Food tours in Kyoto deliver a perfect blend of culture and cuisine, cutting straight to the heart of this ancient capital’s culinary traditions. I especially appreciate two standout experiences: The evening food tour through Gion, where you’ll sample home-style dishes in family-run spots normally missed by travelers, and the morning Nishiki Market tour, which expertly navigates the 400-year-old “Kitchen of Kyoto.” Local guides make these tours special, sharing insider knowledge about seasonal ingredients and cooking methods. Both tours offer excellent value, combining multiple tastings with cultural insights you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s look at our favorite Kyoto food tours in detail…
Key Points
- Kyoto is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and food tours offer authentic local experiences showcasing a variety of traditional and modern cuisines.
- Popular food tours in Kyoto include street food tours, cooking classes, sake tasting tours, seasonal food tours, and specialty tours catering to dietary needs.
- Key attractions in Kyoto food tours include Nishiki Market, the Gion District, Kyo Kaiseki, tea houses, and local eateries offering unique dining experiences.
- Highly-rated Kyoto food tour options include the Kyoto Night Foodie Tour, Nishiki Market Tours, Gion Night Walking & Food Tour, and specialized private tours.
- Benefits of choosing a Kyoto food tour include discovering hidden culinary treasures, meeting local food artisans, and experiencing a variety of dishes in a convenient and guided manner.
Kyoto Night Foodie Tour
The vibrant Kyoto Night Foodie Tour offers visitors a delectable journey through the city’s renowned culinary landscape. Priced at SEK 1,772.22 per person, this 3-hour guided experience promises a sampling of traditional drinks and a full meal featuring three types of local sake.
Exploring the historic Gion and Pontocho districts, guests will enjoy an authentic culture with positive reviews highlighting the tour’s enjoyable atmosphere and insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides.
While dietary restrictions can’t be guaranteed, the tour’s high-quality food experiences and overall satisfaction have earned it a 5.0 rating from over 1,300 reviews, making it a must-try for those seeking to savor Kyoto’s culinary delights.
Read our full review: Kyoto Night Foodie Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: Nishiki Market Tour With a Local Foodie
Exploring Kyoto’s culinary scene extends beyond the vibrant Kyoto Night Foodie Tour.
The Kyoto: Nishiki Market Tour with a Local Foodie offers a unique 1.5-hour experience for just $48.01 per person. This private group tour takes visitors through the historic Nishiki Tenmangu Shrine, the lively Teramachi Street shopping district, and the renowned Nishiki Market, where guests can savor local delicacies and discover Kyoto’s rich food heritage.
With an expert guide, participants can enjoy the market’s bustling atmosphere, browse unique shops, and enjoy at least three food tastings. Rated 5/5 by past customers, this tour provides an authentic and memorable exploration of Kyoto’s culinary secrets.
Read our full review: Kyoto: Nishiki Market Tour With a Local Foodie Review
Book now: Check availability
Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour
A popular option for foodies visiting Kyoto is the Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour. Priced at $57.26 per person, this 3-hour experience offers a guided exploration of Kyoto’s vibrant Nishiki Market and the historic Gion district.
Guests can enjoy diverse food samples, including croquettes and sake, while learning about traditional Japanese cooking techniques from knowledgeable local guides. The tour’s small-group format enhances personalized interactions, and participants consistently praise the guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor.
Although dietary restrictions may not be accommodated, the tasting experiences are deemed delicious and memorable. The Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour provides an immersive cultural experience and a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Nishiki Market Brunch Walking Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: Gion Night Walking & Food Tour
For those seeking a deeper immersion into Kyoto’s rich culinary and cultural heritage, the Kyoto: Gion Night Walking & Food Tour offers an exceptional experience.
This 3-hour guided tour takes guests through the historic Gion district, including the iconic Yasaka Shrine. Participants will savor traditional Japanese dishes like karaage, tempura, and sashimi at a local restaurant before visiting a cozy bar to enjoy Kyoto’s famous sake.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the intimate group setting provides opportunities to engage with the knowledgeable guide and gain insider insights. Priced at $106.69 per person, this tour consistently earns 5/5 ratings, showcasing exceptional value for money.
