Kyoto City Cherry Blossom Private Sightseeing Tour

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto City Cherry Blossom Private Sightseeing Tour

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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

Book a one-day tour from Osaka to Kyoto to enjoy cherry blossoms. The driver will pick you up at the entrance of your hotel. The specific itinerary can be made according to your interests.
Recommended itinerary:
Kiyomizu-dera-Philosopher’s Path-Kyoto Imperial Palace Park-Nijo Castle-Maruyama Park
There are many cherry trees on the slopes near Kiyomizu-dera and in front of the Kiyomizu stage. The cherry blossoms complement the ancient buildings of Kyoto. The night opening event allows you to enjoy the cherry blossoms under the lights at night and experience a different atmosphere.
The Philosopher’s Path is one of the most representative cherry blossom viewing routes in Kyoto. The cherry blossom trees along the way form a romantic "cherry blossom tunnel".
Maruyama Park will hold a cherry blossom banquet, where thousands of tourists and locals gather to hold a "hanami" (cherry blossom viewing banquet), picnic under the cherry trees, drink, and enjoy food. The atmosphere is very warm.

Available options

Vehicle type (Sedan)

Vehicle type (Sedan): It can accommodate three people and three 24-inch suitcases. Can accommodate four people without large luggage.<br/>Pickup included

Vehicle Type (People carrier)

Vehicle Type (People carrier): It can accommodate five people plus three 24-inch suitcases and two smaller than 24 inches. <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Free bottle of water

Driver: Japanese, Simplified Chinese

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fee

Private transportation

Tolls

Fuel costs

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Kiyomizu Temple is one of the most famous attractions in Kyoto. In spring, the cherry blossoms around Kiyomizu Temple are in full bloom, complementing the temple architecture.

Stop 2

About 20 minutes’ walk from Kiyomizu-dera Temple is Philosopher’s Walk, a very popular cherry blossom viewing route with cherry blossoms in full bloom on both sides.

Stop 3

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is a park surrounding the Kyoto Imperial Palace. In spring, the cherry blossoms in the garden are very beautiful and visitors can take a walk here to enjoy the cherry blossoms.

Stop 4

The gardens and cherry blossoms in Nijo Castle complement each other and are perfect for taking photos.

Stop 5

The weeping cherry trees in the park are particularly famous. In spring, it is a gathering place for local residents and tourists, and the atmosphere is lively.

What's not included

Meals

Attraction Tickets

Personal consumption

Kiyomizu Temple ticket 400 yen

Nijo Castle ticket 1030 yen

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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.