Kyoto Private Hydrangea Tour by Car and Rail

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Private Hydrangea Tour by Car and Rail

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a captivating private tour from Kyoto Station, where the breathtaking hydrangeas are the undisputed highlight. Wander through the thousands of vermilion torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, then immerse yourselves in the vibrant colors of Mimuroto-ji Temple and Fujimori Shrine, home to thousands of stunning hydrangea plants. You'll also explore the historic town of Uji and marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Byodo-in Temple. This customizable tour is perfect for garden lovers and culture enthusiasts, with options for comfortable chartered car travel or an authentic public transportation experience.

Available options

Public transport plan

Duration: 9 hours

Private Car Plan

What's included

Admission fee is included in the plan. (Mimuroto-ji Temple, Byodoin Temple, Fujinomori Shrine)

Vehicle fee(in stated as included in the private car plan)

English guide

round-trip transportation costs(in stated as included in the public transport plan)

Detailed itinerary

- Public transport plan
Meet Guide at the Central Gate of JR Kyoto Station (In front of JR Ticket office)
8:13 Departure from Kyoto Station (JR Nara Line)

- Private car plan
Departure from Kyoto Station(Hachijo Exit)-Tourist Bus Parking.
- Please meet the guide by 9:00 AM in front of the Kyoto AVANTI Building.

Or Pick up at your hotel

Wander through the breathtaking thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a stunning pathway up the sacred mountain.

Stop 3

The beauty of the vast garden of about 5,000 ㎡ with approximately 50 varieties and 20,000 hydrangea plants in full bloom.
Fun to look for heart-shaped hydrangea.

Lunch on your own at Byodoin Omotesando
- Please note that lunch fee is not included.

Stop 5

The historical value of the Amida Hall built in the Heian period (794-1192), its beautiful appearance as if it were floating on a pond, and the Buddhist art inside, which is a national treasure.

There are two hydrangea gardens on the grounds, the First Hydrangea Garden (Fujisho-en) and the Second Hydrangea Garden, with approximately 3,500 colorful hydrangea plants to enjoy.
Hana-Tezui, decorated with hydrangeas, is another attraction.

17:00 Public transport plan: Ends at Kyoto Station
17:30 Private car plan: Ends at Kyoto Station or your hotel

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This is a private tour. Only your group will participate.

You can customize it as you like. If you have any requests please let us know in advance. If you want to change your schedule even on the tour day, your guide is always happy to help you.

You can skip the spot where you don't go (in this case we do not refund any fees) or change it with another place.

If you add some new spots by your request, please pay the ticket fee on the spot. (Note that you may need to pay extra transportation fee)

Please ensure you arrive promptly at the designated meeting place.

Refunds will not be provided if you fail to arrive at the meeting location on time (no show).

The schedule may be subject to sudden changes or shorter visit durations due to reasons such as traffic congestion.

In the event of a natural disaster, such as a typhoon, the tour will be canceled, and a full refund will be issued.

Private car plan: Wearing your seatbelt is mandatory while the bus is in motion due to legal regulations.

Private car plan: Please personally take responsibility for your valuables.

Public transport plan: This tour utilizes public transportation. Please be aware that seats are not reserved.

Public transport plan: Public transportation may be subject to delays.

Meeting point

Private car plan :Departure from Kyoto Station(Hachijo Exit)-in front of AVANTI at 9:00

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.