Kyoto Food Culture Dashi Sake Matcha Fermentation Discovery Tour

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Food Culture Dashi Sake Matcha Fermentation Discovery Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the food culture of Kyoto.
Enjoy a modern, healthy lunch at a restaurant specializing in fermented foods.
Savor a tasting of three Japanese sakes within a traditional sake brewery.
Admire the majestic beauty of the famed Byodoin Temple (Phoenix Hall).
Learn the art of preparing and savoring matcha at a historic tea shop.

Available options

Private Car Plan

Public Train Plan

What's included

English-speaking Guide

Matcha Experience Fee

Admission Fee for Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Transportation Fees (for Public Transport Plan)

Vehicle Cost (for Private Car Plan)

Lunch

Admission Fee for Byodo-in Temple (Phoenix Hall)

Detailed itinerary

Kyoto Food Culture Museum Ajiwaikan

It is dedicated to the history and essence of Kyoto's cuisine. You can explore detailed exhibitions on culinary heritage, including displays of cooking implements, and participate in a tasting experience comparing different types of dashi (broth).

Kamoshika　Lunch & Shopping (60 minutes / Lunch Fee Included)

Enjoy a healthy modern lunch at Kamoshika, a restaurant dedicated to fermented foods, and browse a shop full of miso, pickles, and koji-based goodies.

Stop 3

Fushimi Inari Shrine

It is Kyoto's most important Shinto shrine, dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity. It is globally famous for its spectacular path that winds up the mountain, featuring thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates donated by individuals and businesses.

Stop 4

Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum

Visit the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum in Fushimi and sample three varieties of sake in Kyoto’s historic brewing district.
Enjoy hearing about episodes and stories related to the history of sake brewing and sake culture there.

Byodoin Temple (Phoenix Hall)

It is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its elegant Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), an iconic example of Heian period architecture. The hall is featured on the back of the Japanese ¥10 coin and is famous for reflecting beautifully over the surrounding pond. It houses a magnificent statue of Amida Buddha.

Mitsuboshien Kanbayashi Sannyu Honten

Learn the traditional method of preparing authentic Japanese matcha by grinding Uji tea leaves using a stone mill. You will then use a tea whisk to prepare your own cup, which you can enjoy with a sweet treat. This is a relaxed, hands-on experience that allows everyone to connect with the spirit of the tea ceremony tradition.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a private tour. Only your group will participate.

You can customize it as you like. If you have any requests please let us know in advance.

If you want to change your schedule even on the tour day, your guide is always happy to help you.

You can skip the spot where you don't go (※in this case we do not refund any fees) or change it with another place.

If you add some new spots by your request, please pay the ticket fee on the spot. (Note that you may need to pay extra transportation fee)

Please ensure you arrive promptly at the designated meeting place.

Please be aware that weekends, holidays, and event days may experience high levels of congestion.

The schedule may be subject to sudden changes or shorter visit durations due to reasons such as traffic congestion.

Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).

In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.

Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.

【Private Car】Wearing your seatbelt is mandatory while the bus is in motion due to legal regulations.

【Public Train】This tour utilizes public transportation. Please be aware that seats are not reserved.

【Public Train】Public transportation may be subject to delays.

Meeting point

Central Gate of JR Kyoto Station (Infront of JR Ticket office)

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.