Kyoto for Kids Tour

Learn about the history and culture of Kyoto with a kid-friendly expert
From US$355 privately
Book a Tour
Tour Details
Duration
2.5
Product Type
Tour
Venues
Yasaka Shrine
Photos & Highlights
  • Private family tour of Kyoto led by an expert
  • Introduces young travelers to the history and culture of Japan
Select a date
Tour Description
Experience Kyoto through a unique family-friendly lens, designed to engage both kids and adults with a blend of nature, history, and culture. Take a backseat for a few hours as your expert guide transforms the must-see sites of this ancient city into a learning playground for young travelers and instills in them a sense of wonder and excitement that will follow them throughout their time in Japan. 
Experts
Eric Eric
Historian
Shinya Shinya
Architect
Start your adventure at the Yasaka Shrine, an iconic spot that introduces you to Kyoto's rich spiritual heritage. Your expert will explain the importance  and history of the shrine in a way that will appeal to the youngest and oldest of travelers. From there, you'll stroll through the lush greenery of Maruyama Park. Small explorers will marvel at Chion-in’s Gate, one of the largest temple gates in Japan, an impressive site no matter your age. 

Continue your exploration with a walk past local school campuses, like Kacho Girls’ High School or Kyoto Kacho University, giving your child a glimpse into what it is like to attend school in Japan. Afterward, visit Okazaki Park and the striking Heian Shrine with its giant torii gate, a symbol that will remain in your child’s memory long after the end of your tour. The exploration of nature continues at Shoren-in Temple, where towering camphor trees—over 800 years old—offer a peaceful setting for reflection.

During your visit, you’ll stop for some traditional Japanese treats that are sure to delight young taste buds and may have your kids asking to taste other adventurous sweets later on in your trip. By the end of your visit, you and your family will have experienced many of the wonders Kyoto has to offer and instilled a sense of exploration in your small traveler that will be sure to foster ongoing enthusiasm throughout your travels. 

  • You are traveling with curious kids and would like to let someone else do the talking for a few hours
  • You are hoping to spark an interest for cultural exploration in your family
  • Yasaka Shrine
  • Maruyama Park
  • Chion-in’s Gate
  • Local Japanese schools (exterior only)
  • Okazaki Park 
  • Heian Shrine

Tickets

You are prepaid for the tour as well as any fees associated with the itinerary stops. This includes a sweet treat at a local sweet shop. Any additional purchases will, however, be at your expense. 

Additional Trip-Planning Resources

  • For more information on planning your travels to Japan, take a read through our Context Stories.
  • If you are looking to learn more about Kyoto before your visit, check out our online lectures at our pre-trip lectures.

  • Is this walk appropriate for young families? We've designed this walk to be appropriate for younger audiences.
  • Is this tour wheelchair-friendly? Yes, buildings and shops are wheelchair accessible but the tour is walking intensive and clients with mobility issues should reach out to us to ensure we can alter the tour to accommodate their level of mobility.

We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.
Where You'll Start
(4.68) 33 Reviews

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.

Gavin was personable, prompt and extremely knowledgeable. His tour was one of the highlights of our time in Kyoto. He did a great job engaging our two children, ages 9 and 10. I'd love a Gavin-designed itinerary for Kyoto! We wouldn't have had the Zen temples on our radar at all if it hadn't been for him. Just terrific. Thank you!
Superb walk and education into the ethos, history, and lives of the Samurai. Professor Campbell was really excellent and informative as well as being cordial company!
We loved it. Gavin hit it off with our boys and did a super job of explaining the culture and the history of the samurai, as well as helping us to understand Japan (or, more accurately, to begin to understand it). The only part that you might consider adjusting was the first bit in the temple -- rather than sit to explain the milieu of the philosophy behind the samurai life (which could make it hard on the knees -- no seats!), it might be better to explain while walking or standing in front of aspects of the temple which exemplify the philosophy.

Kyoto Tour for Kids

Discover enriching Kyoto activities for kids that go beyond sightseeing, offering a deep dive into Japanese history and culture. Our Kyoto for Kids tour, expertly designed by local locals, provides a hands-on, immersive experience perfect for young explorers. Whether visiting the majestic temples, crafting traditional art, or exploring tranquil gardens, this tour creates lasting memories through fun, educational activities that children and families can enjoy together.

Join us for a sustainable, personalized tour that encourages discovery at every corner. Book your Kyoto for Kids tour today and unlock a world of learning and adventure for the entire family!