Menu Inside Japan Tours
About Us
[email protected] Tel: + 61 7 3186 8800(Toowong, QLD, AUS)
Make an Enquiry
  • Download a brochure
  • About us
    • About Us
    • Brochures
    • Contact Us
    • Accreditation
    • Sustainability
    • Partner Testimonials
    • Press Coverage
    • Company News
    • Careers at InsideJapan
    • Travel Agents
    • Client Log In
  • Reviews
    • All Trip Reviews
    • Independent Reviews
  • Experiences
    • All Experiences
    • Insider Experiences
  • Trip Themes
    • All Trip Themes
    • Honeymoons
    • Family
    • Skiing & Winter Sports
    • Diving
    • Active
    • Accessible Travel
  • Useful Info
    • Destinations in Japan
    • Travel Tips
    • FAQs
    • Japanese Culture
    • When To Travel
  • Destinations in Japan
  • Travel Tips
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Brochures
    • Contact Us
    • Accreditation
    • Sustainability
    • Partner Testimonials
    • Press Coverage
    • Company News
    • Jobs at InsideJapan
    • Travel Agents
    • Tailormade Groups
    • Client Log In
  • Japanese Culture
  • Contact
  • Blog
  • Small Group Tours
  • Self-Guided Adventures
  • Exclusive Private Journeys
  • GB flag UK
  • USA Flag flag USA

Not in Australia?

You can change your location here.

    Explore our summer Small Group Tours in Japan

    • Home
    • Themes
    • Accessible Travel
    Print
    • Accessible Travel Destinations
    • Hiroshima
    • Miyajima
    • Kyoto
    • Tokyo
    • Kanazawa
    • Hakone
    • Matsumoto
    • Osaka

    Search for a Trip

    Accessible Travel Accessible Travel

    Travelling can be daunting if you have special needs, and even…

    Read more >

    Recently Viewed

    • Aikido
      Aikido
      Experiences

      X

    Download your brochure today

    Explore our latest brochure for Japan holiday inspiration

    • Download a copy

    Kyoto Kyoto - Japanese

    There is nowhere more special than Kyoto. It is home to everything associated with traditional Japan: striking temples, mysterious geisha, sacred tea ceremony, Zen rock gardens, imperial palaces, refined cuisine, ornate kimono, bamboo groves, street-corner shrines and lively festivals.

    Kyoto Map

    “I spent two years living in Kyoto, and still haven't visited every UNESCO site! My top tip: don't limit yourself to the well-trodden path. Ask a local guide to reveal Kyoto's secret shrines and gardens. There are still many magical places that aren't swarming with tourists.”

    After all the hype you'll hear about Kyoto before you arrive (from us as much as anyone), on first glance the city may not live up to expectations. For many travelers, Kyoto holidays begin upon arrival at Kyoto Station, a gleaming ode to futuristic architecture designed by Hiroshi Hara, before being swept out past tacky Kyoto Tower, drab concrete shops and karaoke bars. But Kyoto is Japan's seventh-largest city, not a tiny rural village, and it is the juxtaposition of modern, urban life against the time-honoured traditions that make this one of the most fascinating of Asian cities.

    Kyoto was founded in 794 as Japan's capital and the home of Emperor Kanmu. Situated in a flat plateau, surrounded on three sides by mountains and bisected by the River Kamo, the city was laid out as a grid system in the tradition of Tang China. As the city fell prey to the inevitable evils of overcrowding, plagues and natural disasters; a plethora of temples and shrines with their attendant rituals and festivals - designed to placate the spirit world - were born. Many of these rituals survive largely unchanged to this day, and you can see them being played out on their appointed date every year.

    Today, Kyoto is home to more than 2,000 temples and shrines, including an amazing 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kyoto culture; a unique tapestry of influences from imperial nobility, samurai warriors, silk traders and Zen Buddhists; is still fiercely defended by Kyotoites - and thankfully, as it was not bombed during World War Two, a great many of its important historical buildings have been preserved to this day.

    Given its status as the standard-bearer for Japanese culture and history, it is not really surprising that Kyoto attracts more than 40 million visitors a year. Packed with must-see sights, from the rock garden of Ryoan-ji to the Golden Pavilion of Kinkaku-ji, from the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple to the "nightingale floors" of Nijo Castle; you will find that here it is impossible to escape the tour bus crowds. Yet for those who make the effort, Kyoto's narrow streets are packed with hidden beauties - exquisite gardens and little-known temples - that are quiet and peaceful even at the height of the tourist season. This blend of iconic landmarks and secluded spots makes it an exceptionally romantic location, ideal for a Japan honeymoon.

    For example, take the back exit from Kiyomizu-dera and you'll find yourself alone in the ancient and majestic cemetery which clings to the mountainside. Sanjusangendo is another less-visited treasure. The main temple hall is filled with 1,001 shining gold statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. There's always a chance to flee the crowds at Fushimi Inari, where thousands of torii shrine gates make a labyrinth of bright red tunnels along the mountain paths.

