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Art and culture activities in Kamo River

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Art and culture activities led by local experts

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5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Traditional Kyoto doll-making and hinoki fan painting

Explore the history of traditional Kyoto dolls and participate in a hands-on hinoki fan painting experience at one of the city’s renowned doll-making studios with a master Yūsoku Hina doll artisan. • Learn about the history of Kyoto Hina dolls and hinoki fans, their use in seasonal festivals, and the cultural tradition of gifting Hina dolls. • Observe artisans at work in the Ōhashi Ippō studio, making, painting, and dressing the dolls. • Paint your own hinoki fan, a delicate and decorative piece often used in Hina doll displays. Get inspired with seasonal motifs and traditional pine, bamboo, and plum designs. I’ll guide you through the process. You'll leave with a unique, handcrafted memento from this immersive cultural experience.

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Rare night visit & candle painting at a centuries-old temple

This special night time tour of one of Japan’s most renowned temples unveils its hidden corners, including a private tea room rarely seen by visitors. The evening culminates in a hands-on Japanese candle painting session that brings this centuries-old craft to life. • With behind-the-scenes access at this Kyoto temple, you’ll be invited to stroll through its garden, study room, and private tea room, learning their history. • Discover the artistry behind Japanese candle painting in a guided workshop, then create your own artwork. • Unlike a standard visit, this tour allows you to take and share photos of the temple’s beauty with proper tagging. • For a tranquil finale, unwind in the study room with matcha and traditional Japanese sweets while reflecting on the experience. This immersive evening helps preserve the temple’s cultural legacy, with proceeds contributing to essential restoration efforts and the upkeep of its nationally recognized historic garden.

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Traditional Japanese fabric painting with an artisan

Get an up-close look at the art of Kyo-yuzen, the traditional method of painting dye directly onto fabric. After watching me create a piece step by step, you’ll put what you’ve learned to work! • I’ll introduce Kyo-yuzen and its history. Learn how the technique originated in Kyoto during the Edo period, toward the end of the 17th century, the materials used, and typical patterns and designs. • Watch me conceptualize a design, apply dyeing techniques, and craft a one-of-a-kind piece. I’ll answer any questions along the way. • Now it’s your turn! Using what you’ve learned, you’ll hand-dye a handkerchief, with my guidance throughout. You’ll leave with a deeply personal connection to this elegant Kyoto art form, as well as a beautiful keepsake.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Create a traditional Kyoto hanko

Design and craft a unique seal using traditional techniques. Step into the shop Discover the origins and significance of hanko in Japan. Make your hanko Create a unique seal design with guidance. Try engraving Experience traditional hand-carving techniques. Test your seal Stamp your new hanko on paper and see what you've created Box it up Place your completed seal in a kiribako and take it home

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4.85 out of 5 average rating, 1134 reviews

Kyoto Local Bar & Izakaya Crawl

Bar hopping tour at Kyoto center!! Normally 5-10 guests are joining, and you will have wonderful memory with local host, and other traveler from all over the world!! We're exploring "Kawaramachi" and "Kiyamachi" areas, where local Kyoto people enjoy drinking. We will take you to real local bar and izakaya, difficult to find for foreigners. Also take you to some deep & hidden places you never know. This experience is not just for local foods and drinks, give you the opportunity to connect with local people. Cannot wait to show you guys around my city!! We will eat during the tour, so you don't need to eat before the tour. Let's enjoy food and drink like local! If you have special request related to place, food, date and so on, we can organize the tour up to your requests. ＜What's included＞ ○ 3 hours with a local guide ○ Admission fee is free ✖️ Alcoholic Beverages ✖️ Dinner ※We split the total amount, and 99 yen or less will be rounded up to make accounting smoother. ※If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance.

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 1631 reviews

Experience Kimono in Kyoto

First, choosing a kimono ♫ From among our collection, choose your favorite kimono.I also have one for men. Sizes are up to 5L, but there are few types of large kimonos (yukatas). After deciding on your kimono, it is time for accessories!From obi to bags to other various accessories, you create your own unique kimono style! Our staff will help advise you on kimono styling and assist you in choosing the perfect accessories for your kimono!Hair-styling is free! Hair accessories are also free! I also gift you with a pair of tabi, or special socks to wear with kimono, as a memory of your trip!(October through May only) I conduct all hair-styling and kimono-dressing in a private room, so you will be able to relax and enjoy your privacy while getting ready.From choosing your kimono and obi to personal recommendations of the best places to visit in Kyoto, our staff will help advise you on where and how to go. After everything is done, it`s finally time to explore the streets of Kyoto!I ask that you return your kimono by 17:00. During the summer months, I will prepare Yukata. Fitting+hair styling takes approximately 20~30 minutes per person. After styling, you are free to explore Kyoto! ＊As makeup is not included, please do it yourself. We are unable to dress pregnant women for health and safety reasons.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 507 reviews

