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Forget about Paris or New York City and experience a true gem of the Orient—Kyoto, Japan. This city, once the country’s capital, is hailed one of the most beautiful by Architectural Digest and is part of the famous tourism magazine Travel + Leisure’s favorite cities of the world.
Immerse yourself in old Japan in Kyoto as you marvel at atmospheric temples, traditional teahouses, and sublime gardens. Feel nostalgic as you meet geishas walking on old streets, scurrying to secret liaisons.
Getting the most out of Kyoto requires taking the perfect tour. Yes, there are various tours you can select from. Here are our top picks.
Walking Tours
What’s fantastic about Kyoto is that the attractions are relatively close to each other, making walking tours very suitable. Aside from getting all the health benefits from walking – take it as a form of exercise, too – you will also really soak in the town's atmosphere. There are no schedules to catch. You can explore Kyoto at your own pace.
Moreover, walking tours around Kyoto are often free. Considering the high prices of food and hotels in Kyoto, you’ll save money when you choose to take this tour. You’ll also beat road traffic, won’t you?
Kyoto Localized offers a free walking tour of the city, already covering everything you need to experience in Kyoto. However, you must reserve in advance as slots run out quickly. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, of course.
ALSO READ: WHY WALKING TOURS ARE BETTER?
E-Bike Tours
They’re not just typical bikes but e-bikes, so they’re more eco-friendly. But beyond this commitment to sustainability, this tour is all about the unique experience. This tour will bring out your inner outdoor adventurer.
So, if you don’t mind sweating it out and working on your limbs while cycling, these e-bike tours are ideal for you.
Get unrestricted access to hidden gems and take a closer and more vivid look at Kyoto’s beautiful architecture. It’s a union with nature that you don’t want to miss. Check out our e-bike tour here on Kyoto Localized.
ALSO READ: IS KYOTO GOOD FOR BIKING?
Food Tours
While Osaka is Japan's culinary capital, that doesn’t mean there are no food adventures in Kyoto. In fact, while others love discovering the city through its attractions that are a feast for the eyes, some prefer to immerse themselves in Kyoto through their palates.
By taking a food tour around Kyoto, you’ll stroll through the city’s food havens, particularly the Gion and Pontocho districts, stopping into various bars and restaurants to sample authentic Japanese meals. Some food tours also allow you to try sake.
ALSO READ: HOW LONG DOES WALKING TOURS TAKE?
Bus Tours
These are thus far perhaps the most popular way to tour Kyoto. If you prefer your tour to be fun and less boring, get a bus tour as you will explore the city with a group. Great way to make friends.
Most bus tours, lasting about eight hours, take you to Kyoto’s dispersed temples, shrines, and other cultural attractions. This is convenient, as you won’t need to be stressed on a DIY trip.
Some attractions are Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Sagano Bamboo Forest, and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Many tours are available in various languages.
ALSO READ: WHAT IS A FREE WALKING TOUR?
Riverboat Tours
Something unconventional but will give off Louisiana vibes from Kyoto, this riverboat tour is a must-try. You’ll cruise along the Hozugawa River, taking you through a picturesque gorge that forested hills surround. Unlike seeing old buildings on river cruises in Europe, you’ll see mostly nature. It’s a wonderful option for those looking for a fun yet more peaceful way to enjoy Kyoto. You can even take a moment to practice meditation while on the boat.
Kyoto offers various ways to make your visit here unforgettable. Whether you prefer touring at your own pace, experiencing the thrills with a group of newfound friends, or maybe savoring Kyoto’s food scene, the city won’t stop to impress—endless discoveries just for you.
ALSO READ: ARE PRIVATE WALKING TOURS BETTER?
Want to explore Kyoto comfortably on an e-bike? Join our Kyoto Bike Tour and conveniently roam around the best sights in the city.