Kyoto Rickshaw Tour
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 217 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Kyoto Rickshaw Tour worth booking?
Kyoto Rickshaw Tour is a 0.5-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $38 per person. It scores 81 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 217 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 81 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (217)
- Duration
- 0.5 hours
- From
- $38 per person
Step into an authentic Japanese rickshaw for the ride of a lifetime, through some of the most scenic and historic districts in Kyoto, Japan. Explore the intriguing wooden buildings and stone alleys (maybe even spotting a
What you get
About this experience
Step into an authentic Japanese rickshaw for the ride of a lifetime, through some of the most scenic and historic districts in Kyoto, Japan. Explore the intriguing wooden buildings and stone alleys (maybe even spotting a geisha or two) in Kyoto’s famed Higashiyama area, all with a knowledgeable local guide and rickshaw driver. This authentic, customizable Kyoto adventure is a fun introduction to this beautiful city.
What's included
Included
- Rickshaw ride
- Local English-speaking guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
What you'll see and do
Ebisuya, Kyoto Higashiyama
tour operator for Higashiyama area
Pass by without stopping
Yasaka Pagoda
landmark of Higashiyama
Pass by without stopping
Miyagawacho Kaburenjo
Geisha district and traditional wooden town houses
Pass by without stopping
Tatsumi Bridge
small bridge in traditional district
Pass by without stopping
Shoren-in Temple (Shoren-in Monzeki)
beautiful temple with garden
Pass by without stopping
Chion-in Temple
impressive temple
Pass by without stopping
Yasaka Shrine
large shrine in Gion area. worth a visit during new years, before or after the rickshaw tour!
Pass by without stopping
Nene-no-Michi
feel the history as you travel on the old cobble stone street
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Kyoto
Meeting place for HIGASHIYAMA tour. Go to Ichinenzaka in Higashiyama (on the cobble stone street, Nene Street, by the Kodaiji Temple and Ichinenzaka. You can search for "Ebisuya Higashiyama" on google maps for exact location)
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Meeting place for HIGASHIYAMA tour. Go to Ichinenzaka in Higashiyama (on the cobble stone street, Nene Street, by the Kodaiji Temple and Ichinenzaka. You can search for "Ebisuya Higashiyama" on google maps for exact location)
Options you can book
HIGASHIYAMA: 45min
Duration: 45 minutes Higashiyama
HIGASHIYAMA: 30min
Duration: 30 minutes Higashiyama
HIGASHIYAMA: 150min
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes Higashiyama
HIGASHIYAMA: 120min
Duration: 2 hours Higashiyama
HIGASHIYAMA: 70min
Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes Higashiyama
HIGASHIYAMA: 90min
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes Higashiyama
HIGASHIYAMA: 180min
Duration: 3 hours Higashiyama
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- ja, en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Ebisuya
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Adult pricing applies to age 6 and over
- Children 5 years and under may sit on an adult’s lap (one child per adult)
- A maximum of 2 adults per rickshaw. Up to 2 children, 5 years and under, can ride with 2 adults (children have to ride on an adult's lap)
- While rickshaws are able to fit two adults, each rickshaw is 29.1 inches (74 centimeters) wide, and it is sometimes more comfortable to book individual rickshaws for each passenger. For passengers of size, we recommend booking a rickshaw for each participant to ensure a comfortable ride. Passengers who do not both fit in one rickshaw but wish to participate in a tour at the same time will be required to purchase an additional rickshaw, which may not be available on the date of the tour with an English-speaking guide if not booked in advance. Those customers who do not purchase an additional rickshaw at the time of booking cannot be guaranteed availability
- Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly
- This tour can be customized depending on your interests
- If a child (5 years and younger) will be using one of the two seats of the rickshaw, it must book as an adult.
- The amount of time you will be late will be deducted from your tour duration (delay of 10min or more results in automatic cancellation)
- Any time changes/rescheduling requests sent after 5pm the day before your tour can not be accommodated
- our tours take place, rain or shine.