Read our full review: Kyoto: Gion Night Walking & Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the historic Nishiki Market offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s vibrant food culture.
This guided small-group tour leads participants through the bustling 400-year-old market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” featuring over 130 food shops and stalls.
Travelers can expect to sample a variety of local delicacies, including pickled vegetables, fried fish cakes, mochi, and hamo tempura, while gaining insights into the culinary and cultural traditions of the region.
Knowledgeable guides, like Yoko and Chizuko, share their expertise, enriching the experience with historical perspectives and local customs.
Whether a first-time or seasoned visitor, this tour promises an immersive journey through Kyoto’s renowned food scene.
Read our full review: Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk Review
Book now: Check availability
Uncover The Best Foodie Spots In Kyoto Pontocho With Guide
On the charming Pontocho Alley in Kyoto, travelers can uncover a hidden world of culinary delights with the guidance of a local expert.
This 4-hour walking tour takes guests through the historic Gion district, where they’ll explore traditional noodle shops, indulge in wagyu beef and grilled seafood skewers, and discover seasonal Kyoto specialties.
The tour, limited to just 10 participants, offers a personalized experience and flexibility to accommodate dietary preferences.
With a professional guide providing insights on the city’s rich history and culture, this tour is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families alike, delivering an immersive and engaging food exploration of Kyoto.
Read our full review: Uncover The Best Foodie Spots In Kyoto Pontocho With Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Foodie Night Tour
Visitors to Kyoto can frequently discover the city’s vibrant food scene on the Kyoto Foodie Night Tour. This small-group experience offers participants the chance to taste a variety of local dishes and drinks, including obanzai and izakaya specialties.
Guided by knowledgeable locals, the tour visits Nishiki Market and hidden gems favored by residents. With at least seven generous food tastings, the tour caters to various dietary needs. Guests praise the engaging guides, who provide insights into the history and customs behind the cuisine.
The communal atmosphere and sake tasting further enhance the enjoyable experience. The Kyoto Foodie Night Tour provides an excellent opportunity to take in the city’s vibrant culinary culture.
Read our full review: Kyoto Foodie Night Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Dive Into Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour (Small Group)
The Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour (Small Group) immerses participants in the vibrant culinary heart of the city.
Over 4 hours, guests explore Nishiki Market, known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” sampling local and seasonal foods from family-owned shops.
The tour includes stops at the Museum of Kyoto, Nishiki-Tenmangu Shrine, and Kyoto Yaoichi Honkan for food tastings.
Guests experience Kyoto’s rich food culture and traditions, indulging in fresh seafood, snacks, tofu, pickles, and sweets.
The small-group format, limited to 10 people, ensures an intimate and personalized experience guided by an English-speaking professional.
With flexible booking and free cancellation, this tour offers an immersive culinary adventure in the historic city of Kyoto.
Read our full review: Dive Into Kyoto Nishiki Market Food Tour (Small Group) Review
Book now: Check availability
The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Kyoto: The 10 Tastings
Why not embark on an award-winning private food tour of Kyoto and indulge in 10 delectable tastings?
This 3-hour experience offers an intimate exploration of the city’s local specialties and authentic flavors. Savor a variety of savory snacks, desserts, and cultural insights as you navigate the renowned Nishiki Market with a knowledgeable guide.
Learn about diverse ingredients and culinary traditions, all while enjoying a customizable tour catered to your preferences. With exceptional customer satisfaction, this tour promises a memorable and immersive taste of Kyoto’s vibrant food scene.
Priced at SEK 2,036.71 per person, this private experience allows for flexibility and personalized attention.
Read our full review: The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Kyoto: The 10 Tastings Review
Book now: Check availability
Taste Local Eats In Gion Friendly Food Tour (Limited Price)
Enjoy the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Kyoto’s famed Gion district with the Taste Local Eats In Gion Friendly Food Tour.
This 4-hour small-group experience offers a savings of up to 15%, with prices ranging from €176.82 to €150.30 per person.
Led by local guides, you’ll explore Hanamikoji-dori, Yasaka Shrine, and the picturesque Gion Shirakawa, while learning about the history, culture, and customs of geisha.
Treat your taste buds to a variety of delicious Kyoto dishes, and cap off the tour with a special lunch and geisha performance.
