OKOKUZITHOKOZISA KWE-AIRBNB
Izinto ezingavamile ongazenza e-Higashiyama Ward
Bhukha izinto ezenziwayo ezingenakulibaleka ezibungazwa abantu bendawo ku-Airbnb.
Okwenziwayo okusezingeni eliphezulu
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 different from what other Japanese cities offer with other foodies!
- Other things to note
Please let me know if you have food restrictions or allergies at least a week before. 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.
Experience Kendo in Kyoto
"Experience KENDO" offers authentic BUSHIDO ("WAY OF SAMURAI") learning experience through the lecture and basic motions of the traditional martial arts, KENDO ("WAY OF SWORD"). Tomoyoshi, the instructor, will give you a short lecture on how the ancient swordsmanship of SAMURAI later developed into KENDO. He will share ancient SAMURAIS' heroic stories, including his great-grandfather, Yoshishige Hayashi. He will also share the controversial influence of BUSHIDO values on this nation and his family into extremism, especially during the period of WW2. He will end his story on how redemption came and led him to the current inner peace and the life of a pacifist.
After the lecture, you will wear all the KENDO armors and will learn the basic KENDO movements. In the end, you will get to do the KENDO match with each other. Upon completing the workshop, you will receive a beautifully designed “Certificate of Experience”. Tomoyoshi will teach you everything in English. Q&A is always welcomed. Photo-taking is freely allowed. His wife, Tomoko, who also has rich Kendo experience will assist ladies and children in any necessary way. It is a very safe activity but exciting enough to meet your adventurous expectation. We are confident that this is one of the best workshops you can find of this kind!
Explore Gion and discover the art of Geisha
Kyoto is famed for its shrines and temples, which are full of countless unique stories that will astonish you, making you fall in love with and connect yourself to their ancient history. I am deeply fascinated by the tales and traditions hidden among the streets and behind the sliding doors of Gion. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, so on my tour I will reveal the history, rituals, and nuances of the art-form as well as the entertainers who adhere to this traditional lifestyle, while simultaneously providing other interesting facts and a deeper understanding of Kyoto through the secret or small details that are often hard to notice for visitors and locals alike.
・Tour begins near the Kamogawa river and stop by the statue of Izumo no Okuni, she originated Kabuki theatre and inspired Geisha culture.
・In Gion, you’ll learn of the lives of Geisha.
・Visiting local shrines and temples, from overlooked to popular ones, you'll learn their basics and unique stories.
・Tour ends with seeing an apprentice Geisha, Maiko. At the beginning you'll have tea break, lunch or dinner, talking with and asking her questions.
・At the end you'll see her performance, the art of Geisha.
Other things to note:
Please note that I always try to avoid canceling, but in some cases, like a typhoon, it’s needed.
Prepare matcha in a 100-year-old house
A truly unique cultural experience.
1. Discover
Learn the history and fundamentals of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Let us help you gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture as we introduce things like bowing best practices
and other etiquette specific to Japan.
2. Experience
Take advantage of the truly unique opportunity to learn about the tea ceremony in our loft room.
The loft room, called Tsushinikai in Japanese, is characteristic of traditional wooden town houses called Kyomachiya. Enjoy the distinguished atmosphere of the Tsushinikai, offering a distinctive experience compared to any
other.
3. Create
Make and drink your own matcha with us while experiencing the traditional preparation method called Bonryakutemae, a vital step of the tea ceremony. Our hope is for you to enjoy this tea ceremony experience so much that you
will want to enjoy it in your own home as well.
4. Explore
Step back in time with us as we walk with you around the 100-year-old Kyo-machiya for pictures, videos, and further
discussion. The original architecture of this house has been retained for over 100 years, providing a rare glimpse
into Kyoto’s past.
Don’t miss your opportunity to experience this unique tea ceremony for yourself!
