Kyoto: Gion & Pontocho Food Tour with 13 Dishes
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover the magic of Kyoto’s nightlife on this small-group tour through Gion and Pontocho, guided by a local expert. Gain unique insights into Kyoto’s rich geisha culture while exploring hidden gems and savoring traditional dishes.
Start at Yasaka Shrine, beautifully illuminated at night, as your guide shares fascinating stories about its history and cultural significance.
Next, enjoy a cozy izakaya experience in Gion with delicious dishes like karaage, tempura, and sashimi, perfectly paired with Kyoto’s famous sake.
Stroll through the scenic Gion Shirakawa area and visit a shrine frequented by geishas, immersing yourself in the traditions of Kyoto’s iconic district.
End the night in Pontocho, where you’ll taste more local flavors at a hidden dining spot, which has a different vibes.
With over 10 unique dishes, cultural stories, and a glimpse into local life, this tour offers an unforgettable evening in Kyoto!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Walking Tour with local guide
Food at 1 restaurant and 1 izakaya (up to 13 dishes)
Two drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
Extra drinks (for big drinkers)
What To Expect
Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine, located in Kyoto's Gion district, is one of the city's most famous Shinto shrines. Established over 1,350 years ago, it is known for its vibrant red main gate and beautiful lantern-lit pathways. The shrine hosts the annual Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous festivals, attracting visitors worldwide. Yasaka Shrine is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring and for experiencing traditional Japanese culture year-round.
Gion
Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district, is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can stroll through charming streets like Hanami-koji, spot geishas, and enjoy authentic tea ceremonies. The area is also home to Yasaka Shrine and hosts the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous festivals. Gion offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage and traditional arts.
Options
Kyoto: Gion & Pontocho Food Tour with 13 Dishes
Reviews
53 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Food and Culture
simons783,
Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A wonderful walk through the culture and food of Gion. Our guide Tomoko was very nice and happy to answer all our questions.
Lovely experience
OkadaAhmed,
Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Tomoko is very wonderful guide and knows a lot about japonese culture. It was very funny. I indicate for Everyone that desire know japanese culture.
Great way to try lots of food and see some sights!
Dreamer20629732463,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lovely way to spend the evening! Yuna was on time and was a pleasure to be with. Was so nice to have someone order for us and give us insight into the food and culture. We also had a chance to see the shrine and other key sights. It was just my group so we had our own private tour!
Great tour for trying foods in different eating places
Y250TYmargaretb,
Oct 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Merisa was a great guide - lots of local information & tried many different Japanese foods - excellent evening tour which I would strongly recommend
Kyoto evening food tour
Peter A,
Oct 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Early evening walk led by Motu through Gion Kobu (Geisha district) before arriving at a traditional Japanese restaurant enjoying many dishes. After another stroll along the riverbank, arrived at Pontocho district full of restaurants. Settled into one with more traditional dishes and Saki tasting.
Great for and food
fredsZ7905NR,
Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great night out. Yuna was fantastic, so lovely and very informative. She even helped me to learned some Japanese language. Nice food, beautiful sights. I would definitely recommend this tour.
Excellent food tour for beginner
119siimk,
Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A very suitable tour for someone who is in Japan for the first few days. I was able to try different dishes that I would not otherwise know to order. The food was plentiful and interesting, although I did not like all of them and I will not order them in the future. The guide was also very knowledgeable and was able to explain everything about local food and history.
A tour to not miss!!!!
zoelT9866DI,
Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Do bot miss this tour our tour guid was very knowledgeable and so friendly and the food so good and omg I finally got to try stingray and it was amazing
Kyoto food tour to not miss
erikaM9978QK,
Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was an amazing experience he was very knowledgeable and the food was amazing would highly recommend to book if your in the area
Great experience
marytP8372UO,
Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great tour - great food - great company and Yuna was a great guide! The food was amazing and really enjoyed the stroll through Pontocho and Gion.
From ¥11,000
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