Private & personalized tours - just for you!

Experience the best of Kyoto with Withlocals

Have a remarkable time seeing the best things to do in Kyoto! From the tranquil Path of Philosophy to the stunning Tenryu-ji Temple, and the festive Gion District. Enjoy the most breathtaking attractions of the city with a welcoming local.

Tours in Kyoto

Real People. Real Stories.
Really Good Travel.

Feel like a local, not a tourist
Always private. It’s just you and your local host. No strangers, no groups.
More you, less checklist
Let your local host tailor the experience completely to your wishes.
Travel that feels good
Our tours are designed with people, places, and the planet in mind.

Top 10 things to do in Kyoto

Make your stay in Kyoto complete with these things to do

1
Choose your favorite local
The 10 Tastings of Kyoto: Street Food
158 reviews
3 hours | Food tours | Kyoto
Ready to taste the best food in Kyoto? Satisfy your cravings for local food and culture with highlights along the way, together with a foodie host. Enjoy 10 delicious and typical tastings that range from sweet to savory as well as drinks on a tasty food tour in Kyoto.
€96.54 per person
Explore
2
Choose your favorite local
City Kickstart Tour: Kyoto
158 reviews
2 hours | City highlight tours | Kyoto
Welcome to Kyoto! Want to know the best places to eat? Cool events in town? Which places to go to and which to avoid? Or simply get some help to navigate the city? Book this private tour with a local and get the perfect introduction to Kyoto to start your city trip on the right foot.
€33.09 per person
Explore
3
Choose your favorite local
Full Coverage Kyoto City Tour
1062 reviews
8 hours | City highlight tours | Kyoto
Ready for a jam-packed tour, full of history, culture, stories, and sights? Checkmark from your travel bucket list all your must-sees of Kyoto, because if there’s a Withlocals tour that shows you all the city's ins and outs, it’s this complete and personalized tour of Kyoto.
€177 per person
Explore
4
Choose your favorite local
The Beauty of Kyoto by Bike Tour
109 reviews
2.5 hours | City highlight tours | Kyoto
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Kyoto on a bike tour with a local. Cover more ground, take scenic routes, and cycle through main spots like the Philosopher's path and Gion Area. Take in the views as you bike through the city in a safe and fun way, and hear fascinating stories at every stop along the way!
€70.98 per person
Explore
5
Choose your favorite local
Highlights & Hidden Gems of Kyoto
334 reviews
3 hours | City highlight tours | Kyoto
Want to see the best of Kyoto? We got you covered. But as you can expect from a Withlocals experience, the real excitement is its hidden gems. Join your favorite local and get a feeling of the city's real vibe on a tour that has it all, so you can say: I experienced the real Kyoto!
€65.11 per person
Explore
6
Choose your favorite local
Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas and Traditions Tour
731 reviews
2.5 hours | City highlight tours | Kyoto
You’ve probably heard that Kyoto is well-known for its Geishas and Traditions, but do you know the stories and origin behind it? Or how much influence it has on the locals daily life? On this private city tour, you are in for a cultural treat!
€51.68 per person
Explore
7
Choose your favorite local
City Explorer: Nara Day Trip
531 reviews
8 hours | Day trips | Kyoto
Make your trip a wholesome experience by seeing what other cities outside of Kyoto have to offer. On this private day trip, you don’t need to worry about anything! Follow your local host to Nara and be back in Kyoto the same day but with more unforgettable experiences than before.
€151 per person
Explore
8
Choose your favorite local
Withlocals Your Way! - Kyoto City Tour
1014 reviews
3 hours | city highlight tours | Kyoto
Did you know that the Kyoto tour of your dreams exists? Yes, and it’s 100% personalized and created by your local host around your interests. Customize and see only the places that spark your interest. From classic landmarks to neighborhood walks - your wishes are our command!
€66.18 per person
Explore
9
Choose your favorite local
City Escape: Day Trip Arashiyama & Bamboo Grove
999 reviews
6 hours | Day trips | Kyoto
Imagine this: a scenic road trip from Kyoto to explore Arashiyama with stops along the way to discover viewpoints, villages, incredible nature, and cultural gems. Sounds like a dream? No, it’s possible on a Withlocals day trip with a local host leading the way!
€153 per person
Explore
10
Choose your favorite local
Explore the Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle with a Local
610 reviews
3 hours | | Kyoto
With your local host, trace Kyoto’s power corridors—from the shogun’s ornate Nijo Castle to the calm avenues of the Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gyoen)—with clear stories, easy pacing, and photo-friendly stops
€52.57 per person
Explore

Feel confident in booking
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Change of plans?
Easily reschedule your booking
Pay your way
Fast, secure checkout in your currency