- This tour does NOT include the bamboo forest in Kyoto Arashiyama
- finishing locations other than our rickshaw stand may be subject to an additional drop-off fee (payable on the day of the tour)
- not all landmarks on the itinerary can be covered by shorter tour options. Please discuss options in advance or directly with guide
- The voucher/ ticket can only be used at our Kyoto Higashiyama branch. It is invalid at our Kyoto Arashiyama branch.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 217 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
217 verified traveler reviews for Kyoto Rickshaw Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great for Families & Tired Feet
Great for Families & Tired Feet What We Loved Comfortable way to see more of Kyoto when walking all day starts catching up with you. Our driver, Shiro, was absolutely incredible. Despite the summer heat, he was running uphill, navigating crowded streets, and simultaneously sharing local history and pointing out landmarks. Learned about areas we would have otherwise walked right past without understanding their significance. During Obon, we were able to see people visiting family graves and preparing lanterns for the evening festivities, which gave us a glimpse into local traditions we wouldn't have experienced on our own. Passed through beautiful historic areas and were dropped off at Yasaka Shrine, making it easy to continue exploring afterward. Audrey's Thoughts After several days of sightseeing, Audrey's legs were getting tired, and this turned out to be one of the smartest decisions we made. She loved riding in the rickshaw, seeing Kyoto from a different perspective, and getting a break from walking. Tips Don't think of this as transportation. Think of it as a guided tour and cultural experience. Perfect for families when children start getting tired. Request a knowledgeable guide if possible. Worth every penny on a hot day. Bottom Line One of those experiences that initially feels like a splurge but ends up being completely worth it. Between the history, local insights, beautiful views, and the sheer athleticism of our guide, it became one of our favorite memories from Kyoto. If you're visiting Arashiyama, I highly recommend adding a rickshaw tour to your itinerary. It was an adventure, a history lesson, and a lifesaver for tired legs all in one.
via Tripadvisor
The best Kyoto experience
We had the most fabulous tour with Fumi our Guide. He was just wonderful, a very gentle happy soul. Nothing was a trouble,he explained all the sites and the history attached. This tour was one of the highlights on our holiday and we would recommend it as a must to anyone visiting Kyoto.
via Viator
We had an awesome...
We had an awesome experience in Kyoto! This was such a unique way to see a lot of areas in the city. Our tour guide, Fumi, was so knowledgeable about the shrines and everything we passed and very entertaining during our tour. Fumi also took a lot of fun pictures of my husband and I during the tour, which was awesome. We did the 70 minute tour and felt like it was a good amount of time. Would highly recommend this tour to anyone!
via Viator
Fantastic rickshaw ride
This 90 minute ride was a highlight in Kyoto. Shiro was amazing as our guide. Beautiful intro to lovely Kyoto! Wouldn’t hesitate to do it again.
via Viator
Great way to see Gion
This was an excellent way to see Gion! We had Ichi as our rickshaw driver and he was knowledgeable, funny and a good photographer. We learnt so much about the district and would highly recommend the tour and Ichi.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 0.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $38 to $55600
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 76
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 81
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Kyoto Rickshaw Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kyoto.
How much does Kyoto Rickshaw Tour cost?
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Prices start at $38 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kyoto usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Kyoto Rickshaw Tour take?
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Plan for about 0.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kyoto is not rushed.
Is Kyoto Rickshaw Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 81 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 217 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kyoto, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Kyoto Rickshaw Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Kyoto Rickshaw Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 0.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Kyoto Rickshaw Tour?
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Around 76 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kyoto can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kyoto and add a light layer if any part of the 0.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Kyoto Rickshaw Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kyoto within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Kyoto?
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On Outty we rank every Kyoto experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kyoto : Gion Make Your Own Chopsticks with Engraving Option, Award-Winning Authentic Ramen Making Experience in Kyoto, Hidden Kyoto E-Biking tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Kyoto?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Kyoto?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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