Over the past 15 years I have traveled to Japan every few years and this was by far the best tour I have ever done in Japan. Our tour guide Sean made the experience most memorable and enjoyable. His enthusiasm and depth of knowledge made tour unforgettable. We went to bars we never would have found, had the best okonomiyaki I've ever had. Sean's fluent Japanese was great to watch and encouraged and helped us to speak to locals in the standing bar and we learnt much from the locals we otherwise wouldn't have the chance. Sean's detailed knowledge of Geisha, local housing, culture and the history of Kyoto are unmatched. Sean also introduced us to a few long-term expats we bumped into along the way including Sean's spirit guide and mentor Julian. Getting to also speak to the expats about their experiences and insightful local knowledge provided such an in-depth experience. After the tour finished, Julian took us to some of his favourite hidden and unique bars, an experience I won't forget. The enthusiasm and hospitality shown by both Sean and Julian to share their adopted city with others was uplifting and made me want to stay in Kyoto for longer in a way that I could almost see myself living there. If you are considering doing this tour, don't even think about it, just book it as it is an experience you'll never regret.

Mr. Ryan W., Kyoto, 18 Jul 2018

An interesting tour with an enthusiastic and knowledgable guide who shared insights into the history and culture whilst exploring this beautiful part of Kyoto. I particularly enjoyed the Zen experience at the Daihikakau Senkoji Temple, peacefully set on the side of a mountain. The meditation session with the resident monk certainly was an authentic experience that makes this tour special. Having a Japanese-speaking guide made for a beyond the surface encounter.

Ms. Christina B., Kyoto, 14 Apr 2018

Uta was a fantastic guide. Would definitely recommend him:))

Mr. Peter B., Kyoto, 18 Mar 2018

Had a great time

Ms. Shannon K., Kyoto, 12 Jan 2018

Great tour, pity about the rain. Otherwise I learnt a lot and enjoyed the areas we cycled through

Ms. Sarah L., Kyoto, 06 Oct 2017

Ikumi was a fantastic guide. She speaks enshrined very well and enthusiastically answered all of my questions.

Mr. Ronald L., Kyoto, 04 Aug 2017

Our guide Pepjin was enthusiastic and full of knowledge about the Gion area of Kyoto. A good evening tour on which we learned a lot and got to see things we wouldn't have otherwise. Recommend.

Ms. Jenny M., Kyoto, 20 Jul 2017

The trip and leader were great. Only issue was it went way over time (I dropped off at 11pm as the remainder pax continued to the market). This was mostly due to the festival & crowds, so not really helped. Leader Uri was excellent. His local knowledge and passion for Japan was obvious and infectious. I loved his stories and unique experiences of living in Japan. He also managed the group well in the crowds and not lose anyone.

Mrs. Karly H., Kyoto, 20 Jul 2017

Very informative guide and loved the whole evening

Ms. Jackie S., Kyoto, 20 Jul 2017

This was a good tour to get a deeper view of some of the temples and areas of Kyoto. It was well-planned and using trains at key points meant that the tour was focussed on Kyoto sights rather than walking miles! We had a good group, which meant it was a pleasant afternoon, as well as plenty of 'access' to the guide so we could ask any questions we had. We asked lots of questions about Kyoto, Japan and japanese culture and our guide was easily able to answer. Ikume had a great sense of humour, was friendly and welcoming. She also had a good sense of timing that kept the tour moving but it wasn't rushed. It was a hot day when we went (32 degrees) and our guide made sure that there was plenty of opportunity to buy water/drinks and when we stopped there was shade available. We liked the use of pictures as part of the tour. Our kids (aged 12 and 9) enjoyed the tour too, especially that we were able to add a couple of 'goshuin' temple stamps to our books while on the tour.

Ms. Bronwen J., Kyoto, 08 Jul 2017