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Kyoto tours & vacations

Where the old world meets the new

Kyoto was founded as Japan’s ‘capital of tranquility and peace’ for a reason. With over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens, it’s one of the best places to catch cherry blossoms in bloom and thanks to the shinkansen (bullet train), it’s easy to fit into any part of your trip. Explore on foot or bike, wander through the Nishiki Market, spot geisha in Gion and try traditional kyo-wagashi sweets – all with a local leader giving you the best recommendations. And don’t miss experiencing chado – the ‘way of the tea’ – where you can learn the art of a tea ceremony, then sneak off to the quieter corners of the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine. This is the cultural heart of Japan and you’ll soon see why.

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Kyoto highlights

Street view of historic street in Kyoto with old, wooden buildings and women in traditional dress.

Spot geisha in Gion

Catch a glimpse of Kyoto’s iconic geisha in Gion’s streets and learn about their rich cultural history as you explore old wooden teahouses and exclusive restaurants. Come back at night when the district comes alive, where you might see geishas with elaborate dresses and make up on the way to events.

Premium Japan

Classic Japan

A local running a seafood stand in Nishiki Market in Kyoto, Japan.

Grab local bites at Nishiki Market

Take a stroll in Nishiki Market, known as ‘Kyoto’s kitchen’ by the locals for a taste of the city’s regional specialties. Try a little bit of everything as you peruse the hundred shops and restaurants that line the narrow shopping street and 400-year-old market.

Japan Highlights

Japan Adventure

Two travellers walking down a sidewalk through a small, green park in Kyoto, Japan.

Go on an active adventure

Branch off from the typical tourist sites with an active adventure hiking to shrines and temples, along the Philosopher’s Path and up Mt Daimonji-yama. Or jump on a bike and explore the backstreets on two wheels along the Kamogawa River.

Japan: Koya-san & Kumano Kodo Trek

Cycle Japan

Two travellers sitting at a table having green tea and writing in journals.

Learn cultural art techniques

Get hands-on with the centuries-old artform of Kyo-Yuzen dyeing by learning the art from an expert craftsman. You’ll use stencils to carefully create original designs and walk away with a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Along the way, you'll also gain insight into the cultural history and techniques that make this traditional craft so unique.

18 to 35s Essential Japan