Kyoto tours

Things to do in Kyoto

Kyoto is a city that whispers to your soul, where the grace of geisha and the elegance of cherry blossoms paint a picture of timeless beauty. The city’s rhythm is a gentle dance of old and new, where ancient temples and modern boutiques coexist in perfect harmony. With your local guide, Kyoto tours are more than just sightseeing: they are an immersion into the city's living history. Wander through the serene pathways of Arashiyama, the bamboo swaying softly in the breeze, or join a food and wine tour that introduces you to the delicate art of kaiseki dining, each dish a story told through flavour. Your guide's expertise allows you to skip the line at popular sites, revealing hidden gardens and quiet shrines that offer a glimpse into the heart of Kyoto. Experience the city as a cherished local would, with stories and insights that make every corner come alive. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Kyoto. Explore Kyoto your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Kyoto tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Kyoto for every interest, including: Religious Sites tours: Start early at Fushimi Inari Taisha to follow the torii-lined trails to quiet sub-shrines and hilltop views while your guide explains shrine customs and helps with offerings. Add a zazen meditation at a Daitoku-ji subtemple or a guided visit to Sanjusangendo to see 1,001 Kannon statues up close. History tours: Walk the corridors of Nijo Castle to hear the “nightingale floors,” then wander preserved lanes like Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka for stories of merchants, geiko, and samurai. Visit a Nishijin textile workshop to see kimono weaving, or step into a small fan or lacquer studio to meet artisans keeping centuries-old techniques alive. Nature and Wildlife tours: Catch the morning light in Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, hike up to Okochi Sanso’s hillside garden, and continue to Iwatayama Monkey Park to watch Japanese macaques from a safe distance. Or ride bikes along the Kamo River to look for herons and black kites, with a stop for seasonal wagashi at a riverside cafe. The city is walkable in many central areas and has excellent public transit, with frequent buses and trains connecting major temple districts; if you want to cover distant sights in one day, you can book a chauffeured tour or ask your local guide to arrange private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Kyoto inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods On a private walking tour of Kyoto, you’ll have the chance to explore its iconic neighborhoods with a local guide revealing their hidden gems. - Gion District: Cultural tourists will appreciate its traditional wooden machiya houses and the opportunity to spot a geisha or maiko in this historic area. - Arashiyama: Perfect for families and multi-generational groups, this scenic neighborhood offers the famous bamboo grove, charming temples, and the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge. - Nishiki Market: Food enthusiasts will love this bustling market street, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," offering a wide array of local delicacies to explore with your guide. - Philosopher’s Path: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful stroll, this beautiful walkway lined with cherry blossom trees is perfect for reflection and enjoying Kyoto's natural beauty. Day trip ideas from Kyoto If you want a change of scene without going far, plan a few easy day trips from Kyoto to nearby cities and quiet towns that match what you like, and shape your tour around food, history, or nature. Nara: see the Great Buddha at Todai ji, watch deer wander Nara Park, and walk old merchant lanes in Naramachi, so if you care about early Japan, calm gardens, and family friendly stops, this city keeps it simple and close. Uji: taste fresh matcha, visit Byodo in Temple, and follow the riverfront paths, which works well if tea culture, elegant temples, and hands on tastings sound right for your tour. Osaka: sample street food in Dotonbori, explore lively neighbourhoods like Shinsekai, and balance it with a stroll around Osaka Castle’s grounds, great if you want bold flavours, neon nights, and an easy train ride back. Himeji: focus on Japan’s most famous castle with wide views and crisp white walls, add Koko en Garden next door, and you get a clear choice for architecture, photography, and a classic history fix on a single day. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Kyoto most travellers miss.