Kyoto Food Tour 12 Dishes & 3 Drinks

If you’re looking to get a true taste of Kyoto beyond its temples and gardens, this Kyoto Food Tour offers a flavorful window into Japan’s diverse culinary scene. With a focus on local favorites and authentic eateries, this experience promises an engaging mix of delicious bites, cultural insights, and social moments.

What really makes this tour stand out are the 12 carefully selected Japanese dishes, the chance to visit sake bars loved by locals, and the lively atmosphere of meeting fellow travelers. Plus, at just $70 per person, it’s quite a budget-friendly way to explore Kyoto’s food scene. One possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation. This tour is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting a guided taste of Kyoto’s best-kept food secrets.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit local restaurants and sake bars favored by residents.
• Diverse Dishes: Sample 12 traditional Japanese dishes, from sushi to sweets.
• Social Atmosphere: Meet fellow travelers and share your culinary discoveries.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides tailor the experience and provide helpful tips.
• Value for Money: All food and drinks included, with options to buy extras in cash.
• Limited Group Size: Max 15 guests ensures a personalized, more engaging experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Kyoto Food Tour

This guided walking tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Kyoto’s food culture, combining culinary delights with cultural insights. Led by a friendly guide—like Naoya, who is praised for his kindness and attentiveness—you’ll explore several local eateries, each chosen for their popularity and authenticity. The tour is conducted in English and typically attracts small groups (up to 15 people), making it a cozy, social affair.

The Itinerary: A Day of Delicious Discoveries

Starting at the McDonald’s Shijo Ohashi Store, the tour kicks off with an energetic meet-and-greet. From there, you’ll step into Kyoto’s vibrant culinary scene, visiting local favorites that are beloved by residents but often overlooked by travelers. The highlight is sampling 12 different Japanese dishes, which include staples like sushi and grilled skewers, as well as traditional sweets that showcase Kyoto’s unique dessert culture.

This isn’t just about tasting food; it’s about understanding what makes Kyoto’s cuisine distinct. For instance, reviewers mention how Naoya’s local insights made the experience truly memorable, adding context to each dish, enhancing appreciation, and making the tour feel like a friendly food adventure rather than a hurried tasting session.

Sake Bars and Local Eateries

The inclusion of sake bars is a notable highlight. These spots, favored by locals, offer an authentic glimpse into Japan’s beloved rice wine scene. You’ll likely get to sample different types of sake, learning about their production and regional variations. This aspect enriches the experience, providing a cultural layer beyond just food.

Ice Cream at FamilyMart

One unexpected highlight? The ice cream selection at FamilyMart. Reviewers mention it as a fun, light-hearted moment—ample choices that are perfect for cooling down after savory bites. It’s these small, playful details that give the tour a relaxed, friendly vibe.

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Meeting Fellow Travelers

Sharing this culinary journey with other curious explorers adds an extra dimension. The group’s small size fosters conversation and camaraderie, often leading to friendships and travel tips. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, this social aspect makes the tour a memorable bonding experience.

The Quality of the Food and Drinks

The 12 dishes are thoughtfully curated to showcase Kyoto’s culinary diversity. From classic sushi to grilled skewers, each stop offers a chance to taste dishes that are authentic and flavorful. Reviewers have described the food as “delicious” and “typical Kyoto,” indicating a high level of quality and authenticity.

The three included drinks — likely sake or soft drinks — complement the food well. The sake tasting, in particular, is appreciated for its educational value and the chance to learn about regional varieties.

Extra Purchases & Cash Tips

While the tour covers all the main food and drinks, any additional purchases or extras need to be paid in cash. This includes ordering more sake, desserts, or souvenirs. It’s worth bringing sufficient cash to avoid any inconvenience.

The Guides: Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Attentive

Reviews highlight that guides like Naoya go above and beyond to create a welcoming atmosphere. They offer tailored recommendations and cultural insights, enhancing the overall experience. Guests appreciate guides who are attentive, personable, and eager to share their local knowledge.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $70, this tour offers excellent value considering the amount of food and drinks included. You get a comprehensive introduction to Kyoto’s local eateries, a variety of traditional dishes, and a chance to learn about sake—all within a few hours of walking and tasting.

The small group size and friendly guiding style make it a comfortable, engaging experience that’s perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a relaxed, social food adventure. The inclusion of tips for enjoying Kyoto adds practical value, helping you make the most of your trip beyond just the tasting.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for foodies eager to try multiple dishes in one go, travelers interested in local Kyoto culture, or solo explorers who enjoy meeting new people. It also suits those looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing and culinary exploration without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar eateries alone.

Final Thoughts: A Taste of Kyoto You Won’t Forget

This Kyoto food tour delivers a well-rounded peek into Japan’s culinary traditions, combining flavorful dishes, authentic sake experiences, and friendly guidance. It’s a great way to explore local eating spots without the stress of planning, especially if you’re new to Kyoto or Japan.

The small-group setting, coupled with knowledgeable hosts like Naoya, ensures you’ll feel comfortable and engaged. The inclusion of 12 dishes and 3 drinks means you’ll walk away full and happy, with plenty of stories and new tastes to remember.

For anyone wanting a genuine, lively taste of Kyoto’s food scene—without breaking the bank—this tour hits the sweet spot of value, authenticity, and fun.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts a few hours, during which you’ll visit multiple eateries and enjoy a variety of dishes and drinks.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or people with food allergies?
The tour’s focus is on traditional Japanese dishes, so it may not be suitable for those with food allergies or specific dietary restrictions. It’s best to check beforehand.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, while all food and drinks are included, any extras or additional purchases must be paid in cash.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the McDonald’s Shijo Ohashi Store and ends back at the same meeting point, ensuring easy navigation.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak English fluently?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, but guides are generally friendly and helpful with any language barriers.

Is hotel pickup provided?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Embarking on this Kyoto food tour offers a genuine, tasty, and social way to experience Japan’s culinary heartland. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a foodie, or someone simply curious about Kyoto’s local flavors, this experience promises memorable bites and friendly faces.

You can check availability for your dates here: