Food tours in Kyoto cut straight to the heart of Japan’s ancient capital through its cuisine. The standout “10 Tastings” private tour impresses with its intimate approach and knowledgeable guides who speak multiple languages. For an elegant evening experience, I love the Gion district tour featuring a traditional multi-course Kaiseki dinner – it’s pure magic in Japan’s most famous geisha quarter. The Nishiki Market tour, a personal favorite, combines cultural exploration with essential tastings at this centuries-old marketplace. Our trusted picks include tours that smartly blend food sampling with visits to temples and authentic geisha encounters. Check out these top-rated Kyoto food tours that showcase the city’s finest flavors.
Key Points
- Private and personalized food tours featuring 6-8 tastings, led by multilingual guides and offering an intimate experience for up to 10 participants.
- Evening food tours showcasing a 10-course Kaiseki dinner, standing bar restaurants, and personalized attention from English-speaking guides.
- Guided tours of Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” providing cultural insights and opportunities to sample unique local dishes.
- Culinary adventures that combine local food experiences with visits to cultural landmarks like Yasaka Shrine and Gion Shirakawa.
- Workshops and tours that offer immersive experiences in Kyoto’s food culture, including sake tastings and visits to historical sites.
The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Kyoto: The 10 Tastings
The award-winning PRIVATE food tour of Kyoto: The 10 Tastings offers travelers a delectable journey through the city’s rich culinary heritage.
With a 93% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an intimate experience, led by a knowledgeable multilingual guide. Theres some good 10 high-quality local food and drink tastings, including vegetarian options, while gaining insights into Kyoto’s culture.
The sustainable, carbon-neutral experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as entrance to select attractions.
While some travelers have expressed concerns about value and limited hidden gems, the host remains committed to improving the tour based on feedback and showcasing Kyoto’s culinary treasures.
Read our full review: The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Kyoto: The 10 Tastings Review
Book now: Check availability
Uncover The Best Foodie Spots In Kyoto Pontocho With Guide
Explore Kyoto’s vibrant Pontocho district with a guided food tour that uncovers the best local foodie spots.
For €176.82 per person, this 4-hour tour takes you on a culinary journey through the charming alleyways. You’ll visit a traditional noodle shop, savor juicy meat and seafood skewers, and indulge in seasonal Kyoto specialties.
The small group size, limited to 10 participants, ensures a personalized experience. With included soft drinks, snacks, and optional alcoholic beverages, this tour offers excellent value.
Discover the iconic Gion district, stroll along the Kamo River, and learn about Kyoto’s rich culture and cuisine.
Rated 4/5 by a solo traveler, this tour is highly recommended for those seeking an authentic gastronomic adventure.
Read our full review: Uncover The Best Foodie Spots In Kyoto Pontocho With Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Evening Gion Food Tour Including Kaiseki Dinner
Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage comes alive on this immersive evening food tour through the iconic Gion district.
With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll explore the charming alleys and historical landmarks while savoring a 10-course Kaiseki dinner. The tour includes hotel pickup, a local guide, and one complimentary drink.
Highlights range from observing locals along the Kamogawa River to discovering Gion’s exclusive restaurants and tea houses.
While most travelers rave about the cultural insights and delicious meals, some felt the dinner quality didn’t match the high price tag.
Read our full review: Kyoto Evening Gion Food Tour Including Kaiseki Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: Gion Night Walking & Food Tour
An immersive evening in Kyoto’s renowned Gion district awaits travelers on this guided food and cultural tour. Priced from $106.69 per person, the 3-hour experience showcases the history and culinary delights of this iconic neighborhood.
Guests will explore the charming alleyways of Gion, enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner, and visit a local bar, all while learning about the area’s rich heritage from a knowledgeable guide.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the small-group setting ensures an intimate and engaging experience. Highly rated for its value, variety of dishes, and the guide’s expertise, this tour offers an authentic taste of Kyoto’s captivating food and culture.
Read our full review: Kyoto: Gion Night Walking & Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour
For those seeking a more casual and intimate evening food tour in Kyoto, the Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour offers an enchanting alternative to the well-known Gion experience.
This highly-rated 5-hour tour takes visitors through the historic Pontocho area, where they’ll enjoy 4 food stops and 2 drinks guided by a local English-speaker.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a personalized experience, covering Kyoto’s culinary highlights and sights.
While not suitable for strict dietary requirements, the tour is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it a convenient option for most travelers.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides flexibility for planning your Kyoto adventure.
Read our full review: Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: Nishiki Market Tour With a Local Foodie
Travelers seeking a captivating introduction to Kyoto’s renowned Nishiki Market can embark on the Kyoto: Nishiki Market Tour with a Local Foodie.
