Private Kyoto Tour: Explore the Most Iconic Sights

Kyoto , Japan

Private Kyoto Tour: Explore the Most Iconic Sights

Active

(11 reviews)

8h - 10h

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

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Forget the Ordinary — This Is Your Journey!
Tailored to your interests, your Kyoto adventure takes you to iconic sights like the Golden Temple, Kiyomizu-dera, the Bamboo Forest, and Fushimi Inari Taisha… and that’s just the beginning.

The best part? You call the shots!
Want to add more places? I’m all ears. Have questions? I've got the answers. Together, we'll create unforgettable memories — your way.

Personalized Service, Your Language
Our guides come from all over the world — Japan, the US, and Spanish-speaking countries. Tours are typically conducted in English, but if you’d like a guide who speaks your native language, we can arrange it for an additional fee.

Convenience Without Hidden Costs
We don’t charge for a car — we’ll use taxis as needed for comfort and efficiency. This way, you only pay for the actual transportation used.

Explore the Hidden Beauty of Kyoto — A Tour Like No Other!
Let’s make your adventure in Japan truly one of a kind.

Available options

Private Kyoto and Nara Tour

Duration: 10 hours<br/>Pickup included

Explore Kyoto with Nas

Pickup included

Bridge In Heaven

Amanohashidate: The Amanohashidate Sandbar (bridge in heaven). It is ranked among Japan's three most scenic views.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

We will use taxi and public transportation if needed.

Bamboo forest

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Kinkaku-ji, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is a renowned Zen Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. Officially named Rokuon-ji, this iconic structure is famous for its top two floors that are entirely covered in gold leaf, giving it a stunning and reflective appearance. Originally built in 1397 as a retirement villa for the shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, it was later converted into a temple by his son.

The temple is set within a beautiful Japanese strolling garden and overlooks a large pond called Kyōko-chi (Mirror Pond), which reflects the building's golden image. The surrounding landscape includes carefully arranged rocks, islands, and plantings that complement the pavilion's aesthetic.

Kinkaku-ji has undergone several restorations, most notably after a fire in 1950. It remains one of Japan's most visited and photographed landmarks, symbolizing the country's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

Stop 2

The Buddhist temple, with a history spanning 1200 years, holds prestigious UNESCO World Heritage status and is renowned as one of Japan's most iconic temples. Your admission fee covers the visit. Following your temple exploration, I'll guide you along a concealed mountain path perfect for hiking.

Stop 3

Fushimi Inari Shrine (伏見稲荷大社) in southern Kyoto is renowned for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that create a stunning network of trails up Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, this historic shrine is adorned with fox statues, believed to be Inari’s messengers. The grand Romon Gate, donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1589, welcomes visitors to the main hall where offerings can be made. The highlight is the Senbon Torii trail, a captivating path of parallel gates donated by individuals and companies, each inscribed with the donor’s name and date. This enchanting site offers a profound and picturesque journey into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Embarking on our journey, we'll wander through the acclaimed bamboo forest, cross the river via the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge, and embark on a tranquil boat ride across the lake. Immerse yourself in the serene charm of the local forest temple and mountain as we delve into the wonders of nature.

What's not included

Lunch is not included.

Temple Entrance fee - 8USD to 10USD

Available languages

Guide guide

HI KO CMN JA EN BN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

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

Travel Time was included on the total duration of the tour.

Meeting point

We will go to your hotel or the place where you are staying, or you can go directly to the Kyoto train station. We will hold a sign with your name on it.

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.