Lunch in Kyoto combines authentic food with meaningful cultural experiences. The best options connect you directly with local traditions: meditate with monks before enjoying their vegetarian shojin cooking, or work up an appetite hiking the famous red gates of Fushimi Inari before stopping for handmade soba noodles. Gion’s ramen shops and sake brewery tours offer tasty introductions to these Japanese specialties, while bike tours let you earn your meal while exploring ancient neighborhoods. Vegans and vegetarians are well-cared for with dedicated walking tours through the old city. These tested-and-proven experiences show you the real Kyoto, connecting you to centuries of culture through food. Let’s explore the top lunch tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Explore traditional Zen Buddhist practices and enjoy a Shojin vegetarian lunch during a 4.5-hour culture tour in Kyoto.
- Savor local culinary delights, including soba noodles and authentic Japanese lunches, on small-group hiking and cycling tours around Kyoto.
- Experience a comprehensive full-day cultural tour of Uji, Nara, and Kyoto, including a tea ceremony, historic sites, and a flexible lunch experience.
- Enjoy a private vegan walking tour with lunch or dinner, featuring tastings and accommodations for various dietary needs.
- Indulge in a private ramen lunch at a renowned Gion restaurant, offering a traditional ramen set with matcha ice cream.
Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour at a Zen Temple With Lunch
A Kyoto Zen Meditation & Garden Tour at a Zen temple offers travelers a transformative experience. The 4.5-hour tour includes a 1-hour Zazen meditation, a delicious Shojin Buddhist vegetarian lunch, and guided exploration of the temple’s serene gardens.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Yutaka and Hikari, the tour provides valuable insights into Zen practices and philosophy. With a maximum of 7 participants, the intimate experience allows for personal connections and deeper understanding.
Highly recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking a meaningful culture in Kyoto. Timeliness is crucial, as late arrivals will miss the meditation session without refund.
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Kyoto: Full-Day City Highlights Bike Tour With Light Lunch
Embarking on a full-day bike tour, travelers explore Kyoto’s renowned highlights, seeing the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour covers approximately 27 miles, visiting iconic sites like the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and the Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion.
Guided by knowledgeable English-speaking experts, participants gain insights into Japanese culture and history. Included in the experience are safety briefings, bicycle and helmet, bottled water, entry fees, and a light lunch.
Suitable for those with cycling experience and good stamina, the tour offers a unique perspective on Kyoto’s top attractions beyond typical tourist routes.
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Inside of Fushimi Inari – Exploring and Lunch With Locals
Although the iconic red torii gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine are a popular draw for visitors to Kyoto, this half-day small-group hiking tour offers a more immersive experience.
The tour group, limited to 12 participants, explores hidden local attractions like a waterfall and gate factory, while enjoying a soba noodle lunch and snacks at a traditional mountain hut.
With a knowledgeable and friendly guide, the moderate hike caters to various dietary needs.
While some past guests have noted communication issues, the tour boasts an overall rating of 4.5 from travelers and a Badge of Excellence, making it a recommended way to discover the lesser-known aspects of this renowned shrine.
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Kyoto: 4-Hour Historical Highlights Cycling Tour With Lunch
Exploring Kyoto’s historical highlights through a 4-hour cycling tour, this small-group experience presents an engaging way to discover the ancient capital’s iconic sites.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you will cycle along the Kamo River, wander through the picturesque Gion district, and visit renowned temples like Kenninji and Nanzenji.
The tour includes a traditional Japanese lunch at a local tea house, providing an opportunity to savor the country’s cuisine.
With a maximum of 6 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience, and the rental bikes, photos, and entrance fees to Kenninji Temple are all included in the affordable price of $90.68 per person.
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Bike Tour Exploring North Kyoto Plus Lunch
This bike tour through northern Kyoto offers an immersive experience that allows visitors to discover the hidden gems and iconic sights of the ancient capital.
Travelers will cycle through the area, stopping at temples, shrines, and other attractions while enjoying knowledgeable guidance. The tour includes an authentic Japanese lunch, with options like sushi or noodles, and provides all necessary cycling equipment.
With a maximum group size of 8, the experience ensures a personalized and safe adventure. Reviewers praise the tour’s pacing, the guides’ expertise, and the cultural significance of the lunch.
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Kyoto Bicycle Tour and Lunch With Goverment Certified Tour Guide
The Kyoto Bicycle Tour and Lunch with Government Certified Tour Guide offers visitors an immersive cultural experience in the ancient capital. Priced at $46 per person, the tour includes a guide, helmet, and bicycle, as well as third-party insurance and food and drinks.
However, temple tickets and transportation fees are additional costs. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those in wheelchairs, though most travelers can participate.
Reviews have been mixed, with some reporting excellent experiences, while others have complained about last-minute cancellations and difficulties obtaining refunds.
The tour provider acknowledges the high tourist volume has led to these issues and has confirmed refunds were processed.
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Kyoto: Japanese Washoku Bento Cooking Class With Lunch
For those seeking a unique culinary experience in Kyoto, the Kyoto: Japanese Washoku Bento Cooking Class with Lunch offers an immersive opportunity to learn the art of traditional Japanese bento box assembly.
Priced at $53.34 per person, this 2-hour class is limited to just 5 participants, ensuring personalized attention. Participants will learn to prepare sushi rolls, tempura, tofu salad, and Japanese rolled omelette, focusing on the principles of washoku cuisine.
