Private & personalized tours - just for you!
The best stories aren't found in guidebooks. Skip the crowds and unlock the hidden gems of Gion with a private, personalized experience led by a local.
Always private. It's just you and your local host. No strangers, no groups.
Let your local host tailor the experience completely to your wishes.
Our tours are designed with people, places, and the planet in mind.
Make your stay in Kyoto complete with these things to do
Cancel and get a refund up to 7 days before
Easily reschedule your booking
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Reviews from guests about our tours and locals
"We did our bike tour through Kyoto with Tito today and had a blast! He took us to places where we would have not gone on our own and adjusted the tour spontaneously to our wishes. Because of his flexibility, we could visit a temple and partake in a cleaning and candle celebration, which only takes place this time of the year. We traveled through little Streets, learned about Kyoto, went to an old-fashioned coffee and tea house, (which we would not have found on our own) and spend some time at the river and finally a food market, with the best sushi!! We had a great time and really appreciate all the time Tiro took to explain to us the history of Kyoto at all the different places we stoped. He is a well of information! Thank you for showing us these places in Kyoto and for all the explanations and stories how the city evolved and the religion behind it. Thank you for going beyond our expectations! All the best for you and your family! ♥️ "
"We thoroughly enjoyed our tour with Yoshihiro (Ted) - he was full of knowledge and advice, giving us a fascinating insight into Kyoto and Japan. Very helpful in taking photos and sending them to us - and we really appreciated the food suggestions 😃 highly recommended - thank you! "
"Guia was knowledgeable about the city's culture and history. Her english is very well, took no effort to communicate deeply. We also liked her vibrant, welcoming energy a lot! She genuinely care about our experience and well-being in such a hot weather."
"We had a fantastic bike tour with Eijiand would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kyoto. He took us to beautiful local spots away from the crowds, guided us safely through the city, and made the experience both fun and memorable. Eiju is a kind, knowledgeable, and friendly guide. The beautiful photos he took of us were the perfect finishing touch and gave us wonderful memories of our time in Kyoto. Thank you, Eiji!"
"We met Sebastian at the bike store and immediately he was very nice and asked if it was okay if the tour took longer because he wanted to tell us so much, and he did. He knew a lot about the city and the Japanese culture and told us a lot of fun details!! All in all a very learnfull experience!"
"We had an excellent time with Tiro walking around the Gion district. His knowledge was very good and he was super friendly and very accommodating to our needs and requests. Would highly recommend as a great way to understand the Kyoto history and Geisha’s. "
"We had a fabulous experience cycling through some spectacular sights in Kyoto. From the older part of the city, philosophers path and back along the riverbank. Sebastian was full of knowledge and made the experience very enjoyable for our family including a 12 & 9 yr old. I’d highly recommend this tour. "
"Informed, thoughtful, excellent prep. Great choir for anyone who wants a wonderful tour."
"We had a 2 1/2 hour tour with Ted. Ted was very kind and knowledgeable. He speaks both Japanese and English and gave an authentic and interesting tour of the Gion District. He was able to talk to both adults and children equally well. He went out of his way to give recommendations for things we could do later in the day and week. Can’t wait to return and take another tour with Ted!"
"We had a wonderful walking tour of Fushimi Inari and the Gion district with Ryuki. While Fushimi Inari was understandably very crowded, Ryuki did an excellent job navigating the area and ensuring the experience remained enjoyable for everyone in our group. Our group included multiple generations with varying walking abilities, and Ryuki was incredibly thoughtful and attentive to everyone’s needs. He adjusted the pace when necessary and carefully chose routes that allowed all members of the group to participate comfortably and have a positive experience. Ryuki is exceptionally kind, patient, and clearly passionate about Japanese history and culture. He took the time to explain the historical and cultural significance of the sites we visited, making the tour both educational and engaging. "
Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Kyoto with locals
Our locals will give you the best experiences that Kyoto has to offer
Discover experiences based on your interest
Discover the enchanting Gion district in Kyoto with Withlocals' private tours. Explore ancient temples, encounter elusive Geisha, and immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Book your personalized Gion adventure today!
Geisha, traditional female entertainers, are an iconic symbol of Gion. Learn about their elaborate makeup, elegant kimonos, and the strict training they undergo. Discover the rich history and significance of Geisha in Japanese culture during a personalized walking tour with a local guide.
Step back in time and explore Gion's rich history, dating back to the 13th century. Discover ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and the captivating stories of merchants and samurai during a Withlocals tour that weaves through Gion's historical tapestry.
Indulge in the unique flavors of Kyo-ryori, Kyoto's traditional haute cuisine. Discover local delicacies and experience the art of tea ceremonies during a private tour that tantalizes your taste buds and reveals the secrets of Kyoto's culinary heritage.
Explore Kennin-ji, Kyoto's oldest Zen temple, founded in 1202. Wander through its serene gardens, discover hidden treasures, and learn the secrets of Zen Buddhism during a private Gion tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Unlock the secrets of Gion with a personalized tour. Book your unforgettable Kyoto experience now and discover the heart of Japanese culture. Don't miss out; limited spots available!
