AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Things to do in Kyoto

Book unique activities hosted by local experts on Airbnb.

Activities led by local experts

Discover unique experiences hosted by inspiring locals.

0 of 0 items showing

1 of 2 pages

New place to stay

Create a traditional Kyoto hanko

Design and craft a unique seal using traditional techniques. Step into the shop Discover the origins and significance of hanko in Japan. Make your hanko Create a unique seal design with guidance. Try engraving Experience traditional hand-carving techniques. Test your seal Stamp your new hanko on paper and see what you've created Box it up Place your completed seal in a kiribako and take it home

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Make arare rice crackers with Japan’s only certified master

Roast and finish handcrafted arare (rice crackers) at Sōzen—the confectioner that produces arare for the Imperial House of Japan, the Royal Family of Dubai, and many five-star hotels—guided by Japan’s only certified jouwazashi (master arare craftsman). • Roast the arare—which are prepared over ten days by skilled artisans—by shaking them over heat in a wire mesh basket and coating them with Sōzen’s secret sauce. • While your arare are cooling, roast tea leaves to make hōjicha (roasted green tea) and enjoy it with a sampling of our signature warabimochi (bracken starch dumplings). I’ll share a bit about Sōzen’s history as you work. • Pack your finished arare and place them in a traditional local textile pouch to bring home as a memento of our time together. You’ll leave with an appreciation for the craft and care that go into creating world-class snacks, as well as the cultural heritage of Nishijin.

5 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

Make matcha and explore a green tea farm

Join me, a sixth-generation tea master, to experience the craft of making green tea in Uji, a renowned tea-producing region. You’ll learn about the entire process, from farming to harvest. • We’ll begin with a factory and farm tour at Yutoha, where you’ll learn about our traditional farming methods and how we grow our tea bushes. • I’ll teach you how to whisk matcha (green tea leaves ground to a fine powder) and compare your creation with a professional’s, gaining insights into this cherished tradition. • Best of all, you’ll enjoy a tasting session to explore the flavor differences of using various tea production methods, alongside our original matcha green tea candy. You’ll leave with a new perspective on the craft, and the skills to prepare your own premium matcha at home.

5 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

Traditional Kyoto doll-making and hinoki fan painting

Explore the history of traditional Kyoto dolls and participate in a hands-on hinoki fan painting experience at one of the city’s renowned doll-making studios with a master Yūsoku Hina doll artisan. • Learn about the history of Kyoto Hina dolls and hinoki fans, their use in seasonal festivals, and the cultural tradition of gifting Hina dolls. • Observe artisans at work in the Ōhashi Ippō studio, making, painting, and dressing the dolls. • Paint your own hinoki fan, a delicate and decorative piece often used in Hina doll displays. Get inspired with seasonal motifs and traditional pine, bamboo, and plum designs. I’ll guide you through the process. You'll leave with a unique, handcrafted memento from this immersive cultural experience.

New place to stay

Kyoto’s Signature White Miso & Onigiri Cooking Tour

Make Kyoto’s signature white miso in this interactive cooking lesson with the founder of Miso Pota Kyoto. Japan is home to a diverse variety of regional miso, each with its own unique characteristics. • I’ll guide you through various tips for making and using white miso, from activating the fermentation to blending ingredients by hand. White miso stands out for its mild sweetness, making it a versatile ingredient. • Take part in a tasting session after you finish making your homemade miso. • Finally, make and enjoy miso potage soup with rice onigiri to learn how to use miso in daily life. Itadakimasu! You’ll leave with expanded knowledge about miso recipes, and your packaged miso to take home.

