Experience the best of Kyoto’s local cuisine and vibrant nightlife on a small group walking tour. Sample regional specialties, mingle with locals, and get a glimpse of Kyoto’s nightlife scenes.
6:30pm You’ve done the daytime temples, gardens, and academic thing, had a bit of rest, and are now ready to set about seeing what the night has to offer. We’ll meet at Gion Shijo Station, then start with an educational walk through the justifiably famous Gion district, which is located on the east side of the Kamogawa River. Learn about the geiko (and why we don’t call them “geisha” in Kyoto), as well as the places that make this district so special. You’ll also regaled with insight and info about how the art of evening entertainment has evolved into the hostess clubs of today. (Rest assured this tour is suitable for teenagers and higher.)
7:30pm Your hour-long anthropological adventure has left you ready for some food and drink, and we know just the place. You’ll get to try a few different regionally representative dishes and a beer – or perhaps you’d like a shochu or some sake instead? Various dietary restrictions, tastes, and bravery levels will be happily accommodated.
8:15pm Take a stroll through both youthful and classic restaurant and entertainment districts on the west side of the Kamogawa River, including Pontocho, Kiyamachi, and the Kawaramachi St. area. The old narrow streets along Pontocho will allow you to see how much the people of Kyoto value and protect tradition, while the younger areas a couple streets away will show you how eager Kyoto people are to also firmly live in the present.
9pm No night is complete with just one restaurant stop, so we’ll visit another thoroughly vetted and often enjoyed spot. There will be more tasty vittles for your culinary consideration, and of course another drink in accompaniment.
9:30pm The end of the evening has come, but hopefully you’ve been able to garner a lasting understanding and appreciation of Kyoto’s various foods, nightlife, and vibe.
Points of Interest
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Kamogawa River
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Yasaka Shrine
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Gion
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Kiyamachi Street
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Pontocho District
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Kawaramachidori
- Dinner included.
- Option of two alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.
- One beverage available at each restaurant.
- Drinks beyond the two included. Additional drinks can be purchased directly from the restaurants if you wish.
Join a group of no more than five others on a unique, comprehensive evening tour of Kyoto’s food and nightlife districts! You’ll socialize with locals, taste regional delicacies at two diverse standing bar eateries (although we occasionally sit at one or both), and receive an eye-opening introduction to the various evening entertainment scenes in Kyoto, starting from geiko (also known as ‘geisha’). With a fluent English speaking guide who either originated from the area or knows it well, you’ll gain an intimate understanding of the locality. Plus, with delectable food and a pair of (included) beverages, the enjoyment will only increase!
Our tours operate in extremely small groups (with a maximum of 6 people), guaranteeing you more attention and quality. Anticipate local knowledge, delicious food, and fun times.
If Kobe beef is on your culinary wish list, make sure to select the option that includes 100g (approximately 3.5 oz.) of prime Kobe region beef. It’s also quite affordable!
- The minimum drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.
- All participants must be 13+ to participate in this experience
- Vegetarians happily accommodated.
- Gratuities are uncommon in Japan, however if you really enjoyed your time and want to show your guide how much you appreciate them, they’ll be extremely happy!
- Tours limited to 6, but groups up to 8 are welcome in cases where the entire group is the same reservation.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
