• Private Tour
• Instantly Confirmed
• Carbon Neutral

Make your trip a wholesome experience by seeing what other cities outside of Kyoto have to offer. On this private day trip, you don’t need to worry about anything! Follow your local host to Nara and be back in Kyoto the same day but with more unforgettable experiences than before.

Destination

Kyoto, Japan

Category

Day Trips

Duration

8 hours

Transport mode

Public Transport

Available languages

English, 日本語, Indonesian, Español, Italiano

Included

• Private guide
• Entrance tickets Toufokuji & Toudaji Temple
• Nara bus pass
• All Withlocals Tours are Carbon Neutral

Excluded

• Train tickets are not included (JR passes are valid) and need to be paid at the train station.

What you can expect

Choose your local

Get to know these 6 passionate locals, each bringing unique perspectives and talents. Choose your favorite, check their availability, and book to create an unforgettable adventure tailored to you.

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at At "JR central" exit ticket gate / Shichijo dori Exit - Kyoto to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. More about Japan

   Give yourself the time to not only visit Kyoto by also visiting Nara. Japan is such a beautiful country that the more you know about it, the more you’ll fall in love with it. That’s why your host can’t wait to take you to Nara

4. Gems of Nara

   Check out Toudaji Temple, Nara Deer Park, Toufokuji Temple, and more must-sees but with a twist...through the eyes of a local. Get to know some of the less walked paths in Nara with some great hidden gems and alternative stories that only a local knows about

5. Cultural Contrasts

   Cities are like snowflakes; each one of them is unique. And as you visit Nara, you’ll be able to see the differences compared to Kyoto. Discover how much traditions, architecture, and even language can change from one city to another and how they complement each other

6. Local Knowledge

   To experience the best of Nara, there’s no better way to do so than like a local. Your local host will make this private day trip an enriching experience by sharing knowledge, stories, insights, and answering your questions!

7. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Marie-Jeanne🇧🇪 Belgium

(About local Eiji)

3 May 2025

We had a great time with Eiji in Nara. He showed us lots of great places skipping most of the crowds. He’s a kalm nice man we really loved his way of explaining everything to us. we made an extra stop to see the Fusjimi-Inari! 🤩Great guy!

Nick

(About local Eiji)

17 February 2025

The Nara tour was booked for my mother and her friend (60s). Here are the messages I received from them: "We are having a very good time ☺️Eiji is a wonderful tour guide." "We had an amazing tour, on our way back to the hotel now, my battery is at 10%🤣" [so many photos and videos] "What a great tour. The deer bit Eiji’s bottom, Jan’s bottom and tried to eat my tags on the wheelchair! Such a fun day 💕💕💕" It's been their favourite part of Japan so far - which is quite a high recommendation. If you're looking for a tour in Kyoto, Eiji-san is your man!Laughs, bites, and photographs

Pam

(About local Yoshihiro)

21 May 2024

Yoshihiro was so great and made sure to connect with a week ahead to make sure we had information on meeting point and to double check if we had JR Passes yet or not. We are so glad we booked a guid for Nara day tour as it is such a historical town and place that I would not have known a lot of the history. Additionally because Yoshihiro, knew we were in Kyoto for a few days in May, he gave us a great recommendation for a special Geisha performance, that again we would not have known about. We were able to secure tickets to such a special performance that not many tourists knew about. Thank you so much for making our trip so memorableGreat way to learn about history

Nick🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

5 May 2024

We had a great day in Nara with our guide, Sebastian. We met up at the Kyoto train station and from there Sebastian took over. The train ride to Nara was quick (40 minutes) and easy. Once in Nara it’s a 5 minute walk to Deer Park. There are hundreds of deer all over. The best place to feed them is closer to the Todaiji Temple. The Temple is pretty amazing. You will see the largest bronze Buddha in Japan. On the way home we stopped in the small town of Uji. It’s the home of matcha. Lots of small shops and a few temples. Great scenery. I would highly recommend this tour and booking Sebastian if available. Wonderful day in Nara with amazing guide

Haley🇺🇸 United States

(About local Shohei)

31 January 2020

Great tour! Shohei was very knowledgeable and accommodating to our party's dietary needs. We say a lot of stuff in a short time and if was great having a guide to help us through the madness and not get too caught up in one place. Definitely recommend.Wonderful tour!

