Kyoto Explorer
Kyoto Explorer Tour
60,000 JPY per group - 8 hours
Explore the essence of eastern Kyoto’s Higashiyama district on an immersive private tour. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha’s iconic torii gates, unveiling centuries of spiritual heritage. Wander along Nishiki Market’s vibrant stalls, savouring local delicacies. Wander Gion’s Hanamikoji street, steeped in geisha tradition, leading to the tranquil Yasaka Shrine. Traverse the historic Sanenzaka and Ninnenzaka lanes, culminating in the panoramic splendour of Kiyomizu-dera, a perfect finale to an enriching journey through Kyoto’s cultural heart.
- 1000 torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Foodie adventure in bustling Nishiki Market
- Geiko (Geisha) district of Gion
- Eat lunch like a local!
- Yasaka Shrine
- Atmospheric local lanes of Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
- Enjoy views from Kiyomizu-dera
MORE INFORMATION
Kyoto Explorer Tour
Prices & Info
PRICE:
- 1 – 4 people = 60,000 JPY
- 5 – 10 people = please add 3,000 JPY to the above price for each extra person.
- Our private tours are suitable for up to 10 people in a group with one tour guide. If you have more than 10 people in your group please email us to discuss details. We can give the best advice for your tour group.
- A 1.5% payment processing fee will be added at checkout.
STARTS: 9 AM at central Kyoto hotels or train stations.
ENDS: 5 PM at a convenient central city location. If you want to end at your hotel please discuss with your guide on the day so that they can allow time.
TOUR OPERATES: Any dates except for some holidays. Please request availability
GROUP SIZE: Minimum 1, Maximum 10
INCLUSIONS: Local English-speaking tour guide, central hotel pick-up.
EXCLUSIONS: Transport, lunch and entrance fees. Please pay for these as you go on the day for yourselves and your guide. We will advise these costs before you book.
Private Transport Available
Private transport with a car and professional driver can be added to this tour for a more comfortable and efficient experience. All vehicles and drivers are fully government licensed, and tours with private transport include a separate local guide and driver. Simply select the “Add Private Transport” option when completing the tour request form. See the prices below.
PRICE:
- 1 – 4 people = 122,000 JPY
- 5 – 8 people = 132,000 JPY
INCLUSIONS: Local English-speaking tour guide, fully licensed driver, suitable size vehicle, central hotel pick-up/drop-off.
EXCLUSIONS: Meals, entrance fees and parking fees. Please pay for these as you go on the day for yourselves and your guide. We will advise these costs before you book.
Tour Cancellation Policy
- Notice of cancellation received by The Backstreet Guides 30 days or more prior to the starting date of the tour will incur a charge of 20% of the tour fare.
- Notice of cancellation received by The Backstreet Guides 29 days to 7 days prior to the starting date of the tour will incur a charge of 40% of the tour fare.
- Notice of cancellation received by The Backstreet Guides 6 days to 3 days prior to the starting date of the tour will incur a charge of 60% of the tour fare.
- Notice of cancellation received by The Backstreet Guides less than 3 days prior to the starting day of the tour, including no-show, will incur a charge of 100% of the tour fare.
- Any tickets purchased are non-refundable unless otherwise stated.
Testimonials
We bring the best experience
See what our past guests say about us. Travelers' Choice Award 2024 & 25!
-
Thumbs up Backstreet guides - Met at our hotel by our guide Rie, we proceeded to travel around Tokyo suburbs trying amazing food,coffee and craft beer. Throw in a few temples,shrines and shops,it's a full... read more 
Curious28322482007
March 2, 2026 -
Day in Kyoto - The tour was amazing, our guide Ai was very knowledgeable and had answers to all our questions. She took us over a large area in a good amount of time... read more 
Jess M
January 26, 2026 - Our KYOTO ADVENTURE with the wonderful Saki - Our Kyoto Tour was absolutely unforgettable.
Our wonderful tour guide SAKI was knowledgeable and shared fascinating historical and cultural insights that brought each site to life.
This tour gave... read more 
Richard N
January 11, 2026 - The BEST Tokyo Guides - This was our second time booking with The Backstreet Guides. We had an amazing private tour with Rie! We were so grateful to have her with us for 3 days.... read more
Daisy L
March 31, 2026 - Tokyo half day - Great Tokyo tour from Backstreet Guides delivered by Lei . Didn’t have much time as our cruise times weren’t great but Lei filled our time with some great stops .... read more
Andyfittes
March 29, 2026 - Outstanding Tour by Rie - Rie was an outstanding tour guide. She took us to two markets, two shrines, and other fascinating places. She was punctual, knowledgeable, patient with our slow pace of walking, and... read more
Karen H
October 16, 2025 - Do it... you won't regret it! - Great tour with Mana Nakano.
She was prompt in meeting at hotel, had a historical presentation about Tokyo. We went to the Ueno station, Imperial Palace Gardens, and several other... read more 
jka2017
February 6, 2026 - Private Day Tour - Tokyo - Rie was the absolute best tour guide!! We thoroughly enjoyed our day, learned so much, and were able to partake in new and authentic experiences. Would recommend to anyone and... read more
865courtneyv
November 2, 2025 - Amazing day trip to Kamakura from Tokyo - We had the privilege of having The Backstreet Guides as our tour company. They made our first visit to Japan a truly memorable experience. Since the moment I contacted them,... read more
beatrizs897
June 20, 2026 - Great day in Tokyo - We had a wonderful day in Tokyo on the Market & Modern Culture tour with our guide, Rie. She showed us the best spots in Tsujiki market that locals... read more
MTS55305
March 23, 2026