Experience Kyoto’s culture on this 3.5-hour tour. Visit historic temples and tea shops, and learn about Wabi-sabi before enjoying a traditional tea ceremony. Perfect for anyone wanting to explore Japanese traditions with a friendly local guide.
Meet at Gion Shijo Station, outside Exit 5, near the Izumo no Okuni Statue. Your guide will hold an orange signboard with "Magical Trip Tour." This is where the group will gather before starting the tour.
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Gion, Kyoto
Visit a cozy tea shop in the Gion area. Learn about different types of Japanese tea and their role in Kyoto's culture. Your guide will share insights into the basics of tea preparation.
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584 Komatsuchō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Explore the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. Walk through its peaceful grounds and learn about its history and connection to Zen Buddhism. Enjoy the quiet and beautiful surroundings.
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Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Stop by a shop that specializes in tea utensils. See traditional tools used for tea ceremonies and learn about their importance in Japanese tea culture.
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Takadai Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Take a break from the crowds and visit a calm, lesser-known temple. Hear about its history and its ties to Kyoto’s tea traditions while enjoying its peaceful atmosphere.
4 Chome-172-7 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
End the tour with a traditional tea ceremony in a serene setting. Watch the preparation of matcha, then enjoy the tea with a small seasonal snack. It’s a perfect way to experience Japanese culture and mindfulness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended, as the tour involves a city walk before the tea ceremony.
Yes. You’ll experience a traditional tea ceremony led by a tea master, enjoy matcha tea served with a small seasonal snack, and learn proper etiquette and meaning behind the rituals.
Yes. This is a small-group tour, so you may be joined by other participants.
Yes. Your guide will take photos during the tour and send them to you after the experience via email.
Yes. The tour is designed for first-time participants and includes explanations of each step of the tea ceremony and its cultural context.
Louis was very welcoming and knowledgeable. He explained many things at each temple which enhanced our experience and helped with our next self tour. The tea ceremony was amazing and surprisingly my husband even enjoyed the matcha.
Tanya R
February 8, 2026
Hede’s tour of Kyoto
Hede gave us literally a magical tour of Kyoto’s traditional streets and shrines , followed by a perfect tea ceremony.
Thank you so much!
Dawn O
January 10, 2026
Tanya R
February 8, 2026
Temples and Tea Ceremony
Louis was very welcoming and knowledgeable. He explained many things at each temple which enhanced our experience and helped with our next self tour. The tea ceremony was amazing and surprisingly my husband even enjoyed the matcha.
Dawn O
January 10, 2026
Hede’s tour of Kyoto
Hede gave us literally a magical tour of Kyoto’s traditional streets and shrines , followed by a perfect tea ceremony.
Thank you so much!
