Kyoto Nighttime All-Inclusive Eats and Streets, Gion and Beyond

About this experience

You and no more than five others will explore the local foods and entertainment districts of Kyoto on a not-so-standard, all-inclusive walking and eating nighttime tour! You'll mingle with locals, eat regional specialties at two different standing bar restaurants (though we often sit down at one or both), and be given a visual feast of a primer on the various nightlife scenes in Kyoto, from geiko (a.k.a. "geisha") on down. With a native or equivalent English speaking guide at your side, you'll get a clear understanding of what the area is all about. And with some great food and a couple of (included) drinks in you, the merriment will be all the more! Our tours are very small group (6 or less), which means much more attention and quality for you. Local insight, great food, and good times await. For those interested in trying some Kobe beef, be sure to choose the option which includes 100g (about 3.5 oz.) of prime Kobe area beef. It's reasonably priced, too!

Itinerary

English information from the provider

1. Stop 1

   6:30pm You've done the daytime temples, gardens, and academic thing, had a bit of rest, and are now ready to set about seeing what the night has to offer. We'll meet at Gion Shijo Station, then start with an educational walk through the justifiably famous Gion district, which is located on the east side of the Kamogawa River. Learn about the geiko (and why we don't call them "geisha" in Kyoto), as well as the places that make this district so special. You'll also regaled with insight and info about how the art of evening entertainment has evolved into the hostess clubs of today. (Rest assured this tour is suitable for teenagers and higher.) 7:30pm Your hour-long anthropological adventure has left you ready for some food and drink, and we know just the place. You'll get to try a few different regionally representative dishes and a beer -- or perhaps you'd like a shochu or some sake instead? Various dietary restrictions, tastes, and bravery levels will be happily accommodated. 8:15pm Take a stroll through both youthful and classic restaurant and entertainment districts on the west side of the Kamogawa River, including Pontocho, Kiyamachi, and the Kawaramachi St. area. The old narrow streets along Pontocho will allow you to see how much the people of Kyoto value and protect tradition, while the younger areas a couple streets away will show you how eager Kyoto people are to also firmly live in the present. 9pm No night is complete with just one restaurant stop, so we'll visit another thoroughly vetted and often enjoyed spot. There will be more tasty vittles for your culinary consideration, and of course another drink in accompaniment. 9:30pm The end of the evening has come, but hopefully you've been able to garner a lasting understanding and appreciation of Kyoto's various foods, nightlife, and vibe.

What's included

English information from the provider

• Alcoholic Beverages
• Dinner
• Two Alcoholic or Non-Alcoholic Beverages (one in each restaurant)

What's not included

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• Drinks beyond the two included. Additional drinks can be purchased directly from the restaurants if you wish.

Additional information

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• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The minimum drinking age in Japan is 20 years old.
• All participants must be 13+ to participate in this experience
• Vegetarians happily accommodated.
• Gratuities are uncommon in Japan, however if you really enjoyed your time and want to show your guide how much you appreciate them, they’ll be extremely happy!
• Tours limited to 6, but groups up to 8 are welcome in cases where the entire group is the same reservation.

Cancellation policy

English information from the provider

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.