Private Highlights of Kyoto Tour
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In order to closely feel the local atmosphere of Kyoto, this tour will use public transportation so that you can experience the everyday life of Kyoto locals, unlike other tour groups hastily hopping from one location to another on chartered buses. During the 7-hour tour, your guide will show you around the city covering four major must-see locations. There are two different courses: one northwest-bound and the other southeast-bound. If you participate in both tours, you can efficiently cover eight locations at a relaxing pace. For both courses, you can chose from private option, non-private option and non-private option with apprentice guide (reduced rate). Even if you chose non-private option, we guarantee that the total number of guests will be less than 9 people.
Available options
Reduced rate Northwest
Specially reduced rate package of Northwest-bound course conducted by our apprentice guides. Less-experienced yet friendly licensed guides will accompany your group for more reasonable rate.
Private guide for Northwest
Premium package of Northwest-bound course conducted by our well-experienced guides with years of constantly high reviews by customers.
Northwest-bound course
The Northwest-bound course visits the Bamboo Grove, the Rock Garden (Ryoanji Temple), the Golden Pavilion and the Nijo Castle or the Nishiki Market.
Southeast-bound course
The Southeast-bound course visits the Sake Brewery, the Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Sanjusangendo Temple, the Kiyomizudera Temple and the Ninenzaka or Sannenzaka Slope.
Reduced rate Southeast
Specially reduced rate package of Southeast-bound course conducted by our apprentice guides. Less-experienced yet friendly licensed guides will accompany your group for more reasonable rate.
Private guide for Southeast
Private guide for Southeast: Premium package of Southeast-bound course conducted by our well-experienced guides with years of constantly high reviews by customers.
What's included
Public Transportation
One-day city bus pass (can be used continuously after the tour)
Professional English speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Nicknamed as Golden Pavilion, and one of the most popular temples in Kyoto, which is covered by gold leaves.
2
Stop 2
The view of Kyoto City seeing from the balcony of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is magnificent. The scene is often depicted in post cards.
3
Stop 3
Only castle in Kyoto built during the Tokugawa Shogunate period in the beginning of the 17th century. The highlight of this place is touring in the original living quarter of Shogun.
4
Stop 4
Travelers can enjoy astonishing view of 1001 kannon statues.
5
Stop 5
Gion is known for its Geisha tradition in Japan. The tour concludes at Gion, where you can join our another tour specializing in Gion, which starts at 6PM. The tour is available from TripAdvisor with the tour name, Night-walk in Gion.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
The place is known for its the Togetsukyo bridge, which is the huge wooden bridge located near bamboo forest.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
Historic path leading up to the Kiyomizudera temple.
8
Stop 8
You will have a chance to walk through the world famous Bamboo Forest, the scene of which is often depicted in guide bookes.
9
Stop 9
One of the best known zen garden known for its world-famous rock garden represented by 15 stones.
10
Stop 10
The most visited Shinto shrine awarded by TripAdvisor known for its thousands of red Torii Gate covering entire mountain.
11
Stop 11
Visit the brewery museum of one of the oldest sake brand in Japan.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Lunch
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
56 reviews
5★
49
4★
5
3★
0
2★
2
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
28 reviews
5★
25
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
Hotel Granvia Kyoto is located in the Kyoto Station building.
Important notes
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