Priced from $48.01 to $60.01 per person, this private 1.5-hour tour immerses guests in the rich culinary heritage of the city.
Led by a local foodie, the experience includes a guided exploration of the historic Nishiki-Tenmangu Shrine, the vibrant Teramachi Street shopping district, and the bustling Nishiki Market, where participants can sample a variety of regional delicacies.
With a 5/5 overall rating based on 7 reviews, this tour offers an engaging and authentic taste of Kyoto’s culinary secrets.
Read our full review: Kyoto: Nishiki Market Tour With a Local Foodie Review
Book now: Check availability
Taste of Nishiki Market Private Food Tour
The Taste of Nishiki Market Walking Food Tour immerses participants in Kyoto’s renowned culinary heritage. Rated 4.5 stars by 18 reviewers, this private tour allows up to 6 travelers to discover the vibrant Nishiki Market and sample 7 local foods plus an alcoholic drink.
At $81.80 per person, the tour includes lunch, snacks, and options for additional tastings. While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Highlights include knowledgeable, friendly guides who provide cultural insights and sake tastings. Some reviews note mixed feedback on pacing, but overall the tour offers an excellent introduction to Kyoto’s renowned street food scene.
Read our full review: Taste of Nishiki Market Private Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private 3 Hours VEGAN Walking Tour (Lunch or Dinner)
On this Private 3 Hours VEGAN Walking Tour, participants explore Kyoto’s culture from a plant-based perspective.
At around four different shops, they’ll enjoy tasting experiences, with a focus on the safety of vegan food. Interactions with the local community create memorable experiences.
The tour is designed for vegans, featuring plant-based food walks and restaurant meals. Participants can choose between a lunch or dinner course, with the meal expenses included in the price.
While transportation isn’t provided, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Participants should bring comfortable shoes and cash, as some shops accept cash only.
Read our full review: Private 3 Hours VEGAN Walking Tour (Lunch or Dinner) Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Nishiki Market & Depachika: 2-Hours Food Tour With a Local
Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Kyoto during this 2-hour food tour of the renowned Nishiki Market and modern depachika (department store food halls).
Priced from $100 per person, the tour accommodates up to 9 travelers and is led by an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include sampling traditional Japanese delicacies like senpei, gyoza, warabimochi, and takoyaki.
Participants praise the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and ability to navigate the markets effectively.
While some suggest more historical context, the flexible approach allows guests to explore based on their preferences.
With convenient meeting and end points, free cancellation, and transportation included, this tour offers an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Kyoto.
Read our full review: Kyoto Nishiki Market & Depachika: 2-Hours Food Tour With a Local Review
Book now: Check availability
Dive Into Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour (Small Group)
Explore Kyoto’s vibrant Nishiki Market on this small-group food tour that immerses you in the city’s renowned culinary scene.
Over four hours, you’ll discover the market’s family-owned shops and sample local specialties like tofu, pickles, and fresh seafood.
Visit Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest shrines, and learn about traditional customs.
With a professional English-speaking guide, you’ll also explore the Teramachi shopping district and enjoy included soft drinks, bottled water, and snacks.
This tour offers a 15% discount, and you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Experience Kyoto’s food culture and traditions in an intimate small-group setting.
Read our full review: Dive Into Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour (Small Group) Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Private Food Tours With a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized
Travelers seeking a personalized food exploration in Kyoto can embark on a private tour led by a local foodie.
This 3-hour experience provides 6-8 tastings of local specialties, plus a glass of sake, wine, beer, or soft drink. The tour is highly customizable, with public transport or private taxi options available.
Guests will meet at Matsumoto Kiyoshi Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi and return to the same location.
With a 4.5-star rating and positive feedback on the hosts’ friendliness and ability to uncover hidden gems, this tour offers an engaging and tailored culinary journey through Kyoto.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for flexibility.
Read our full review: Kyoto Private Food Tours With a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized Review
Book now: Check availability
Discovery More Kyoto Gion Evening Food Tour
Set out on a 3-hour evening food tour through Kyoto’s iconic Gion district, where the traditional culture of geisha and hostess clubs blends with the modern dining scene.
The Discovery More Kyoto Gion Evening Food Tour takes you to two standing bar restaurants to sample regional dishes and drinks. Priced at Kč 4,761 per person, this small-group tour accommodates up to 9 participants and is suitable for teenagers and older.
Enjoy personalized attention from your English-speaking guide as you explore the Pontocho, Kiyamachi, and Kawaramachi Street areas, learning about the evolution of evening entertainment in Kyoto.
Dietary restrictions can be accommodated, and you can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Discovery More Kyoto Gion Evening Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Fushimi District Food and History Tour
On this Kyoto Fushimi District Food and History Tour, guests will explore the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the Fushimi area.