Karen🇳🇱 Netherlands

(About local Tiro)

29 July 2025

We had a great time with Tiro. His tour was the perfect mix of education, information and entertainment. We really enjoyed the way he shared his experience and knowledge about sake, Kyoto, living and working in Japan. Highly recommend for a family with adults children!An unforgettable sake experience!

jameselliotlawrence1975

(About local Yoshihiro)

26 July 2025

We had a fantastic morning with Yoshihiro (Ted) at Shimogamo water festival. Ted has really considered our brief, 'off the tourist trail, with some fun for the kids', he hit the brief spot on. I would highly recommend booking a tour with Ted, his english is great and so is his patience and most importantly he has a wealth of knowledge. If/when I return to Kyoto i would happily spend some more time with TedAuthentic tour with a great guide

Dana

(About local Eiji)

24 July 2025

We had a great bicycle tour with Eiji! Eiji is a very kind, relaxed and happy guide. Hé told us many stories about Japanse culture and answered all of our questions. When we come back we will definitely contact Eiji again. Eiji is a great guide!

Damiano🇮🇹 Italy

(About local Yoshihiro)

23 July 2025

Best guide everTed simply the best

Zac🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

23 July 2025

Sebastian sabe mucha historia local y todos los detalles del castillo. Además él supo conectar con la gente del grupo menos inspirado por la historia, contando temas japoneses interesantes para ellos para que todos se lo pasaran muy bien. Sebastian fue fantástico!

Paula🇩🇰 Denmark

(About local Yoshihiro)

21 July 2025

We had the best time with Yoshihiro who was very communicative before our tour which made is feel very welcome. He was incredibly flexible and gave is three good optional tours on the day which was specifically nice because it was so warm so we adjusted the original plan. We visited SO many spots that we would never have seen, food we never would have tried if it wasnt for Yoshihiro. Hils english is great and he is incredibly helpful with all kinds of other tips for after the tour. Can highly recommend! Charming knowledgable guide

Michael🇩🇰 Denmark

(About local Shohei)

21 July 2025

Anna🇮🇱 Israel

(About local Yoshihiro)

19 July 2025

We had a fantastic tour with Ted in the center of Kyoto! It was engaging and full of interesting information. Ted patiently answered all of our questions and even recommended a great restaurant and other places based on our interests. We definitely recommend taking a walk with Ted!Great Experience

Bernie🇺🇸 United States

(About local Tiro)

19 July 2025

We met Tiro right on time at the designated spot and hit it off right away. He was fun and really good at and excited to be a guide. He was full of little and big facts and tied in the history of what we were seeing as well as giving great tips about current Kyoto. Tiro kept things moving, we walked and talked a lot but still took time for a break or 2. Felt like an old friend by the time we left for our hotel Had a Fantastic Tour with Tiro

Penelope

(About local Shohei)

19 July 2025

Great tour, highly recommended!

Andrew🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Simone)

18 July 2025

Simone is a great guide. He was very knowledgeable, but also very accommodating and personable. Highly recommend. Our group had a variety of tastes/wants/needs, and he was able to meet them all. Thank you, Simone!Simone is great

Tom🇺🇸 United States

(About local Simone)

17 July 2025

We could not find a better guide than Simone. Smart, energetic, well informed, good sense of humor. I would also consider Simone for general touring not only a food tour. We have done many and Simone is at the top of the list! Book him now, you won’t be disappointed. Japanese food beyond sushi and shashimi!

