Arashiyama & Nara Highlights: One-Day Private Tour Adventure

Kyoto , Japan

Arashiyama & Nara Highlights: One-Day Private Tour Adventure

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(8 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The itinerary is based on hiring a car or a van for 8 hours - Cash to the driver on the tour day: Up to 5 passengers: ¥110,000 ,if more than 5 please let me know in advance.

1- Within a day of your stay in Kyoto, I am going to show you the must-see spots of Nara and Arashimaya.

2- Understanding the culture and life in Japan from a foreign prospective.

3- Tour itenerary is planned to cover the top sightseeing spots of Nara and Arashiyama and long enough to go around the cultural and historic places too, however, I can customize it based on your will.

Itenerary is shown here, however, you can still customize it in arrangement with the guide.

09:00 Meeting at your hotel in Kyoto
10:00 bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji temple garden
11:00 Hozu-gawa river and Togetsu bridge
13:00 move to Nara
14:30 Nara deers park
15:30 Todaiji temple
16:30 Kasuga Shrine
17:30 Back to Kyoto
19:00 Tour finish

Available options

Arashiyama & Nara Highlights: One-Day Private Tour Adventure

What's included

Transportation cost is NOT included. Please carefully review the exclusions listed below.

Guiding and management , driver arrangement

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover the charm of Nara Deer Park on your tour, where friendly deer roam freely in a picturesque setting. This expansive park allows you to interact with the gentle deer, known for their calm demeanor and eagerness to greet visitors. Purchase special deer crackers to feed them and enjoy a memorable, interactive experience.

The park’s beautiful landscape, featuring lush green lawns and seasonal blooms, provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing stroll. Embrace the unique opportunity to connect with these sacred animals in one of Japan’s most beloved natural spaces.

Stop 2

Experience the grandeur of Todaiji Temple on your tour, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its majestic Great Buddha Hall. Inside, you'll find one of the world's largest bronze Buddha statues, an awe-inspiring sight that exemplifies Japanese Buddhist art and architecture.

Explore the temple grounds, where ancient wooden structures and serene landscapes enhance the spiritual atmosphere. Todaiji Temple’s historical significance and architectural beauty make it a must-visit destination, offering a profound glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Stop 3

Visit Kasuga Shrine on your tour, a captivating Shinto shrine renowned for its enchanting atmosphere and beautiful lanterns. The shrine is famous for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns that line the pathways, creating a magical glow as you explore its lush, forested grounds.

Admire the intricate design of the shrine's buildings and enjoy the tranquil setting, which reflects the serene spirit of Japanese spirituality. Kasuga Shrine's rich history and picturesque surroundings make it a highlight of your visit to Nara.

Stop 4

Explore Kyoto’s natural and cultural treasures with our tour featuring the Bamboo Forest, Nonomiya Shrine, and Tenryu-ji Temple Garden. Begin your journey in the Bamboo Forest, where towering green stalks create a tranquil and otherworldly atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful walk.

Next, visit Nonomiya Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine known for its serene setting and ancient traditions. Discover its beautiful architecture and lush surroundings.

Conclude with a visit to the Tenryu-ji Temple Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its exquisite Zen garden and stunning landscape views. Enjoy a serene stroll through meticulously designed gardens, reflecting the beauty of traditional Japanese landscape artistry.

What's not included

Transportation: van rent -Cash : Up to 5 Travelers. If more than 5 please let me know

Entry fees

Gratuities are always appreciated but never expected (In case your experience was exceptional)

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

* We provide shore excursion services from Osaka or Kobe ports for an additional fee, payable directly to the driver of the hired vehicle. Please be aware that the itinerary may be adjusted to fit your schedule and preferences.

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.