Experiences in Kyoto

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1,714 experiences

Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto
Experience9 hrs

Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Optional Lunch from Osaka or Kyoto

Begin your journey from Osaka or Kyoto, and step into Japan’s most iconic sights (Arashiyama, Nara Park, Fushimi Inari Taisha). Start at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where sunlight filters through towering stalks, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Enjoy a superb meal at Kyoto Wasabi Restaurant. Choose from Kobe Beef Shabu-shabu, Pork Shabu-shabu, Kobe Beef Rice Bowl or Kobe Beef Sukiyaki. For vegetarian, a flavorful Vegetarian Curry is also available. (Optional lunch) Continue to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital. Stroll through Nara Park and visit Todai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the world’s largest wooden structure, marvel at the 15-meter Great Buddha, an awe-inspiring symbol of Japan’s heritage. Conclude at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates forming a striking path up Mount Inari. At day’s end, relax on your bus ride back, with the flexibility to return to Osaka or Kyoto.

4.3(126 reviews)Free cancellation
Ninja 2-hour Hands-on Lesson by Japanese master in Kyoto -Medium
Experience2 hrs

Ninja 2-hour Hands-on Lesson by Japanese master in Kyoto -Medium

Two hour original and unique training which cannot be found other place. You could learn some ninja techniques by hands-on training in English. Ninja training start with courtesy of the dojo and ninja meditation 'Kuji-kiri'. You could learn breath control of ninja like Yoga. Also basic walking of Japanese martial arts and Ninja walking.

5.0(250 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto & Nara Customizable Private Car Tour (Local English Guide)Likely To Sell Out
Experience6 hrs

Kyoto & Nara Customizable Private Car Tour (Local English Guide)

With an experienced local guide fluent in both English and Japanese (with previous experience guiding Hollywood actors, Lance Gross!) All of our members were born and raised in Japan, so we have an in-depth understanding of the country. This allows us to share the hidden charms of Japan that only locals know. In addition, we offer free Japanese language support in case of emergencies. In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in accidents and incidents involving unlicensed or inexperienced drivers who are not from Japan at other companies. Our strength lies in providing the highest level of safety and reliability through our Local English-Speaking Guides. In addition to hands-on activities such as ninja training and chopstick-making, our strong local connections grant access to exclusive experiences — including invitations-only Ochaya and private geisha or maiko performances. (We are a Guide Service Company)

4.9(69 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Ghost Tour: Dark Tales, Urban Legends, Bamboo Forest Night
Experience2 hr 10 min

Kyoto Ghost Tour: Dark Tales, Urban Legends, Bamboo Forest Night

MOST UNIQUE GHOST TOUR. After visiting Fushimi Inari and wandering through Gion, most travelers think they’ve seen Kyoto. But when night falls, the city feels different. This Ghost Tour takes you into the Bamboo Forest after dark for an immersive experience filled with folklore, creepy legends, and darker historical tales rooted in the area. As the crowds disappear and the paths grow quiet, the atmosphere shifts. You’ll walk through shadowed bamboo corridors, hear carefully researched ghost stories connected to Kyoto’s past, and experience moments designed to make you question what’s real in the dark. At one point, guests take part in a brief solo walk through the forest — a rare opportunity to feel the setting in complete stillness. This small-group night tour blends storytelling, local history, suspense, and subtle surprises into an unforgettable evening. Perfect for travelers looking to go beyond the typical Fushimi Inari visit and experience Kyoto in a completely different way.

5.0(1,634 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto: Early Bird Big 3 Tour (Inari, Nijo & Kinkaku-ji)Private Tour
Experience5 hrs

Kyoto: Early Bird Big 3 Tour (Inari, Nijo & Kinkaku-ji)

Escape the daytime crowds and discover Kyoto's best on this premium private half-day morning tour. Led by an expert local guide, this exclusive "Early Bird" experience takes you to the city’s top three iconic landmarks before the heavy tour groups arrive, tailored to your pace. Begin at the world-famous Fushimi Inari Shrine to walk through the magical Senbon Torii (vermilion gates) in the serene morning air. Next, step back into the samurai era at Nijo Castle, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the historic Shogun's palace, famous for its "nightingale floors" and traditional gardens, free from the hustle. Conclude at the breathtaking Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion). Admire this Zen masterpiece as it glistens over its mirror-like pond in the early light. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers wanting a seamless, crowd-free Kyoto experience.

4.9(18 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Ramen and Gyoza Cooking Class with Professional Chefs
Experience2 hr 30 min

Kyoto Ramen and Gyoza Cooking Class with Professional Chefs

Join a tour by MagicalTrip, proud winner of the Tripadvisor Best of the Best Award. Each experience is led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity. Step into Kyoto’s culinary world with a hands-on ramen cooking class. Learn to make ramen from scratch, along with crispy gyoza and flavorful fried rice—three staples of Japanese cuisine. Suitable for beginners and food lovers alike, this fun and easy experience teaches skills you can recreate at home. Discover ramen’s rich history, from its origins in 1697 to today’s 24,000+ shops across Japan. Perfect for couples, families, friends, or solo travelers, the class includes two complimentary drinks and step-by-step guidance from a ramen master. Come hungry and enjoy cooking, eating, and connecting through food.

