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Let our local experts guide you through a handpicked selection of things to do on a private tour. Your personalized escapade in Kyoto tomorrow is just a click away - don't miss out!
Make your stay in Kyoto complete with these things to do







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
Reviews from guests about our tours and locals
"We spent three hours in Kyoto with Ted as our guide, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our visit. Ted has a deep knowledge of Japan’s history and culture, and he explains it in a clear and engaging way that never feels academic or overwhelming. He walked us through Kyoto’s past and traditions, talking about geishas, Kabuki theater, Buddhism, Shintoism, and how all of this still shapes daily life today. He also took us to quieter places, away from the crowds, which made the experience feel more real and special—especially in a city where tourism can feel quite intense. Ted treats both the culture and the people he guides with real respect. He is easy to talk to, thoughtful, and genuinely enjoyable to spend time with. The tour felt personal, not scripted, and we never felt rushed. We would recommend Ted without hesitation. If we return to Kyoto, we would gladly spend time with him again, and we would suggest him to anyone who wants to understand the city beyond the surface."
"Yoshihiro (“Ted”) was absolutely fantastic. He is so kind and gentle, and extremely well informed. He gave us a great 3 hour tour of some of the best spots of Kyoto - but equally ones where there weren’t so many crowds. He told us the history and background, but also about current and local topics. Before the trip he sent me other suggestions for things we might like to book in advance, and after the trip he continued to give us advice and travel tips. He was the best guide we have had in Japan, I cannot thank him enough. A truly lovely man. "
"The Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas and Traditions Tour with Ted was the ideal start to my first time in Kyoto. In just a short time, I learned more than hours of pre-trip Googling ever taught me. Ted also did me the huge favor of steering me clear of the classic tourist traps — thank you, truly — and later sent me a bunch of personalized recommendations based on what I was interested in. He even checked in during my trip to make sure I was doing okay. Who does that? Someone extremely kind and generous who cares about making your trip to Kyoto as memorable as can be. Ted is kind, generous, and genuinely passionate about sharing Kyoto in an authentic way. If you want a guide who goes above and beyond, book him."
As the promise of a new day dawns upon us, the question arises - how best to uncover the treasures of Kyoto? Look no further than the expertise of local guides. Amidst the myriad things to do, a guided tour led by those who call Kyoto home offers an unrivaled experience.
While guidebooks provide insights, a local's perspective unveils hidden gems and tales that breathe life into the streets. From historical anecdotes to culinary delights, local guides curate authentic experiences tailored to your interests. Beyond mainstream attractions, they lead you to charming cafes, serene alleys, and the pulse of the city.
With a private tour, your adventure unfolds at your pace. No bustling crowds, no missed opportunities. Solo explorers, couples, or families - all can relish Kyoto through the eyes of a local. As the sun sets on today, let a local-led tour illuminate your tomorrow, revealing the heart and soul of Kyoto unlike ever before.
Enjoy Kyoto like 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.
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"Eiji was a delightful guide and very easy to work with. He shifted course for us when the crowds became too much for our taste. Gave us nice insight into Kyoto life."
"Eiji was interesting, engaging and a super photographer. He is a very easygoing person to be with as well as being flexible with the elements of the tour - we chose the three hour Highlights and Hidden Gems. He showed us details which we would definitely not have noticed on our own and explained everything very well. Not only did we have a lovely time with him, learning on the way, he also took lots of photographs which he sent on later giving us the perfect memories of the day. Domo arigato, Eiji!"
"We took a tour in Kyoto with Naoki and it was absolutely perfect. He arrived early so there was no waiting around for the guide that you sometimes experience with other tours and his English was perfect which obviously was very important for us. He tailored the tour to exactly how we wanted it, making sure to check that we were enjoying it and asking if there were any changes we'd like to make several times. His knowledge and story telling have been the highlight of our Japan trip so far and we fully recommend booking a tour with Naoki. "
"We had an incredible walking tour through Kyoto with our guide, Tiro. He delivered the perfect mix of education, insight, and entertainment—turning the day into a truly engaging experience. Tiro highlighted all the major sites with fun, thoughtful anecdotes that brought Kyoto’s history and culture to life. What made the tour even more special was his willingness to take us off the typical tourist paths. Those moments in quieter, lesser-known areas gave us a more authentic perspective of this stunning city. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Highly recommended!"
"Our tour with Eiji was a wonderful start to our time in Kyoto. He adjusted the route so we wouldn't overlap with another tour we had booked and brought us to some quiet spots as requested. We had a lovely time touring the side streets and gardens and learned so much! Plus he recommended a delicious lunch option plus sent a list of other recommendations. He was friendly and patient and a joy to spend the morning with."
"We had a wonderful engaging day with Simon. His vivid stories brought Japanese customs and history to life. His passion mixed with humour and questions for us, kept our fascination and curiosity going overtime. We really appreciated the engaging conversations we had about current Japanese life. You will find more gems from Simone than any guide book! "
"Tiro was the perfect guide – flexible to what I wanted to do, while making sure to hit the highlights and some neat asides along the way. This was a perfect first day in Kyoto!"
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.