Walking Tours in Kansai

Get a taste of local life in Osaka on a 3-hour walking tour of Japan's third largest city. Witness Osaka's different faces, from bustling business center to historic cultural hub, as you follow your guide through the city's vibrant neighborhoods. Stroll along the lively waterfront of the Dotonbori entertainment district; visit the landmark Hozenji temple; and ride the subway like a local. Get an insight into Japanese cuisine as you browse the Depachika (food market) in Umeda, then sample local specialty Kushikatsu as you explore traditional Shinsekai.

Learn about Japanese garden landscaping on a Kyoto walking tour, led by a local expert. The 3-hour experience takes in an array of the country's different garden designs, from the intricately constructed gardens of emperors to the stylish Zen Buddhist temple grounds. Wander around the Golden Pavilion's Mirror Pond, and then admire Ryoan-ji's lauded Karesansui Garden and the grounds of Ninna-ji. This tour runs with a maximum of just six people for a small-group experience.

Wander among peaceful bamboo groves and elegant mountain temples of rural Japan as you explore the fascinating areas of Arashiyama and Sagano near Kyoto during this 4-hour walking tour. Meander among the bamboo groves of Sagano before checking out the ancient 14th century Tenryu-Ji Temple and the secluded Jojakko-Ji Temple, hidden among the forest. Finish with a trip across the iconic Togetsukyō Bridge. Your morning walking tour also includes pickup from select hotels in Kyoto, a guide and all entrance fees.

Discover Kyoto's magical Gion district, which is known for being the city's Geisha area. You won't have to worry about language barriers, as you'll have a guide to translate, and explain the difference between maiko, geiko, and other Japanese words. The unmarked narrow streets of Gion can make it easy to get lost at night, but this won't be a problem with a guide to navigate and lead the way. An enchanting tour that will teach you about geisha culture.

Discover the stunning Zen gardens, colorful temples and ancient shrines of Kyoto on this 3.5-hour, small-group walking tour that's limited to just 12 participants. Experience the elegant architecture and sublime religious monuments of this historic Japanese city, once the imperial capital, as you join a guide on visits to the Gion Geisha district, Tofukuji Temple and more. This small-group Kyoto experience also includes snacks and all entrance fees.

If you're interested in a deeper understanding of the shrines and temples of Japan, take this tour of Fushimi Inari with a real insider. Go past the tunnels of red tori gates. Learn fascinating stories, history and folklore. See temples, shrines, forest-bathing sites and a zen garden, and get access to sites not on the official map.

Experience the glowing lanterns and lively atmosphere of Kyoto after dark on this 3.5-hour evening walking tour with a small group. Experience the ancient Japanese capital after dark as you stroll the city's serene back streets and visit city landmarks like Yasaka Shrine, the Pontocho restaurant district, and a 'tachinomiya' stand and drink shop for included food and drink samples.

Wander past the most famous attractions in Osaka during this 6-hour, guided walking tour that includes lunch and a 1-hour river cruise. Follow your guide as you check out landmarks such as Osaka Castle and visit the Floating Garden Observatory at the Umeda Sky Building, before boarding your ship to admire sights including the Twin Towers and City Hall on Nakanoshima Isle. Your Osaka walking excursion and river cruise also includes all entrance fees.

Discover the best sights of Osaka during this 4-hour tour and river cruise. First join your guide to explore Osaka Castle, one of the city's best-known sights, taking time to enjoy the castle's unique architecture and wealth of exhibits. Then climb aboard your boat for a cruise around nearby Nakanoshima lsle. During your ride you be able to admire seasonal views like colorful autumn leaves or blossoming cherry trees, as well as landmarks including the Umeda Sky Building, City Hall and Osaka Castle. Your Osaka excursion also includes all admission fees.

Dress up geisha-style with the help of a stylist, and explore the history-steeped streets of Gion. Wearing a kimono and other accessories, you'll discover the highlights of this enchanting enclave, from sights such as Yasaka Shrine to the lantern-decked ryokans and wooden teahouses where Kyoto's real-life geishas take center stage. It's a fun way to experience the culture of the area and learn about Gion at the same time.

Visit Osaka's ancient Shinto shrine, Sumiyoshi Taisha on this walking tour that touches on the heart of Japan. Your guide teaches you the history and shows you the power spots of this important place. Then visit the core of the Japanese food scene at Kuromon-Ichiba, and try Osakan street food like takoyaki (octopus dumplings) and other delicacies.

See a different side of Kyoto during this 5-hour off-the-beaten path walking tour covering the city's hidden temples, shrines and shops. Gain new insight into this one-time Japanese capital as you see a side of the city few tourists ever visit. Stop by lesser-known Buddhist temples, Shinto Shrines and explore artisanal handicraft shops. An afternoon tea break is also included.Please note: This seasonal tour runs annually between March and November and the dates are subject to change.