4.9(525 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Full-Day Bus Tour: Nijo, Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari (EN/ES)
Experience10 hr 45 min

Kyoto Full-Day Bus Tour: Nijo, Arashiyama & Fushimi Inari (EN/ES)

Discover the essence of Kyoto in one day with our exclusive bus tour to the city's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. Avoid the stress of public transport as we take you to the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the breathtaking Golden Pavilion, and the endless red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. Led by a professional guide, you will explore Japan's rich history and stunning landscapes, from Nijo Castle’s serene gardens to the panoramic views at Kiyomizu-dera. **Please note that if Nijo Castle is inaccessible due to local circumstances, the tour will visit the spectacular Sanjūsangen-dō Temple instead.** The itinerary is subject to minor changes based on weather or traffic to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience through the best of Kyoto.

4.9(841 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto Sumo Live Show with PhotoNew On Viator
Experience1 hr

Kyoto Sumo Live Show with Photo

Step into the exciting world of Japan's national sport with an unforgettable sumo experience in the heart of Kyoto. Your journey begins with an engaging introduction to the history, traditions, and rules of sumo. Learn why wrestlers perform ceremonial rituals, discover the meaning behind their techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for this centuries-old sport. Then, enjoy an action-packed live sumo show featuring powerful demonstrations by former professional sumo wrestlers. Watch incredible techniques, traditional ceremonies, and even some of sumo's famous forbidden moves, all explained in an entertaining and easy-to-understand way. The excitement doesn't end there! After the show, you'll have the rare opportunity to step into the ring and challenge a real sumo wrestler yourself. Experience the power, size, and skill of these incredible athletes in a fun and safe match that you'll never forget.

5.0(5 reviews)Free cancellation
Kyoto: Nijo Castle World Heritage Guided Tour with Admission
Experience1 hr 30 min

Kyoto: Nijo Castle World Heritage Guided Tour with Admission

[Highlights] ・Small group of up to 10 people ・Admission included ・Shogun vs. Emperor rivalry ・Photogenic gardens with colorful koi carp swimming through the castle’s moats ・Guided walk marking the end of the Shogunate This is the castle of Tokugawa Ieyasu, shogun who established the 260-year era of the samurai. Learn its history and architecture as a UNESCO World Heritage site on a small group of up to 10 guests.

5.0(532 reviews)Free cancellation
Private Guided 10 Hour Tour to KyotoPrivate Tour
Experience10 hrs

Private Guided 10 Hour Tour to Kyoto

Enjoy a fully customizable 10-hour private car charter in Kyoto. Create your own itinerary and explore at your own pace without sharing the vehicle with other travelers. We are a licensed transportation operator in Japan, providing safe and professional driver service. Drivers offer basic communication in English, Japanese, and Chinese. Please select your preferred language in advance. Choose between two vehicle options: Toyota Alphard (up to 6 passengers)– Ideal for families and small groups seeking premium comfort. Toyota Hiace (up to 9 passengers)– Spacious option suitable for larger groups with ample luggage. The route can be customized within Kyoto city during the 10-hour service. Hotel pickup and drop-off within Kyoto city, fuel, tolls, and parking fees are included. This is a private transportation service with a professional driver. A licensed tour guide is not included.

Free cancellation
Kyoto Morning Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace
Experience4 hrs

Kyoto Morning Tour: Kinkaku-ji, Nijo Castle & Imperial Palace

Available from both Kyoto and Osaka, this morning tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore Kyoto efficiently. Accompanied by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter, visit top landmarks including UNESCO-listed Nijo Castle, the stunning Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and the Kyoto Imperial Palace, once the Emperor’s residence. For guests departing from Osaka, an English-speaking assistant will accompany the transfer to Kyoto, including travel by shinkansen (non-reserved seating). The tour ends in the Kyoto Station area, allowing you to spend the afternoon exploring Kyoto at your own pace.

4.5(457 reviews)Free cancellation
Kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto
Experience2 hrs

Kendo and samurai experience in Kyoto

Discover a side of Japan that few travelers experience. This samurai sword experience in Kyoto offers a unique blend of cultural tradition and martial arts practice. Wear authentic training gear, learn the basics of kendo, and handle safe, realistic swords in a setting inspired by real samurai training. Led by an experienced instructor who have , this hands-on activity is designed for all skill levels. It provides an exciting and respectful way to connect with Japanese history and samurai culture. A memorable experience that goes beyond sightseeing and brings tradition to life.

4.8(68 reviews)Free cancellation

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