    Then there are the places where the real heartbeat of Kyoto is found: Nishiki Market, where old ladies in kimono barter for mysterious ingredients; city centre sento bathhouses; and the tiny lantern-lit temples set amongst the shops in the Sanjo arcades. Kyoto is there to be uncovered and discovered, and once you have scratched the surface, it is a city sure to draw you back time and time again.

    Make an Enquiry

    For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 61 7 3186 8800

    • Accommodation
    • Experiences
    • Weather & Climate

    Recommended Accommodation in Kyoto

    Over the past few years the range of accommodation available in Kyoto has improved greatly. There are some fabulous boutique hotels at all price ranges as well as the big established names - or why not try a traditional ryokan inn? You are in the capital of history and culture after all.

    • Junei Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West Image
      Kyoto
      Junei Hotel Kyoto Imperial Palace West

      Superior

    • Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi Image
      Kyoto
      Intergate Kyoto Shijo Shinmachi

      Moderate

    • Four Seasons Image
      Kyoto
      Four Seasons

      Deluxe

    • Yoshimizu Ryokan Image
      Kyoto
      Yoshimizu Ryokan

      Budget

    • Machiya Residence Image
      Kyoto
      Machiya Residence

      Moderate

    • Genji Kyoto Image
      Kyoto
      Genji Kyoto

      Superior

    Experiences in Kyoto

    In keeping with its position as the capital of culture, Kyoto offers more experiences than any other city. There is of course the traditional sightseeing - but the way to really get beneath the surface is to visit artisans, take part in tea ceremony, enjoy cooking experiences & much more besides.

    • Kyoto lantern illuminations Image
      Kyoto lantern illuminations

      Read more >

    • Full day private guide and driver service in Kyoto Image
      Full day private guide and driver service in Kyoto

      Read more >

    • Ceramics tour with a gallery owner Image
      Ceramics tour with a gallery owner

      Read more >

    • Calligraphy class Image
      Calligraphy class

      Read more >

    • Kurama Onsen  Image
      Kurama Onsen

      Read more >

    • Origami Image
      Origami

      Read more >

    • Funaoka bath house Image
      Funaoka bath house

      Read more >

    • Kyoto Marathon Image
      Kyoto Marathon

      Read more >

    • Hollyhock festival Image
      Hollyhock festival

      Read more >

    Weather in Kyoto

    The Climate Guide for Kyoto, Japan is perfect for planning your holiday. Monthly weather averages give the best indication of what the weather is usually like for every month of the year including figures for temperature, rainfall and sunshine.

    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
    Max Daytime Temperature (°C) 6 6 10 17 21 25 29 30 25 20 14 9
    Min Night-time Temperature (°C) -2 -2 1 6 11 16 20 21 17 11 5 1
    Hours of Sunshine (Daily) 3 4 5 5 6 5 5 6 4 5 4 4
    Hours of Daylight (Daily) 10 11 12 13 14 14 14 13 12 11 10 10
    Heat and Humidity Discomfort None None None None None None Moderate High Low None None None
    Days with some Rainfall 25 24 23 17 16 19 19 18 19 16 18 22
    Monthly Rainfall (mm) 106 100 123 130 145 218 228 137 209 116 99 86
    UV Index (Maximum) 3 4 6 8 9 10 11 10 8 6 3 2
    Make an Enquiry

    For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 61 7 3186 8800

    Tour Gallery

    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image
    • Gallery Image

    Make an Enquiry

    For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 61 7 3186 8800

    Make an Enquiry

    For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 61 7 3186 8800

    • View our Gallery > Kyoto Gallery
    • Video Gallery > Watch video Kyoto Video Gallery

    Featured trips including Kyoto

    • Japanese Ikigai and the Path to Happiness

      Self-Guided Adventure

      Japanese Ikigai and the Path to Happiness (Classic)

      • Tokyo
      • Izu Peninsula
      • Kyoto
      • Ayabe
      • Tsumago
      • Matsumoto
      • Tokyo

      Contemplate your reason for being on a philosophical journey around Japan.

      13 nights: from AU$7875 pp (twin share) Read more >

      View more Self-Guided Adventures

    • 7 Night Price Cruncher

      Self-Guided Adventure

      7 Night Price Cruncher (Essential)

      • Tokyo
      • Hakone
      • Kyoto

      The constant bad economic news has been getting everyone a bit down, so we've created this bargain seven-night Japanese getaway to beat the blues!

      7 nights: from AU$2457 pp (twin share) Read more >

      View more Self-Guided Adventures

    • Wheelchair Accessible Golden Route

      Self-Guided Adventure

      Wheelchair Accessible Golden Route (Classic)

      • Tokyo
      • Mount Fuji
      • Kyoto
      • Nara
      • Osaka
      • Tokyo

      Welcome to one of the most wheelchair-friendly countries in the world. Explore Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and more on this exciting 10-night adventure.

