Takashi's local food adventure through Gion Kyoto tips of Ramen

Kyoto , Japan

Takashi's local food adventure through Gion Kyoto tips of Ramen

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(8 reviews)

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About this experience

If you want to find ENGLISH-UNFRIENDLY restaurants, we have the best tour for you!! This is a highlight tour in downtown with FOOD experience. Try some local delicacy.

In the city center of Kyoto, Gion, we will enjoy night walk in nice traditional settings, learning some histories and culture on your way.

Then we will swiftly move to the restaurant since we are hungry :)

We choose different restaurants for every tour. You may unlock the new food style and taste during the tour, such as Katsu, Ramen, or Izakaya. After some walk, we sit and the guide will slect the best dishes at each place. Then talk to your guide. Takashi and Natsuki are very thrilled to share stories with you! Takashi is professional one that also offers a car tour in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka. His life is dedicated to offer great tips for your trip. Ask anything from Geisha, pagoda to the geography of Kyoto. He's a big foodie. His ramen place recommedation is must-check, which blows your mind.

See you on the tour!

Available options

with a Japanese Guide (English)

Local Japanese guide: Japanese guide accompany you, passionately navigating you through his secrets spots! (all spoken in English)

What's included

Private and personalized navigation

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Gion district, a part of the city center. It has lots of lively streets and shops but since when? Gion has been the center of entertainment and culture throughout over 500 years of history. Learn the unique culture and discuss your guide.

You may encounter Maiko and Geisha. They are traditional female performers, wearing unique all-white make up on their face, veiled in mystery. Listen to the guide. Who are they?

Stop 3

The shrine is special in terms of its role as a shrine. As being the center of entertainment, some unique culture represented by Geisha/Kabuki were developed in Gion. The shrine contains many traces of he history corresponding to those culture.

Stop 4 Pass by

Small alleys situated along the canal. Very iconic lanterns and shops are fun. We will walk through this alley towards our restaurant

Finally, we are arriving at the restaurant. Isn't it boring to be trapped at every touristy area? We get you covered.
Most of the real restaurants are hidden in the lively streets. They are so shy to foreiners and don't even have English menues. However, your guide knows Japanese and what's to be oredered there.
We excluded food fee from the tour price so you can choose what/how much you want to eat.

What's not included

All food are bought by guests. Guide will be able to pay for his/her food.

Available languages

Guide guide

KO EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Meeting point is in fornt of Geisha Statue of Izumono Okuni, near the Exit 5 of Gion Shijo st on Keihan line.

Important notes

Guide will purchase tickes at each place

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.