Priced from $81.80 per person, this small-group tour (maximum 10 travelers) takes participants on a journey through Kyoto’s historic Fushimi district.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy a taiyaki (Japanese waffle) and explore a sake distillery museum and the Teradaya Inn.
Lunch at Ryoma Shopping Street is included, along with snacks, sweets, and coffee or tea.
With a knowledgeable guide, guests can expect a memorable experience, as evidenced by the tour’s stellar 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews.
Read our full review: Kyoto Fushimi District Food and History Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Taste Local Eats In Gion Friendly Food Tour (Limited Price)
Sojourners seeking a delectable journey through Kyoto’s renowned Gion district can indulge in the Taste Local Eats In Gion Friendly Food Tour.
This 4-hour small-group experience offers savings of up to 15%, with prices starting from €150.30 per person. Guests will explore the historic Hanamikoji-dori, visit the iconic Yasaka Shrine, and wander through the charming Gion Shirakawa.
Along the way, they’ll savor local Kyoto dishes, enjoy a geisha performance, and gain insights into the area’s captivating geisha culture.
With a live guide, free cancellation, and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour promises an enriching and personalized culinary adventure in the heart of Gion.
Read our full review: Taste Local Eats In Gion Friendly Food Tour (Limited Price) Review
Book now: Check availability
Private FOOD Walking Tour in Kyoto City Highlight Exploration
Guests seeking a private and personalized food exploration in Kyoto can enjoy the Private FOOD Walking Tour in Kyoto City Highlight Exploration.
This evening tour offers a guided journey through Gion, Kyoto’s renowned geisha district. Travelers will enjoy a included dinner, with all food costs covered.
The tour starts at 7:30 PM near the Geisha Statue of Izumono Okuni and returns to the same meeting point. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly.
Guests have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide local insights and historical context.
However, some felt the tour structure and dining experiences didn’t fully align with their expectations, prompting the hosts to acknowledge and clarify the offerings.
Read our full review: Private FOOD Walking Tour in Kyoto City Highlight Exploration Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: All-Inclusive 3-Hour Food and Culture Tour in Gion
This 3-hour food and culture tour in Kyoto’s renowned Gion district offers an immersive exploration of the city’s culinary and historical highlights.
Priced from Kč 2,052 per person, the tour includes guided visits to key landmarks, such as Yasaka Shrine and Kamo River, as well as dining experiences at two local restaurants.
Participants can enjoy a Japanese-style tapas dinner with a variety of small dishes and two drinks. For an additional fee, Kobe beef is available with advance booking.
Rated 4.6/5 by over 500 reviewers, this small-group tour (max 6 people) or private option provides an excellent value, knowledgeable guides, and a memorable cultural experience in Kyoto.
Read our full review: Kyoto: All-Inclusive 3-Hour Food and Culture Tour in Gion Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto “Karasuma to Gion” Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Embarking on the Kyoto “Karasuma to Gion” Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours, travelers can expect an immersive exploration of the city’s culinary landscape.
The small-group experience begins at Karasuma and concludes in Gion, featuring a guided walk through various eateries. Guests will savor renowned yuba tofu, a sweet twist on katsudon, Kyoto-style okonomiyaki, seared wagyu sushi, and more, complemented by draft beer, Japanese tea, and sake tastings.
The tour’s logistics include a maximum of 10 travelers, free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and a starting point near Karasuma Oike Station.
While generally well-reviewed, some feedback indicates room for improvement in guide engagement, though the hosts aim to enhance the experience based on guest feedback.
Read our full review: Kyoto “Karasuma to Gion” Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: Insider Sake Brewery Tour With Sake and Food Pairing
For travelers seeking a deeper dive into Kyoto’s rich sake culture, the Insider Sake Brewery Tour with Sake Tasting and Food Pairing offers an immersive experience.
Priced from $91.35 per person, this 3-hour tour takes you to Fushimi, Kyoto’s sake district, to explore about 25 local breweries.
Led by certified sake sommeliers, the tour includes a guided visit, tastings of 10+ sake varieties, and a food pairing with traditional Japanese snacks.
Participants will learn about sake production, flavor profiles, and gain expertise to better enjoy sake in the future.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour is a must for sake enthusiasts visiting Kyoto.
Read our full review: Kyoto: Insider Sake Brewery Tour With Sake and Food Pairing Review
Book now: Check availability
Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Kyoto can embark on the Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour. This 2.5-hour adventure explores the historic Gion district and the “kitchen of Kyoto,” Nishiki Market.
