Kyoto
New Year traditions and hidden cultural gems: Kyoto edition
Festivals & Local Celebrations • 3 hours
5.0
(6)
New Year traditions and hidden cultural gems: Kyoto edition
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's New Year traditions with serene shrines, scenic streets, and authentic insights at vibrant local markets
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- This bespoke New Year-themed experience immerses you in the heart of Kyoto’s cherished traditions, offering a mix of tranquility, discovery, and cultural depth.
- Visit the peaceful Imahie Shrine, a hidden gem away from the crowds. Here, you can take part in traditional rituals like writing ema (wish plaques) or drawing an omikuji (fortune slip), experiencing the spirituality of Kyoto’s New Year traditions
- Admire the shrine’s seasonal decorations, including kadomatsu (pine and bamboo arrangements symbolizing prosperity), which reflect Japan’s deep cultural connection to the New Year season.
- Stroll along Shinbashi Dori, a scenic street lined with preserved wooden buildings. Its quiet ambiance and timeless charm make it the perect spot to reflect and take photos.
- Learn about New Year decorations like shimenawa (sacred ropes) adorning doorways. These symbolic ornaments, meant to ward off evil spirits, highlight the spiritual importance of the season in Japan.
- Dive into the vibrant energy of Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s culinary hub during the New Year season. Taste seasonal treats like hanabira mochi and browse unique ingredients used in osechi ryori (New Year feast boxes).
- Engage with family-run vendors who proudly share the stories behind their specialties, offering you a deeper appreciation of Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.
- If you’re lucky, you might catch a festive moment like a mochitsuki (rice-pounding) demonstration, adding a layer of spontaneity to your visit.
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
3-4 New Year’s food tastings at Nishiki Market
3 Hour hosted experience
Immersive walking experience
Private and tailored experience
What’s not included
Tickets to any attractions other than what has been listed
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
Imahie Shrine Main EntranceCancellation
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 mostWhat you’ll do
Step into the heart of Kyoto’s New Year season with a journey that captures the city’s traditions through serene rituals, picturesque streets, and the vibrant energy of its iconic market.
Your day begins at Imahie Shrine, a lesser-known treasure where Kyoto’s spiritual and cultural roots run deep. Participate in New Year’s customs by writing your hopes for the year on ema or discovering your fortune through an omikuji. As you admire the shrine’s seasonal touches, like kadomatsu and shimekazari (New Year’s decorations), you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s reverence for the New Year.
From there, wander through the peaceful Shinbashi Dori, a picturesque street that feels like stepping back in time. Adorned with shimekazari and other decorations, this street not only offers a stunning backdrop for photos but also reveals stories of how these traditions ward off evil and invite good fortune. Your host will share insights into these practices, making the experience as enriching as it is beautiful.
Finally, the vibrant Nishiki Market offers an explosion of flavors and festive energy. Taste New Year delicacies like hanabira mochi or Kyoto-style tsukemono (pickles), and chat with vendors whose family traditions often stretch back generations. Along the way, you might happen upon a festive moment, like a mochitsuki demonstration, that brings Kyoto’s holiday spirit to life. Keep in mind, however, that some shops may be closed on January 1st and other New Year’s holidays.
Throughout the experience, your host will share stories and insights into the importance of New Year’s traditions in Japan—from spiritual practices to culinary customs—giving you a richer appreciation of this special time.
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
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
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.
What travelers think of this experience
Satya,
Feb 2025
Great experience. My host Toga was very knowledgeable and took the time to explain the local culture and history. The walking paths selected were amazing and we stopped at many shrines and temples. Highly highly recommended.
Show more
Amelia,
Feb 2025
Hanna was very nice and accommodating. She gave us a great introduction to Kyoto. We were only there for a day so having a guide was an efficient way to see a lot in a short amount of time.
Show more
Satya,
Feb 2025
Great tour. My guide Togo was very knowledgeable, explained a lot bout the local cultures. The paths selected were outstanding, get to see many many mey spots
Show more
Francisco,
Feb 2025
Kenya was extremely knowledgeable on Kyoto’s history of events and its religion and folklore. After we finished the tour I felt that we’d really gotten to know and understand Kyoto. Just as a tour should be!
Show more
Hugo,
Feb 2025
Hello, my husband and I went to Kyoto and we had a spectacular guide, his name is Toshi. I highly recommend that if you can choose him, do so. He made our day the best. He took us to many places and gave us detailed explanations of each place. In the end, my husband and I decided to make an Orgel music box and he was with us throughout the entire process.
Show more
Amy,
Feb 2025
Ada was terrific. She was informative, kind and efficient. We really enjoyed our time and tour with her.
Show more