Bill🇺🇸 United States

(About local Guia)

16 July 2025

Guia started our Kyoto food tour in a small teppanayaki-style restaurant, the kind with a hot griddle in the middle of each table. Among the items she ordered for the four of us to try was yakisoba, a delicious noodle dish that I couldn’t stop eating. Luckily Guia knew exactly how to make it and wrote the recipe for it in my phone. From there we went on to the Nishiki Market where we sampled a lot of food from an unending number of stalls. One of the next best stops was to briefly sit at a counter to be served the famous Wagyu beef. Yum. Guia never rushed us through the market and was so patient as we quizzed her about all the packages of food that were new to us and written in Japanese. Having grown up in the Philippines , she is a native English speaker, always a welcome help.Fantastic food tour of Kyoto

Yasa

(About local David)

16 July 2025

David has his soul in Japan and these tours. He speaks fluent English and knows the hidden paths to avoid crowds. The tour is worth every penny!!The tour is worth every penny!

Andrew

(About local David)

15 July 2025

David was a great guide - knowledgeable, energetic, and funny! He customized the tour just for us and even did magic to entertain the kids. Highly recommended!Great guide - knowledgeable, energetic and funny!

Nicole🇺🇸 United States

(About local Shohei)

15 July 2025

A nice tour with a good overview of some of the sights. Definitely wouldn't have gotten as much out of it on our own. Nice tour

Wu🇺🇸 United States

(About local Yoshihiro)

15 July 2025

We loved spending time touring Gion and Nishiki market with Ted! He is very knowledgeable about the history of Kyoto, and he recommended amazing food for us at Nishiki market! Definitely recommend Ted, he is a fantastic guide and he was very accommodating. Learned a lot about the Culture of Maiko/Geiko, as well as Kabuki history. Ted even sent us food recommendations for our next destination which was Osaka. Superb!A great tour with Ted

Tamara

(About local Eiji)

14 July 2025

We thoroughly enjoyed our tasting tour with Eiji. He was friendly, informative and accommodating to the fussy needs of our teenager. He also took loads of fantastic photos for us. I highly recommend booking a tour with Eiji, you won't be disappointed.Fantastic day with Eiji

Elicia🇺🇸 United States

(About local Eiji)

14 July 2025

Eiji was very very nice, and he took us to some interesting spots in Kyoto, but it was also the least informative city tour I have ever been on, anywhere in the world. Mostly, he took us to spots and took our photo, and/or gave us 5 minutes to walk around. He didn't tell us much of anything about any of the areas. If you are mostly interested in getting a bunch of group photos around Kyoto, then this tour will work for you. Not very informative

Jenn🇺🇸 United States

(About local Simone)

13 July 2025

We had such an amazing time on this food tour with Simone. Our stomachs AND our hearts were full! Simone is a knowledgable guide, excellent communicator, history buff, foodie and he managed to connect with each of us in our group, spanning ages 65 to 17--no easy feat. Our teen son said he had no idea that a tour or a tour guide could be like this--this GOOD! It was worth every penny and more! If he's open, book it now. You will not regret it. Truly, Simone is that "One in a million." --from US family of 4 (foodies)The BEST!

Penelope

(About local Shohei)

10 July 2025

Tao🇺🇸 United States

(About local Eiji)

9 July 2025

I had the pleasure of having Eiji as our guide, and I can honestly say he made the entire experience unforgettable! From the start, he was incredibly friendly and approachable, making everyone in our large group feel at ease. Eiji's ability to smoothly manage the group and accommodate last-minute requests was truly impressive. No matter the change, he handled everything with ease and kept things running perfectly. He was also incredibly responsive to any inquiries I had, ensuring I felt well taken care of throughout the trip. At one point, there was a slight issue with one of the bikes, and without hesitation, Eiji swapped his own bike to make sure no one had any issues. That extra attention to detail really stood out and showed how much he cared about everyone’s experience. The ride itself was so much fun, and the treats Eiji brought for us were a lovely, thoughtful touch. He created a warm, friendly atmosphere and was a joy to be around. His energy and enthusiasm truly made the trip enjoyable, and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a guide who goes above and beyond. Thank you, Eiji, for an unforgettable adventure!Exceptional Guide

Khatera

(About local Tiro)

8 July 2025

Tiro was the best guide! He was very knowledgable and interactive with our kids, kept everyone engaged, yet learning tons of information about Kyoto and Japan. Highly recommend Tiro!!!!Fantastic guide!

alisa.lev89

(About local Eiji)

6 July 2025

We were lucky to meet Eiji San. He was exactly what we were looking for and got to learn and connect and explore. Great time! Amazing guide!