Haral/Vegan Ramen&Gyoza lesson in Kyoto
Let’s make Vegan Ramen and Gyouza with Japanese cooking teacher,Sakiko
■Schedule
Introduction
Cooking demonstration and hands on cooking
Lunch Time (Itadakimasu, Bon Appetit)
■Menu
・Ramen-Learn how to make Ramen soup from the scratch
・Gyoza
We make vegan dashi (broth) and ramen soup using vegan dashi.
And make gyoza filling, wrap with gyoza wrapper, and fry.
■Instructor
Sakiko-the former Sushi chef at Disney Land in the U.S
【Notice】
The ramen noodle is premade. I use the dried noodle not include egg and any animal product.
The gyoza wrapper is also premade. We don't make gyoza wrapper from starch.
I will give you the recipe so you can recreate Ramen and Gyoza at your home country!
Other things to note
Please let me know If you have any allergy or you want to eat only gluten free food.
And I take pictures during the lesson so let me know if you do not want to be in pictures.
Hlola amasiko endawo
Insider's Hike through Fushimi Forest with Lunch
This is a 3-hour 30-minute hiking lead by locals. Lunch included. You will have an opportunity to experience the holy mountain of Fushimi through an alternative route.
We provide two slots.
9:00am - 13:00pm / 9:30am - 13:30 pm
The latter is for busy season.
This experience includes:
1) Sightseeing of the main shrine and thousands of red gates, with an explanation of their history and cultural background.
2) Easy walking through a peaceful bamboo and cedar tree forest path, visiting authentic holy spots (worship stones & waterfall) and a factory.
3) Going up a forest route to the summit shrine (20 min). The summit is 233m high, and I will show you around the shrine.
4) Photo-shooting part. On the way down, I will show you lots of photogenic spots that are usually less crowded.
5) Snack & drink, and the breathtaking panorama view of Kyoto city from the viewpoint.
6) Lunch at the best soba restaurant in Fushimi. Yummy Japanese noodle soba and inari sushi. vegan options are available. Showing local street food stands.
Other things to note:
Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a hands-free backpack for hiking. The paths are well-organized, but you will go up/down some stairs.
The time schedule may differ depending on your walking speed.
KIMONO & PHOTOSHOOT in KYOTO GION
Welcome to my experience! :-)
There are two parts in this experiences: Kimono dressing and Photoshoot.
[ Kimono dressing (40-60 minutes) ]
Reach the kimono shop at least 1 to 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 (decide at the shop)
[ 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
■ Don’t worry about posing as I will guide you along the way
■ After the photoshoot, you can wear the kimono until 6pm
[ About photo ]
■ 10 edited full resolution photos per participant
■ all unedited JPEG 200-400 photos, send within 7 days via cloud drive
[ Note ]
■ You can always ask me if I can open the schedule for you if it’s not listed
■ Kimono upgrade is available with extra fee.
We also provide full scale package for half/full day casual or pre-wedding photoshoot at any locations within Japan. Please contact me for details.
Other airbnb photoshoots experiences in Kansai area:
■ Kyoto Gion
■ Kyoto Gion with Kimono
■ Kyoto Fushimi Inari
■ Kyoto Fushimi Inari with Kimono
■ Kyoto Arashiyama
■ Nara
■ Osaka
Forest Meditation Buddhist Monk & Hike
this is like one stone two birds, sightseeing + experience.
you come to Fushimi Inari station by Keihan-line or Inari station by JR-line.
then enjoy hiking in the mountain about 60 minutes to the meditation place .
I explain about meditation for 10 minutes,
then chanting the mantra of Inari shrine. it takes 20 minutes .
counting meditation 10 minutes
breathing meditation 10 minutes
photo shooting after meditation.
Other things to note
there are lockers or place for your baggage near stations.
only 5 bathroom so better try to go when you would see it.
Photoshoot in Kyoto Gion
Thanks for checking out and welcome to my experience! :-)
[ On the day ]
■ We meet at the meeting point on the scheduled time. I will send you a google map link.
