Walking & Biking Tours in Kyoto

Cycle past a mix of Kyoto's most-famous sights and its lesser-known secrets during this 3.5-hour 'Hidden Kyoto' bike tour.  Take a 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) ride that starts by winding past iconic Kyoto temples and shrines like Kinkakuji, Koto-in, and Kitano Tenmagu. You'll continue 'off the beaten path,' discovering intimate Zen gardens and charming backstreets known only to locals.

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.

Venture way off the tourist track and discover hidden gems on this water-themed Kyoto bike ride, which follows the Kamo River to explore under-the-radar sights. Step inside a 2,000-year-old shrine surrounded by ancient forest, see the underground headquarters of Japan's notorious crime gangs, and enjoy a specially brewed tea made from well water collected during the ride.

Pedal through the historic streets of Kyoto as you visit its magnificent temples and shrines by bike during this 3- to 4-hour small-group tour limited to 9 participants. Take a spin down the Path of Philosophy on this Kyoto tour that gives you an overview of the city while using a mode of transport preferred by locals: the humble bicycle. See shrines, temples and mountains - this is an enlightening escape from the city.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.