easy to meet new friends. Engaging icebreaker games create laughter and help break the ice, while conversations flow naturally in both English and Japanese. Enjoy local craft beers and light snacks as you share travel stories, learn about Kyoto’s culture, and discover hidden spots. A friendly host captures memorable moments with photos, ensuring every guest leaves with lasting memories of a lively, interactive, and social evening.
Private TourDiscover the beauty of Japanese culture by learning the art of traditional calligraphy. You'll not only pick up a unique new skill, but also take home authentic, hand-crafted Japanese souvenirs! ● English instruction available ● Watch the video below for a glimpse of the class experience. ● Spots fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve your place today!
Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Kyoto with an authentic tea ceremony experience. Held in the tatami room of a 41-year-old traditional sushi restaurant, this activity offers a tranquil setting infused with the essence of Kyoto. The calming aroma of tatami, the soft natural light, and the peaceful atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for a deep dive into traditional Japanese culture.
I will explain and demonstrate how to make each design step by step. This class is for suitable for someone who wants to have a unique experience, and also someone who wants to seriously learn the techniques and improve their skills for future use.
Ran by @guidemejapan on Instagram. Please check our Instagram for visual examples of our wonderful guides! Start your morning with the magic of Kyoto—before the crowds arrive. This small-group tour (max 8 people) takes you on a peaceful journey through Fushimi Inari’s famous thousand torii gates, the stunning Byodoin Temple from the 10 yen coin, and Ujigami Shrine, Japan’s oldest. It’s the perfect blend of iconic sights and hidden gems, led by a local English-speaking guide who brings each place to life. Quiet, authentic, unforgettable.
This workshop includes not just how to make Kyoto style sushi but the history and cultural background of sushi. You can also taste different types of vinegar and sushi rice and learn how to grate fresh wasabi, which will be unique and deepen your knowledge related to sushi. This workshop is perfect for those who love cooking and want to deepen their knowledge of Japanese cuisine. *Preschooler (under 7 years old) is free and can join with a parent. If you would like us to prepare ingredients for them, please include them in the number of participants.
Private TourNo more selfies or pestering strangers for photos of yourself and loved ones, enjoy the services of a professional vacation photographer in Kyoto to capture your travels in a contemporary and candid style. Specialising in delivering quality photography with photographers all over the world, we guarantee you amazing photos to remember your travels. All images shown were taken by our photographers.
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