New place to stay

Learn the art of Japanese tea ceremony with a master

You’re invited to an immersive lesson in the art of Japanese tea ceremony. As an experienced instructor of 15 years, I’ll guide you through the technique, materials, and principles of this traditional art form. This experience is unique in that you’ll have the opportunity to experience the tea ceremony not from the perspective of a "Guest," but from the perspective of the "Host." • After a brief greeting, I’ll explain what the tea ceremony is and the role of the 'Host' in the tea ceremony, outlining the flow while highlighting the core spiritual principles of the ceremony. • You will select your own tea bowl, matcha, sweets and sweets plate as I share the art of tea selection and nuances of ceremony etiquette. • We’ll complete a full, traditional tea ceremony, during which you’ll purify your tea container, make your own matcha, enjoy what you’ve prepared, and discover the “mind principles” of tea ceremony through wall scrolls. This hands-on experience will help you connect to the true spirit of the ritual, which has a history that spans over 500 years. You’ll leave with a renewed sense of mindfulness and a memorable connection to this unique tradition.

New place to stay

Pray with a Shinto priest at a seventh-century Kifune shrine

Perform a formal prayer and purification rituals in this exclusive after-hours visit to a 1,600-year-old Shinto shrine. Immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere of a shrine at night and explore the history of Kifune Shrine and the rich traditions of Shinto culture. Proceeds from your visit will help maintain local water sources, improve the subsoil environment, and protect Kifune Shrine and the mountain. • I’ll welcome you to the shrine and introduce our prayer and purification ceremony, which you’ll perform under my guidance. • Next, move to a booth where I’ll make a written offering in your goshuin (shrine stamp book, included). Photos are allowed during this process. You can purchase omikuji (fortune slips) and amulets at the same time. • Visit the main shrine area for an exclusive guided tour, including access to the inner shrine, where I’ll share its rich history. You’ll leave with a firsthand experience of Shinto rituals and offerings, a gift of soap and candy made at the shrine with sacred water, and the satisfaction of having helped to preserve local natural resources.

New place to stay

Traditional Japanese fabric painting with an artisan

Get an up-close look at the art of Kyo-yuzen, the traditional method of painting dye directly onto fabric. After watching me create a piece step by step, you’ll put what you’ve learned to work! • I’ll introduce Kyo-yuzen and its history. Learn how the technique originated in Kyoto during the Edo period, toward the end of the 17th century, the materials used, and typical patterns and designs. • Watch me conceptualize a design, apply dyeing techniques, and craft a one-of-a-kind piece. I’ll answer any questions along the way. • Now it’s your turn! Using what you’ve learned, you’ll hand-dye a handkerchief, with my guidance throughout. You’ll leave with a deeply personal connection to this elegant Kyoto art form, as well as a beautiful keepsake.

Top-rated activities

View our most highly rated experiences, loved by guests.

0 of 0 items showing

1 of 3 pages

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 1331 reviews

Japanese tea ceremony experience in ANKOAN, KYOTO

You can make a reservation to participate in the tea ceremony experience in our studio, enjoy the 60-minute service and immerse yourself in the unique Japanese culture tour. The Tea Ceremony experience in ANKOAN kicks out your fatigue in the journey. While tasting the welcome tea made by Yuka, you can talk about the tea ceremony and whatever. Then move to another layer of matcha tearoom, watching the process of making Matcha tea and tasting Matcha and delicious Wagashi. At this time, you’d better observe the teacher's action for making matcha carefully. Do you know why? Because you will experience to make mathca personally later on. But don't worry, the teacher will be around you to instruct and explain, so that you can fully experience the fun of making Japanese matcha. At the same time, we can share what we see and what we feel, such as "how do Japanese people live?", "how did Japanese culture come into being?” and so on. With the experience of matcha, we, from different cultures, can get closer to each other in the process of communication, which is the highlight of tea ceremony experience in ANKOAN. And then, please get down to tasting the matcha made by yourself, which contains Japan's profound culture, and end this pleasant experience. In addition: you can take pictures indoor freely. Other things to note ＝Business Hours＝ 10:00-18:00 ＝Off Day＝ December 31st to January 3rd ※We will be closed for attending lectures abroad or domestic activities. Sorry for the inconvenience.

