Nishiki Market Food Tour and Gion Stroll
Discover the perfect mix of flavor, tradition, and Kyoto charm!
Stroll through the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” and taste 7 authentic Japanese dishes—from takoyaki and Wagyu gyoza to matcha mochi and sake (vegetarian option available).
Then explore the scenic streets of Gion and Hanami Koji, Kyoto’s iconic geisha districts, where you might spot a geisha or maiko near the wooden teahouses.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Apple Kyoto
- Apple Store Kyoto 〒600-8006 Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Tachiuri Nakanocho, 83-1 〒600-8006 京都府京都市下京区四条通高倉東入立売中之町83-1
Nishiki Market
Kyoto’s historic food market with over 400 years of history, enjoy souvenir shopping and trying 7 types of local Japanese food.
Tenmangu Shrine
Dedicated to the god of learning and business, it’s known for its unique atmosphere, flowing sacred spring water, and bright lantern-lined entrance.
Kamo Gawa
A peaceful riverside perfect for a scenic walk and glimpses of local life.
Shirakawa Canal
One of Kyoto’s most beautiful streets, lined with willow trees and traditional houses.
Hanami Koji
The heart of the Gion geisha district, known for its wooden teahouses and the chance to spot a geisha or maiko.
Yasaka Shrine
A vibrant, 1000-year-old shrine that plays a central role in Kyoto’s festivals and traditions.
Ending Point
End in Yasaka Shrine
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
• Guide Fee
• Nishiki Market Food Tasting with vegetarian option available (wagyu beef gyozas, fluffy Japanese omelette, shrimp tempura, freshly made takoyaki, soy milk donuts, matcha mochi, japanese sake)
• Hotel Pick Up
Tour Important Information
Geisha/Maiko Sightings:
• Sightings are not guaranteed as they are working professionals with set schedules.
• No direct interaction is allowed out of respect for their privacy.
• Photos are only permitted from a distance—please be discreet and respectful.
Nishiki Market Food Tasting:
• Includes 7 types of Japanese food.
• Vegetarian-friendly options are available upon request.
• Items can be swapped for allergies or dietary restrictions—please inform in advance.
Tour Info:
• Approximate duration: 3 hours
• Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather
• Bring water and cash if you’d like to shop along the way
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Jasmine L.
Hi, I’m Jasmine! I am a friendly, multilingual guide based in Kyoto.
My tours are perfect for families with children and easy-paced for elderly guests. I offer warm, personal experiences filled with fun stories, local delights, and hidden gems you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s explore Kyoto together!
Reviews
Lindsay H.
“Go with Jasmine ”
We toured Kyoto for 2 days with Jasmine. I wouldn’t think twice about booking her. She has great English, easy to understand, she’s informative, kind, and patient. She took us to the sites we had planned, and then effortlessly changed up our itinerary based on our preferences. We enjoyed our time with her, and would book with her again in the future.
Jason L.
“An Amazing Day in Kyoto!”
Our group had such an outstanding time with Jasmine. She was extremely kind, knowledgeable and enthusiastic during our time together. We began our tour with a visit to Hanami-koji Geisha Street where we had the good luck of seeing two maiko. Jasmine provided a very informative talk on the geisha and the tea houses in Kyoto. Later in the day we visited Yasaka Pagoda Tower, Kiyomizu Dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine. Jasmine did an wonderful job of pointing out the significance of each location. Along the way we stopped for several snacks, including the refreshing pickle on a stick, and a couple of shopping trips to purchase souvenirs unique to Kyoto. Jasmine's knowledge of and her pride in Kyoto made the tour one that exceeded our expectations. Thank you Jasmine!
Kendall R.
“Wonderful day with Jasmine”
We had a fantastic experience on our tour with Jasmine and highly recommend her. Her communication ahead of time was great, and she was incredibly flexible, allowing us to extend our tour to include the Nishiki Food Market. We put in almost 20,000 steps making it to all the sites (and somehow she did all of this without even breaking a sweat!), which was exactly the great, efficient pace we wanted to see a lot. Jasmine guided us through a large variety of temples and landmarks around the Gion area, always knowing the best routes to maximize our time. At the same time, she was flexible enough to allow for shopping and snack breaks for the kids, who really enjoyed having her as our guide. At our request, Jasmine answered all of our questions about Japanese culture and customs, dispelling some myths and helping us be more culturally aware and sensitive. We also appreciated the history she shared at each stop and the great spots she suggested for family photos. If you want a knowledgeable, accommodating guide for the whole family, definitely book with Jasmine.
$200/ per group
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