Raf🇳🇱 Netherlands

(About local Yoshihiro)

6 July 2025

Yoshihiro took al the time to give us a fantastic experience. He also gave us extra advice through whatsapp, also about OsakaGreat knowledge and service

Kathi

(About local Simone)

5 July 2025

Simone was great and very knowledgeable. We got so much in in a short time. He was engaging and accommodating, even with the crazy heat.

Julie

(About local Guia)

5 July 2025

My 16 yr old son and I took a tour of Arishiyama Bamboo Forest, a villa, and the town area with Guia. My son was dead set against a tour at first, and afterward he raved about what a wonderful time it was and how he is “now sold on tours”! Guia was knowledgable and a great guide who knew how to pivot when some places were closed due to our need for a late start. We highly recommend a tour with her!Wonderful Afternoon with Guia

Vanessa🇺🇸 United States

(About local Yoshihiro)

5 July 2025

The day we had our private tour with yoshihiro it was raining very hard in Kyoto, and even so we had an amazing time! We learned so much we would not have learned about geishas and its history. He also made sure to give us recommendations that accommodated it us it was a wonderful time and we highly recommend!!!!Wonderful knowledgeable experience

Emma🇨🇷 Costa Rica

(About local Simone)

4 July 2025

Simone was an amazing tour guide. He was very knowledgeable about Japan and its history and answered all our questions. He took us to great places in Kyoto, especially ones a bit more niche we wouldn’t have found on our own. He was very patient with us and even took the time to send us restaurant recommendations later. 10/10, would definitely recommend you book your tour with him. Informative and beautiful tour

rsilverberg25

(About local Yoshihiro)

4 July 2025

Ted was awesome . Highly recommend him in Kyoto. Knew his stuff and was very accommodating to our group was above and beyond what we expected . Enjoy …Ted was an amazing guide in Kyoto

Jason

(About local Simone)

2 July 2025

We had an incredible time on our food tour in Osaka, thanks to our fantastic guide, Simone. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and made us feel welcome right from the start. Simone took us to excellent local spots we never would have found on our own, and every stop had delicious food and great stories behind it. He shared so much interesting history about the city and culture, which made the experience even more memorable. We left full, happy, and with a deeper appreciation for Osaka’s amazing food and city. We highly recommend this tour and cannot recommend Simone enough to anyone visiting!A wonderful Osaka food tour experience

Steven🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Guia)

1 July 2025

Guia was a lovely lady who had a wealth of knowledge and a happy friendly personality. She expertly guided us around Kyoto and a smooth and effective pace, taking into consideration the heat that particular day. I would highly recommend her and will miss her smiley face.Fun and informative

David and Susan🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Yoshihiro)

30 June 2025

Yoshihiro was most accommodating and came to our hotel to meet us. He is very friendly and clearly knowledgeable on all Kyoto has to offer. He gave detailed historical information with insights on why this beautiful city came to be and encouraged us to see the Silver Temple and its gardens which was the highlight of our visit. Meeting Yoshihiro

Lynley

(About local David)

29 June 2025

David’s tour was excellent!! He gave us many choices to personalize our experience, was very knowledgeable and kind. We enjoyed our tour tremendously and would highly recommend him to others!Fully Personalized experience

Stephen🇺🇸 United States

(About local Shohei)

29 June 2025

What makes Shohei great is that he's a native English speaker and equally versed in all things Kyoto. That combined with his ability to adapt to harsh rain storms and changing needs made him an ideal guide for my family of four.Adaptive, Agile and Knowledgable!

