Discover Kyoto with a Local - Half-Day Private Walking Tour

Spend time exploring Kyoto with one of our hosts. Half a day is not nearly enough time to see the whole city, but with a host at your side you will get a feel for its energy. Explore one of Kyoto's traditional neighbourhoods and see Kyoto as you would if you were visiting a friend who lives here.

Within 24 hours of booking, you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your answers, you'll be matched with a like-minded host. Your host will communicate directly with you to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree a time and place to meet. Your itinerary is flexible, so you can always change your mind about what you want to do during the experience.

Here is a suggested itinerary of what you can do on the day of your tour:

Itinerary

1) Sanjo area is full of old, family-run establishments, specialist shops and local life. You can also enjoy a stroll on Kamogawa river, while your local host shares with you stories about Kyoto’s history and traditional culture. 

 2) Gion. Kyoto’s most famous Geisha’s district (however, if you spot them, please act respectfully). Make sure to pay a visit to Hanami-koji street and then cross Tatsumi Bridge to reach Shimbashi, the most picturesque part Gion, with elegant traditional wooden houses of Kyoto housing high-class restaurants, cafes, and tea-houses. 

 3) Yasaka Shrine. Founded over 1350 years ago, Yasaka is the guardian shrine of the Gion entertainment district in Kyoto.
It is well known for its summer festival, the Gion Matsuri (July), arguably the most famous festival in the whole country.

 4) Heian Shrine. Famous for the massive Torii Gate at the entrance of its Omotesando (path to the shrine), it has a relatively short history, dating back to 1895. Heian Jingu was built on the occasion of the 1100th anniversary of the capital’s foundation in Kyoto, and it’s dedicated to the spirits of the first and last emperors who reigned in Kyoto. 

 5) Kyoto Imperial Palace. This used to be the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family until 1868, when the capital were moved to Tokyo. Visitors can see the palace buildings and gardens, but note that none of the buildings can be entered.

 6) Nijo Castle. Stronghold that represents the prestige and power of the famous leader Tokugawa Ieyasu (the first shogun of the Edo Period). Ready to learn some Japanese history? We promise it won’t be boring with our local host! 

 7) Nishiki-machi. Known as "Kyoto's Kitchen", this market specializes in all things food related, like fresh seafood, produce, knives and cookware, and is a great place to find seasonal foods and Kyoto traditional food. Are you ready to indulge in some seasonal specialties? 

 8) Pontocho District. Pontocho Alley is considered to be the most beautiful street in Kyoto. It’s lined with traditional shops and restaurants, and no cars, modern buildings or gaudy signs are allowed. At dusk, with the red lanterns lining down the narrow street, Pontocho becomes a magical place. And, if you are lucky, you may have the chance of spotting a maiko (apprentice geisha)

Important information

As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences