Kyoto Highlights of 6 Hour Private Car Tour

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Highlights of 6 Hour Private Car Tour

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

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About this experience

Our private car tours offer a stress-free and efficient way to explore Kyoto's highlights in one day, ideal for travelers with limited time. Enjoy the comfort of a private car with a dedicated driver-guide who will take you directly to top attractions, eliminating the hassle of public transport and large groups. Convenient hotel and station pickup and drop-off ensure a seamless experience.

The tour covers Kyoto's most famous sites, including Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. You can customize your itinerary by choosing up to five destinations and enjoy flexible routes based on the season and your interests. With private transportation, you’ll visit multiple spots quickly while still having time to explore and take photos.

Your English-speaking driver-guide will enhance your understanding of Kyoto's rich history and culture, offering insights and stories that bring each location to life for a truly enriching experience.

Available options

Kyoto Highlights: 6-Hour Private Car Tour

Pickup included

What's included

In-person guide is licensed or certified

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A must-visit for anyone visiting Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty and spiritual exploration. Famous for its thousand torii gates, even a short visit to the shrine will leave an indelible impression on you with its unique atmosphere and iconic landmarks.
The duration includes travel time between locations.

Stop 2

Kiyomizu-dera offers visitors a unique experience that blends culture, history and natural beauty. Whether you are visiting for the 1300-year-old architecture, beautiful scenery, spiritual experience or cultural immersion, the timeless charm and significance of this temple is sure to captivate your heart.
The duration includes travel time between locations.

Stop 3

Ginkakuji Temple is a place where history, culture and nature come together in perfect harmony. Its tranquil gardens, simple architecture and deep connection to Japanese aesthetics make it a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the essence of Zen in Kyoto. Whether you are drawn to Ginkakuji Temple's beauty, calming sand garden or lush moss, Ginkakuji Temple is sure to leave a lasting impression of tranquility and elegance.
The duration includes travel time between locations.

Stop 4

Kinkaku-ji is more than just a temple; it's a symbol of Kyoto's rich cultural history and spiritual heritage. Its golden glow, tranquil setting and deep connections to Zen philosophy make Kinkaku-ji a must-see for anyone exploring Kyoto. Whether you're admiring the temple's reflection in a mirror-like pond or pondering the spiritual meaning of the temple's design, Kinkaku-ji offers a visually beautiful and spiritually enriching experience.
The duration includes travel time between locations.

Stop 5

Arashiyama is where natural beauty meets the rich history and culture of Kyoto. From the famous Togetsukyo Bridge to bamboo forests and tranquil temples, this enchanting area offers something for everyone. With its ever-changing landscape, Arashiyama is a must-see destination that showcases the timeless charm of Japan's natural and cultural treasures.
The duration includes travel time between locations.

Stop 6

Located in the heart of Kyoto, the Gion area is one of the city's most iconic and historic districts, famous for its rich culture, traditional architecture and vibrant nightlife. At the heart of the area is Yasaka Shrine, which has more than 1,350 years of history, and a stroll around the Gion area, known for its traditional tea houses and geisha and maiko, is often the highlight of a trip for many visitors.
The duration also includes travel time to the final drop-off location.

What's not included

Gratuities

Admission Fees (Kiyomizu-dera): Adults ¥400, Children ¥200

Admission Fees (Ginkaku-ji): Adults ¥500, Children ¥300

Admission Fees (Kinkaku-ji): Adults ¥500, Children ¥300

Admission Fees (Tenryu-ji): Adults ¥500, Children ¥300

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

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

Children aged 3 to under 11 are required to use a child seat.

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.