Guests will sample 4-5 local food items, including at least one street food, and enjoy brunch at a nearby restaurant. While the tour can’t accommodate dietary restrictions, it provides a rundown of Kyoto’s vibrant food scene.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, though some note the limited time for market sampling. The Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour offers an engaging way to discover Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: 3-Hour Night Foodie Tour in Gion
The Kyoto 3-Hour Night Foodie Tour in Gion offers an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant food culture.
Priced at $157.70 per person, this 3-hour tour is limited to just 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
Guests will savor authentic Kyoto specialties, including obanzai, oden, and yuba, accompanied by traditional sake.
The tour also includes a visit to a hidden gem café in the Pontocho area and a stop for local desserts.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insights into Kyoto’s history and customs.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 16 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for a taste of Kyoto’s culinary delights.
Read our full review: Kyoto: 3-Hour Night Foodie Tour in Gion Review
Book now: Check availability
Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk
Exploring Kyoto’s iconic Nishiki Market, also known as the “Kitchen of Kyoto,” offers an immersive culinary journey through the city’s rich food culture.
This 3-hour walking tour takes you through the market’s 400-year-old stalls, where you’ll sample unique Kyoto dishes like pickled vegetables, fried fish cakes, and Japanese pike conger eel.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides personal attention and cultural insights, earning it a 98% recommendation from travelers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and can’t accommodate dietary restrictions, it’s an excellent way to discover Kyoto’s vibrant food scene and authentic flavors.
Read our full review: Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk Review
Book now: Check availability
Secret Food Tours Kyoto
For those seeking a deeper dive into Kyoto’s vibrant food scene, Secret Food Tours Kyoto offers an immersive 3-hour experience.
Priced from $164.35 per person with a group size limited to 10, this English-language tour explores the Karasuma and Gion districts.
Highlights include visiting Nishiki Market, savoring local specialties like Katsudon and Okonomiyaki, and experiencing a Japanese sake tasting.
The tour also includes a variety of dishes like Yuba Tofu, Wagyu sushi, and seasonal Daifuku mochi.
With free cancellation and flexible booking, this highly-rated tour (5/5) from travelers in Germany and the U.S. provides an authentic taste of Kyoto’s culinary treasures.
Read our full review: Secret Food Tours Kyoto Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Foodie Night Tour
Kyoto Foodie Night Tour offers a captivating culinary adventure for those seeking an immersive exploration of the city’s vibrant food scene.
With a maximum group size of 8, this highly-rated 5-star tour takes you on a delectable journey through Kyoto’s culinary highlights. Indulge in at least seven mouthwatering dishes, including street food and regional specialties, accompanied by two included drinks.
Experience a 10+ course Kyoto-style dinner, while your knowledgeable guide shares insights into the city’s rich culinary heritage. Praised for its personalized approach and friendly guides, this tour is an ideal choice for solo travelers, groups, and first-time visitors looking to uncover Kyoto’s gastronomic treasures.
Read our full review: Kyoto Foodie Night Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: Nishiki Market and Depachika Food Tour With a Local
Eager to uncover the culinary treasures of Kyoto? The Kyoto: Nishiki Market and Depachika Food Tour with a Local offers a 2-hour exploration of the city’s renowned food scene.
For $96.69 per person, you’ll dive into Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” where you’ll sample delectable Japanese delicacies. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the food culture and history.
The tour also includes a visit to the Nishiki-Tenmangu Shrine and a guided tour of the Daimaru Kyoto department store. With a maximum group size of 9, you’re guaranteed a personalized experience.
Reviewers praise the tour’s value, with a 4.6/5 overall rating. Just remember to arrive 10 minutes early and wear comfortable shoes.
Read our full review: Kyoto: Nishiki Market and Depachika Food Tour With a Local Review
Book now: Check availability
Shirakawa Japanese Food Culture Experience With an English Staff
Shirakawa Japanese Food Culture Experience offers travelers an immersive glimpse into Kyoto’s renowned culinary heritage.
This highly-rated tour includes two workshops and private English-speaking staff to guide participants. Transportation is provided, with the meeting point at Furukawashuzo in Higashiyama Ward.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly and near public transit. While non-refundable, the experience is praised for its authentic culture and welcoming community.
Priced from SEK 1,124.07 per person with a lowest price guarantee, this popular activity is likely to sell out, so travelers should check availability before booking.
Read our full review: Shirakawa Japanese Food Culture Experience With an English Staff Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Kyoto’s food tours offer an immersive culinary experience. Whether you prefer a private guided tour, a nighttime exploration of Gion, or a deep dive into Nishiki Market, there’s a tour to suit your interests. These tours provide the chance to savor Kyoto’s renowned cuisine, from traditional kaiseki to hidden local gems. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on authentic flavors, these food tours are the perfect way to discover Kyoto’s vibrant gastronomic scene.