Mojca🇸🇮 Slovenia

(About local Tiro)

28 June 2025

This was a special experience to have a guide all by yourself and with so much flexibility. Tiro guided us around so smoothly, so all we did was enjoy the area without looking at the map or reading the guide book. He told us most interesting facts and stories, which we enjoyed very very much. During the tour we had a deliciouis snack. Three hours passed soo quickly, but without any further dues Tiro showed us all what he planned. We enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and we loved the seven rule quize. We keep it in mind as we go, especially the last one :) We are very greatful for this experience and we highly recommend Tiro for the tour. Afterwards ( and even before we arrived to Kyoto), he gave us further recommendations on food, which turned out to be delicious. Last, but not last, during the tour we got lucky to see maiko on the street. Excellent experience

Steve🇺🇸 United States

(About local Shohei)

26 June 2025

Shohei was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic sharing the Japan experience with us. 10

Charma🇺🇸 United States

(About local Eiji)

25 June 2025

This tour was fantastic! Eiji made the experience exceptional, and I would recommend him to anyone considering this tour. For the Nishiki Market portion of the tour, Eiji recommended the foods and we had the ability to decline and try something different. We chose to take his recommendations and try the things he thought we would enjoy. He focused on the shops that had been in the market for a very long time and not the new pop-up tourist trap stalls. He took a ton of pictures for us as we tried the different things. He also explained the origin/history of the foods we were trying. Part two of the tour was even better! Eiji took us to several different shrines and explained the rituals that are performed by those who worship at the shrines. He walked us through areas in Gion and pointed out things we never would have known or never would have seen. He gave us an education into things that we were interested in learning but didn't expect to get from this tour. This was by far one of the best tours I have taken in many years of traveling. When I go back to Kyoto, I will book a tour with him again! Thank you Eiji for making this a wonderful time for us. Amazing Guide

Nathan

(About local David)

24 June 2025

This was the highlight of our trip to Japan. Kyoto was an amazing place and Davis showing us around and showing us places and telling us about them is something we could not have done on our own. He was extremely informative and fun. Get some comfy shoes and take a walk with David, trust me its worth it…This was the highlight of our trip to Japan

Pamela🇺🇸 United States

(About local Simone)

23 June 2025

Simone was a lively, well-informed, and joyful tour guide. Not only did he bring us to great places to eat, but showed us a bit of the vast history of Osaka. We loved walking down the streets with him and cracking jokes while eating gyoza. Book Simone if possible! His Japanese is great which was very helpful in getting around. We will be keeping in touch with him! Thanks, Simone!!!Miso hungry, miso full!

Pratyush

(About local David)

22 June 2025

David is a perfect host. He customised everything for us. He adjusted the timings. He took care of our 3 year old kid. Made her laugh and play. He also has a very deep knowledge about history and things. He explained us intricate details at temples. He took us through a hidden route which saved us hours of other activities.David is perfect host. He customized everything for us

nicole🇺🇸 United States

(About local Yoshihiro)

22 June 2025

Come hungry for fascinating and fun tour of Kyoto food. Ted-san guided us through both Nishiki market and the Gion area (NB: 2 tours) and kept our distractable teenagers engaged and fascinated. We all learned a lot and feel a new connection and appreciation for Kyoto and Japan. Very worthwhile (& delicious) tour!Ted-san is warm, informed local “uncle”

nicole🇺🇸 United States

(About local Yoshihiro)

22 June 2025

Ted-san was our charming tour guide for 5.5 hrs (2 tours) and our easily-distracted teenagers were engaged and happy the whole time. We covered the Gion area history, both general and secret, including shrines, daily life, and samurai and geisha cultures. Ted-san was an expert and warm “local uncle “ who made our introduction to Japan a joy. Ted-san is amazing!

Barbara

(About local Shohei)

20 June 2025

This was a wonderful tour! You won’t be disappointed with Shohei! He was on time for our tour, very informative about where we went and what we saw, and fun to be around. He also took us to the best Raman place for lunch. You can’t go wrong with Shohei!!Shohei was awesome!!

Nicole

(About local David)

20 June 2025

David is a great guide! It was just me, but he kept me entertained the whole time. If I ever go back to Kyoto I'd book him again.He kept me entertained the whole time!