Learn Sashiko, Japanese traditional folk embroidery

In my workshop, you will make one SASHIKO coaster of your own. You can choose your favorite pattern from various samplers, and I’ll teach how to stitch from scratch. You can also choose the color of thread and fabric to make your original one. All the tools and materials (threads, fabric and the needle) will be provided. You don't have to bring anything but your creativity! There are mainly two methods in sashiko; Moyou-zashi and Hitome-zashi. My workshop is specialized in Hitome-zashi technique. It uses grid lines as a guide to stitch. After stitching horizontal lines all the way, we add the vertical lines or diagonal lines(depends on the pattern). You will be just amazed how the beautiful pattern emerges as you stitch. Both the beginners and the experienced embroiderers are welcomed since you can choose the pattern to make. Please come and join me to experience Japanese beautiful folk embroidery.

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 767 reviews

Cycle Kyoto's Hidden Gems & Gion Stroll

3.5-hour refreshing bike ride and a 30-minute town walk. This tour is perfect for families. Bike Part: You'll ride a lovely bike to explore the hidden gems of Kyoto that are off the beaten path. This efficient tour lets you feel the wind and air of Kyoto while experiencing nature and open sky. We'll begin with a peaceful riverside road, stopping at a hidden shrine to try some pure natural spring water. Then we'll visit the huge Imperial Palace and a famous Zen temple before passing through some university campuses and peaceful residential areas. We'll arrive at Shimo-gamo Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage site) to enjoy its primitive forest and beautiful buildings. Next, we'll ride down to a unique river junction point and follow the scenic and refreshing lighted-up riverside back. Walk Part: After returning the bikes, we'll take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful entertainment area of Gion or Pontocho. You'll visit main "Flower Towns" (places of Geisha) and see the amazingly photogenic streets. We'll explain the unique culture and system of Geisha. If you're lucky, you may even spot a beautiful Geisha. Restaurant Recommendation: During the walking part, we'll introduce many good restaurants and bars according to your requests. Note Rain or Shine experience. The destinations are one of the examples.

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 681 reviews

Kimono Rental & Kyoto Experience –All-Day japanese tradition

Experience Kyoto in a Kimono: A Journey Through Tradition and Elegance Welcome to our kimono shop, your first step into the timeless beauty of Kyoto! Let’s create unforgettable memories together as we explore kimono, Kyoto’s traditions, and your stories. Dress in Elegance: Choose from a wide variety of stunning kimono designs and sizes (M~4L, Kids 90cm-130cm). Couples discount ON We also offer kimono delivery service to your hotel, we can pick the kimono by online and a professional kimono lady will go to your hotel to dress you up and get you ready for your kimono experience Complete Your Look: Sandals and bags are included. Hair styling is also available for just 1,000 JPY (+tax) if desired. Dress up and enjoy Kyoto all day—just return by 9 PM. In case you need more time, you can also return it next day before 10 AM. We also offer delivery service, if you need it please contact us. Choose your favorite kimono and match it with a gorgeous obi. Not sure how? Don’t worry—our friendly, knowledgeable staff will assist you every step of the way. From June to September, try a lightweight Yukata, perfect for summer exploration. Stroll through Kyoto’s streets, capture stunning photos, and immerse yourself in the city’s magic. Preparation time: approx. 40 minutes (includes kimono selection, dressing, and optional hair set). Belongings? We’ll keep them safe while you explore.