With free cancellation, reserve now and pay later, and rave reviews, this tour is a must-do for any Kyoto foodie.
Read our full review: Taste Local Eats In Gion Friendly Food Tour (Limited Price) Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Evening Gion Food Tour Including Kaiseki Dinner
For those seeking a more intimate and immersive Kyoto culinary experience, the Kyoto Evening Gion Food Tour Including Kaiseki Dinner offers an unparalleled opportunity.
This 3-hour excursion takes guests on a culinary journey through the historic Kamogawa and Gion areas. Participants can expect a 10-course Kaiseki dinner, complete with beverages and dessert, in a traditional setting.
The tour also includes guided exploration of Gion, allowing visitors to glimpse the Geisha culture and appreciate Kyoto’s timeless charm.
With high-rated local guides, small group sizes, and a convenient cancellation policy, this tour ensures an exceptional and educational gastronomic experience.
Read our full review: Kyoto Evening Gion Food Tour Including Kaiseki Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability
Discovery More Kyoto Gion Evening Food Tour
This 3-hour evening food tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto’s captivating Gion district.
Priced from $200.27 per person, the small-group tour is limited to 9 participants and led by a live English-speaking guide.
Guests will discover the area’s geisha culture, classic and modern entertainment districts, and savor regional specialties at two standing bar restaurants.
The experience includes dinner and two alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.
Participants will also learn about the significance of Gion and its traditions.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a versatile and immersive way to experience Kyoto’s vibrant Gion neighborhood.
Read our full review: Discovery More Kyoto Gion Evening Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Taste of Nishiki Market Private Food Tour
The Taste of Nishiki Market Private Food Tour is a culinary excursion that invites travelers to explore Kyoto’s renowned Nishiki Market.
Guests start at the Starbucks Kyoto Sanjo Karasuma Building before visiting the peaceful Rokkakudo Temple. The tour then ventures into the Department Store Basement, where participants can sample tempura, fried items, and other local delicacies.
The experience culminates at a serene shrine, allowing for reflection on the day’s gastronomic adventures. Included in the tour are a provided lunch, tastings of seven local foods and one alcoholic drink, and snacks throughout.
The Viator Help Centre is available for any inquiries, and the tour has received an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 18 reviews.
Read our full review: Taste of Nishiki Market Private Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private 3 Hours VEGAN Walking Tour (Lunch or Dinner)
Travelers seeking a vegan-focused culinary experience in Kyoto can embark on a private 3-hour walking tour, which explores the city’s plant-based dining options.
Priced from ₹22,585 for up to 2 participants, the tour includes tastings at approximately four different shops, with a focus on the availability and safety of vegan food.
Participants can choose between a lunch or dinner course, and the tour is limited to a maximum of 5 people.
English and Japanese-speaking guides are available, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation and travel insurance during the experience.
Read our full review: Private 3 Hours VEGAN Walking Tour (Lunch or Dinner) Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour
For those seeking a more casual food-focused experience in Kyoto, the Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour offers an immersive walk through the vibrant Pontocho and Gion Shirakawa neighborhoods.
This unique tour allows travelers to experience local culture by visiting tea houses and restaurants. While vegetarian options are available, the tour isn’t recommended for vegans or those on gluten-free diets.
The tour has a maximum group size of 10, providing an intimate experience. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, though no refunds are given for last-minute cancellations.
Traveler photos and overwhelmingly positive reviews further enhance the appeal of this engaging cultural and culinary exploration.
Read our full review: Kyoto Casual Evening Pontocho Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: All-Inclusive 3-Hour Food and Culture Tour in Gion
This immersive 3-hour food and culture tour in Kyoto’s Gion district offers travelers an opportunity to explore the city’s rich heritage and culinary delights.
Priced at $86.33 per person, the small-group tour takes guests to key locations like Yasaka Shrine, Gion, and Pontocho, where they’ll enjoy a guided walking experience.
The highlight is a full dinner across two local restaurants, featuring a variety of small dishes and drinks. Guests can also opt for Kobe beef, with advance booking.
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides in English, Spanish, and French, and boasts an impressive 4.6/5 overall rating from over 500 reviews.