      10 nights: from AU$7833 pp (call us to discuss your requirements) Read more >

      View more Self-Guided Adventures

    Inside Japan Accommodation Styles

    Style Facts

    Contact us

    • GB Inside Japan UK office

      + 44 117 244 3380
    • US Inside Japan US office

      + 1 303 952 0379
    • AUS Inside Japan Australia office

      + 61 7 3186 8800
    • JAP Inside Japan - Japan office

      + 81 52 253 6068

    ABTA: Travel with confidence ASTA: American Society of Travel Agents Click for the Business Review of Inside Japan Tours, a Japan Specialist Tour Operator in Boulder CO ATOL: Air Travel Organisers Licensing ATAS AFTA AITO: Association of Independent Tour Operators ABTOT: The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust JATA logo ACTA logo

    Download a brochure or enquire today

    If you'd like any help or want to know more about Japan, feel free to either enquire today, give our Japan travel experts a call, or why not download our beautiful Japan brochure.

    Download a brochure Make an enquiry
    • Home
    • Contact Us
    • About Us
    • Brochures
    • Accreditation
    • Testimonials
    • Reviews
    • Sustainability
    • Modern Slavery Statement
    • Latest Trip Features
    • Small Group Tours
    • Self-Guided Adventures
    • Exclusive Private Journeys
    • Experiences
    • Trip Themes
    • Travel Agents
    • Blog
    • Travel Tips & Advice
    • When To Travel
    • FAQs
    • Culture
    • Destinations
    • Press Coverage
    • Company News
    • Careers at InsideJapan
    • Cookie Policy
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Site Map

    Connect with InsideJapan

    Choose your currency

    • GBP
    • EUR
    • AUD
    • USD
    • CAD
    Trustpilot

    Sign up for our newsletter

    Sign me up Client log in

    InsideJapan Tours

    Get beneath the surface

    Award-winning, innovative and fun group tours, tailormade trips and cultural experiences throughout Japan.

    • Conde Nast Awards Travel Specialists
    • Conde Nast Awards Readers' Choice
    • World's Best Awards
    • Afar Awards
    • TTG Travel Awards
    • Travel & Leisure Awards
    • TTG Luxury Travel Awards
    • Magellan Awards
    • Sunday Times Travel Awards
    • Wanderlust awards
    • Travvy Awards
    • Best travel specialists
    • Guardian Travel Awards
    • Guardian Travel Awards
    • Independent Travel Awards
    • Tour Grand Prix
    Travel Agents Client Log In

    Interested in Southeast Asia?

    Craft bespoke Asia holidays with InsideAsia Tours.

    InsideAsia Tours
    Fourth Floor, Suite 5C, 601 Coronation Drive, Toowong Queensland
    Tel. + 61 7 3186 8800 Email [email protected]
    © 2025 Inside Travel Group Ltd.
    wilddogdesign.co.uk Powered by AMO

    Search for your trip

    Sign up to our newsletter

    If you're interested in Japan, you will love our newsletter. Sign-up and we'll bring a little bit of the magic of Japan to your inbox as well as letting you know about our latest Japan travel experiences, exclusive promotions and insider specials!

    Trustpilot

    + 61 7 3186 8800

    Your details

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    Make an enquiry

    Ready to plan your Japan cultural adventure?

    Tell us more via the form below, and one of our expert travel consultants will be in touch to design a trip that fits you perfectly. We'll ask the right questions to understand your travel style, then put together a full package proposal including accommodation, transport and authentic local experiences.

    Or, give us a call and we'd love to talk through your ideas.

    Trustpilot

    + 61 7 3186 8800

    Your Trip

    We don't believe in a one size fits all approach, so please provide us with as much relevant information as possible to help us plan your perfect holiday!

    Almost there!

    How can we contact you about your enquiry?

    We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

    Your details

    Your address

    Look up address Enter address manually

    We send all our proposals by email and it's usually the best way for us to send you ideas and information about your trip and to answer your questions.

    It would be great to have the chance to speak on the phone so we can get the best possible understanding of what you're looking for (and because we all love talking about Japan!)

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    Download our latest brochure

    Complete this simple form and we'll email you a link to download our latest brochure, packed full of Japan travel inspiration.

    Trustpilot

    + 61 7 3186 8800

    Your Trip

    Almost there!

    Just let us know who you are and you'll receive the brochure links in the next couple of minutes.

    Your details

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    Email Form

    You can email us using the below form. We would also love to chat about your travel plans and are happy to talk if you have any questions, so feel free to give our local office a call.

    Trustpilot

    + 61 7 3186 8800

    Your Enquiry

    Your details

    We send all our proposals by email and it's usually the best way for us to send you ideas and information about your trip and to answer your questions.

    It would be great to have the chance to speak on the phone so we can get the best possible understanding of what you're looking for (and because we all love talking about Japan!)

    ** When you opt-in to receive communications from Inside Travel Group Ltd. you are agreeing to us sending you marketing about the different trips and services we offer from our two brands, InsideAsia and InsideJapan. You can opt-out at any time via a link on our emails. You can read all about how we look after your data in our privacy policy

    Your personal information is kept confidential at all times

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    RE