■ Walk around Kyoto Gion area.
■ As we walk together, I will suggest some suitable spots for photoshoot.
■ I will take photo group by group.
■ Don’t worry about posing as I will guide you along the way.
[ About photo ]
■ 10 edited full resolution photos per participant
■ all unedited JPEG 200-400 photos, send within 7 days via google drive
[ Note ]
■ You can always ask me if I can open the schedule for you if it’s not listed
■ Other locations (Fushimi Inari, Kamogawa or any other locations)
■ Children below 2 years old can join for free. Please present his/her passport for age verification during the photoshoot.
■ The tour does not included paid location, if you wish to enter paid attraction, kindly pay for my entrance fee
We also provide full scale packages for half/full day casual or pre-wedding photoshoot at any locations within Japan. Please contact me for details.
Other things to note
Other photoshoots in Kansai
Kyoto Gion
http://bit.ly/2JRpEF3
Kyoto Arashiyama
http://bit.ly/34wdxVC
Kyoto Gion with Kimono
http://bit.ly/2qpIkVC
Kyoto Fushimi Inari with Kimono
http://bit.ly/381AKAg
Nara
http://bit.ly/2NglvfN
Nara with Kimono
http://bit.ly/32xQfyT
Osaka
http://bit.ly/34pOUKe
Snapkyoto Photo Shoot & Tours
"Contact Host" button to request a 'time' of your choice, or on IG at snapkyoto. Last Minute is OKAY. I check my phone 24/7, almost :)
This photoshoot includes:
+50 stunning professional photos (within 24 hours)
+A deep tour of Kyoto's culture, history, people etc.
+A pleasant guide, maybe the funniest in Kyoto :)
Best Light: (1) Sunset, (2) Cloudy Days, (3) Rainy & (4) Sunny (5) Nighttime
*rainy days are good for photos but heavy shower or stormy days are no good. We can reschedule.
+This booking is 1 Hour for the old Gion/higashiyama area, but you can request another must-see area, like: Fushimi Inari, Golden Pavilion, or Arashiyama Bamboo Forest etc.
Or combine with a longer photo tour (addtional fee required):
*3 Hours covering half of Kyoto (2 main areas)
*6 Hours covering the whole Kyoto (4 main areas)
*3 Hours Photo Bicycle Tour (biking+photos+tour)
For more info & Portfolio:
"snapkyoto dot com"
@snapkyoto (ig)
Okuthandwa kakhulu e-Higashiyama Ward
京都抹茶道体验 老师会说中文 欢迎家人一起体验!
古都日本京都体验抹茶道文化
您可通过预约直接到店参与茶道体验,享受60分钟服务,潜心体验独特的日本文化之旅。在客人和我们的其他客人预约时间允许的情况下,还可以继续享受跟由佳老师喝茶交流。
在暗香庵的茶道体验,先从缓解您旅途中的疲劳开始,一边品尝由佳老师泡的迎客茶,一边畅谈茶道及其他各种。之后移动到另一层的抹茶茶室,在观赏老师打制的淡抹茶同时,还可以品尝抹茶及美味的和果子。这时候最好能够仔细观察老师的点茶动作,要问为什么的话,因为之后您将要亲自上阵,体验点茶中关键的环节。不过您不必担心,这时候老师会在您身边辅导和讲解,让您充分体验【点日本抹茶】的乐趣。
通过体验了解抹茶道文化渊源直接参与互动,能感受到的事物和那些无法亲身体会的部分。同时再让我们分享那些目所能的及心中感受的 比如“日本人是怎样生活的呢?”,“日本文化是怎么形成的呢?”等。通过抹茶道的体验能够让双方在不同文化的基础上,在交流的过程中做到拉进心灵的距离,暗香庵抹茶道体验的最大特点。
最后静下心来专注品尝自己打制的那份包含着日本深厚底蕴文化的抹茶来结束本次愉快的体验。
其他注意事项
除新年期间(12月31日-1月3日)外,体验活动全年对外开放,请按下列时间段预约体验。因每日体验活动满员的场合,将无法正常参加,所以请提前和我们联系。另,若预定日期或时间段满员的场合,会需要麻烦您变更时间,敬请谅解。
Samurai Training with Modern-day Musashi
In this activity, you will wear the proper training gear and hold real katana swords to train just like the samurai did. The experience of handling a katana correctly and cutting through objects will be something you will never forget.