With hands-on instruction in English and Japanese, travelers will also develop essential skills like frying tempura and using knives. Reviewers praise the quality of instruction and the enjoyable cooking process, making this class a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Kyoto.
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Full-Day Tour in Uji and Nara With Lunch
Travelers have the opportunity to embark on a full-day tour that explores the historic cities of Uji and Nara, with a delectable lunch included.
The tour features a national government licensed English guide and includes admission fees and transportation costs. Participants will walk to Todai-ji Temple and enjoy a tea ceremony experience in a traditional tatami room.
While the order of activities may vary, the tour offers a well-rounded experience, including a morning walking tour and an afternoon bus tour.
Certain restrictions apply, such as a minimum of two participants and a moderate level of physical fitness required.
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Nishiki Market Lunch Tour
This immersive Nishiki Market Lunch Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Kyoto’s renowned “Kitchen of Kyoto” and savor an array of local delicacies.
Rated 5.0 based on 15 reviews and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour takes participants through the vibrant Nishiki Market, where they’ll enjoy a delectable lunch and food tastings.
Starting at 11:00 am, the tour includes transportation near public transit and is suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with back problems.
With a maximum of 6 travelers and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a personalized and flexible dining experience in the heart of Kyoto.
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Kyoto Gion Festival and Lake Biwa Lunch Cruise Bus Tour
The Kyoto Gion Festival and Lake Biwa Lunch Cruise Bus Tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to witness the renowned Gion Matsuri Festival procession and enjoy a serene lunch cruise on the picturesque Lake Biwa.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour offers an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and tickets to the festival’s viewing seats.
The 5-star rated tour includes a buffet lunch during the Lake Biwa cruise.
However, it’s not wheelchair accessible, and the schedule may change without notice.
Cancellations due to natural disasters will receive full refunds, and personal responsibility for valuables is advised.
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Hiroshima, Miyajima 1 Day Bus With Indian Lunch From Osaka, Kyoto
Embarking on a comprehensive day trip, this one-day bus tour from Osaka or Kyoto offers visitors an immersive exploration of Hiroshima and the serene island of Miyajima.
Travelers will ride a Shinkansen train to Hiroshima, visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, and take a ferry to the scenic Miyajima.
The tour includes an Indian curry lunch, which has received mixed reviews. The tour is highly rated for its organization, informative guide, and memorable highlights like the moving Hiroshima tour.
However, the quality and quantity of the Indian lunch have been noted as a downside. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.
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3 Hour Private Vegan Walking Tour With Lunch or Dinner
Kyoto’s 3 Hour Private Vegan Walking Tour with Lunch or Dinner offers visitors an immersive culinary experience through the city’s vibrant plant-based scene.
Priced from $146.55 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, snacks, food tastings, and either a lunch or dinner at the Premarché Alternative Diner.
The tour starts at the Shinsen-en garden and ends at the Premarché restaurant.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
Accommodations are available for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten-free diets.
Confirmed booking and 24-hour free cancellation provide added convenience.
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A Private Lunch at the Ramen Restaurant in Gion, Kyoto
Visitors to Kyoto’s vibrant Gion district can enjoy a private lunch at the renowned Gion Soymilk Ramen Uno Yukiko restaurant.
The experience accommodates groups of 10 to 14 people and lasts about an hour. The menu features a ramen lunch set with germinated fermented brown rice and matcha ice cream.
Located near public transportation, the experience starts and ends at the meeting point. Priced at ₹3,480.06 per person, the minimum charter amount is 60,000 yen for less than 9 persons.
The cancellation policy offers full refunds up to 11 days before the experience, with partial refunds for shorter notice periods.
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Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour With Lunch
For those seeking a deeper dive into Kyoto’s renowned sake culture, the Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour with Lunch offers an immersive experience.
This five-hour tour takes visitors to both small and large sake breweries, where they can learn about traditional production techniques and enjoy several tastings.
The experience also includes a local lunch featuring Yakitori paired with sake, as well as a stroll through the quaint area to explore shops.
While reviews are mixed on the guide’s ability to convey brewing concepts, the tour is recommended for beginners looking to expand their sake knowledge.
At €227.26 per person, it provides a comprehensive introduction to Kyoto’s sake scene.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available for the Lunches?
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available for lunches in Kyoto. Many restaurants offer plant-based dishes, catering to diverse dietary needs. Diners can easily find satisfying meatless meals to enjoy during their midday break.
How Long Do the Tours/Experiences Typically Last?
The tours and experiences typically last 2-3 hours, providing ample time to explore the local cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options are often available, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Lunches?
Many Kyoto lunch experiences can accommodate dietary restrictions. Providers are typically able to modify menus to cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice. Guests should inquire about specific options when booking.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tours and Lunch Experiences?
The dress code for the lunch tours is typically casual. While formal attire isn’t required, visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows them to move freely and enjoy the dining experience.
Are the Lunch Locations Wheelchair Accessible?
Many of the lunch locations in Kyoto are wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the specific restaurant or tour provider to confirm accessibility. Accessibility may vary across different venues.
The Sum Up
Kyoto offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, from traditional Zen temple meals to modern ramen restaurants. Visitors can explore the city’s highlights while enjoying a light lunch on a bike tour, or indulge in a private vegan walking tour with lunch. Whether seeking a cultural or a gastronomic adventure, Kyoto’s lunch options cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.