Travelers love our locals

Reviews from guests about our tours and locals

5.0
Go Biking with Eiji
"This was such a fun tour. Eiji was so informative and polite. We saw so much more of Kyoto than by simply walking. "
TaraAbout local EijiKyoto, March 17, 2026

5.0
Kyoto our way
"David was so easy to talk to. He listened to what we were interested in doing and ended up recommending Fushimi Inari which was an incredible experience. So glad we had a chance to see it!"
MichelleAbout local DavidKyoto, March 15, 2026

5.0
Great tour with David
"David did a great job of explaining the history of Kyoto and the important role the Geisha play. He was able to connect it to Hollywood movies which helped us sort out the myths from reality "
MichelleAbout local DavidKyoto, March 15, 2026

5.0
Great morning with Shohei
"We loved our first morning in Kyoto with Shohei. He was very knowledgeable and easygoing, which made for a fun and informative morning. We learned a lot and our 3 kids had a blast. It was a wonderful experience and intro to Kyoto! "
AllisonAbout local ShoheiKyoto, March 15, 2026

5.0
A wonderful and informative guide
"We couldn’t have been more happy and pleased about our experience. It was an absolute pleasure to meet Eiji. His knowledge about the city from the little things to the big things really helped us get acquainted with Kyoto and definitely makes us want to come back. We so appreciate the time you spent with us and we can heartily recommend him to anyone else who needs a great guide."
JeffAbout local EijiKyoto, March 13, 2026

5.0
The Food!
"Yoshihiro (Ted) did an amazing job of getting us through the market. He knew exactly the right spots to stop, the right things to try, and encouraged us to do lots of sampling when it was available. Ted was gracious, kind and so knowledgeable. We loved our morning. "
MichelleAbout local YoshihiroKyoto, March 12, 2026

5.0
Review about Tiro
"Riding bikes with Tiro was easily the highlight of our trip! We got to see all of Kyoto from an entirely new perspective while learning about the history and culture. Tiro is an enthusiastic, charismatic and knowledgable guide - passionate about Kyoto and its history. I highly recommend this tour!"
KATHLEENAbout local TiroKyoto, March 10, 2026

5.0
Fantastic tour with hidden gems
"Ryuki is a fantastic tour guide! He took us to some hidden gems away from the crowds as well as instagram spots. Our favourite was the bamboo forest, the cherry blossom and matcha icecream and yummy snacks. It was really interesting to learn about the history of the templeS and shrines as well as the geisha culture. Thank you!"
Tracy and GavinAbout local RYUKI Kyoto, March 9, 2026

5.0
Amazing experience!
"The best experience in Kyoto! We had a visually stunning walk, super interesting talks about the local culture, how religion is practiced, the daily life of the city… a truly enriching cultural experience!"
RaquelAbout local EijiKyoto, March 3, 2026

5.0
Top Notch Guide
"I want to be sure to share what a wonderful experience we had in Kyoto. It was truly a pleasure to spend the day with Naoki who was extremely knowledgeable about Kyoto, its history, customs, food, etc etc. It ended up being sort of a combined day of history and food tour, and it was perfect. We feel as though we got to know this special city through the eyes of a guide with a passion for his town and his country. He spoke English perfectly and moved through town at just the right pace for my 16 year old son and me. I would recommend him highly."
kiraAbout local NaokiKyoto, March 2, 2026

Explore Kyoto with our incredible locals

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

Shohei
"Play by Ear" Traveler
169 reviews
English
Ahmed
the expert foreign local
21 reviews
العربية・English
RYUKI
Your Kyoto born guide RYÜKI
74 reviews
English・日本語
Maha
Authenticity Radar
20 reviews
العربية・English・Français
Naoki
Your local Narrator
35 reviews
English・日本語
Guia
Hostest with the mostest!
94 reviews
English・日本語
David
The Magician
65 reviews
English・Indonesia・日本語・Melayu
Tiro
The City Explorer
40 reviews
English・日本語
Yoshihiro
The Japanese Local
312 reviews
English・日本語
Eiji
a Gentle Music Producer
230 reviews
English・日本語

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
158 reviews
3 hours • Food tours
from €96.54 per person
Choose your local
City Kickstart Tour: Kyoto
4.9
158 reviews
2 hours • City highlight tours
from €33.09 per person
Choose your local
Full Coverage Kyoto City Tour
4.9
1062 reviews
8 hours • City highlight tours
from €177 per person
Choose your local
The Beauty of Kyoto by Bike Tour
4.9
109 reviews
2.5 hours • City highlight tours
from €70.98 per person
Choose your local
Highlights & Hidden Gems of Kyoto
4.9
334 reviews
3 hours • City highlight tours
from €65.11 per person
Choose your local
Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas and Traditions Tour
5.0
731 reviews
2.5 hours • City highlight tours
from €51.68 per person
Choose your local
City Explorer: Nara Day Trip
4.9
531 reviews
8 hours • Day trips
from €151 per person
Choose your local
Withlocals Your Way! - Kyoto City Tour
4.9
1014 reviews
3 hours • city highlight tours
from €66.18 per person

See all experiences

Find experiences by category

Discover experiences based on your interest

Enjoy the Best of the Kyoto
Like a Local

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!
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.

