After a busy day in Kyoto, visiting galleries, temple-hopping, and souvenir shopping, a Kyoto Night Food Tour is a fantastic way to explore the city at night. In this intimate walking tour, you’ll be in a group of no more than 6 people exploring the Gion District and Pontocho in the downtown area. At a few food stops, you can enjoy mingling among locals as you eat regional Kyoto specialties at 2 standing bar venues. At the same time, your English-speaking guide entertains you with stories and tidbits about Kyoto’s history, food culture, and nightlife.

At your first stop in Gion, let your guide introduce you to the world of geiko entertainment in Kyoto (more commonly known as geisha), and why they’re called that in this city. Gion, the resident geisha district, is well-preserved and offers a hit of nostalgia, where you might see a geiko, traditionally dressed and elegantly moving throughout the area at twilight. You’ll wander through the cobbled streets before heading to your first foodie venue. You’ll taste several dishes of Kyoto cuisine and wash them down with a local craft beer, some shochu, or sake! Whatever you fancy, your friendly guide can help you with any dietary requirements or preferences you may have.

You’ll head across the Kamogawa River to the youthful downtown area, where restaurants and entertainment await in the streets of Pontocho, Kiyamachi, and the Kawaramachi main street. You’ll explore the narrow streets of Pontocho, tiny streets lined with well-preserved traditional wooden houses that have been renovated into cool restaurants and bars. Next, you’ll visit a small local venue and enjoy some more Kyoto culinary delights with another drink. At the end of your Kyoto Night Food Tour, you’ll appreciate local foods from Kyoto and the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife, where past and present coexist.