Food Tours in Kyoto

As the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, Kyoto is well-known for its numerous traditional shrines, grand temples and ancient palaces. While exploring these fascinating sights is a must, travelers should not overlook the city’s well-established culinary scene.

Food tours in Kyoto enable you to explore the unique flavor of the city through your taste buds, alongside a passionate local foodie. From beloved nationwide dishes, such as savory pancakes and sugary donuts, to niche delicacies, like quail egg-stuffed baby octopi, tourists can enjoy the taste explosion of Japan’s national cuisine on one of these excursions.

Here's all you need to know about food tours, one of the most mouth-watering gastronomic experiences in Kyoto.

What are the best food tours in Kyoto?

Food and culture tour in Gion

This food and culture tour begins near the bustling Kamo River, and unveils the history of the surrounding region.

You’ll wander to the Yasaka Jinja shrine, which is thought to have existed since the 7th century. As you stroll through Kyoto’s most renowned geisha district  — Gion — you’ll stop at several food outlets to taste local delicacies while learning about the culture of the city.

You’ll sample a smorgasbord of Japanese delights while exploring the area, including the enchanting Kiyamachi Street, which runs parallel to the meandering Takase River.

Arashiyama and Sagano walking food tour in Kyoto

Alongside your local foodie guide, you’ll discover some of the most culturally-rich parts of Kyoto, including the Okochi Sanso Garden, which once belonged to the Japanese actor, Denjirō Ōkōchi on this food tour.

You’ll learn about the history and modern-day uses of bamboo as you take a leisurely amble through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Trail, which provides a tranquil green haven away from the bustling city.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Buddhist Zen temple of Tenryu-ji, before sampling street foods near the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, which include bamboo croquettes and savory green onion pancakes.

End your Kyoto culinary tour by sampling the city’s most beloved sweets against a scenic backdrop of the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Nishiki Market walking brunch tour in Kyoto

Starting early in the day, you’ll meet up with your small group, numbering no more than six participants to quell your hunger in one of Japan’s leading food markets.

Before you get lost in a maze of vibrant stalls and wafting aromas, you’ll explore the Gion region, admiring its traditional architecture, and smattering of historic sights.

In the market, you’ll receive samples of several different street foods to try the mix of umami, sweet and savory flavors that Japanese cuisine provides. Popular dishes in the market include sushi, rolled omelets and skewers of egg-stuffed octopus.

Are there any combos available with food tours in Kyoto?

Nishiki Market food tour and cooking class

On this private food tour, you’ll follow a knowledgeable local around Nisjiki Market who can explain the ingredients of the most popular dishes and fill you in on Japan’s food culture. Once you’ve discovered each stall, you’ll have the opportunity to test out your culinary skills at a cooking class where you'll make a donburi dish.

This will enable you to hone your cooking techniques and share Japanese cuisine with your loved ones back home as you recreate this meal for years to come.

Which places are visited?

Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market was officially founded in 1560 and houses over 130 vendors selling a myriad of tasty Japanese treats. While visitors can purchase fresh produce, including seafood, fruits and vegetables here, many head to the market for its iconic street food stalls.

You can try local delicacies in “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” which include whale meat, soy donuts and tofu skin cream croquettes, as well as less adventurous favorites, such as seafood skewers.

Gion

Gion is one of the most popular districts among visitors to Kyoto. The region is full of restaurants, bars and tea houses, offering eastern delights to travelers from across the world. Here, you’ll find traditional foods, such as okonomiyaki — a savory pancake — and ramen, as well as international cuisine including French steakhouses.

How much do food tours in Kyoto cost?

The most budget-friendly food tours in Kyoto take place in Nishiki Market for brunch and cost less than US$50 per person.

You can expect to pay US$100 each for a food tour in Kyoto that travels through the Gion district, while a walking food tour in Arashiyama and Sagano costs US$110 per person.

Alternatively, opt for a combination market tour and cooking class for approximately US$240 per group of up to four. With the maximum number of participants, you’ll each pay US$60.

What is included?

Food tours in Kyoto typically include several samples of traditional Japanese cuisine from several different street food vendors or restaurants.

Excursions that include a cooking class provide you with all the necessary ingredients along with a recipe card for you to take home after your vacation.

Where does it start?

Kyoto food experiences begin at a variety of destinations across the city, depending on which locations you’ll be exploring. The city has a reliable network of buses, subways and trains, making it an easy place to get around by public transport.

You’ll be able to see the meeting point of each tour before booking so that you can plan your route ahead of time.

How long does it last?

The majority of food tours in Kyoto last approximately 3 hours, which gives you plenty of time to learn about Japanese food customs, sample a variety of dishes and do a little sightseeing.

When is the best time for a food tour in Kyoto?

The best time to participate in a Kyoto culinary tour is simply when you’re hungry! These excursions take place at different times throughout the day making them easy to slot into your itinerary.

Travel tips

• Most food tours in Kyoto take place on foot so ensure you’re wearing comfortable shoes.
• Book your excursion for a few hours after your last meal to ensure you get the most out of it.
• If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, make these known to your tour provider upon booking.