Kyoto
Kyoto, Your Story: A Full-Day of Icons, Culture & Hidden Gems
Flexible Full-Day Discovery • 8 hours
5.0
(425)
Kyoto, Your Story: A Full-Day of Icons, Culture & Hidden Gems
Your perfect Kyoto day, tailored to you. Explore icons, hidden gems & culture with a local host shaping a flexible experience around your interests.
What makes this experience special
Your Kyoto, thoughtfully planned yet flexible. Wander serene temples, artisan streets, and hidden gems with a local host who curates every stop to match your pace, interests, and desire for discovery.
Key highlights
- Crafted for you: A customizable day blending Kyoto’s iconic landmarks with hidden corners
- Quiet charm: Explore scenic paths, Zen temples, and historic streets
- Cultural immersion: Engage with Kyoto’s traditions, from artisan shops to serene temples & gardens
- Unscripted moments: Your host adapts the day to your interests
- Explore Kyoto’s rich culture, from morning tranquility to golden-hour reflections at day’s end
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
8 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
Walking experience May use public transport for long distances
Eco-friendly & local Supports local businesses and low-impact travel
What’s included
Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
What’s not included
Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees
Meeting point
Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, Exit 7Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
- Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostHere’s what your experience could look like
These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes
Meeting point
Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, Exit 7
Start Your Day with Tranquility at Yasaka Shrine
Begin with calm and beauty at Yasaka Shrine and Maruyama Park.
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Step Back in Time on Ishibei-koji Alley
Wander Kyoto’s atmospheric cobblestone alley untouched by time.
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Discover Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slopes
Explore Kyoto’s iconic slopes, uncovering quiet detours along the way.
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Find Serenity at Kodaiji Temple and Bamboo Grove
Immerse yourself in the peace of Kodaiji Temple’s Zen gardens.
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Stroll the Scenic Philosopher’s Path
Walk a serene canal path, with hidden treasures along the way.
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Discover the Elegance of Nanzenji Temple
Explore Nanzenji’s Zen gardens and its hidden aqueduct.
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Optional Evening Stop: Yasaka Pagoda at Night
Experience Yasaka Pagoda’s serene beauty illuminated at night.
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1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Bamboo forest adventures with new friends!
Walking Through Time at Fushimi Inari – A Kyoto Icon with a Local Touch!
Under the Lanterns of Kyoto!
Savoring traditions in Kyoto's historic heart!
Strolling Kyoto's streets, soaking in the charm!
Through the Archways of Kyoto's Hidden Gems!
Sweet Matcha Moments in a Kyoto traditional Teahouse!
Morning Walk Through Kyoto's Pagoda District!
Savoring a traditional Kyoto Breakfast!
Hidden Gems and local warmth in Kyoto!
Exploring Kyoto's Timeless Temples!
Uncovering Kyoto's Hidden Riverside Charm!
Sipping in Style: Rooftop Views & Kyoto Vibes!
Lost in the beauty of Arashiyama's Bamboo Grove!
Strolling Through Kyoto’s Historic Streets!
Golden hour at Kinkaju-ji!
Exploring Kyoto’s Hidden Gems!
17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting
Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.
recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
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What travelers think of this experience
Rosanie,
Mar 2025
We are a family of 7; 5 of us are over 60 & 2 are under 60. He always checked to make sure we are all accounted for because we were all walking at a different pace. He made well use of the 7 hours that we spent with him. He recommended the best tempura place where we had lunch. He led us to places where it’s less crowded. We would like to recommend him to anyone looking for a wonderful day in Kyoto. Oh he also took us to the shopping center where On sneakers were sold. This is the only place in Kyoto where On sneakers are available. Thank you so much Masaya.
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John,
Mar 2025
Ada was probably the best guide I've ever had. She was great. There wasn't a question I had that she couldn't provide a detailed answer for.
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Eric,
Mar 2025
Excellent 8 hours with Ryuki! He was friendly, engaging, very positive, and a wealth of knowledge about all things Kyoto. We visited several iconic Kyoto locations, had a sukiyaki lunch at a historic restaurant, and shopped Nishiki Market. Wonderful day and I'd highly recommend Ryuki.
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Julian,
Mar 2025
If you want a private tour of Kyoto on foot, where you get to see the major attractions, but walking off the beaten path, book this tour and request your Alvin as your guide. He is extremely knowledgeable, polite, friendly, interesting and emotionally intelligent. He planned my itinerary around my sensitivities and interests. All that was required of me was to tell him exactly whom I was and what I liked and he accommodated me at every instance. I cannot remember or spell the names of the places that we visited and hope the pictures will help. Today you sent me an angel in human form and he touched my soul. Thank you so much.
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Michael,
Mar 2025
Our guide, Toga, was fantastic. We were able to do a combination of walking and taxis to maximize our time and toured several awesome shrines and temples. Our favorite was the Sanjusangendo temple with 1,000 Buddha's statues from year 1266 -amazing!
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Julian,
Mar 2025
I’ve left a review already on trip advisor. Too many duplicates.
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
Is this a traditional tour?
No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.
How does personalization work?
After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.
Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?
Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.
What if I don’t know what I want to explore?
That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.
Can I request a specific host?
You can request a host, but since most hosts have other commitments, we can't guarantee they'll be available. However, we carefully match you with a host based on your interests and preferences, making it feel like exploring with a friend rather than a stranger.
Can I mix different themes in one experience?
Absolutely! Whether you want a blend of food, history, local culture, or nightlife, your host will seamlessly weave them together into one immersive experience.
Can I request specific places to visit?
Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.
Will I know my itinerary in advance?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!
How does my host personalize this experience?
After booking, you'll receive a questionnaire that captures your travel style, interests, and any specific requests. Your host will use this to tailor your experience, ensuring it reflects what excites you most.