Kyoto’s gardens split roughly into two kinds: raked-gravel Zen gardens like Ryoan-ji’s, meant for sitting and looking, and strolling gardens you walk through. Go on a weekday morning; garden calm doesn’t survive a coach party.
Uncover the hidden gems of Arashiyama! Immerse yourself in the enchanting Bamboo Forest, encounter playful monkeys at the park, and unlock the secrets of this captivating destination.
Most Popular★ 5.0“Very enjoyable 5 1/2 tour with Teri and Francis. Great sights and lots of stories and humor too! Temples and shrines and history. Pleasant walk too.”
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1,216 reviewsFrom $65.57by Japanify Tours
Nurture your soul and uncover the secrets of Zen at a Kyoto temple, where tranquility meets enlightenment - a journey you won't want to miss!
“This tour offered a truly unique experience. We thoroughly enjoyed walking through the serene Zen temples and admiring the beautifully maintained Zen gardens. A highlight was meeting a Zen monk who introduced us to the practice Read more”
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441 reviewsFrom $110.10by MagicalTrip Inc.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Arashiyama with a small-group walking tour and indulge in a delectable Kyoto-style lunch. Unforgettable experiences await in 2023!
★ 5.0“Yuki was an awesome Tour guide. Answered all of our questions and provided us with solid information regarding the forest and area. Definitely recommend this tour.”
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413 reviewsFrom $129.33by MagicalTrip Inc.
Discover the serenity of Kyoto's Zen gardens and unlock the secrets of a peaceful mind. Explore the private sanctuaries that will transport you to a world of tranquility.
★ 5.0“This was one of the best tours I have done anywhere, on any subject. Andrew has deep knowledge of the design principles for Zen gardens, but also shared insights on Zen philosophy, Japanese history, and contemporary life in Kyoto. Highly recommended.”
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126 reviewsFrom $380.00by An Design
Behold the exquisite Kyoto Kiyomizu Tea Ceremony, where the art of matcha and the serenity of a Japanese garden converge to create an unforgettable cultural experience.
★ 5.0“My daughter and made it a requirement to do this while in Kyoto and it did not disappoint. The grounds were beautiful and the ceremony was amazing. The tea was not like what I was use to in the States. Absolutely delicious. Thank you for…”
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101 reviewsFrom $50.87
Discover Kyoto's serenity with this Zen meditation and garden tour. Experience a traditional Buddhist lunch, learn from expert guides, and enjoy tranquil temple visits.
★ 4.9“Yutaka , our guide was very professional and well prepared with information. The experience was lively and I thoroughly enjoyed the meditation and viewing the Buddhist temple and garden. Lunch was also very good. All in all very good.”
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86 reviews4.5 hoursFrom $107by MagicalTrip
Experience the tranquility of a private tea ceremony in Kyoto with stunning garden views. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and find serenity in every sip.
★ 4.9“The tea ceremony was a truly special experience. Our host was incredibly kind and welcoming, and gave us a wonderful explanation of the cultural background and deeper meaning behind each step. At the end, we even had the chance to prepare our own tea, which…”
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61 reviews1 hourFrom $116
Discover Kyoto’s natural beauty with this small-group guided tour, exploring bamboo forests, temples, and scenic spots for stunning photos and authentic experiences.
★ 5.041 reviewsFrom $60.00by ME Kyoto Walking Tours
Walk Arashiyama’s bamboo grove, Tenryu-ji gardens, Kimono Forest and Monkey Park with an English-speaking guide on this four-and-a-half-hour tour.
★ 5.0“we loved the experience our guide Chanel was very friendly and funny. She explained all the history of the place we visited what make the things much more interesting. And the places was so beautiful. Truly recommend.”
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34 reviews4.5 hoursFrom $45.49
Explore Kyoto’s Zen gardens, temples, zazen meditation with a monk, and a vegetarian lunch on this five-hour guided tour.
★ 4.8“dreamlike, magical, informative, fulfilling - all at once - thank you very much!”
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29 reviews5 hoursFrom $108.09
Discover the enchantment of a private tea ceremony at the breathtaking Camellia Garden Teahouse. Immerse yourself in tranquility and indulge in an unforgettable tea experience.
★ 5.0“Excellent experience!!! Highly recommend it! Time for us to enjoy the cerimony and learn a little bit about the culture.”
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28 reviewsFrom $118.60by Camellia
Become a maiko at Gion AYA in Kyoto with professional makeup, kimono styling, a garden photoshoot, and three printed portraits.
★ 4.9“memorable experience and lovely staff”
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25 reviewsFrom $126.09
Discover the enchanting beauty of Kyoto's Japanese gardens on a private customizable tour. Immerse yourself in tranquility and unlock the secrets of this ancient city.
★ 4.1“It covered everything we discussed and shoji was very knowledgeable and informative. He spoke English well and was very well travelled outside of Japan so had an informed perspective on almost anything we discussed. Was willing to share his perspective easily. Easy to be with.…”
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18 reviews6 hoursFrom $151by JGA Inc.
Explore Kyoto’s hidden zen gardens and iconic shrines on this guided walking tour, perfect for culture lovers seeking authentic spiritual moments.
★ 5.0“I recently took a guided tour to two of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks—Fushimi Inari Shrine and Fuhuji Temple—and it was a truly remarkable experience. The tour was well-paced, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the stunning sites without fRead more”
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17 reviewsFrom $78.83by Japan Wonder Travel
Wear a kimono, take garden and studio photos, and learn about tea ceremony in Kyoto, with a full day to explore nearby temples.
★ 4.9“Fantastic experience! Super friendly and helpful staff. Beautiful and varied kimonos with the option to choose premium quality for everything. Incredible hairstyles in 5 minutes. Plus, it's close to iconic temples for wonderful photo opportunities. Traditional shoes are included, but due to the rain, we…”
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16 reviewsFrom $18.95