Read our full review: Kyoto: All-Inclusive 3-Hour Food and Culture Tour in Gion Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto Private Food Tours With a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized
Expert local foodie guides provide a personalized experience for Kyoto’s Private Food Tours.
They’ll take you on an exploration of Japanese culinary traditions, including kaiseki meals. During the tour, you’ll enjoy 6-8 tastings.
The meeting point is adjustable through Experience Planners, and the tour ends back at the original location.
You’ll have a private tour, giving you the opportunity to learn about local street food and hidden culinary gems.
The tour emphasizes a fun, engaging food exploration, with flexibility in meeting arrangements.
Detailed information is available for special needs, and the cancellation policy is transparent, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Kyoto Private Food Tours With a Local Foodie: 100% Personalized Review
Book now: Check availability
Kyoto: Casual Pontocho Evening Food Tour
Winding through the historic Pontocho district in the evenings, this 3-hour food tour immerses guests in Kyoto’s vibrant culinary culture.
Priced at $162.04 per person, the tour takes visitors to 5 food and drink stops, including a retro restaurant, a yakitori eatery, a soba noodle shop, a sake tasting, and a traditional dessert venue.
Led by an English-speaking local guide, the tour provides cultural insights into Kyoto’s history and food traditions.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour offers an intimate experience and is wheelchair accessible.
Bookings can be made online with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour runs daily with a minimum of 2 people required.
Read our full review: Kyoto: Casual Pontocho Evening Food Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Shirakawa Japanese Food Culture Experience With an English Staff
Immersing guests in the rich Japanese culinary culture, the Shirakawa Japanese Food Culture Experience offers an intimate exploration of Kyoto’s traditions.
This 3-hour private tour, operated by Furukawashuzo, provides an authentic culture. Visitors can expect personalized guidance from English-speaking staff, engaging activities like knife sharpening and cooking, and interaction with local community members.
The experience concludes with a local cultural experience, allowing participants to gain deeper insight into Japanese traditions and history.
Though non-refundable and unable to be rescheduled, the tour boasts an exceptional 5.0 average rating based on 15 reviews, highlighting its exceptional quality.
Read our full review: Shirakawa Japanese Food Culture Experience With an English Staff Review
Book now: Check availability
Secret Food Tours Kyoto
Secret Food Tours Kyoto offers a captivating culinary adventure that allows visitors to uncover the hidden gems of Kyoto’s vibrant food scene.
The tour, priced at $164.35 per person, takes guests on a 3-hour journey through the Karasuma and Gion districts, exploring the renowned Nishiki street market.
Participants can savor local delicacies like katsudon, yuba tofu, freshly made fish cakes, and Kyoto-style okonomiyaki, along with a sake tasting.
The tour’s English-speaking guide ensures a seamless and informative experience.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides an intimate and personalized exploration of Kyoto’s rich food culture.
Backed by positive reviews, Secret Food Tours Kyoto is a must-try for foodies seeking an authentic taste of the city.
Read our full review: Secret Food Tours Kyoto Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available on the Tours?
Yes, many vegetarian and vegan options are available on food tours. Operators often accommodate dietary restrictions and can provide plant-based dishes and experiences tailored to those preferences.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Food Tours?
The amount of walking involved in food tours can vary, but participants should expect to do a significant amount of walking, typically between 3-5 miles, to explore the local neighborhoods and visit multiple food establishments.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Many food tours accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. They work closely with participants to ensure their needs are met, providing alternative food options or modifying the tour as necessary. It’s best to communicate any requirements when booking the tour.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Food Tours?
The average group size for food tours typically ranges from 6 to 12 participants. Tour operators often accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies, ensuring a personalized and inclusive experience for all guests.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children or Families?
The tours are generally suitable for families with children, though some may have age restrictions or not be well-suited for younger kids. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their specific policies and recommendations.
The Sum Up
Kyoto offers a diverse array of food tours, catering to various interests and budgets. From Nishiki Market explorations to Gion night walks, these tours provide an immersive experience in the city’s culinary heritage. Visitors can indulge in local delicacies, learn from knowledgeable guides, and gain a deeper appreciation for Kyoto’s rich food culture. Whether you’re a foodie or simply curious, these tours are a great way to discover the flavors of this historic city.