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 1086 reviews

Kyoto Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl

Bar hopping tour at Kyoto center!! Normally 5-10 guests are joining, and you will have wonderful memory with local host, and other traveler from all over the world!! We're exploring "Kawaramachi" and "Kiyamachi" areas, where local Kyoto people enjoy drinking. We will take you to real local bar and izakaya, difficult to find for foreigners. Also take you to some deep & hidden places you never know. This experience is not just for local foods and drinks, give you the opportunity to connect with local people. Cannot wait to show you guys around my city!! We will eat during the tour, so you don't need to eat before the tour. Let's enjoy food and drink like local! If you have special request related to place, food, date and so on, we can organize the tour up to your requests. ＜What's included＞ ○ 3 hours with a local guide ○ Admission fee is free ✖️ Alcoholic Beverages ✖️ Dinner ※We split the total amount, and 99 yen or less will be rounded up to make accounting smoother. ※If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 737 reviews

Kimono photo shoot by Lim

Welcome to my experience! :-) There are two parts in this experiences: Kimono dressing and Photoshoot. [ Kimono dressing ] ■ Arrive kimono shop 1.5-2 hrs BEFORE the SCHEDULED TIME of photoshoot ■ Select the right Kimono ■ A professional kitsuke sensei will help with wearing the Kimono ■ Then a professional stylist will help with hair styling ■ Kimono upgrade/Make-up service is available with additional fee [ Photoshoot ] ■ We meet at the Kimono shop ON the SCHEDULED TIME ■ Walk around Kyoto Gion area ■ As we walk together, I will suggest some suitable spots for photoshoot ■ I will take photo group by group ■ Session length is normally 90 min (Except for single participant non-private session - 60 min) ■ After the photoshoot, you can wear the kimono until 6pm [ About photo ] ■ all unedited JPEG photos (200-400), send via cloud drive (within 1-3 days) ■ and 10 edited JPEG photos per participant in full resolution [ Note ] ■ You can always ask me if I can open the schedule for you if it’s not listed ■ Kimono shop can't handle when you are pregnant We also provide full scale package for half/full day casual or pre-wedding photoshoot at any locations within Japan. Please contact us for details. Other photoshoot experiences in Kansai area: ■ Kyoto Gion ■ Kyoto Gion with Kimono ■ Kyoto Fushimi Inari ■ Kyoto Fushimi Inari with Kimono ■ Kyoto Arashiyama ■ Nara Park ■ Osaka Castle

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 2101 reviews

Tea ceremony in Kyoto Townhouse

Recently matcha green tea has become very popular all around the world. As you know, matcha plays a very important role in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. However, learning about Japanese tea ceremony means much more than just learning to make tea. Let's find the concept and philosophy behind this performing art. At first, you will learn the basic concepts and ideas of tea ceremony. You will also learn how to behave in a tea room and appreciate its decoration. Next, you'll watch a demonstration of "the way of tea". You will enjoy the quiet and serene atmosphere. And then let's make your own tea! We will tell you how to drink it, and also serve you a specially selected Japanese cake. Come, step into the world of profound spirituality and set your soul free, and let's have fun together!! <Please note> * The session is held on Tuesday morning, Wednesday and Friday afternoon. Even though you send us a request, it's not possible to open on the other date. * Please arrive on time. We cannot allow latecomers to join a session once it has started. * Please note the maximum count is 10 people. * It's required to keep quiet during the session, especially during the demonstration, so please refrain from bringing children under the age of 6. * Our service doesn't include kimono rental.

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 1614 reviews

Experience Kimono in Kyoto

First, choosing a kimono ♫ From among our collection, choose your favorite kimono.I also have one for men. Sizes are up to 5L, but there are few types of large kimonos (yukatas). After deciding on your kimono, it is time for accessories!From obi to bags to other various accessories, you create your own unique kimono style! Our staff will help advise you on kimono styling and assist you in choosing the perfect accessories for your kimono!Hair-styling is free! Hair accessories are also free! I also gift you with a pair of tabi, or special socks to wear with kimono, as a memory of your trip!(October through May only) I conduct all hair-styling and kimono-dressing in a private room, so you will be able to relax and enjoy your privacy while getting ready.From choosing your kimono and obi to personal recommendations of the best places to visit in Kyoto, our staff will help advise you on where and how to go. After everything is done, it`s finally time to explore the streets of Kyoto!I ask that you return your kimono by 17:00. During the summer months, I will prepare Yukata. Fitting+hair styling takes approximately 20~30 minutes per person. After styling, you are free to explore Kyoto! ＊As makeup is not included, please do it yourself. We are unable to dress pregnant women for health and safety reasons.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 1708 reviews

Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour

Don’t get caught standing in a crowd of tourists trying to get a good photo. We provide a personal hiking experience. This is the ONLY tour at Fushimi Inari which goes off paved paths, onto actual forest trails. We know of hidden bamboo groves and beautiful evergreens around Fushimi Inari Shrine. Local trails lead us to the main shrine with thousands of red torii gates, and we know of secluded trails that lead to old and hidden alters. We will begin at Tofukuji Station and wander into a quiet neighborhood, visiting small shrines on the way to the mountain. Then take a trail to see a wonderful bamboo grove, and connect to the main path filled with the famous vermilion torii gates. We will reach the summit of the mountain, which is covered in the shrine alters and then venture back down the mountain on a forested trail, visiting smaller shrines on the way to another bamboo grove. This will lead us to the most famous area of Fushimi Inari, perfect for a memorable photo. We will finish at the main shrine at the base of the mountain, where you can enjoy some local street food before you continue your adventure in the wonderful city of Kyoto. Please understand that this is a hike, not a normal walk, so it will require some effort. We will not recommend joining if you have trouble walking or not in a good condition.

5 out of 5 average rating, 285 reviews

Photoshoot & Cultural Experience Deep Tour in Kyoto

In this experience tour, you can stroll around the ancient capital of Kyoto, enjoy the history of temples and Kyomachi, and create special memories through a photography experience. Firstly, we will meet at Starbucks Coffee (Kyoto Gion Hotel Branch) and I will explain the flow of the tour. We then head to our round-tour, while visiting not only Ninen-zaka and Yasaka-Pagoda, but also hidden spots where there are less tourists. There are also some standard photo spots along the way, so let's proceed while taking commemorative photos. We can also shoot outside the Kiyomizu-temple area as well, so please feel free to inquiry. I highly recommend that you wear the traditional Japanese costume, kimono with the Japanese hair stylying during the tour. Since there are many kimono rental shops in the city of Kyoto, If you would like to use the service, please let me know in advance, I can help you with the reservation. The experience tour will last approximately 2 hours. I especially recommend it for those who are new to Kyoto! Please come and join me to make your own memories. [ this experience tour includes ] ・ 2 hours shooting experience and cultural deep tour (English, Japanese, Chinese, available) ・ Photos (80-100+ unedited photos, 10 full edited photos) If you have any further questions or inquiries, please contact us through the Host Contact button!

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 1298 reviews

Kyoto Foodie Night Tour

We will share a course-meal ranging from modern to traditional Japanese food across 4-6 food stands and restaurants. I have chosen these vendors to talk about quality food and rich food culture that represent Kyoto. Throughout the evening, we will try many kinds of foods that highlight Kyoto's rich culture. Other things to note: - Please let me know if you have food restrictions or allergies at least a week beforehand. I might not be able to fully accommodate restrictions as it is a group experience. - This experience is run by either myself or another trusted local guide. - I update my tour availability by the 3rd week for next month. Even if you don't see availability, please check back later.

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 742 reviews

Cycle Kyoto's Hidden Gems & Gion Stroll

3.5-hour refreshing bike ride and a 30-minute town walk. This tour is perfect for families. Bike Part: You'll ride a lovely bike to explore the hidden gems of Kyoto that are off the beaten path. This efficient tour lets you feel the wind and air of Kyoto while experiencing nature and open sky. We'll begin with a peaceful riverside road, stopping at a hidden shrine to try some pure natural spring water. Then we'll visit the huge Imperial Palace and a famous Zen temple before passing through some university campuses and peaceful residential areas. We'll arrive at Shimo-gamo Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage site) to enjoy its primitive forest and beautiful buildings. Next, we'll ride down to a unique river junction point and follow the scenic and refreshing lighted-up riverside back. Walk Part: After returning the bikes, we'll take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful entertainment area of Gion or Pontocho. You'll visit main "Flower Towns" (places of Geisha) and see the amazingly photogenic streets. We'll explain the unique culture and system of Geisha. If you're lucky, you may even spot a beautiful Geisha. Restaurant Recommendation: During the walking part, we'll introduce many good restaurants and bars according to your requests. Note Rain or Shine experience. The destinations are one of the examples.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Oboro: Mindful Tea Ceremony in a 100-Year-Old Kyoto Teahouse