The content of this experience:
1. Getting dressed in the training gear
2. Learning how to draw and sheath the katana safely
3. Learning how to swing the katana correctly
4. Cutting rolled tatami mats with a real katana
5. Watching the master's katana performance
Your instructor will be the dojo master of a katana martial art school called “Yushin-Ryu,” and your guide/interpreter will be Shogo from the YouTube channel “Let’s ask Shogo (1.5M subscribers).” Any questions about samurai, katana and Japanese culture will be answered, so feel free to ask us anything you’d like.
Experience Kimono in Kyoto
First, choosing a kimono ♫ From among our collection, choose your favorite kimono.
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.
There are also men's kimonos and kimonos / yukatas for children over 4 years old. Enjoy the city of Kyoto with your family.
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.
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.
Other things to note
We would not recommend this for people who have trouble walking or are not in a good condition.
Wearing shoes, long sleeve shirt and long pants is recommended to avoid mosquitoes and bugs.
Being late for more than 5 minutes will be regarded as a cancellation without any refund.
Possible Co-Host
Hidden Kyoto E-Biking
A cycling tour through Kyoto city should be more than just a simple ride-around, we take you deep inside. Our tours are focused on experiencing, exploring, and discovering Kyoto’s best-kept secrets, all in a short riding distance from our shop. Tranquil and contemplative Zen gardens, magnificent temples and shrines, we have carefully curated a tour that offers uniquely contrasting environments showcasing Kyoto’s distinctive history, culture, design, and craft.
We meet at 8:45 and depart at 9 sharp. Our tour starts and finishes at our shop in north-western Kyoto city. This is a boutique journey, designed for those who seek a more in-depth understanding of Kyoto’s landscape. It features a visit inside the famous Golden Pavilion, but also takes time to stop and relax at other unique meditative Zen Gardens that are off the beaten path.
Other things to note
Most guests take a taxi to our shop.
We recommend wearing comfortable clothes for a fantastic day on the bike.
I will cancel and refund tours due to heavy rain, storms, or inclement weather.
Konke okwenziwayo eduze ne-Higashiyama Ward
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 different from what other Japanese cities offer with other foodies!
- Other things to note
Please let me know if you have food restrictions or allergies at least a week before. 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.
Experience Kendo in Kyoto
"Experience KENDO" offers authentic BUSHIDO ("WAY OF SAMURAI") learning experience through the lecture and basic motions of the traditional martial arts, KENDO ("WAY OF SWORD"). Tomoyoshi, the instructor, will give you a short lecture on how the ancient swordsmanship of SAMURAI later developed into KENDO. He will share ancient SAMURAIS' heroic stories, including his great-grandfather, Yoshishige Hayashi. He will also share the controversial influence of BUSHIDO values on this nation and his family into extremism, especially during the period of WW2. He will end his story on how redemption came and led him to the current inner peace and the life of a pacifist.
After the lecture, you will wear all the KENDO armors and will learn the basic KENDO movements. In the end, you will get to do the KENDO match with each other. Upon completing the workshop, you will receive a beautifully designed “Certificate of Experience”. Tomoyoshi will teach you everything in English. Q&A is always welcomed. Photo-taking is freely allowed. His wife, Tomoko, who also has rich Kendo experience will assist ladies and children in any necessary way. It is a very safe activity but exciting enough to meet your adventurous expectation. We are confident that this is one of the best workshops you can find of this kind!
