Experience Kyoto beyond the guidebooks. Our exclusive food tour takes you on a delectable journey through the Gion district, exploring the distinct atmospheres of the left and right banks of the Kamogawa River.
On the left bank, you'll delve into the essence of Gion. Explore captivating teahouses alongside hidden havens brimming with local character.
Across the scenic Kamogawa River lies a different side of Kyoto's culinary scene. Pontocho and Kiyamachi districts, offer innovative interpretations of classic dishes.
Kyoto's cuisine is renowned for its focus on seasonality and meticulous preparation. Expect a chorus of delicate, pure flavors, often lighter than other regional styles. From the melt-in-your-mouth artistry of kaiseki cuisine to the comforting warmth of simmered stews.
This exclusive VIP food tour caters to the discerning palate seeking an unforgettable exploration of Kyoto's culinary landscape. We'll compare flavors, old and new, highlighting the unique identity of Kyoto's cuisine.

Restaurant #1 - Obanzai
Our first stop takes you to the heart of Gion, away from the tourist crowds. This charming restaurant offers a taste of local tradition.
Get ready to experience obanzai, a delightful Kyoto staple. These small, seasonal plates highlight the freshest ingredients, often served cold or at room temperature. Think vibrant vegetables, delicate tofu, and maybe even a Japanese omelette!
Moving on from this delicious introduction, we'll delve deeper into Kyoto's culinary aesthetic. Your guide will choose a selection of cooked-to-order dishes based on the day's market finds.

Restaurant #2 - Kyoto style izakaya
Next, we cross the scenic Kamogawa River to lively Pontocho. We'll take in the charming pedestrian alley before settling into a cozy izakaya, a mainstay for delicious small plates. Run by a passionate husband-and-wife team, this restaurant is known for its meticulous attention to detail.
Her is your primer on amazing Kyoto-style izakaya fare. You'll indulge in a selection of small, made-to-order dishes, each designed to tantalize your taste buds with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
This restaurant is known for its exceptional duck dishes, a unique treat in Kyoto cuisine. The menu offers a wide variety of Kyoto specialties to explore. Get ready to experience the magic of dashi, the foundation of Kyoto cooking. This simple yet flavorful broth, made from kelp and bonito flakes, elevates every dish with its subtle yet powerful flavor.

Restaurant #3 - What is shime, anyway?
Now, let's talk about “shime,” the Japanese tradition of ending a meal with a carb-heavy dish.
That's where our final stop comes in. We'll take you to a fantastic spot specializing in noodles – the perfect way to end your Kyoto food adventure.
Soba or Udon? You Decide! Here dashi takes center stage again, because, of course no noodle dish is complete without a quality dashi broth. Here, you'll experience the magic of dashi once more.