Tea & Traditions of Kyoto – A Cultural Walking Experience
Tea & Traditions of Kyoto is a 4–4.5 hour cultural walking tour. Start at Fushimi Inari Taisha and stroll through the famous vermilion torii gates while learning about Shinto traditions. Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony with matcha and sweets. Explore Gion Shirakawa, a historic geisha district, and end at Nishiki Market, sampling Kyoto’s local foods. A perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights in one tour.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Inari station or Keihan Fushimi Inari Station
- Inari Station (JR Nara Line) Line: JR Nara Line Best Exit: Single exit – leads directly to the shrine’s main entrance. Walking Time: ~2 minutes to Fushimi Inari Taisha main gate. Fushimi Inari Station (Keihan Main Line) Line: Keihan Main Line Best Exit: Single exit – about a 5-minute walk to the shrine entrance.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Begin the tour at Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites. Walk through the famous thousands of vermilion torii gates while learning about Shinto beliefs, fox symbolism, and the history of the shrine. This early start allows you to enjoy the atmosphere before peak crowds.
traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a peaceful setting. Learn about the etiquette, philosophy, and symbolism of Japanese tea culture while watching matcha being prepared and then enjoying it with traditional sweets.
Gion Shirakawa/ Gasha District
Explore Gion Shirakawa, one of Kyoto’s most beautiful and atmospheric districts. Stroll along the canal lined with traditional wooden machiya houses. Learn about geisha (geiko) culture, history, and daily life, and keep an eye out for geisha or maiko walking through the streets.
Nishiki Market (Food Sampling)
End the tour at Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s Kitchen. Walk through the lively covered market while sampling local foods, snacks, and regional specialties. Learn about Kyoto’s culinary traditions and long-established family-run shops.
Ending Point
End at Nishiki market.
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/69610/c49801c3-752f-4733-905c-f0c443200719.png)
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
Guide transportation
Tea Ceremony.
Your transportation to/from meeting point
Food and drinks
Tour Important Information
This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.
* This tour is wheelchair accessible.
* Please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
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 Syed atif Y.
A Local Friend in Kansai — Meet Atif
Hey there! I’m Atif, a travel lover who’s been calling Osaka home for the past few years. What started as a curious adventure quickly turned into a deep love for this region — the food, the people, and all the little hidden corners that make Kansai so special.
Now, I spend my days sharing those discoveries with travelers who want to see the real Japan — not just the postcard version.
What I Offer
Fun & Flexible Tours: No boring scripts here! I plan each tour around you — whether you love taking photos, tasting street food, exploring quiet temples, or getting lost in neon-lit backstreets.
Local Secrets: After years of wandering Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe, I’ve found the best hidden gems — from tiny noodle shops to peaceful gardens and back-alley shrines.
Laughs & Memories: My tours aren’t just about facts — they’re about fun. Expect stories, local legends, and maybe even a karaoke challenge (if you’re brave enough)!
Why Travel with Me
Because travel should feel like exploring with a local friend, not following a flag in a crowd. I love good food, spontaneous detours, and showing people the Kansai that most tourists miss. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, I’ll make sure you experience something new — and unforgettable.
Let’s Start the Adventure!
Ready to explore Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe?
Let’s laugh, learn, eat, and wander together — Kansai style!
Reviews
Jennifer D.
“Great attention to detail ”
Atif was so helpful long before we even met him for our tour. From helping select a train & schedule, to helping us with paying fees and finding food. We were a bit high maintenance and Atif was great. Thank you for the tour of Osaka.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/69610/c49801c3-752f-4733-905c-f0c443200719.png)
Syed atif Y.
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! It was a joy spending the day with you, your husband, and your daughter Heaven. I’m happy I could help make your Osaka visit smooth and enjoyable. Wishing you all a safe and memorable trip!
Ruth H.
“️️️️️Fantastic Osaka Deep Dive Tour with Atif!”
We had an amazing time on Atif’s Osaka Deep Dive Full-Day Tour – Classic Meets Local Life. The day was fast paced, informative, energetic and so much fun - the perfect introduction to both Osaka and Japan! Atif was incredibly supportive and attentive, guiding us smoothly through busy areas while sharing great insights, cultural explanations and local stories. He struck the perfect balance between famous landmarks and hidden neighbourhood spots we never would have found on our own. We finished the tour feeling more confident navigating Japan and truly connected to the city. Highly recommend this experience - Atif made Osaka come alive!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/69610/c49801c3-752f-4733-905c-f0c443200719.png)
Syed atif Y.
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m really happy to hear that you and your group enjoyed the Osaka Deep Dive Full-Day Tour. It was a pleasure guiding you and your group and sharing the mix of classic sights and local hidden gems. Your kind words mean a lot. I hope to welcome you and your wonderful group again on your next visit. Thank you for choosing my tour!
Nas M.
“Explore with a knowledgeable friend!”
Our day trip to Kyoto with Atif was fantastic! Traveling with a 10-year-old can be tricky, but Atif designed a truly bespoke tour perfectly suited to our family's needs. He kept my son completely engaged, finding creative ways to explain the history that captivated him. Atif curated an experience that matched our exact requirements, managing our time flawlessly. It felt less like exploring with a guide and more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend. We highly recommend him!
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/69610/c49801c3-752f-4733-905c-f0c443200719.png)
Syed atif Y.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m really happy to hear you and your son enjoyed the day in Kyoto. It was a pleasure spending time with you both and exploring together. I’m glad your son had fun and found the history interesting! Hope to see you again on another adventure in Japan!
$151/ per group
More tours by Syed atif Y.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18356/2ca98368-1c1e-490b-93f3-1899d04cfa2e.jpg)
Osaka Deep Dive Full-Day Tour – Classic Meets Local Life
Step into the vibrant energy of Osaka on this full-day walking tour! From historic castles to lantern-lit alleys, sizzling street food to pop culture hotspots, you’ll explore both iconic sights and hidden local gems. We’ll walk and use Osaka’s easy train system. Whether you're into history, food, temples, anime, or photography—this tour is fully customizable to match your pace and interests.
Osaka Deep Dive Full-Day Tour – Classic Meets Local Life
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18650/1d8babde-bdf3-4148-b796-8e922ef39f10.jpg)
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
Step into the beauty of Arashiyama, Kyoto’s scenic district, with this 4-hour walking tour. Starting from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, you’ll visit the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, the historic Tenryū‑ji Temple, the enchanting Sagano Bamboo Grove, and the peaceful Adashino Nenbutsu‑ji Temple. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and serene strolls away from the main crowds.
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18420/e5e8e3f7-1297-440f-a0ad-9726ba2ec873.jpg)
Tea & Traditions of Osaka
Tea & Traditions of Osaka is a 4-hour cultural tour starting at 09:30 from Osaka Castle. Explore the historic castle grounds and learn about samurai history. Enjoy a 40-minute traditional Japanese tea ceremony, discovering the meaning and etiquette of tea culture while tasting matcha and sweets. Continue to Dotonbori, visiting Hozen-ji Temple, Hozen-ji Yokocho alley. End thr tour in Kuromon Market, known as Osaka’s kitchen, and experience local food culture and varity of fresh seafood.
Tea & Traditions of Osaka
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21152/db0f23f8-228b-4aa7-8dce-d9463d1c04d5.jpg)
Katsuo-ji Temple & Choose Your Osaka Adventure
Step away from the crowds and explore a peaceful side of Osaka. Starting from Osaka Station, visit the stunning Katsuo-ji Temple (勝尾寺), nestled in lush mountains and famous for its lucky Daruma dolls. After this spiritual experience, choose between a relaxing walk to Minoo Waterfall or a creative visit to the Cup Noodles Museum in Ikeda. A perfect mix of culture, nature, and fun for all travelers!
Katsuo-ji Temple & Choose Your Osaka Adventure
Other Popular Art, Culture, & Historical Tours in Kyoto
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/21290/b3a280d3-b5d5-4de8-8c25-beadaa72194a.jpg)
Kyoto Heritage Walking Tour
Authentic cultural insights into Kyoto’s geisha world, Shinto & Buddhist traditions Scenic historical streets without rushing Ideal photo opportunities A relaxed, educational walk through Kyoto’s most charming districts
Kyoto Heritage Walking Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/80466/d66e7dc5-1de8-450c-af34-0b31639b7a1e.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18650/1d8babde-bdf3-4148-b796-8e922ef39f10.jpg)
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
Step into the beauty of Arashiyama, Kyoto’s scenic district, with this 4-hour walking tour. Starting from Hankyu Arashiyama Station, you’ll visit the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, the historic Tenryū‑ji Temple, the enchanting Sagano Bamboo Grove, and the peaceful Adashino Nenbutsu‑ji Temple. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of culture, nature, and serene strolls away from the main crowds.
Arashiyama Morning Highlights: Bamboo, Temples & Scenic Views
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/69610/c49801c3-752f-4733-905c-f0c443200719.png)
Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour
This half-day tour begins at Fushimi Inari Shrine, a sacred site with more than 1,300 years of history, famous for thousands of vermilion torii gates. Next, we will take a train to another district and visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum. Here you will learn how Japan’s iconic drink has been crafted for centuries and enjoy a tasting of several sake varieties. We will wrap up the tour with a leisurely stroll through the lively Otesuji Shopping Arcade.
Thousand Torii Gates & Sake: Fushimi Half-Day Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/72739/2120b4e6-bbb4-447b-b630-34e25e943fe6.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/12587/42d686b0-dbab-4415-acb2-a58ed5fac5da.jpg)
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
There are so many great places in Kyoto that you probably want to visit but perhaps not enough time. It is best to have a local person guiding you to come up with a plan that suits your preference. I can create a tour with you which includes not only popular places like the Golden Pavilion and Fushimi Inari but small temples with wabi sabi such as those in Sagano and one of the oldest Japanese sweets shops in Murasakino.
Fully customizable your own private tour in Kyoto
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/47276/806519d4-d314-43ca-93bc-a4fef8e6ce4e.png)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20807/393456de-1c57-42e6-ae31-bfbf4b6cc5da.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20807/9d56cb06-5d01-413c-bb22-0e300bd97665.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20807/92dba628-1f04-4405-8733-2b3273b02dc2.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20807/782e046f-cf73-4672-b4f2-f2efdd41d690.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20807/9ca0d9a8-27ba-4a6c-b41c-036b59c9f53d.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20807/87680750-0487-475b-bd4a-fdd75b0a46a3.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/20807/02f2881c-1a0b-47e3-9d35-4f0083f1fa7b.jpg)