Kyoto , Japan

PERFECT KYOTO 1-Day Bus Tour

Active

(12978 reviews)

8h - 9h

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Kyoto's must-see landmarks and World Heritages with our coach tour in only one day!
First adventure starts from Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, enjoying the wealthy nature from the significant terrace. Then say Konnichiwa to one thousand and one Kannon statue at Sanju-San-Gen-Do Temple, then the coach will take you to the most iconic place, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. Going under thousands of Torii Red gate tunnels will be a memorable experience. Don’t forget to explore green tunnels, Sagano Bamboo Forest and Kinkaku-ji Temple. Tour includes buffet lunch.

・Discover Kyoto’s must-see landmarks and World Heritages on this full-day coach tour efficiently
・A Professional English-speaking guide attend this tour
・Additionally, multilingual audio guidance is available in EN, FR, IT, ES, TH, ID, UK
・Must try this mystical experience going under thousands of iconic Torii Red gate at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
・Visit the gorgeous golden temple
・Enjoy strolling at Sagano Bamboo Forest

Available options

From Kyoto (Lunch)

★: The tour with lunch
Buffet lunch

From Kyoto (No Lunch)

★: You may have lunch by yourself.

What's included

A Professional English Speaking Tour Guide

Admission for Tenryuji Temple

WiFi on board

Admission for Sanjusangendo Temple

Admission for Kiyomizu Temple

Buffet Lunch (If selected)

Air-conditioned vehicle

Admission for Kinkakuji Temple

Multilingual Audio Guidance

Lunch is a buffet, so the lunch is the same for vegetarians

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Kiyomizu temple is one of the World Heritage Lists in Kyoto. Then It is the must-see temple in Kyoto. Please look at the panoramic view around Kyoto. Because it is located on the Higashiyama hill. Also it has longer history than capital of Kyoto. It was originally built in 778.

Stop 2

Sanju-san-gen-do temple is one of our recommended temples in Kyoto. Because you can find fantastic statues in main hall. Those are called One thousand One " Senju Kannon" statues. Also please enjoy the spectacular views with the line-up of Buddhist statues.

Stop 3

We will take lunch break in Arashiyama.

★Lunch info (If you choose our tour with lunch)

・Japanese style buffet lunch with local foods
Enjoy the seasonal buffet along with the superb view from your seat overlooking the Togetsukyo Bridge, the symbol of Arashiyama.
（The dates below will be a Japanese set meal instead of a buffet lunch:4/11, 4/13, 4/16, 4/23, 4/25, 5/17）

We will go through the Bamboo forest trail to Tenryu-ji temple. Bamboo is all year green. Then the beauty is signature of Kyoto. Please bring your camera. Because there are photogenic places.

Stop 5

Tenryu-ji temple is listed on the World Heritages in Kyoto. There are traditional Japanese garden. The design of the garden is unchanged more than 700 years. You can enjoy beautiful flowers and plants in each season.

Stop 6

Kinkan-ji temple was built in same era as Tenryu-ji temple. Also it is listed the world heritages either. The Golden pavilion is so magnificent covered with pure gold leaves. It is the symbol of Kyoto.

Stop 7 Pass by

We will pass Nijo Castle on the return way. It has important historic place in Japan. Because the Edo government return the political right to the emperor.

Stop 8

Fushimi Inari Shrine is the most popular place in Kyoto currently. Because it has beautiful One thousand Torii gates. You can go through in the One thousand Torii gates. It is an unforgettable experience for you.

The inari shrines host the guardian gods for business success, well-being of the family, traffic safety and improvement in performing arts.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless Specified

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Audio guide

DE PT UK EN IT FR ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

579 reviews

5★

482

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

12,399 reviews

5★

11586

4★

677

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A Professional English-speaking guide attend this tour. Additionally, multilingual audio guidance is available on the bus in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Germany, Portuguese, Ukrainan

Itinerary order is subject to change depending on traffic, weather, and operation.

If any of the visiting places is closed, we will try to attend an alternative place.

The lunch/restaurant may change due to operational reasons.

We do not supply any extra pick up & drop off service.

Customers will walk include stairs and hills in each places

Please let us know your booking numbers and total number of people before the tour if you have several bookings or if you have booked separatly.

Due to the weather conditions, traffic conditions, or suspension of operation, we may have a possibility not to achieve all the activities. The tour will be attending to alternative place or giving ou t a gift as a compensation depending on a situation at that time. Refunds will not be given for these changes.

Customers who add Lunch options on the day are charged more(3,000yen), therefore it is recommended to select desired add-ons in advance

If you are late for the tour start time, you will not be able to join the tour mid-way.

Not recommended for travelers who can not walk long distance. This tour includes lots of walkings.

Meeting point

【MEETING POINT】 in front of Tully’s Coffee in Kyoto Avanti
【ADDRESS】31 Nishi-Sanno Cho, Higashi-kujo, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
【Meeting time】7:50am
【Departure time】8:00am
★Look out for green and white flag "Japan Panoramic Tours"
★No refunds or changes will be given to latecomers and no-shows

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

【MEETING POINT】 in front of Tully’s Coffee in Kyoto Avanti: URL; https://goo.gl/maps/fGjZ1V5aUyH2
【ADDRESS】31 Nishi-Sanno Cho, Higashi-kujo, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Japan
【Meeting time】7:50am
【Departure time】8:00am
★Look out for our staff holding a green and white flag and we depart on time.

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.