Day Trips & Local Escapes • 8 hours 5.0 (11)

Day trip to Kyoto from Osaka

In mystical Kyoto, wood-built alleys and centuries old temples replace the skyscrapers in Osaka

Osaka has its own distinctive dialect so although you might've practised your

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Visit Kyoto by train and spend 8 hours exploring its rich cultural history.
  • Skip the tourist traps and explore the real Kyoto with your expert host.
  • See famous landmarks and hidden gems all in the same day.
  • Taste local street food and delicacies at your host’s favorite spots throughout your tour.
  • Indulge in local mitarashi dango and warabimochi sweets. You can even take part in a tea ceremony if you want!

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

What’s included

A private and personalized experience
8 hours with a host
Return bullet train tickets
Walking experience (other transport can be arranged at an additional cost)

What’s not included

Food and drink
Tickets to any attractions
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

DAISO Namba Nansan-dori Store - The host will be waiting in front of the shop.

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What 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 most

What you’ll do

Kyoto is a cultural hub, and that means there’s plenty of art, architecture and history to immerse yourself in. Your host will lead you to landmarks like the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the most revered in Japan, where locals pray for safety and prosperity. But heads up - there are over 1700 shrines and 3000 temples in Kyoto! You could visit Sanjusangendo, a magnificent temple that’s been around for nearly 1000 years, or Nijo Castle in Kimigyo Ward is another scenic visit, and it forms just one part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Kyoto expert will keep you well-fed with local delicacies like mitarashi dango sweets and ramen noodles (with a fiery twist), plus all the matcha-infused treats you want!

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

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What travelers think of this experience

Geoffrey, Oct 2024

Fumiko was an amazing tour guide! we utilized her services to be picked up at the port of Osaka (cruise ship) and then train to Kyoto. Once in Kyoto she gave us an amazing and informative tour. We had decided to end the tour in Kyoto so we could experience dinner at Lurra (but that's another review!!). She gave us detailed instructions for us return to Osaka via the train after the later that night. She helped us navigate the trains using what's app after the tour was completed. If we are ever in Osaka or Kyoto again we would definitely get on her schedule!! Thank you Fumiko for an amazing day!!

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Geoffrey, Oct 2024

Fumiko was an amazing tour guide! we utilized her services to be picked up at the port of Osaka (cruise ship) and then train to Kyoto. Once in Kyoto she gave us an amazing and informative tour. We had decided to end the tour in Kyoto so we could experience dinner at Lurra(but that’s another review!!). She gave us detailed instructions for us return to Osaka via the train after the later that night. She helped us navigate the trains using what’s app after the tour was completed. If we are ever in Osaka or Kyoto again we would definitely get on her schedule!! Thank you Fumiko for an amazing day!!

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Geoffrey, Oct 2024

Fumiko was an amazing tour guide! we utilized her services to be picked up at the port of Osaka (cruise ship) and then train to Kyoto. Once in Kyoto she gave us an amazing and informative tour. We had decided to end the tour in Kyoto so we could experience dinner at Lurra (but that's another review!!). She gave us detailed instructions for us return to Osaka via the train after the later that night. She helped us navigate the trains using what's app after the tour was completed. If we are ever in Osaka or Kyoto again we would definitely get on her schedule!! Thank you Fumiko for an amazing day!!

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Marcus, Sep 2024

A full and very interesting day with Khalid; very empathic of our needs (old / infirm and with a wheelchair). The day was tailored to our interests and all the experiences and sites were uniquely Japenese. Despite it being a fiercely hot day, we covered alot of both urban and rural Kyoto. Khalid was a super guide, organised and caring; good english and good local knowledge; I would have no resevation in recommending him as a guide for this tour.

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Spencer, Sep 2024

Would highl recommend Fumiko for future tours

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Brian, Jul 2024

This review concerns Hiroki—- Must use for Nara! 5 stars….. Hiroki is highly organized and focused on his guests. We were a party(family) of four with diverse interests. He managed to make everyone feel comfortable and important. Hiroki was a good listener and crafted our day together and made requested changes happen. He kept watch over us all, as the day developed. Having tickets for transportation ready was a real bonus. Highly intelligent and motivated. The tour was “Unscripted” in the best sense of the word. Hiroki also went above and beyond by helping us with navigating the Bullet Train system. Had great follow through after the tour on a request we made regarding artwork. Excellent communication. Highly recommend!

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