Kyoto Private Tour with Customized Itinerary

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Private Tour with Customized Itinerary

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(7 reviews)

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About this experience

Want to experience Kyoto your way? This private tour is built around your interests, whether you're into traditional temples, quiet backstreets, or Kyoto’s unique mix of old and new.

What to Expect:

* Tailored itinerary – From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to quiet traditional neighborhoods, reflecting your interests.
From Fushimi Inari, to Kiyomizudera, from Arashiyama to Gion, the Geisha district. Tell us what you're looking for, and we’ll craft the perfect Kyoto adventure just for you!

* Authentic local insights – Your guide will share stories, tips, and favorite spots for a deeper look into Kyoto's charm.

* Stress-free – We handle the planning, you enjoy Kyoto at your own pace. Not sure where to begin? Share what you love, and we’ll craft your perfect Kyoto day.

Available options

Kyoto Private Tour with Customized Itinerary

Pickup included

What's included

Completely Private and Customizable Walking Tour

5 hours with a Local Host

Pick up at your hotel / accommodation

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore the iconic path of thousands of red torii gates, winding through the sacred Mount Inari. Even halfway up, enjoy stunning views. Keep an eye out for fox statues, guardians representing Inari, the deity associated with rice and sake. Note: This personalized experience may include alternative locations chosen by your host based on your interests.

Stop 2

After visiting one of the most famous temple of Kyoto, Kiyomizudera, discover the charm of Kyoto's historic district, Higashiyama, with its narrow lanes, wooden structures, and traditional shops and cafes. Note: This personalized tour may lead to different destinations, tailored to your preferences by your host.

Stop 3

Established over 1350 years ago, Yasaka Shrine stands as the guardian of Kyoto's Gion entertainment district, and it is particularly renowned for its vibrant summer festival, the Gion Matsuri (July). Note: This personalized tour may lead to different destinations, tailored to your interests by your host.

Stop 4

Kyoto's renowned Geisha district! Don't miss Hanami-koji street and the picturesque Shimbashi area, where traditional wooden houses host upscale restaurants, cafes, and tea houses. Note: This personalized tour may include different destinations selected based on your preferences by your host.

Stop 5

Situated in Sagano village on Kyoto's western side, the path through the Arashiyama bamboo grove offers an enchanting journey. The play of light filtering through the bamboo creates a near-magical atmosphere on the forest floor. For an optimal experience, enter the grove through the side gate of Tenryu-ji Temple, which showcases beautiful cherry blossom in spring and maple leaves in autumn.
Note: This personalized experience may include alternative locations chosen by your host based on your interests.

What's not included

Entrance fees for paid venues (if any, depending on the places you wish to visit)

Transportation (bus and subway when used)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.