Evening Exploring with a Local
For years I’ve been hearing that Kyoto doesn’t have a great nightlife so people should stay in Ōsaka if they are looking for excitement & then do day trips from there to Kyoto & Nara. People who actually don’t know Kyoto say these things. Kyoto has a very vibrant & exciting nightlife.
Kyoto has become overrun with tourists over the past few years but you can still manage to find places that aren’t crowded with tourists & that’s my goal for your experience with me.
We will go to places that are intimidating to enter for people who don’t speak Japanese. The places where most tourists will walk by & wonder what’s served there.
First, we will go to a “tachnomi” or “stand up bar” where many people gather after work for drinks & small dishes.
After that, we will squeeze into a tiny bar where locals sometimes sing karaoke songs & often strike up a conversation with new faces because everyone is seated together. The owner or “mama” will definitely visit with us & I’ll translate everything.
Finally, we will head to another tiny bar that is set off of a narrow alley lined with historic buildings in the heart of Kyoto’s nightlife scene.
I can direct you where to go from there as it’s near the nightlife district!
Capture the Local Kyoto, Walking Tour
You will dive right into the most iconic paths of Kyoto’s Gion district. You will discover the local lifestyle of the Geishas district and experience another side of Kyoto, off the beaten tracks. I will tell you more about the history of these back alleys and secrets streets. Find out what everyday life looks like here in Kyoto, and how people live in the traditional "Machiya", the iconic wooden houses of Kyoto. I will also take you to my favorite local craft shops and introduce you to their lovely owners.
Other things to note
It is a walking tour, please wear confortable shoes.
Discover hidden Kyoto & Learn Japanese
\Special discount for groups & early birds!/
You've got some time on your arrival or leaving day in Kyoto?
If so, my tour is perfect for you!
Easy walk from Kyoto sta to Gion main area.
You'll discover a lot of charms of Kyoto within 4 hours.
Here are 3 things you'll get from my tour:
1. Survival Japanese lesson for traveling!
I prepared a handy pocket-size handout, which we'll practice together while we're walking.
From the perspective of a professional Japanese teacher, I picked up very useful expressions and phrases for travel conversation.
You'll immediately be able to use them and you can enjoy communication with local people during your trip!
2. Explore and feel the local!
We'll walk a lot during the tour, please be ready for it;-)
I'd like to show you not only historical places but also more hidden places where locals usually go, secret photo spots, and riverside alleys.
Also, I'll introduce my favorite Izakaya (Japanese style pub), Kyoto craft beer, coffee shops etc.
3. Traveling tips in Kyoto & Osaka!
I'm originally from Osaka and I was giving tours in Osaka before, so you can ask me anything about Osaka.
I'll share basic manners and rules in Japan, things you can do/shouldn't do.
【Tour Route】
Kyoto Sta > Kyoto tower Bldg. > Higashi honganji temple > Kamo riverside > walk through local alleys > finish in main area
※The expense for your meal is NOT included.
Explore Gion and discover the art of Geisha
Kyoto is famed for its shrines and temples, which are full of countless unique stories that will astonish you, making you fall in love with and connect yourself to their ancient history. I am deeply fascinated by the tales and traditions hidden among the streets and behind the sliding doors of Gion. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, so on my tour I will reveal the history, rituals, and nuances of the art-form as well as the entertainers who adhere to this traditional lifestyle, while simultaneously providing other interesting facts and a deeper understanding of Kyoto through the secret or small details that are often hard to notice for visitors and locals alike.
・Tour begins near the Kamogawa river and stop by the statue of Izumo no Okuni, she originated Kabuki theatre and inspired Geisha culture.
・In Gion, you’ll learn of the lives of Geisha.
・Visiting local shrines and temples, from overlooked to popular ones, you'll learn their basics and unique stories.
・Tour ends with seeing an apprentice Geisha, Maiko. At the beginning you'll have tea break, lunch or dinner, talking with and asking her questions.