【ステップ1：迎え入れと事前の整え】静かに柔らかな照明がともる玄関に到着すると、ホストがあたたかい笑顔で出迎えます。ここで荷物や上着を預け、スマートフォンの音やフラッシュはオフにするよう案内を受けます。ゲストはまず小さな椅子や畳の上に腰かけ、気持ちを落ち着けるウェルカムティーを味わいながら、五感をゆっくり開く準備をします。ホストは「灯りを最小限にすることで視覚情報を抑え、嗅覚や聴覚を研ぎ澄ませる」ことを簡単に伝え、特別な空間へ踏み込む心構えを作っていきます。【ステップ2：キャンドルが灯る茶室へ移動】ウェルカムティーでひと息ついたら、いよいよメインの茶室へと案内されます。通路を抜けると、ローソクの揺らめく炎が照らし出す淡い明かりが迎えてくれます。畳の感触や、湯をたぎらせる静かな音が響き、日常とは異なる“間”を感じ取ることができます。ここでホストは、抹茶を点てるための道具をさりげなく配置し、全体の空気感をさらに整えます。【ステップ3：道具の説明と清めの所作】茶碗・茶筅・茶杓などの道具を、ホストが一つひとつ取り上げつつ、使われる素材や形の意味を分かりやすく解説します。普段なじみのない道具も、「なぜここで清めるのか」「どんな歴史背景があるのか」といった説明を聞くことで、ただの道具が“物語を持つ存在”へと変わります。ゲストは自分たちだけでは手に入れにくい専門的な知識や、ほんの少しの作法のポイントを学べるため、自然と集中力が高まります。そしてホストが淡々と道具を清める所作を見守るうちに、雑念が少しずつ消え、深い静寂に包まれていきます。【ステップ4：抹茶の点前と味わい】静かな空気の中、ホストが抹茶を茶碗に入れ、湯をそそぎ、茶筅で丹念に泡立てます。ホイッスルのような音とともに立ち上る香りは、普段とはまるで違う奥深さがあり、ゲストは五感全体でその瞬間を感じ取ります。出来上がった抹茶はホストから丁寧に手渡され、ゲストは軽くお辞儀をしてから茶碗を両手で受け取り、ゆっくりと口に運びます。飲み方に厳密な決まりはなく、ホストが基本だけをやさしく伝えてくれるため、初めてでも無理なく楽しめるのが特徴です。口当たりの変化や湯気のゆらめきに意識を向けることで、一杯の抹茶が非日常の体験へと昇華します。【ステップ5：余韻と送り出し】抹茶を飲み終えると、ホストと簡単な質疑応答や感想のやり取りが始まります。静寂の中で深めた集中が、今度は言葉を通じて共有され、体験全体を豊かにしてくれます。そしてホストが道具を元通りに清め、片づける所作まで見届けたあと、小さなお土産として和ろうそくなどが渡されます。ゲストは、キャンドルの灯りによって思い出せるこの静寂と丁寧さを、日常に持ち帰ることができるのです。最後はホストが改めて感謝を伝え、ゲストを見送ります。ここまでの一連の流れは、ただお茶を飲むだけではない“茶の心”を体感できる貴重な機会であり、ライトを落とした空間設計や道具の扱い方、ホストの柔軟な案内によって、他ではなかなか味わえない特別なひとときとなります。

Something for everyone

1 of 2 pages

Things to do in Kyoto

Activities led by local experts

Top-rated activities

Something for everyone

Discover more activities near Kyoto