Memories make the best gifts

Share the joy of travel! With a Withlocals gift card, your friends and family can explore unique experiences they’ll treasure forever.

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Why is Withlocals the best place to buy a tour?

Private & Personal
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
Tailored to your wishes
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Chat before you book
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Travel that supports locals
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
Feel good about where your money goes
You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Trusted by millions
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Secure & flexible booking
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.

Private & Personal
Your tour is just for you. No strangers, no groups.
You’ll experience the city one-on-one (or with your own travel group) in a relaxed, personal way. No rushing, no scripted group tours.
Tailored to your wishes
From highlights to hidden gems, your host adjusts everything to fit you.
Want to skip a museum, add a food stop, or focus on street art? Just ask. Every experience is shaped around your pace, preferences and interests.
Chat before you book
Message your host directly to customize your experience.
Ask questions, get local tips, or make special requests. Our hosts are real people, ready to make your day unforgettable.
Travel that supports locals
Every booking supports independent locals and their communities.
We believe tourism should benefit the people who live there. Your host earns directly and often invests it right back into their neighborhood.
Feel good about where your money goes
You’re choosing meaningful travel, not mass tourism.
Withlocals is built on fair pay, human connections and travel that leaves a positive mark for both you and the places you visit.
Trusted by millions
Loved by over 1,000,000 travelers all around the world.
Withlocals hosts consistently earn 5-star reviews for their kindness, knowledge and the personal stories they share.
Secure & flexible booking
Book with peace of mind: safe payments and easy changes.
Your plans can shift and that’s okay. We offer flexible cancellation and real support when you need it.

Things to do in Kyoto for all Travellers

Have endless fun exploring the captivating things to do in Kyoto! From natural wonders to charming villages, partake in all the astonishing activities in Kyoto. Tranquility or Action at Night Kyoto is teeming with peaceful escapes and nighttime is the perfect chance to relax under the stars. Listen to the sounds of the mesmeric Kamogawa River or capture unbelievable views at the Kyoto Tower. For more vibrant nightly activities in Kyoto, make your way to the lively Gion District to see if you can spot an authentic Geisha. Adventures You can Experience Only in Kyoto Kyoto is filled with once in a lifetime experiences you simply have to see to believe! The centuries old Nishiki Market is a fantastic way to sample the most delicious cuisine the city has to offer. For one of the more eye-popping things to see in Kyoto, wander down Yokai Street to catch a glance at the uniquely crafted spirits lining the sidewalks. Kyoto With the Youngsters If you need to know what to do in Kyoto to entertain the children, then let your local host lead the way. The Kyoto City Zoo is a wonderful place to catch glimpses of furry animals and Kyoto Gyoen is a beautiful location to let the kids burn off some energy. From other gorgeous parks to exciting arcades, there are tons of things to do in Kyoto for those with kids. Team Up with a Local Kyoto Guide If you are ever stuck on what to do in Kyoto, just ask for recommendations from your local host! Whether you explore the vibrant Higashiyama District, endless places to dine on sushi, or the magnificent Wazuka Tea Plantation, you are in for a special treat!

Related Kyoto pages

Travelers love our locals

Reviews from guests about our tours and locals

5.0
Go Biking with Eiji
"This was such a fun tour. Eiji was so informative and polite. We saw so much more of Kyoto than by simply walking. "
TaraAbout local EijiKyoto, March 17, 2026

5.0
Kyoto our way
"David was so easy to talk to. He listened to what we were interested in doing and ended up recommending Fushimi Inari which was an incredible experience. So glad we had a chance to see it!"
MichelleAbout local DavidKyoto, March 15, 2026

5.0
Great tour with David
"David did a great job of explaining the history of Kyoto and the important role the Geisha play. He was able to connect it to Hollywood movies which helped us sort out the myths from reality "
MichelleAbout local DavidKyoto, March 15, 2026

5.0
Great morning with Shohei
"We loved our first morning in Kyoto with Shohei. He was very knowledgeable and easygoing, which made for a fun and informative morning. We learned a lot and our 3 kids had a blast. It was a wonderful experience and intro to Kyoto! "
AllisonAbout local ShoheiKyoto, March 15, 2026