・At the end you'll see her performance, the art of Geisha.
Other things to note:
Please note that I always try to avoid canceling, but in some cases, like a typhoon, it’s needed.
Taste and Discover Night Kyoto/Gion with the locals
Enjoy the way locals eat at restaurants not listed in the guidebooks and hear stories about Kyoto from the locals. This is a true Kyoto experience, a fun blend of dining and sightseeing. This tour is led in English by a local Japanese guide.
【Foods & Drinks are included】
First, we will toast at a modern beer bar!
Then, enjoy "delivery food" from a popular nearby restaurant together.
It is typical in Kyoto to order delivery instead of going all the way to the restaurant.
Next, enjoy walking through beautiful Gion at night. A local guide will explain the history of Kyoto and its geiko and maiko. What exactly do geiko do? What kind of people comes to the party?
The second restaurant is a sushi restaurant. Cheers to sake!
Enjoy beautiful sushi made by artisans in a restaurant loved by locals.
Afterward, we will visit Ponto-cho, Kyoto's largest concentration of izakaya (Japanese-style pubs). Ponto-cho is located on the banks of the Kamo River and is a beautiful area to take pictures. We will explore the nightlife of Kyoto through a maze of pathways.
Finally, we will visit a famous udon or ramen restaurant. We recommend curry udon and tonkotsu ramen.
In Japan, it is customary to have a "shime" dish at the end of a drinking session, and Kyoto's famous "shime" dish is udon.
After eating many dishes and walkking in Gion , you will see what Kyoto is really all about!
Prepare matcha in a 100-year-old house
A truly unique cultural experience.
1. Discover
Learn the history and fundamentals of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Let us help you gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture as we introduce things like bowing best practices
and other etiquette specific to Japan.
2. Experience
Take advantage of the truly unique opportunity to learn about the tea ceremony in our loft room.
The loft room, called Tsushinikai in Japanese, is characteristic of traditional wooden town houses called Kyomachiya. Enjoy the distinguished atmosphere of the Tsushinikai, offering a distinctive experience compared to any
other.
3. Create
Make and drink your own matcha with us while experiencing the traditional preparation method called Bonryakutemae, a vital step of the tea ceremony. Our hope is for you to enjoy this tea ceremony experience so much that you
will want to enjoy it in your own home as well.
4. Explore
Step back in time with us as we walk with you around the 100-year-old Kyo-machiya for pictures, videos, and further
discussion. The original architecture of this house has been retained for over 100 years, providing a rare glimpse
into Kyoto’s past.
Don’t miss your opportunity to experience this unique tea ceremony for yourself!
Amazing Scooter Tours of Historic Kyoto
Our scooter tour allows you to operate your own scooter while our personable and well-informed local guide takes you to some of the most amazing places in this ancient city. You will visit the most beautiful historic landmarks which you normally cannot reach by public transportation such as buses or trains.
We will deliver our scooter or scooters to wherever you or you and your travel companions are staying here in the city of Kyoto. Our tour guide will meet you at the time of the delivery and go over some basic, but very important, Japanese traffic laws that drivers need to be fully aware of while also going over some basic operation and safety tips on how to use the scooter.
Then, you and your guide will head off into the historic old capital city of Kyoto to explore places in a way that you've probably never experienced before. Of course, remember to stay on the left side of the street! Just keep an eye on your tour guide who will patiently and happily guide you along while taking you along Kamogawa (Duck River) which winds its way through the old capital city.
You will be visiting many historic landmarks along the way including one called Tanukidani Fudo.
After a nice day visiting some of the lesser-known, but all the same very impressive landmarks, you will return to your hotel and leave your scooter.
Other things to note
We will deliver our scooter or scooters to wherever you or you and your travel companions are staying here in the city of Kyoto.
