Experience the best of Kyoto with Withlocals

Explore Kyoto with our incredible locals

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Kyoto with locals

Things to do in Kyoto

Our locals will give you the best experiences that Kyoto has to offer

• Choose your local

  The 10 Tastings of Kyoto: Street Food

  4.9

  156 reviews

  3 hours • Food tours

  from €96.54 per person
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  City Kickstart Tour: Kyoto

  4.9

  152 reviews

  2 hours • City highlight tours

  from €33.09 per person
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  Full Coverage Kyoto City Tour

  4.9

  1026 reviews

  8 hours • City highlight tours

  from €177 per person
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  The Beauty of Kyoto by Bike Tour

  4.9

  107 reviews

  2.5 hours • City highlight tours

  from €70.98 per person
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  Highlights & Hidden Gems of Kyoto

  4.9

  329 reviews

  3 hours • City highlight tours

  from €65.11 per person
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  Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas and Traditions Tour

  5.0

  707 reviews

  2.5 hours • City highlight tours

  from €51.68 per person
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  City Explorer: Nara Day Trip

  4.9

  511 reviews

  8 hours • Day trips

  from €151 per person
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  Withlocals Your Way! - Kyoto City Tour

  4.9

  945 reviews

  3 hours • city highlight tours

  from €66.18 per person

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• Day trips 3
• Food tours 3
• Workshops 2

Our local tips in Kyoto

Welcome to Kyoto, a city where the old meets the new in the coolest way! We've got some awesome tips to make your trip here even better. From checking out ancient temples and peaceful gardens to trying delicious local food and getting to know the local customs, Kyoto is gonna be an unforgettable adventure! Let's dive in and make the most of your time in this incredible place!

• 

  Discover Nishiki Market on a Food Tour

  When it comes to experiencing the vibrant culture and delectable cuisine of Kyoto, a visit to Nishiki Market is an absolute must. Located in the heart of Downtown Kyoto, this bustling marketplace offers a great variety of traditional Japanese dishes and unique culinary treasures that will undoubtedly satisfy every food enthusiast's palate.

  Nishiki Market, also known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," stretches for five blocks, inviting visitors to discover an enchanting gastronomic journey unlike any other. As you stroll through the market's narrow alleyways, your senses will be delighted by the colorful sights, aromatic scents, and the cheerful chatter of vendors and locals alike. It's an experience that immerses you in the heart of Japanese food culture.

  Local tipTry visiting about an hour after they open or an hour before they close to avoid crowds. Keep in mind that some stalls might have different opening hours.

• 

  A Nature-filled Day Trip to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

  Escape the city's crowds with a day trip to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a magical oasis just outside Kyoto. As you step into the bamboo forest, towering shoots create a mesmerizing canopy, inviting you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Stroll through magical beauty of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a perfect spot to level up your Instagram game!

  After exploring continue with a visit to Monkey Park Iwatayama, where you can observe adorable Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. Enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto from the mountaintop while cherishing the simple joys of being surrounded by nature.

  End the day at the serene Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its exquisite gardens, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. As you explore this historic temple, take a moment to find inner peace amidst the beauty that has captivated visitors for centuries.

• 

  Experience the Enchanting Charm of Gion

  Step into the enchanting world of Gion, Kyoto's geisha district, where time seems to stand still. This place is like a glimpse into ancient Japan, with its traditional buildings and lantern-lit streets. Join a cool local tour to get the full experience and see the mesmerizing Maiko and Geisha performances up close. Don't forget to snap some Insta-worthy shots of these elegant figures as you wander through Gion's charming alleys.

  But Gion has more to offer than just geisha culture. Check out the stunning Yasaka Shrine with its striking red torii gates, especially when they light up during festivals - it's a total spectacle! Explore Hanamikoji Street for a taste of Kyoto's authentic cuisine and shop for some awesome souvenirs. And if you're into traditional arts, don't miss Gion Corner, where you can catch tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and even puppet plays - so cool!

  Gion is a magical neighborhood that lets you experience the rich history of Kyoto firsthand. With local tours to guide you, you'll dive deep into this cultural treasure trove and leave with unforgettable memories of Gion's timeless allure. So, get ready for an incredible adventure in one of Kyoto's most captivating districts!

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  Cycling the Philosopher's Path

  One of the best routes to pedal is the Philosopher's Path. As you ride along this picturesque canal-side trail, lined with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, you'll understand why it's named after a philosopher who found inspiration in its beauty. Your local guide will share fascinating stories and take you to charming temples and shrines tucked away from the tourist hustle.

  But that's not all! Cycling through Kyoto means spontaneous stops at cozy cafes, artisan workshops, and enchanting neighborhoods, where you can interact with locals and experience the city's soul. From savoring matcha in a traditional tea house to trying your hand at a pottery class, every moment will be an adventure.

  Even if you're not an experienced cyclist, fear not! Kyoto's flat terrain and bike-friendly streets make it easy for anyone to join the ride.

  Local tipDress for the weather and bring sun protection for a comfy cycling experience while exploring Kyoto!

• 

  Kyoto's Picture-Perfect Trio

  Unleash your inner photographer and discover three incredible spots in Kyoto that are perfect for amazing pictures! Begin your Instagram journey at the iconic Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion. Its glistening golden facade against the tranquil pond is a sight to behold and will undoubtedly enchant your followers.

  Next, head over to Ryoan-ji Temple, just a short walk away from Kinkaku-ji. Here, the minimalist rock garden radiates a sense of tranquility and harmony, offering a unique backdrop for thought-provoking and Zen-inspired shots.

  Complete your photo adventure at Ninna-ji Temple, where spring brings a burst of beauty with blooming cherry blossoms. The temple's stunning five-story pagoda adds to the charm, providing a dreamy setting that's sure to leave your followers in awe of Kyoto's timeless allure.

  All three locations are conveniently within walking distance from each other, allowing you to experience the best of Kyoto's cultural heritage and natural beauty while capturing Insta-worthy moments that will make your feed shine! So grab your camera and get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kyoto's picture-perfect spots.

  Local tipArrive early in the morning to these Instagrammable spots for the best chance to capture stunning photos without the crowds.

Related Kyoto pages

You might be interested in these

• Guides in Kyoto
• Tours in Kyoto
• Activities in Kyoto
• City Highlight Tours in Kyoto
• Food Tours in Kyoto
• Day Trips in Kyoto
• Workshops in Kyoto
• Things To Do In One Day in Kyoto
• Things To Do In A Weekend in Kyoto
• Things To Do For Couples in Kyoto
• Things To Do In 2 Days in Kyoto
• Nijo Castle in Kyoto
• Arashiyama in Kyoto
• Sake Tour in Kyoto
• Gion in Kyoto
• Bamboo Forest in Kyoto
• Nishiki Market in Kyoto
• Geisha in Kyoto
• Things To Do Tomorrow in Kyoto