5.0
A wonderful and informative guide
"We couldn’t have been more happy and pleased about our experience. It was an absolute pleasure to meet Eiji. His knowledge about the city from the little things to the big things really helped us get acquainted with Kyoto and definitely makes us want to come back. We so appreciate the time you spent with us and we can heartily recommend him to anyone else who needs a great guide."
JeffAbout local EijiKyoto, March 13, 2026

5.0
The Food!
"Yoshihiro (Ted) did an amazing job of getting us through the market. He knew exactly the right spots to stop, the right things to try, and encouraged us to do lots of sampling when it was available. Ted was gracious, kind and so knowledgeable. We loved our morning. "
MichelleAbout local YoshihiroKyoto, March 12, 2026

5.0
Review about Tiro
"Riding bikes with Tiro was easily the highlight of our trip! We got to see all of Kyoto from an entirely new perspective while learning about the history and culture. Tiro is an enthusiastic, charismatic and knowledgable guide - passionate about Kyoto and its history. I highly recommend this tour!"
KATHLEENAbout local TiroKyoto, March 10, 2026

5.0
Fantastic tour with hidden gems
"Ryuki is a fantastic tour guide! He took us to some hidden gems away from the crowds as well as instagram spots. Our favourite was the bamboo forest, the cherry blossom and matcha icecream and yummy snacks. It was really interesting to learn about the history of the templeS and shrines as well as the geisha culture. Thank you!"
Tracy and GavinAbout local RYUKI Kyoto, March 9, 2026

5.0
Amazing experience!
"The best experience in Kyoto! We had a visually stunning walk, super interesting talks about the local culture, how religion is practiced, the daily life of the city… a truly enriching cultural experience!"
RaquelAbout local EijiKyoto, March 3, 2026

5.0
Top Notch Guide
"I want to be sure to share what a wonderful experience we had in Kyoto. It was truly a pleasure to spend the day with Naoki who was extremely knowledgeable about Kyoto, its history, customs, food, etc etc. It ended up being sort of a combined day of history and food tour, and it was perfect. We feel as though we got to know this special city through the eyes of a guide with a passion for his town and his country. He spoke English perfectly and moved through town at just the right pace for my 16 year old son and me. I would recommend him highly."
kiraAbout local NaokiKyoto, March 2, 2026

Real People. Real Stories.Really Good Travel.

Feel like a local, not a tourist

More you, less checklist

Travel that feels good

Top 10 things to do in Kyoto

The 10 Tastings of Kyoto: Street Food

City Kickstart Tour: Kyoto

Full Coverage Kyoto City Tour

The Beauty of Kyoto by Bike Tour

Highlights & Hidden Gems of Kyoto

Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas and Traditions Tour

City Explorer: Nara Day Trip

Withlocals Your Way! - Kyoto City Tour

City Escape: Day Trip Arashiyama & Bamboo Grove

Explore the Imperial Palace & Nijo Castle with a Local

Feel confident in booking

Change of plans?

Pay your way

Travelers love our locals

Go Biking with Eiji

Kyoto our way

Great tour with David

Great morning with Shohei

A wonderful and informative guide

The Food!

Review about Tiro

Fantastic tour with hidden gems

Amazing experience!

Top Notch Guide

Explore Kyoto with our incredible locals

Shohei

Ahmed

RYUKI

Maha

Naoki

Guia

David

Tiro

Yoshihiro

Eiji

Things to do in Kyoto

Find experiences by category

Enjoy the Best of the KyotoLike a Local

Our local tips in Kyoto

Discover Nishiki Market on a Food Tour

A Nature-filled Day Trip to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Experience the Enchanting Charm of Gion

Cycling the Philosopher's Path

Kyoto's Picture-Perfect Trio

Memories make the best gifts

Why is Withlocals the best place to buy a tour?

Private & Personal

Tailored to your wishes

Chat before you book

Travel that supports locals

Feel good about where your money goes

Trusted by millions

Secure & flexible booking

Private & Personal

Tailored to your wishes

Chat before you book

Travel that supports locals

Feel good about where your money goes

Trusted by millions

Secure & flexible booking

Things to do in Kyoto for all Travellers

Related Kyoto pages

Travelers love our locals

Go Biking with Eiji

Kyoto our way

Great tour with David

Great morning with Shohei

A wonderful and informative guide

The Food!

Review about Tiro

Fantastic tour with hidden gems

Amazing experience!

Top Notch Guide

Real People. Real Stories.
Really Good Travel.

Enjoy the Best of the Kyoto
Like a Local