Take the train to Kyoto with your local host, and discover another side of Japanese culture in its 8th-century capital. From marveling at the centuries-old architecture of Kyoto Imperial Palace to getting a birds-eye view of the city from Yasaka Pagoda, you’ll experience exactly what makes Kyoto so unique. You could explore the Fushimi sake district and sample fresh sake at a historic brewery, then head to neighboring Higashiyama, where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you explore crooked lanes lined with traditional wooden buildings. Maybe you’ll taste authentic wagashi (sweets) at Nishiki Market, experience a
traditional tea ceremony, or visit the Fushimi Inari shrine and marvel at its famous flame- colored tunnel – your host might even reveal a hidden temple to you. At dusk, the paper lanterns of intimate izakaya bars are lit, and you could catch a glimpse of a mesmerizing geisha floating through the cobbled streets of lively entertainment district Gion. Or, why not visit Arashiyama in western Kyoto and stroll through the breathtaking bamboo grove.
Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.