Private Tour
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Delve into Kyoto's cherished hanami tradition with a local guide, exploring hidden sakura spots beyond typical tourist paths. Begin at the tranquil Maruyama Park, famous for its cherry blossoms, where you'll experience hanami in a serene setting, away from the crowds.
Next, venture to Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a less-visited gem where cherry trees bloom in quiet elegance, offering a calm retreat from city life.
The adventure continues at Daimaru's depachika, an underground food paradise. Here, choose a delightful obento, adorned with sakura-themed delicacies, under your guide's expert eye.
Conclude with a hanami picnic at a secluded spot, perhaps within the garden or another hidden gem nearby. Under the cherry blossom canopy, savor your meal, enriched with stories and cultural insights from your host.
This experience offers an authentic immersion into Kyoto’s springtime allure, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the hanami culture in Japan's ancient capital.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Optional meet-up at your central location accommodation
Private and personalized walking experience
A traditional Japanese picnic (bento box, shared sushi platter, Japanese sweets, two drinks)
4 hours with a local host
Additional food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities
Maruyama Park
Begin your journey in Maruyama Park, known for its spectacular cherry blossoms. Here, you'll experience the tranquility of hanami as your host guides you to secret, peaceful spots within the park. IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed, and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
Next, meander to the less crowded Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. This serene oasis offers a calm retreat to enjoy the cherry trees blooming in quiet elegance, away from the city's hustle. IMPORTANT: As this is a private and personalized experience, the places you visit may differ from those listed, and these will be chosen by your host based on your interests and preferences.
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Julia D,
Apr 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
We had the pleasure of having Jose as our guide for a day tour around Kyoto. He showed us all the popular tourist spots, beautiful cherry blossoms, and even some hidden gems. Jose is a laid-back, friendly guy with a deep love for the city. If you're looking for a relaxed day filled with great sights alongside a down-to-earth guide, Jose is the perfect choice!
Fiona C,
Apr 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
Guide Afifa did a great job, she really personalised the tour for me and found me pink cherry blossoms as I'd asked! She took me to some cool places and really brought the history of the Gion district to life for me, I really enjoyed her choice to take me to Nishiki market to get food for hanami picnic, and I loved the hanami picnic experience by the river, though the park would have been a fab alternative as well if river was not an option.
Philip E,
Apr 7, 2024
- Review from Viator
Knowledgeable and fun guide, Fatima, made the trip personal and memorable. Enjoyed it all and saw places we would not have seen otherwise.
Vanessa D,
Apr 5, 2024
- Review from Viator
Our guide, Eva, was very nice and talkative about life and traditions in Japan. We learned a lot about Japanese culture while walking around hidden places in Kyoto. We enjoyed that she showed us hidden, non touristy spots around Kyoto. We had a great day with great local food at the end 👍 Thanks a lot

Gary R,
Mar 31, 2023
- Review from Viator
Great guide. I enjoyed my time walking around the city with him. Highly recommend the guide. I don't highly recommend this review process where I have to type in so muck. 1 star for the review process. :-(
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