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 821 reviews

Craft postcards in a family paper shop

On arrival, we'll create our own handmade paper from the raw ingredients, which will be turned into four postcards. Designing the paper with pressed flowers and leaves is the most fun process. While drying the paper, we'll watch a short movie about how Japanese paper is made, enjoy chatting over drinks. When the paper is dried, I'll show you how to use a traditional brush pen to write messages on the cards in Japanese. At the end, I 'll be able to guide you on how to mail your unique cards to your friends or family. Other things to note; Please be sure to bring the mailing addresses of the people you want to send your postcards to.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 306 reviews

Free sightseeing in Kyoto with kimono

There are many ceremonies in Japan. Do you know Toso(spice sake)? Toso celebrates the New Year on New Year's Day, prays for a safe year, and drinks with family. Toso is liquor soaked with medicinal herbs. The vessel is special because it is an important ceremony. Toso is only available for the New Year. So I put a little sake in the bowl. There are three bowls, so you will taste three types of sake. Underage people and people who can not drink alcohol use water. However, I will get you dressed in kimono before that. Please choose your favorite kimono. You will be excited while dress up in kimono. You will be surprised at the beauty of your kimono. Let's make a wonderful kimono style just for you! This is a small house in the city. If you wear a kimono and drink alcohol, it will feel even more delicious. Once you have a great kimono, take a picture. There is a red umbrella as a prop for taking photos. A new ninja sword has been prepared this year. If you like, go to a nearby photo spot together. After that, please go sightseeing freely with kimono. Please return by 9 pm. If you want to take a walk in Kyoto at night, please contact me by the day before. I will increase the evening time only if there are no other reservations. Other things to note If you are pregnant, you can not dress a kimono. Hair arrangement is free when you make a reservation now. And unlimited hair accessories You can choose.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 807 reviews

Traditional Kyoto-style Bookmaking

" Book Binding Workshop" 1. select book cover ( you can choose from our collection of old kimono textile / old cloth textile / varieties of fabrics ) 2. stitch the interior pages of the book by hand 3. cut the edge of the book to size 4. measure the book cover & other materials 5. set and arrange all paper and make book cover 6. assemble the interior of the book and book cover 7. press by hot iron with candle 8. use pressing tools to press book 9. glue on the cover of the book -finish- Other things to note: - If you are book lovers, we are happy to offer another class FOR BOOK LOVERS, class including FULL experience like Embossing ( please check another workshop of tsutomu ! - If you'd try Japanese Original book style , we reommend STAMPBOOK class. ( please check another workshop of tsutomu ! - If you are the family, we are very welcome. Under 5years old children might be difficult to have standard corse. In that case, KIMONO SKETCHBOOK class would be better ( please check another workshop of me, yoko !

5 out of 5 average rating, 10 reviews

Enjoy the Traditional Art of Shibori Dyeing in Kyoto

京都絞り工芸館内で京都の伝統工芸である絞り染めの染色技法を用いて、シルクスカーフや風呂敷などを制作していただけます。到着されたら、シルクスカーフを制作するか風呂敷を制作するかを決めましょう。素敵な作品が完成します。体験終了後には当館2階にある展示フロアーにて、より高度な絞り染め工程ビデをなどを鑑賞、スタッフによる絞り染めの解説、数ヶ月毎に変わる絞り染めの数々の大作をお楽しみいただけます。実際に使用されている道具や生地などもお客様ご自身で触っていただくこともできます。 2階の展示終了後に1階に降りて来ていただくと、制作したスカーフ、風呂敷などが乾いた状態で綺麗に梱包されています。作品制作以外にも様々な観点から絞り染めを知っていただける体験内容となっています。

5 out of 5 average rating, 94 reviews

Discover Magical Kyoto - a Custom Walking Adventure

*Exclusively for your group, accommodating 1-6 guests at the same rate. The 6-hour tour's start and end times are flexible* Are you ready for an unforgettable journey through this historic city of Kyoto? or even surrounding cities like Nara? As your guide, I want to ensure you have the most enjoyable experience possible, filled with laughter and smiles. Picture yourself strolling through enchanting streets, guided by a knowledgeable local expert who will curate a tailor-made tour just for you. Whether you have specific places in mind or are open to suggestions, I'm here to make your Kyoto experience truly unforgettable. The tour is crafted to match your preferences every step of the way. While popular spots such as Arashiyama or Golden Pavilion can be included in your list if you wish, our journey is designed to uncover the full range of Kyoto's treasures. Delight in the culinary wonders of either Nishiki Market or simply street foods, where flavors will paint a smile on your face. During the tour, don't hesitate to inquire about other cultural activities like a tea ceremony, geisha performances, or martial arts experiences. Embark on a customized walking tour promising laughter and smiles at every turn. Let's create lifelong memories in this captivating city! P.S. Planning a trip to Osaka as well? Check out my Osaka Edition here --> https://www.airbnb.com/osakatour

Art and culture activities in Kamo River

Art and culture activities led by local experts

Top-rated art and culture activities

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