Haral/Vegan Ramen&Gyoza lesson in Kyoto
Let’s make Vegan Ramen and Gyouza with Japanese cooking teacher,Sakiko
■Schedule
Introduction
Cooking demonstration and hands on cooking
Lunch Time (Itadakimasu, Bon Appetit)
■Menu
・Ramen-Learn how to make Ramen soup from the scratch
・Gyoza
We make vegan dashi (broth) and ramen soup using vegan dashi.
And make gyoza filling, wrap with gyoza wrapper, and fry.
■Instructor
Sakiko-the former Sushi chef at Disney Land in the U.S
【Notice】
The ramen noodle is premade. I use the dried noodle not include egg and any animal product.
The gyoza wrapper is also premade. We don't make gyoza wrapper from starch.
I will give you the recipe so you can recreate Ramen and Gyoza at your home country!
Other things to note
Please let me know If you have any allergy or you want to eat only gluten free food.
And I take pictures during the lesson so let me know if you do not want to be in pictures.
Cycle Kyoto hidden gem& Gion NightWalk
3-hour refreshing bike ride and a 1-hour 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.
Dinner 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.
For Book Lovers! Kyoto Craft Workshop
Session 1 " Book Binding Workshop"
1. select book cover ( you can choose from our collection of old kimono textile / old cloth textile / varieties of fabrics )
2. stitch the interior pages of the book by hand
3. cut the edge of the book to size
4. measure the book cover & other materials
5. set and arrange all paper and make book cover
6. assemble the interior of the book and book cover
7. press by hot iron with candle
8. use pressing tools to press book
9. glue on the cover of the book
Session 2 ” Embossing ”
1. choose one or two words from Name/ Date/ Kyoto.
Or, one line of your expression like poem or philosophy.
2. choose letter style from letter presses ( Western or Japanese/ Kanji -old Chinese characters )
3. design to set letter press on the back page of your book cover
4. practice the technic of embossing several times
5. try to emboss with golden leaf ( silver / other colors ) please check photos for each process. -finish
Other things to note
This course is best suited for adults and families with kids over 13 yrs. old. If you’d like to enjoy a more family oriented class please choose our other course Traditional Kyoto Style Bookmaking.
Insider's Hike through Fushimi Forest with Lunch
This is a 3-hour 30-minute hiking lead by locals. Lunch included. You will have an opportunity to experience the holy mountain of Fushimi through an alternative route.
We provide two slots.
9:00am - 13:00pm / 9:30am - 13:30 pm
The latter is for busy season.
This experience includes:
1) Sightseeing of the main shrine and thousands of red gates, with an explanation of their history and cultural background.
2) Easy walking through a peaceful bamboo and cedar tree forest path, visiting authentic holy spots (worship stones & waterfall) and a factory.
3) Going up a forest route to the summit shrine (20 min). The summit is 233m high, and I will show you around the shrine.
4) Photo-shooting part. On the way down, I will show you lots of photogenic spots that are usually less crowded.
5) Snack & drink, and the breathtaking panorama view of Kyoto city from the viewpoint.
6) Lunch at the best soba restaurant in Fushimi. Yummy Japanese noodle soba and inari sushi. vegan options are available. Showing local street food stands.
Other things to note:
Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a hands-free backpack for hiking. The paths are well-organized, but you will go up/down some stairs.
The time schedule may differ depending on your walking speed.
Kyoto Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl
Bar hopping tour at Kyoto city center.
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!!
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
Traditional Kyoto-style Bookmaking
" Book Binding Workshop"
1. select book cover
( you can choose from our collection of old kimono textile / old cloth textile / varieties of fabrics )
2. stitch the interior pages of the book by hand
3. cut the edge of the book to size
4. measure the book cover & other materials
5. set and arrange all paper and make book cover
6. assemble the interior of the book and book cover
7. press by hot iron with candle
8. use pressing tools to press book
9. glue on the cover of the book
-finish-
Other things to note
If you are the family, we are very welcome. Under 5years old children might be difficult to have standard corse. In that case, embossing class would be better ( please check another workshop of mine!